Flexible compression-only support

This type of support gives a partial support (behaving like a spring) when under compression. If there is a tension in this type of support, the support ceases to give any support and is "absenting" from the model.

Let’s, as in chapter Rigid compression-only support, assume a simply supported beam with an additional intermediate support The intermediate support is of discussed flexible-compression-only type. As a result, the support acts only if some load is applied in downward direction.

For better understanding, the results are compared with the results of example analysed in chapter Rigid compression-only support. The intermediate support of the top beam is of Flexible compression-only type. The intermediate support of the bottom beam is of Rigid compression-only type.

The first comparison shows vertical displacement for load acting in vertical downward direction. It can be seen that the flexible support provides for a partial vertical displacement.

The second comparison shows vertical displacement for load acting in vertical upward direction. It proves that none of the two intermediate supports is "active" when tension appears in it.