Advanced Methods of Structural Analysis (ePub)

During recent years there has been a growing emphasis on using computers to analyze structures by matrix analysis. These developments are most welcome, because they relieve the engineer of the often lengthy calculations required when large or complicated structures are analyzed using classical methods.This book is intended to provide the student with a clear and thorough presentation of the theory and application of structural analysis as it applies to trusses, beams, and frames. Emphasis is placed on developing the student's ability to both model and analyze a structure and to provide realistic applications encountered in professional practice. Although matrix methods are more efficient for a structural analysis, it is the author's opinion that students taking a first course in this subject should also be well versed in the classicial methods. Practice in applying these methods will develop a deeper understanding of the basic engineering sciences of statics and mechanics of materials. Also, problem-solving skills are further developed when the various techniques are thought out and applied in a clear and orderly way. By experience, one can better grasp the way loads are transmitted through structures and obtain a more complete understanding of the way structures deform under load. Finally, the classical methods provide a means of checking computer results rather than simply relying on the generated output. Most of the problems in the book depict realistic situations encountered in practice. Throughout the book there is an approximate balance of problems using either SI or FPS units. The intent has been to develop problems that test the student's ability to apply the theory, keeping in mind that those problems requiring tedious calculations can be relegated to computer analysis. Using the STRAN computer program, included with this book, the student also has a means of checking the solutions to many of these problems, and can thereby be encouraged to apply a computer analysis throughout the course.