Unit 4: Virtual Work

1 Introduction
This unit presents the concept of virtual work. Virtual work is a very elegant and powerful principle
that is much used in structural analysis.

From the unit on minimum potential energy we know that the total potential energy of a structural
system is at a minimum when the structure is in a state of static equilibrium. This means that the
equilibrium position corresponds to the minimum position on the ‘energy surface’. Hence any (small)
disturbance from the equilibrium position will result in no net change in potential. This concept is
used to develop a range of analysis techniques to find forces and displacements in structures.

2 Overview of the Method

Here is a formal statement of the principle of virtual work:

When an equilibrium force system is moved by a small displacement

system then the work done by the applied loads is exactly equal to
the change in the strain energy of the system.

To apply the principle of virtual work requires two things:

⚫ an equilibrium force system (the EFS)

⚫ a compatible displacement system (the CDS)

When the CDS is applied to the EFS the structural system changes shape; the applied loads do work
and the strain energy in the system changes. The principle of virtual work tells us that the work done
by the applied loads during the application of the CDS will be exactly equal to the change in strain
energy.

If forces are being found then the real forces will be used as the equilibrium force system and the
displacement system will be virtual.

Conversely if displacements are to be found then the real displacement system will be used as the
compatible displacement system and the force system will be virtual.

3 Change in Strain Energy

In order to apply the concept of virtual work it is necessary to calculate the change in strain energy
caused by the introduction of the CDS. This course considers only structures that carry loads by axial
force and/or by shear and bending in their members. The required strain energy formulae are
derived in this section. In structures carrying bending moment, axial and shear strain energy will be
ignored as being of secondary importance compared with strain energy due to bending.

Axial Force

If an element carrying an axial force of F is elongated by some small amount  then the work done
by the existing force is F×. The system is conservative, hence the strain energy (U) gained by the
element is equal to the work done by the force.

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 3 Change in Strain Energy

𝐹 𝑓 𝐿
𝑈 = 𝐹×𝛿 = (1)
𝐸 𝐴
if the structure consists of a number of elements then
𝐹 𝑓 𝐿
𝑈 = ∑ 𝐹×𝛿 = ∑ (2)
𝐸 𝐴
𝐴𝑙𝑙 𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠 𝐴𝑙𝑙 𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠

Note f can be thought of as a small force associated with the small change in length .

Bending Moment

Here we are interested in the change in strain energy in a beam carrying bending when it is put
through some small displacement system.

Consider a small element of the beam dx carrying a bending moment of M as shown in Figure 1(a).

M M M M

dx

(a) (b)

Figure 1 An Element of a Beam

Now introduce a small displacement system that causes a change in curvature throughout the beam
(see Figure 1(b)). From the engineer’s theory of bending.
𝐸 𝑚 (3)
=
𝑅 𝐼
hence
1 𝑚
curvature = = (4)
𝑅 𝐸 𝐼
Where m is the bending moment acting on the element dx associated with the change in curvature.
It follows that during the application of the small displacement system

work done on 𝑑𝑥 = existing moment × imposed rotation

𝑚
𝑑𝑊 = 𝑀 𝑑𝑥 (5)
𝐸 𝐼
This is, of course, equal to the change in strain energy in dx during the applied displacement system.

The change of strain energy in the whole beam is found by integration.

𝐿
𝑀 𝑚
𝑈 = ∫ 𝑑𝑥 (6)
0 𝐸 𝐼

and, if the structure consists of a number of elements then the total change in strain energy is

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 4 Forces in Statically Determinate Structures

𝐿
𝑀 𝑚
𝑈 = ∑ ∫ 𝑑𝑥 (7)
0 𝐸 𝐼
𝐴𝑙𝑙 𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠

Note m can be thought of as a small moment associated with the small change in curvature of
element dx.

4 Forces in Statically Determinate Structures

When finding forces use the actual force system as the equilibrium force system (EFS) and the
compatible displacement system (CDS) is chosen to suit the problem in hand. Note that a small
displacement in the direction of the required force is often a suitable CDS.

Example 1

Use virtual work to find the value of the right-hand reaction and the bending moment under the load
for the beam shown below.

Space Diagram
40 kN
16 kN/m
a c
b d

4m 2m 2m

A force is to be found, hence use the real force system as the EFS.
EFS
40 kN
16 kN/m
a c
b d

VL VR

use a small displacement in the direction of the required force as the CDS.

