Static Optimal Shapes of Tapered Beams with Constant Volume

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This paper deals with the static optimal shapes of simple beams which are subjected to a vertical point load. The area and second moment of inertia of the regular polygon cross-section of the tapered beams are determined, which have always same volume and same length for the parabolic taper. The differential equation governing the elastic curve is derived using the small deflection theory and solved numerically. By using the numerical results of deflections, rotations and bending stresses of such beams, the optimal shapes, namely, optimal section ratios, of the beams subjected to a single point load according to variation of load position parameters are determined and presented in the figures. Examples of the static optimal shapes for beams with a single load and multiple loads are reported. The design process of this study can be used directly for the minimum weight design of simple beams.