On the spatial buckling of elastic columns

This paper presents a novel analytical solution for the buckling load in 3D of columns that fills a gap in the existing literature by accounting for shear deformation and spatial effects. The latter means that a column can be supported and buckle in any direction. We build on the foundational work of Simo and use a 3D beam model to derive a set of equations that form the basis for our analytical solution. The paper outlines the axioms of the Simo model, presents the corresponding equations, and describes the linearization procedure in details. By linearizing the equations we obtain a set of algebraic equations with boundary conditions, which we manipulate into an analytical solution for the buckling load. An illustrative example using a column with an elliptical cross-section shows how different boundary conditions and the spatial orientation of the column influence the buckling load. This research work not only contributes to the verification of numerical programs, but also provides engineers with a valuable tool for optimizing structural configurations.