The trick when finding a force is to come up with a

displacement pattern that causes the force to found to do
workbut doesn’t cause any other unknown force to do work

40 kN CDS
16 kN/m


VR
VL

Note that during a virtual displacement the work done by the loads (including reactions) is equal to
the change in strain energy. The chosen displacement pattern causes no deformation in the beam,
hence the change in strain energy is zero.

work done = change in strain energy

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 4 Forces in Statically Determinate Structures

hence
3 1 7
𝑉𝑅 × 𝛿 − 40 × 𝛿 − (16 × 2) × 𝛿 = 0
4 2 8
which yields
4
𝑉𝑅 = (20 + 28) = 64 kN
3
The CDS shown below is used find the bending moment under the load. Note deformation is applied
only to a small element of the beam at point where the bending moment is to be found (other parts
of the beam undergo displacement but not deformation).

16 kN/m
40 kN
 
c c

VL VR

M M

Note that
𝜃 = 3𝛼

and that the strain energy gained by the beam is equal to the work done by the internal moment, M,
at b
change in strain energy = 𝑀 𝜃 = 3 𝑀𝛼

the principle of virtual work states

work done = change in strain energy

hence
40 × 4 × 𝛼 − (16 × 2) × 1 × 2𝛼 = 3 𝑀𝛼
i.e
𝑀 = 32 kNm

Example 2

Use virtual work to find the value of the force in element ab of the pin jointed frame shown below.

a b Ha

80 kN Va 80 kN
4m

Space
EFS
Diagram Hc

c
3m
Vc

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 5 Displacements in Statically Determinate Structures

The actual force system is used as the EFS and the displacement system is chosen to deform ab while
not changing the length of element bc. This is because we do not want any strain energy change in
element bc.
change of length component
change in length of 𝑎𝑏 = 0.8𝛿 (element a,b)

change in length of 𝑏𝑐 = 0 no change of length

component
vertical displacement of load = 0.6𝛿  (element a,b)

Apply the principle of virtual work

Ha a
work done = change in strain energy 
b
i.e
Va
𝑤𝑜𝑟𝑘 𝑑𝑜𝑛𝑒 = ∑ 𝐹 𝛿
80 kN
𝐴𝑙𝑙 𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠
hence
80 × 0.6 𝛿 = 𝐹𝑎𝑏 × 0.8 𝛿 Hc

𝐹𝑎𝑏 = 60 kN c
CDS
Vc

5 Displacements in Statically Determinate Structures

When finding displacements the actual displacement system should be used as the CDS and the EFS
is chosen to be unit force in the direction of the required displacement. Virtual work applied in this
way is sometime known as the unit load method.

Note that when finding forces in statically determinate structures the properties of the elements did
not have to be known as the element forces are independent of the element properties.

It is self-evident that the displacements in a structure are dependent upon the element properties
(or stiffnesses). Hence the stiffness of the members of the structure must be used as part of the
solution.

Example 3

Use virtual work to find the vertical displacement at joint b of the pin jointed frame shown below
given that A = 2000 mm2 and E = 200 kN/mm 2 for all elements.

a 60 kN b 0.75 kN

80 kN 1 kN
4m -100 kN -1.25 kN

c
3m

Space Diagram EFS

and CDS

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 5 Displacements in Statically Determinate Structures

The real displacement system is used as the CDS and the EFS is a vertical unit force at b as shown in
the diagram. Let the vertical displacement at b in the CDS be y downwards.

Apply the principle of virtual work (note that the unit force generates the member forces shown)

work done = change in strain energy

𝐹 𝑓 𝐿
1 × 𝛥𝑦 = ∑
𝐸 𝐴
𝐴𝑙𝑙 𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠
hence
60 × 0.75 × 3000 (−100) × (−1.25) × 5000
𝛥𝑦 = +
200 × 2000 200 × 2000
= 0.3375 + 1.5625 = 1.9 mm
Example 4

Use virtual work to find the mid-span deflection of the beam shown below.
P
CDS
a c
b

2L/3 L/3

x1 x2 x3

Px1/3 2Px3/3
PL/6
Bending Moment
2PL/9 Diagram

2PL/9 - Px2/3

Displacement is required, therefore use the actual displacement system as the CDS, and unit force
at mid-span will be used as the EFS.

unit load
EFS

VL VR
L/2 L/2

Bending Moment
Diagram
L/6 x3/2
x1/2
L/4

L/6 + x2/2

Apply the principle of virtual work

work done = change in strain energy

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 5 Displacements in Statically Determinate Structures

