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In this paper the analysis for the anticlastic bending under constant curvature of nonlinear solids and beams, presented by Lanzoni, Tarantino (J. Elast. 131:137–170, 2018), is extended and further developed for the class of slender beams. Following a semi-inverse approach, the problem is studied by a three-dimensional kinematic model for the longitudinal inflexion, which is based on the hypothesis that cross sections deform preserving their planarity. A compressible Mooney-Rivlin law is assumed for the stored energy function and from the equilibrium equations, the free parameter of the kinematic model is computed. Thus, taking into account the three-dimensionality of the beam, explicit formulae for the displacement field, the stretches and stresses in every point of the body, following both Lagrangian and Eulerian description, are derived. Subsequently, slender beams under variable curvature were examined, focusing on the local determination of the curvature and bending moment along the deformed beam axis. The governing equations take the form of a coupled system of three equations in integral form, which is solved numerically. The proposed analysis allows to study a very wide class of equilibrium problems for nonlinear beams under different restraint conditions and subject to generic external load systems. By way of example, the Euler beam and a cantilever beam loaded by a dead or live (follower) concentrated force applied at the free end have been considered, showing the shape assumed by the beam as the load multiplier increases.

In the present work, the tensionless contact problem of an Euler–Bernoulli beam of finite length resting on a two-parameter Pasternak-type foundation is investigated. Owing to the tensionless character of the contact, the beam may lift-off the foundation and the point where contact ceases and detachment begins, named contact locus, needs be assessed. In this situation, a one-dimensional free boundary problem is dealt with. An extra condition, in the form of a homogeneous second-order equation in the displacement and its derivatives, is demanded to set the contact locus and it gives the problem its nonlinear feature. Conversely, the loading and the beam length may be such that the beam rests entirely supported on the foundation, which situation is governed by a classical linear boundary value problem. In this work, contact evolution is discussed for a continuously varying loading condition, starting from a symmetric layout and at a given beam length, until overturning is eventually reached. In particular, stability is numerically assessed through the energy criterion, which is shown to stand for the free boundary situation as well. At overturning, a descending pathway in the system energy appears and stability loss is confirmed.