Numerical Simulation of Large Deflection of Tree Branch Considering Self-weight Loading

Abstract

Tree branches are deformed with large deflection by mechanical loads due to wind, rain and snow weight, and also deformed by own weights. The shape of fruit tree branches is artificially planned and manually formed in cultivation process. The analyses of tree branch deformation behaviors are important for the sustainable fruit cultivation to prevent tree damages and avoid branch failures. In this study, a numerical analysis method for large bending deflection was used to evaluate the deformation of tree branch focusing on the self-weight load. The branch models were created as cantilever of straight or tapered shape with a constant elastic modulus. As the simulation results, the large bending deformation in downward direction of the long branch limited the extension length for horizontal direction. This simulation was available to estimate growth geometries of branches with bending deformation and could be used to predict the future branch configuration relating to tree vigor.