𝐿
𝑀 𝑚
The problem here is to integrate ∫ 𝑑𝑥 over the whole beam.
0 𝐸 𝐼
This will have to be done piecewise, in three parts
𝐿 𝐿
𝑃 𝑥1
2 𝑥1 6 2 𝑃 𝐿 𝑃 𝑥2 𝐿 𝑥2
1 × 𝛥𝑏 = ∫ ( × ) 𝑑𝑥1 + ∫ ( − )( + ) 𝑑𝑥2 +
0 3 2 𝐸  𝐼 0 9 3 6 𝐸 𝐼 2 𝐸  𝐼
𝐿
3 2 𝑃 𝑥3   𝑥3
∫ ( × ) 𝑑𝑥3
0 3 2 𝐸 𝐼
𝐿 𝐿 𝐿
𝑃 𝑥13 2 𝑃 𝐿2  𝑥2 𝑃 𝐿 𝑥22 𝑃 𝑥23 6 𝑃 𝑥33 3
= [ ] +[ + − ] +[ ]
18 𝐸  𝐼 0 27 𝐸  𝐼 36 𝐸  𝐼 18 𝐸 𝐼 0 9 𝐸 𝐼 0

𝑃 𝐿3 26 𝑃 𝐿3 𝑃 𝐿3

= + +
144 𝐸 𝐼 3888 𝐸 𝐼 243 𝐸 𝐼
69 𝑃 𝐿3
𝛥𝑏 =
3888 𝐸 𝐼
The result is positive meaning that the displacement is in the direction of the unit load.

Volume Integrals

Evaluating integrals as shown above is time consuming and error prone. Standard results have been
evaluated for standard functions. These are known as volume integrals. The Structures Data Sheet
shows values for some common functions. To illustrate, the previous integration will be evaluated
using volume integrals.

×
𝐿 𝐿 𝑃 𝐿
× ×
1 × 𝛥𝑏 = 2 4 6 +
3 𝐸  𝐼
×
𝐿 𝐿 𝑃 𝐿 2 𝑃 𝐿 𝐿 𝐿 𝑃 𝐿 2 𝑃 𝐿
× × (2 × + ) × ×( +2× )
6 4 6 9 + 6 6 6 9 +
6 𝐸 𝐼 6 𝐸 𝐼
×
𝐿 𝐿 2 𝑃 𝐿
× ×
3 6 9
3 𝐸 𝐼
hence
𝑃 𝐿3 5 𝑃 𝐿3 11 𝑃  𝐿3 𝑃 𝐿3
𝛥𝑏 = + + +
144 𝐸 𝐼 1296 𝐸 𝐼 3888 𝐸 𝐼 243 𝐸 𝐼
27 𝑃 𝐿3 15 𝑃 𝐿3 11 𝑃 𝐿3 16 𝑃 𝐿3
= + + +
3888 𝐸 𝐼 3888 𝐸 𝐼 3888 𝐸 𝐼 3888 𝐸 𝐼
69 𝑃 𝐿3
=
3888 𝐸 𝐼
This is a whole lot easier

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 5 Displacements in Statically Determinate Structures

Example 5

Use virtual work to find the vertical displacement under the 30 kN load and the rotation at c.

30 kN 20 kN

a c Space Diagram
b d
and CDS
5m 5m 4m

80 kNm

Bending Moment
Diagram
35 kNm

The reactions can easily be shown to be

𝑉𝑎 = 7 kN; 𝑉𝑐 = 43 kN

Displacement Under the 30 kN load

Use the actual displacement system as the CDS (i.e. displacements associated with the above BMD).
Use unit load in the direction of the required displacement as the EFS.

1 kN

a c EFS
b d

5m 5m 4m

Bending Moment
2.5 kNm Diagram

Apply the principle of virtual work

work done = change in strain energy

𝐿
𝑀 𝑚
= ∑ ∫ 𝑑𝑥 Note that the BMD between b and
0 𝐸 𝐼 c in the CDS has been treated as
𝐴𝑙𝑙 𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠
a ‘twisted’ trapezium.
using volume integrals

5 × 2.5 × 35 5 × 2.5 × (2 × 35 − 80)

1 × Δ𝑏 = +
3 𝐸 𝐼 6 𝐸 𝐼
hence
437.5 62.5 375 125
Δ𝑏 = − = = m
3 𝐸  𝐼 3 𝐸 𝐼 3 𝐸 𝐼 𝐸 𝐼

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 5 Displacements in Statically Determinate Structures

Rotation at c

Use the actual displacement system as the CDS and use unit moment in the direction of the required
rotation as the EFS.

