Analysis of Structures
Analysis of Structures
Analysis of Structures
I. Introduction
Analysis of structure is the process of determining how the applied loads are distributed to the
members of the structure. Two types of structures will be studied; they are pin-connected trusses
and pin connected Frames.
II. Objectives
After completion of this course the student should be able to:
Figure 5. 1 Truss
IV. Zero-Force-Members
Two common type of arrangements of members that result in zero force member. Shown in
Figure 5.2, the first type is when there is only two non collinear member that are connected to a
joint and has no external loads or reactions applied to it, then the force in both members is zero.
The second one is if there are three members, two of which are collinear, that are connected to
a joint that has no external loads or reactions applied to it, then the force in non collinear member
is zero.
V. Method of Joints
The assumption that the members of the truss are two force members indicates that the free
body diagram of the force acting any joint is a concurrent force system.
3. Draw a free body of the whole truss, showing all external loads and reactions.
4. Examine the free body diagram of the truss to select a joint that has no more than two
unknown force (which must not be collinear) acting on it.
5. Draw the FBD of the selected joint and apply ∑x = 0 and ∑y =0 to determine the unknown
forces. Forces directed to joint are compressive (push) and tensile (pull) if directed away
from the joint. Proceed to the next joint with no more than two unknown forces and
apply step 4.
6. Repeat step 4 until all forces in the truss members have been found. It is customary to
start at one end to the middle member then from the other end to the middle member.
Check the equilibrium of the forces in the unused joint using computed results.
Solution:
to check:
Solution: