Simple Method of Analysis of Vierendeel Structures

An exact moment distribution process suitable for the analysis of rigid frames, simple Vierendeel girders, and multistory buildings with coupled shear walls subjected to transverse loads is presented and three examples of application are fully considered. The method eliminates the problem of slow convergence of conventional moment distribution procedures. In addition, the effects of axial distortions in the structure are easily calculated with the proposed method. A slide rule or desk calculator are the only tools required for the application of this procedure. Also, in the tradition of Hardy Cross, moments are distributed on a paper layout of the frame for a better physical significance of the process.