1 kNm
a c EFS
b d

5m 5m 4m

Bending Moment
1 kNm Diagram

Apply the principle of virtual work

work done = change in strain energy

𝐿
𝑀 𝑚 Note that the BMD between b and
= ∑ ∫ 𝑑𝑥 c in the CDS has again been
0 𝐸 𝐼 treated as a ‘twisted’ trapezium.
𝐴𝑙𝑙 𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠
using volume integrals

5 × 35 × 0.5 5 × 35 × (2 × 0.5 + 1)
1 × 𝜃𝑐 = + +
3 𝐸  𝐼 6 𝐸  𝐼
5 × (−80) × (0.5 + 2 × 1)
6 𝐸 𝐼
hence
29.17 58.33 166.7 79.2
𝜃𝑐 = + − = rad
𝐸 𝐼 𝐸 𝐼 𝐸 𝐼 𝐸 𝐼
Example 6

Use virtual work find to the deflection under the load and at the tip of the uniform cantilever shown
below given that I = 1500×106 mm4, and E = 15 kN/mm2.
25 kN

a c
b

4m 2m

Units

Use kN and mm throughout.

Draw BMD

Displacement required, so use the actual displacements as the compatible displacement system
(CDS). The BMD for the actual system is (by inspection).

100 kNm

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 5 Displacements in Statically Determinate Structures

Deflection Under the Load

Use unit load in the direction of the required displacement as the equilibrium force system (ESF).
1 kN CDS

a c
b

4 kNm Bending Moment

Diagram

Apply the principle of virtual work (let the vertical deflection under the load be )

work done = change in strain energy

𝐿
𝑀 𝑚
= ∑ ∫ 𝑑𝑥
0 𝐸 𝐼
𝐴𝑙𝑙 𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠
using volume integrals
𝐿 𝑎 𝑐
× = 3
4000 × 100 × 103 × 4 × 103
Δ = = 23.9 mm
3 × 15 × 1500 × 106
Deflection at the Tip

Again use unit load in the direction of the required displacement as the equilibrium force system
1 kN

a
b c

6 kNm

2 kNm
Bending Moment
Diagram

2m

Apply the principle of virtual work (let the vertical deflection at the tip be ).

work done = change in strain energy

𝐿
𝑀 𝑚
= ∑ ∫ 𝑑𝑥
0 𝐸 𝐼
𝐴𝑙𝑙 𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠

using volume integrals

Lc (2a+b)
× = 6
4000 × 100 × 103 × (2 × 6 × 103 + 2 × 103 )
1×Δ = = 41.5 mm
6 × 15 × 1500 × 106
Tutorial Exercise: check the answers to this question using Deflection Coefficients from the Structures
Data Sheet.

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 5 Displacements in Statically Determinate Structures

Example 7

The figure shows a pin jointed truss. Use the principle of virtual work to calculate:

(a) the force in element cd. a b

(b) The horizontal and vertical displacement at b

given that A = 2000 mm 2 and E = 200 kN/mm2.
c
90 kN

30°
Solution (a) d
3m 4m
Units

Use kN and m throughout.

Force in Element cd

Force required, therefore use the real force system as the EFS (the equilibrium force system).

Fab

Hint assume all element

forces are tensile and let
Fac
the arithmetic sort out the Fbc 90 kN
actual nature of the
forces.

Fcd

Choose a compatible displacement system (CDS) to make only the force we are interested in (Fcd) do
work. This is achieved by rotating triangle abc as a rigid body (i.e. the triangle does not change shape
during the rotation). This causes cd to change length (i.e. its internal forces do work) while the other
members do not change length.

a b



b’

c


c’ 30º



Note that as  is a small displacement it is reasonable to assume that b moves at right-angles to ab

and c moves at right-angles to ac. Note also that triangles abb’ and acc’ are similar.

