Deformable Bodies: Axial Loading and Stiffness

This lecture covers the concepts of axial loading, stress, and strain in one-dimensional deformable bodies. It discusses the generalized uniaxial loading and provides an example of self-weight on a conical structure. The instructor explains the principle of virtual work, equilibrium states, and the computation of reaction and internal loads in rigid structures. The lecture also delves into the stability of equilibrium states in mechanical systems with potential energy. It further explores the analysis of mechanisms and the determination of equilibrium types based on potential derivatives. The lecture concludes with examples illustrating neutral and unstable equilibrium conditions.