Influence of Changing the Support Points, Within a Fixed Cross-Section, on the Static Response of a Double-Layer Beam

The paper presents the analysis of the influence of the location and characteristics of supports on the static response of two-layer beams. The possibility of tangential movement at the supports was considered. Multilayer beams, which combine the advantages of different materials, are widely used in construction. The authors’ previous research showed that the stiffness of the connection between layers significantly affects the behaviour of the system. This paper demonstrates that the supports’ position is another crucial factor that influences the beams’ response, which is an issue that has not been previously considered in the literature. A two-layer system was modelled using the Euler–Bernoulli beam theory. Consistent normal displacements and tangential forces at the layer interface, which were proportional to the relative slip, were assumed. From the equilibrium equations and considered assumptions, three coupled displacement equations were derived and then solved using finite Fourier transforms. They were applied to solve beams, the two ends of which cannot move in the direction perpendicular to the beam’s axis, with at least one of the beam ends being a pinned support. To verify the method’s accuracy, several numerical examples were analysed. It was shown that both the support position and the possibility of tangential displacement at the supports have a significant impact on the static response. Additionally, the crucial role of the stiffness of the interlayer connection was confirmed. The developed approach provides a practical tool for assessing two-layer beam systems and highlights the importance of considering support conditions in the design and analysis of such structures.