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 5 Displacements in Statically Determinate Structures

Hence
𝛿 Δ
=
𝐿𝑎𝑐 𝐿𝑎𝑏

√2.3092 + 32
𝛿 = × Δ = 0.541 Δ
7
2.309
𝛼 = tan−1 ( ) = 37.6°
3
𝜃 = 90 − 30 − 𝛼 = 22.4°

𝛿𝑐𝑑 = 𝛿 × cos 𝜃 = −0.924 𝛿 = 0.5 Δ

Apply the principle of virtual work

work done = change in strain energy = ∑ 𝐹 𝛿

𝐴𝑙𝑙
𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠
hence
90 × Δ = 𝐹𝑐𝑑 × (−0.5 Δ)

𝐹𝑐𝑑 = −180 kN (i.e.180 kN compression)

Solution (b)

Displacements required therefore use real displacements as the compatible displacement system.
Note that the 'real' member forces are required to calculate the member extensions. These forces
can be calculated by any suitable method. In this case the method of joints would be appropriate.

a 155.9 kN b

0
180 kN 90 kN
c

180 kN

Let the horizontal and vertical displacements at b be x and y respectively.

Horizontal Displacement

Apply unit force in the direction of the required displacement.

a 1 kN b 1 kN

0 kN
0 kN

0 kN

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 5 Displacements in Statically Determinate Structures

Apply the principle of virtual work (note that the unit force generates the forces shown)

work done = change in strain energy

i.e
𝐹 𝑓 𝐿
1 × Δ𝑥 = ∑
𝐸 𝐴
𝐴𝑙𝑙 𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠
hence
155.9 × (−1) × 7000
Δ𝑥 = = −2.73 mm
200 × 2000
Note the negative result means that the assumed displacement direction is opposite to the direction
of the applied unit force: i.e. the actual horizontal displacement is to the right.

Vertical Displacement

Apply unit force in the direction of the required displacement.

a 155.9/90 = 1.732 kN b

0 kN
2 kN 1 kN
c

2 kN

Apply the principle of virtual work (note that the unit force generates the forces shown)

work done = change in strain energy

i.e
𝐹 𝑓 𝐿
1 × Δ𝑦 = ∑
𝐸 𝐴
𝐴𝑙𝑙 𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠
hence
7000
155.9 × 1.732 × 7000 (−180) × (−2) × cos 30°
Δ𝑦 = +
200 × 2000 200 × 2000
= 4.73 + 7.27 = 12.0 mm (positive hence in the direction of the unit force)

Example 8

Use virtual work to calculate the sway deflection of the structure shown below at mid-height
between a and b and at b.

P b c

4m

a d

10 m

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 5 Displacements in Statically Determinate Structures

Units

Use metres for length and symbols for the loads (as no units are given).

Draw BMD

Displacement required so use the actual displacements as the compatible displacement system
(CDS). Draw the BMD (by inspection).

P b c 4P

4P

a P d

0.4P 0.4P

Sway Deflection at Mid-height

Use unit load in the direction of the required displacement as the equilibrium force system (ESF).

b c 2

2
1

2m
a 1 d

0.2 0.2

Apply the principle of virtual work (let the mid-height deflection be )

work done = change in strain energy

𝐿
𝑀 𝑚
1 × 𝛿1 = ∑ ∫ 𝑑𝑥
0 𝐸 𝐼
𝐴𝑙𝑙 𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠

using volume integrals

2 × 2 𝑃 × 2 2 × 2 × (2 𝑃 + 4 𝑃) 10 × 4 𝑃 × 2

Δ1 = + +
3 𝐸  𝐼 2 𝐸 𝐼 3 𝐸  𝐼
hence
8 𝑃 12 80 𝑃 123 𝑃
Δ1 = + + =
3 𝐸  𝐼 𝐸 𝐼 3 𝐸  𝐼 3𝐸 𝐼

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 5 Displacements in Statically Determinate Structures

Sway Deflection at b

Again Use unit load in the direction of the required displacement as the equilibrium force system
(EFS).

1 b c 4

a 1 d

0.4 0.4

Apply the principle of virtual work (let the sway deflection at b be )

work done = change in strain energy

𝐿
𝑀 𝑚
1 × Δ2 = ∑ ∫ 𝑑𝑥
0 𝐸 𝐼
𝐴𝑙𝑙 𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠

Using volume integrals (integrate piece-wise in two parts).

4 × 4 𝑃 × 4 10 × 4 𝑃 × 4
Δ2 = +
3 𝐸 𝐼 3 𝐸 𝐼
64 𝑃 180 𝑃 224 𝑃
= + =
3 𝐸  𝐼 3 𝐸  𝐼 3𝐸 𝐼

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 5 Displacements in Statically Determinate Structures

Example 9

Use virtual work to compare the horizontal and vertical deflections at the load for Frames (a) and
(b). Both structures are constructed from 300 x 300 x 12.5 SHSs (use E = 209×106 kN/m2, A =
0.0143 m2, I = 196×10-6 m4). Axial deformations should be neglected for Frame (b).
200 kN

Frame (a)
4m

a c

4m 4m

200 kN

b c

Frame (b)
4m

a d

4m 4m

Units

Use m for length and kN for forces.

