Some Basic Concepts in Matrix Structural Analysis

The development of the electronic digital computer and the application of matrix algebra has made it possible for the structural engineer to analyze complex or highly redundant structures which previously had been prohibitive to analyze by the hand method of calculation. Papers recently written have utilized either the “flexibility” or “stiffness” matrix approach. It is the purpose of this paper to point out the common origin of these methods in energy and to discuss procedures for calculating the total energy of a structure. The concept of the “total” structure will be considered. Applications include analysis of a truss with elastic supports and a continuous beam.