CIVE1144v2013 PDF

Civil, Environmental and Chemical Engineering
Learning Package
Analysis of Complex Structures
CIVE1144
This Learning Package is part of the study materials for CIVE1144
Analysis of Complex Structures, which is a course offered by the
School of Civil, Environmental and Chemical Engineering in the
Science, Engineering and Health College at RMIT University. It was
prepared by Dr Sawekchai Tangaramvong based on previous work
of Associate Professor Sujeeva Setunge and Dr Indubhushan
Patnaikuni. The Learning Package is revised annually by the School
of Civil, Environmental and Chemical Engineering.
Published by RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia 3000.

 RMIT University 2011.
This courseware is copyright. Apart from any use permitted under

the Copyright Act 1968 and subsequent amendments, no part may be
reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted by any
means or process whatsoever without the prior written permission
of the publisher.
Disclaimer
While the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (“RMIT
University”) endeavours to provide accurate material on its web
site, it gives no warranty concerning the accuracy of the material
provided by this service. Users should refer to the originating
bodies or departments sourcing the documents for confirmation of
the accuracy of the material.
RMIT University provides hypertext links to a number of external
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ii
Acknowledgements
RMIT acknowledges the contributions to this Learning Package by
external copyright owners.
All weblinks (other than to Home Pages) are provided with express
permission of the website owner (or with permission pending).
Other materials – illustrations, tables, worked examples and text –
are provided within the copyright provisions of Australian law for
educational institutes. All such materials are acknowledged at their
point of use.
Project development team:

Project Sponsorship: Professor Julianne Reid, Associate
PVC (Learning and Teaching), SEH
College
Content Creation and Authorship:
 Dr Sawekchai Tangaramvong
Multimedia: Geoff Marchiori
Instructional Design: Greg Plumb
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Table of Contents
Course Outline 1
Introduction 3
Course Development 4
Conceptual Background 6
Progress Through the Course 7
Resources 7
Study Needs 9
Submission of Assessment 9
Evaluation 10
Feedback 11
Use of Icons 12
Graduate Capabilities 13
Planning and Time Management Chart 15
Assessment 23
Schedule 25
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Learning Guide 27
Topic 1: Introduction to Structures and Loads 29

Session 1.1: Classification of Structures 31
Session 1.2: Loads 32
Session 1.3: Supports and Connections 33
Topic 2: Analysis of Statically Determinate Structures 35

Session 2.1: Superposition and Equilibrium 37
Session 2.2: Determinacy and Stability 38
Session 2.3: Application of Equilibrium Equations 39
Topic 3: Qualitative Analysis of Beams and Frames 43

Session 3.1: Beams 45
Session 3.2: Frames 47
Topic 4: Analysis of Framed Structures using Computer-Aided 51

Software
Using Space Gass for the First Time 53
Exercise 1: Single-span Fixed Ends Beam 56
Exercise 2: Continuous Beam 62
Exercise 3: Simple Frame 67
Exercise 4: Portal Frame 74
Topic 5: Analysis of Statically Indeterminate Beams using the Force 87

Method
Session 5.1: Primary and Redundant Structures 89
Session 5.2: Force Method for Beam Analysis 90
Topic 6: The Slope-deflection Method for the Analysis of Beams and 93

Frames
Session 6.1: Sketching the Elastic Curve 96
Session 6.2: Slope-deflection Equations and Internal Moments 99
Session 6.3: Support Settlement of Beams, Side Sway of 104
Framed Structures
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Topic 7: Beam Analysis using the Stiffness Method 111
Session 7.1: Superposition Element Stiffness Matrix 114
Session 7.2: Global Element Stiffness Matrix 116
Session 7.3: Examining Computer Analysis Results 118
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Course Outline
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Analysis of Complex Structures 1

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Course Outline
Introduction
The course has been designed to provide you with the
fundamental knowledge of structural analyses. The focus is
primarily on the solution methods for the applications of
statically indeterminate structures. This type of structure is
typically encountered in realistic engineering situations, ranging
from the simple analysis of (low rise) industrial buildings to the
analysis of artistically sophisticated towers.
You will explore basic principles, including basic structural
elements, appropriate idealization of structural models, analysis
of statically determinate structures and analysis of statically
indeterminate structures. Only elastic analysis and statically
applied load regimes will be covered. Neither the influences of
material and geometric nonlinear behaviours nor dynamically
applied loading are within the scope of this course.
The subject has seven main Topics, which flow from some basic
and simple concepts to more complex theoretical-based
approaches. The problems are usually stated first, and later
followed solutions. More specifically, the first two Topics give
an introduction to structural and loading components, as well as
a review of statically determinate problems and their solutions.
The other five Topics involve the concept and analysis methods
for statically indeterminate structures, and the introduction of
computer-aided software.
Analysing statically indeterminate structures is far more
complex than determinate ones as additional equations are
required for solving the unknown reactions or internal forces.
The analysis methods presented in this course make use of the
three basic ingredients in engineering mechanics, namely
equilibrium, compatibility and force-displacement relations. The
particular approaches described for solving the indeterminate
problems will cover Qualitative Analysis, Force Method, Slope-
Deflection Method and Stiffness Method, respectively. As is typical,
the results will be expressed by means of the free body, shear
force and bending moment diagrams.
V8 August 2011

