On the use of the quadratic functional and its derived principles in structural mechanics

Abstract

In this paper the varied form of the quadratic functional is used to derive several principles. Some of them, such as Alambert's, Jourdain's and Gauss' principles are being used currently. The corresponding approximate methods of solution are obtained by employing suitable trial functions and are illustrated by solving two problems. These methods are applicable to linear and nonlinear problems as well as to nonconservative ones.