Deflections for Frame (a)

Displacements required - use real displacements as the compatible displacement system. This
structure is a pin-jointed frame and therefore carries load by axial force in the members (i.e. no
bending or shear).
200 kN

141.4 kN 141.4 kN

a c

Let the horizontal and vertical displacements at b be x and y respectively.

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 5 Displacements in Statically Determinate Structures

Horizontal Displacement

Apply unit force in the direction of the required displacement.

1 kN

1/2 kN 1/2 kN

a c

Apply the principle of virtual work (note that the unit force generates the forces shown)

work done = change in strain energy

i.e
𝐹 𝑓 𝐿
1 × Δ𝑥 = ∑
𝐸 𝐴
𝐴𝑙𝑙 𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠
hence
1 1
(−141.1) × (− ) × 4√2 (−141.1) × × 4√2
Δ𝑥 = √2 + √2 = 0m
209 × 106 × 0.0143 209 × 106 × 0.0143
We could have predicted this by symmetry.

Vertical Displacement

Apply unit force in the direction of the required displacement.

1 kN

1/2 kN 1/2 kN

a c

Apply the principle of virtual work (note that the unit force generates the forces shown)

work done = change in strain energy

i.e
𝐹 𝑓 𝐿
1 × Δ𝑦 = ∑
𝐸 𝐴
𝐴𝑙𝑙 𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠
hence
1 1
(−141.1) × (− ) × 4√2 (−141.1) × (− ) × 4√2
Δ𝑦 = √2 + √2
209 × 106 × 0.0143 209 × 106 × 0.0143
= 0.00038 m

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 5 Displacements in Statically Determinate Structures

Deflections for Frame (b)

Displacements required therefore use real displacements as the compatible displacement system.
This structure is a rigidly connected frame and therefore carries load primarily by bending or shear.
Although axial forces and deformations exist in the structure they can be safely ignored as when
calculating displacements in such frames.

Draw BMD

Displacements required so use the actual displacements as the compatible displacement system
(CDS). Draw the BMD (by inspection).

200 kN 400 kNm

400 kN m

Reactions Bending Moment

100 kN (by inspection) 100 kN Diagram

100 kN 100 kN

Horizontal Displacement

Use unit load in the direction of the required displacement as the equilibrium force system (ESF).
2 kNm

1 kN
2 kNm

Reactions Bending Moment

0.5 kN (by inspection) 0.5 kN Diagram

0.5 kN 0.5 kN

Apply the principle of virtual work

work done = change in strain energy

𝐿
𝑀 𝑚
1 × Δ𝑥 = ∑ ∫ 𝑑𝑥
0 𝐸 𝐼
𝐴𝑙𝑙 𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠

using volume integrals

4 × 2 × 400
Δ𝑥 = 2 × = 0.052 m (to the left)
3 × 209 × 106 × 196 × 10−6

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 5 Displacements in Statically Determinate Structures

Vertical Displacement

Use unit load in the direction of the required displacement as the equilibrium force system (ESF).

1 kN 2 kN m

2 kN m

Reactions Bending Moment

0.5 kN (by inspection) 0.5 kN Diagram

0.5 kN 0.5 kN

The bending moment diagrams are identical to those for the horizontal deflection, hence.

Δ𝑦 = 0.052 m (downwards)

It is important to appreciate that Frames (a) and (b) behave in fundamentally different ways. Frame
(a) carries load purely by axial force in its members, whereas Frame (b) carries load primarily by
bending and shear in its members. Axial rigidity has been assumed for Frame (b) to simplify the
solution (this will introduce only small errors). You might like to repeat its solution including axial
deformation and compare the results.

Note also that Frame (b) is non-symmetrical and therefore sways, and that the vertical displacement
at the load is 137 times greater than the corresponding displacement in Frame (a).

Tutorial Question

Include axial deformations when analysing Frame (b). Does their inclusion make much difference??

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 6 Workshops

6 Workshops
Workshop 1
The figure below shows a uniform continuous beam with a knife-edge support at 'b', a pin at 'c' and
roller supports at 'd' and 'f'.

