One-dimensional analysis of thin-walled closed beams having general cross-sections

This paper presents a new one-dimensional theory for static and dynamic analysis of thin-walled closed beams with general cross-sections. Existing one-dimensional approaches are useful only for beams with special cross-sections. Coupled deformations of torsion, warping and distortion are considered in the present work and a new approach to determine sectional warping and distortion shapes is proposed. One-dimensional C0 beam elements based on the present theory are employed for numerical analysis. The e ectiveness of the present theory is demonstrated in the analysis of thin-walled beams having pillar sections of automobiles and excavators.