Non-linear analysis of thin-walled, open beams

Abstract A finite-element formulation for the elastic non-linear static analysis of thin-walled, open beams under combined bending and torsion is presented. The solution strategy is to use the Newton-Raphson method to proceed to the limit point region and then to employ the modified Riks-Wempner constant arc length technique to traverse the limit point region. The formulation is tested against experimental results and is accurate in predicting the non-linear response and the snap-through load.