(a) Determine the indeterminacy number for the structure.

(b) Use virtual work to determine the vertical reactions at 'b' and 'd' and the bending
moments at 'd' and 'e'.

(c) Check your answers using LinPro.

60 kN
b 20 kN/m
d f
a c e
d

2m 4m 2m 3m 1m

Workshop 2
Use virtual work to prove the deflection coefficients on the Structures Data Sheet for a simply
supported beam carrying a uniformly distributed load.

5 𝑊 𝐿3
(a) the maximum deflection is:
384 𝐸 𝐼
𝑊 𝐿2
(b) the maximum slope is:
24 𝐸 𝐼
where W is the total load.

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 7 Additional Exercises

7 Additional Exercises
Q1 Use virtual work to calculate the deflection and rotation at the tip of the uniform
cantilever shown below.

M
a b

Q2 Use virtual work to calculate the right hand reaction and the deflection under the load
for structure shown below, given that I = 12000 cm4 and E = 200 kN/mm2.

200 kN

a b
c

5m 1.5 m

Q3 (a) Use virtual work to find the rotation at both ends of the uniform beam shown below.

(b) Find the magnitude and location of the biggest deflection. Note this is a challenging
question if you attempt it by virtual work.

M
b
a

Q4 Use virtual work to prove that the maximum deflection of a uniform, simply supported
beam under the action of a midspan point load is PL3/48EI.

Q5 The figure below shows a pin jointed truss. Use the virtual work to calculate

(a) the reactions at a and f.

(b) The vertical displacement at d and g given that A = 2000 mm 2 and E = 200 kN/mm 2.

b e

50 kN
20 m
a c d f g

40 m 40 m 40 m 40 m

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 7 Additional Exercises

Q6 The figure below shows a uniform, simply supported beam. Use virtual work to calculate
the maximum deflection and slope then compare these with the values given on the
Structures Data Sheet.

a  /unit length b

Q7 The figure below shows a simply supported beam carrying two point loads. Use virtual
work to calculate the vertical deflection under the 200 kN load and the vertical
deflection at the left-hand end of the beam. E I is the same for all spans.

200 kN 100 kN

a b d
c e

2m 2.5 m 2.5 m 1.5 m

Q8 The figure below shows a uniform frame. Use virtual work to calculate

• the horizontal reaction at b

• the vertical reaction at b

• the bending moment half way between b and c

• the horizontal deflection at a

• the vertical deflection half way between b and c

a
120 kN

2.5 m
20 kN/m
b c

10 m

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 7 Additional Exercises

Q9 Use virtual work to calculate

• the vertical reaction at d

• the bending moment at d

• the deflection at the pin

Check the vertical reaction and moment at d by simple statics. EI is the same for all spans.

200 kN

c d 20 kN/m e
b f
a

1m 4m 2m 4m 2m

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work

Q10 The figure below shows a uniform pitched roof portal with pinned feet and a pin at c.

(a) Use virtual work to calculate the horizontal and vertical reactions at e and the bending
moment at b. Check your answers by simple statics.

(b) Use virtual work to calculate the horizontal deflection and rotation at b and the vertical
deflection at c. All elements have the same cross-section and axial deformations should
be neglected.

1m c
200 kN
b d

3m

a e

4m 4m

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 8 Answers to Additional Exercises

8 Answers to Additional Exercises

𝐿×𝑀×𝐿 𝑀 𝐿2 𝐿×𝑀×1 𝑀 𝐿
Q1 1×Δ = = ↓; 𝜃 = = ↻
2 𝐸  𝐼 2 𝐸  𝐼 𝐸 𝐼 𝐸 𝐼

Q2 𝑅𝑟 × Δ − 200 × 1.3 Δ, hence 𝑅𝑅 = 260 kN ↑;

Applying unit load downwards

5000 × 300 × 103 × 1.5 × 103

1×Δ = +
3 × 200 × 12000𝑒4
1500 × 300 × 103 × 1.5 × 103
= 40.6 mm ↓
3 × 200 × 12000 × 104
𝐿×𝑀×1 𝑀 𝐿
Q3(a) 1 × 𝜃𝐿 = = ↻;
3 𝐸  𝐼 3 𝐸  𝐼
𝐿×𝑀×1 𝑀 𝐿
1 × 𝜃𝑅 = = ↺
6 𝐸  𝐼 6 𝐸 𝐼
0.064 𝑀 𝐿2
(b) Δ = ↓
𝐸 𝐼
Note part (b) is tricky by virtual work. You need to apply the unit load at a distance
x from one end. The problem then becomes one of maximising the resulting
expression for deflection at the point load. However, as the question does not
specify a method I would calculate the maximum deflection using double
integration.

