ABSTRACT
This chapter presents the principles on which the computation of the deflection of beams is based, along with four popular methods of deflection analysis: the formula method, the superposition method, the successive integration method, and the moment–area method. It aims to understand the need for considering beam deflections. The chapter also aims to understand the development of the relationships between the manner of loading and support for a beam and the deflection of the beam. It describes write computer programs to assist in using the several methods of beam analysis. Power transmission shafts carrying gears must have sufficient rigidity to ensure that the gear teeth mesh properly. Noise generation, decreased power-transmitting capability, and increased wear would result. For many practical configurations of beam loading and support, formulas have been derived that allow the computation of the deflection at any point on the beam.
