Virtual Work Method
Virtual Work Method
Sign Conventions
• If the moment and the corresponding angular vertical
displacement are in the same direction, the virtual work is
taken POSITIVE.
• If the moment and the corresponding angular vertical
displacement are in the opposite direction, the virtual work is
taken NEGATIVE.
Steps to find Beam Reaction by Virtual Work Method
• Assume one support hinged i.e. the rotation at the support is
allowed but imaginary (virtual) displacement ‘y’ at the other
support, either in upward or downward direction and draw a
sketch.
• Calculate the displacement under the load points δ1, δ2,
δ3,…….. etc. in terms of ‘y’ by using geometry of similar
triangles.
• Calculate virtual work due to all the loads and reaction using
correct sign convention.
• Virtual Work = Force/Reaction x virtual displacement
• Apply the Principle of Virtual Work
• i.e. ∑ Virtual Work = 0
• 5. Substitute the value of δ1, δ2, δ3,…….etc. in terms of ‘y’.
Divide the both side of equation by ‘y’ and find the unknown
support reaction.
• 6. Similarly find other unknown support reaction.