Dynamic Stability Under Constant Load of Finite Duration

Abstract

Consider a system (model) at its natural (unloaded) position. At time t=0 a constant load P is suddenly applied to the system and it acts only for a finite duration, time t = T₀ (Figure 3.1). After the release of the force P, the system moves because of the energy imparted, during the action of the load P. The concept of dynamic stability for this particular load case is similar to the concept used in the cases of the ideal impulse and of the constant load of infinite duration. Thus, for all three cases the concept of dynamic stability is based on the definition of buckled and unbuckled motion.