Newly developed technologies have benefitted engineering

design and analysis with the use of the computer-aided
software. The simple, yet sufficiently efficient computer
program Space Gass, will be introduced in this course. You will
develop your engineering skills to safely justify and interpret the
results you obtain from the computer software.
At the completion of this course, you are expected to build and
apply your engineering capability for the analysis of both
statically determinate structures and statically indeterminate
structures. You will be able to thoroughly criticize the problem
involved and then explore its efficient and robust solution. You
will be able to extend your computational/numerical skills to
the application of realistically complex engineering structures.
Course Development
Dr Sawekchai Tangaramvong
+(61 3) 9925 0806
s.tangaramvong@rmit.edu.au
Building 10, Level 13, Room 14, City
Campus, RMIT University
Dr Tangaramvong joined RMIT University as an academic

member in July 2011. Prior to this, he worked at the University
of New South Wales, where he was awarded his PhD, with a
major in a structural engineering discipline. He has been involvd
in teaching for more than five years. Straight after his PhD
graduation, he pursued industrial consultation as a structural
engineer/analyst at Taylor Thomson Whitting (TTW), Sydney.
He is involved in both analysis and design for a variety of high-
rise buildings in Australia and Asia.
His specialties are post-tensioned concrete design, design of
hybrid structural systems and analysis of sophisticated
structural conditions. His research interests are
limit/shakedown analysis, optimal synthesis of elastoplastic
structures and engineering contact mechanics. He has published
more than 30 research articles over the last 5 years; most are in
prestigious and high-impact factor international journals.
V8 August 2011

Dr Xiaodong Huang
+(61 3) 9925 3320
xiaodong.huang@rmit.edu.au
Building 10, Level 13, Room 5C,
City Campus, RMIT University
Dr Xiaodong Huang is a senior lecturer at RMIT University. He

has a M.Eng in Solid Mechanics from Shanghai Jiao Tong
University in China and a Ph D degree in Structural Engineering
from Swinburne University in Australia. Dr Huang has more
than 10 years of research experience in the fields of structural
optimization, computational mechanics and crashworthiness of
structures. He has published one book and more than 60
research papers; most are in prestigious international journals
such as Computational Mechanics, Computers & Structures,
Structural and Multidisciplinary Optimization.
Dr Xiaodong Huang has won the Early Career Researcher
Award Winner from the Australian Academy of Science 2006, an
Australian Postdoctoral Fellowship from Australian Research
Council (ARC) 2006-2008, as well as an RMIT Research Award
in 2005 and an RMIT Teaching Award in 2010.
Other Contributors
 Professor Mike Xie
 Associate Professor Sujeeva Setunge
 Dr Indubushan Patnaikuni
 Dr Armajit Singh Baja
Academic Staff
Your course coordinator at RMIT University will be
Dr Sawekchai Tangaramvong. Your offering coordinator at VTC,
Hong Kong will be Dr David Chan.
V8 August 2011

Conceptual Background
Before you start this course it is expected that you can:
 describe basic statics
 explain the concept of free body diagrams (FBDs)
 explain the concept of force vectors in mechanics
applications
 explain the division of a structure into a finite number of
elements
 explain the concept of constraints or joints of a given
structure
 explain the coordinate system for common structures with
local and global coordinates
 explain the various types of load actions on structures
 describe load analysis techniques
 calculate loads, shear forces, bending moments and
support reactions for common structures by equilibrium
concept
 analyse tension, compression and beam members of
common industrial structures
 determine the various support conditions for structures
 explain the concept of equilibrium for different types of
structures
 explain the principle of superposition for displacements in
structures
 draw the deflected shape of common beam and frame
structures
 classify structures as determinate or indeterminate
structures, and stable or unstable structures.
V8 August 2011

Progress through the Course

Use the Planning and Time Management Guide at the end of
this Course Outline to assist you in working through the course.
The chart lists all your topics and their learning outcomes, and
the activities and assessments to complete. Make sure you use
the Time Management Guide as a way of scheduling your time,
and assessing your progress.
You will be studying this course over a suggested duration of 12
weeks. This is approximately 3 hours per week lectures with 2
hour per week tutorial contact time.
When you have completed the course Learning Guide, put aside
some time for review before the examination. You will be
informed of the examination time by your course coordinator
via myRMIT1.
Communicating with your Course Co-ordinator

