Evaluation of Simplified Methods of Estimating Beam Responses To Impact

Fundamental principles controlling the deflection behavior of a simply supported beam responding to the impact action of a solid object is revealed in this paper. The significant mitigating effects that the mass of the beam have upon its impact resistant behavior have been illustrated with examples. It is a myth that the static resistance of the beam is indicative of its impact resistance. The important effects of "cushioning" and the higher modes phenomenon have also been identified by the analytical study presented herein. Hand calculations and computer analysis methods are introduced and evaluated by comparison with results obtained from finite element analyses using LS-DYNA.