An equilibrium method for the global computation of critical configurations of elastic linkages

In this paper we develop an equilibrium method for the derivation of critical equilibrium configurations of a non-linearly elastic, discrete rod model, which is supported in a statically indeterminate way, and subjected to general loading. We construct a global computation scheme for the critical equilibrium configurations and demonstrate the effectiveness of the method via a clamped-pinned rod fabricated from linearly elastic, or specially hardening/softening material, loaded by either a horizontal or a follower force. We show some correspondence between the equilibrium states of these two load cases, and different snapping processes are revealed.