Computer Analysis of Plane and Space Structures

A comprehensive compilation of the stiffness method is presented for the general analysis of plane and space structures. At first, the stiffness matrices of members with uniform cross-sections are derived relative to both the member and common axes, for various end deformation conditions ranging from a plane truss to a space frame member. The member stiffness matrices are suitably modified to include the effects of variable moment of inertia, shear deformations, wide supports and semirigid connections. The solution technique for large-size band matrices with multiple load vectors is presented and some computer programming for important phases of the analysis is introduced. The classification of structures with one or two dimensional members, is examined. Numerical examples for space frames are also included.