Solution of axisymmetric torsion problems by point matching

Abstract

A general numerical technique is presented for the solution of the problem of torsion of axisymmetric bodies. The method superimposes a number of basic solutions of the elasticity equations using the point-matching technique so as to satisfy approximately the prescribed boundary conditions of a body. Results obtained by this technique are compared with those obtained by alternative experimental and theoretical techniques for various body geometries to assess the accuracy of the method. The technique is then applied to the problem of the torsion of shouldered shafts since large discrepancies exist between the experimental and analytical results available for this type of structure.