𝐿 𝑃 𝐿 𝐿
× × 3
Q4 1×Δ = 2×2 4 4 = 𝑃 𝐿
3 𝐸  𝐼 48 𝐸 𝐼

Q5(a)
50 kN


Hc
Va
Vc Vf
EFS and CDS for Va

50 kN

Hc
Va Vc
Vf 
EFS and CDS for Vf
𝑉𝑎 = 50 kN ↑; 𝑉𝑓 = 100 kN ↑

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 8 Answers to Additional Exercises

Q5(b) The actual forces in the elements are used as the EFS (forces are in kN)

50 kN
-111.8 -111.8 111.8 111.8
100 -100

100 100 -100 -100

The displacements caused by unit force (in the direction of each required displacement in turn)
are used as the CDSs.

Δ𝑑 = 0.1058 m ↑; Δ𝑔 = 0.2116 m ↓

𝐿 𝐿 𝜔 𝐿2 3 𝜔 𝐿2
2× × ×( +2× ) 5 𝜔 𝐿4
Q6 2 4 8 32
1 × Δ𝑚𝑎𝑥 = = ;
6 𝐸 𝐼 384 𝐸 𝐼
𝜔 𝐿2
𝐿 × 1 × (0 + 2 × ) 𝜔 𝐿3
8
𝜃𝑚𝑎𝑥 = =
6 𝐸  𝐼 24 𝐸 𝐼
Q7 Applying unit load downwards

2.5 × 175 × 1.25 2.5 × 1.25 × (2 × 175 + (−150) 286.3

Δ𝑐 = + = ↓;
3 𝐸  𝐼 6 𝐸  𝐼 𝐸 𝐼
Applying unit load upwards

2.5 × 175 × (2 + 2 × 1) 2.5 × 1 × (2 × 175 + (−150))

Δ𝑎 = +
6 𝐸  𝐼 6 𝐸 𝐼
375
= ↑
𝐸 𝐼
Q8 Applying unit load to the right

2.5 × 300 × 2.5 10 × 2.5 × (300 + 2 × 400) 5208

Δ𝑎 = + = →;
3 𝐸 𝐼 6 𝐸  𝐼 𝐸 𝐼
Applying unit load downwards

5 × 2.5 × (400 + 2 × 412.5) 5 × 2.5 × (400 + 2 × 262.5)

Δ𝑚𝑖𝑑𝑠𝑝𝑎𝑛 = +
6 𝐸  𝐼 6 𝐸  𝐼
4480
= ↓
𝐸 𝐼
Q9 𝑉𝑑 = 35 kN ↑

𝑀𝑑 = 100 kNm (sagging)

2 × 100 × 2 4 × 2 × (100 + 2 × 90) 506.6

Δ𝑐 = + = ↑
3 𝐸 𝐼 6 𝐸  𝐼 𝐸 𝐼

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 Unit 4: Virtual Work 8 Answers to Additional Exercises

Q10 Horizontal Displacement applying unit load to the right

15 15
3 × 8 × 225 √17 × 8 × 225
Δ𝑎 = + +
3 𝐸 𝐼 3 𝐸  𝐼
9 9
√17 × 8 × 375 3 × 8 × 375 2003
+ = ;
3 𝐸  𝐼 3 𝐸  𝐼 𝐸 𝐼
(positive hence displacement is to the right)

Rotation applying unit moment anti-clockwise

3 5
3 × (− 8) × 225 √17 × 8 × 225
𝜃𝑏 = + +
3 𝐸  𝐼 3 𝐸 𝐼
3 3
√17 × 8 × 375 3 × 8 × 375 443
+ =
3 𝐸  𝐼 3 𝐸  𝐼 𝐸 𝐼
(positive hence rotation is to the anti-clockwise)

Vertical Displacement applying unit load downwards

3 3
3 × × 225 √17 × × 225
Δ𝑐 = 2 + 2 +
3 𝐸 𝐼 3 𝐸 𝐼
3 3
√17 × (− 2) × 375 3 × (− ) × 375
2 536
+ = − ;
3 𝐸  𝐼 3 𝐸  𝐼 𝐸 𝐼
(negative hence displacement is to upwards)

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