Whenever you have a problem or a question, you will be able to
contact your coordinator via email. The email contact is
available through myRMIT.
Resources
Computer access
You will be able to have online access as a student of RMIT
University. You will be given a generic password, which you
can then change if you wish. This will enable you to:
 ask your coordinator questions via email
 register and send your assessments when indicated in the
Learning Guide
 access programs online where indicated in the Learning
Guide
 talk to students at other campuses in forums or as part of a
group activity
 access announcements relevant to your study. Make sure
you access announcements at least once a week.
For details of appropriate web sites and recommended
references, go to the Course Guide via myRMIT.
1
http://www.rmit.edu.au/browse;ID=hu6du0mhbgmy;STATUS=A?QRY=myrmit&STYPE=ENTIRE
V8 August 2011

Reference
Your set text for this course is:
 Hibbeler, R.C. Structural Analysis, seventh edition in SI
units
You will be provided with a learning package, including course
notes and resources. Supplementary materials will provide
solutions to Activity problems.
Other useful references:
 Brohn, D., Understanding Structural Analysis, Granada, 1984
 Ganju, T.N., Matrix Structural Analysis Using Spreadsheets,
McGraw-Hill, 2001
Weblinks
You may be directed to extra resources via weblinks in this
course. These will have been selected for their quality and
innovative approach to the material you are studying.
If you are studying online you will be able to click on a weblink
to go immediately to the website and the document of interest at
that website. In a few cases you may be linked to a Home Page
from which you will have to follow a number of prescribed steps
to get to the document we would like you to look at.
Product Name Disclaimer

From time to time you may encounter the names of commercial
products throughout this Learning Guide. These are used for
illustrative purposes only. RMIT does not endorse the use of
any products that may be referred to in the course materials.
V8 August 2011

Study Needs
Although studying can be difficult at times, you can help
yourself by being organised and allocating specific times for
your study. There are some general guidelines, which may help
you:
 plan your week. Schedule the times when you will be
working through the Learning Guide. Use the suggested
time allocation in the chart above to estimate how long to
plan for each session of study
 ask questions of your tutor and institution. Don‟t wait until
you feel swamped or overwhelmed. Ask questions when
you first have a problem
 use your student group as a network and assistance. It has
been proven many times that a group of students can help
each other to keep motivated and working to schedule.
Course-specific study needs

Feedback will be provided as:
 general comments of relevance to all students undertaking
the course will be posted on the Course Discussion Board via
myRMIT
 specific comments of relevance to a particular group or
student will be sent directly via Student emails.
Submission of Assessment
This online material is currently under development and the
submission of assessment must be done as per the approved
Course Guide on the web.
When the site is fully developed, you will be submitting your
assessments and activities as indicated by the Learning Guide,
through myRMIT. Your coordinator will provide feedback
through the myRMIT as well.
All work must be presented as specified in the instructions and
guidelines provided in the assessme4nt brief. You are required
to be professional in both presentation and attitude, including
meeting of deadlines.
V8 August 2011

Plagiarism
RMIT University requires that you present your own work for
assessment. The rules against plagiarism - representing the
work of others (published or unpublished) as your own - are
strict and will be enforced diligently. Here is the RMIT‟s current
plagiarism statement. Read it and make sure you understand its
importance.
Plagiarism statement
Plagiarism is a form of cheating in assessment. Plagiarism may
occur in oral, written or visual presentations. It is the
presentation of the work, idea or creation of another person,
without appropriate referencing, as though it is your own.
Plagiarism is not acceptable. The use of another person's work or
ideas must be acknowledged. The penalties for cheating in
assessment are severe, whether the cheating involves plagiarism
, fabrication, falsification of data, copyright infringement or
some other method. Penalties can include chargers of academic
misconduct, cancellation of results and exclusion from your
course. It is also a disciplinary offence for you to allow your
work to be plagiarised by another student. You are responsible
for keeping your work in a secure place.
Legal Office (university solicitor)
For more information see RMIT University‟s plagiarism

requirements2
Evaluation Process
There is an evaluation form available at myRMIT. Please
complete and return as indicated at relevant times indicated by
your coordinator. Your comments will assist us in improving
and refining the materials and resources.
2
http://www.rmit.edu.au/plagiarism
V8 August 2011

Feedback
Each Learning Outcome in this course is associated with a set of
activities to help you master the knowledge and skills required.
Some of these activities are self-assessment questions for which
answers are provided so that you can assess your achievement
throughout your study. We encourage you to attempt these
questions before looking at the provided solutions (at the end of
the Learning Guide).
In some cases activities will be exercises from your prescribed
text book. Answers to these questions will, in most cases, be in
your text book rather than in this Learning Guide.
You may be asked to prepare descriptive answers to some self-
assessment questions. Since there is no one perfect answer to
such questions, the provided answer will be an indication of a
good response against which you can judge your own response.
The provided answer may be a list of key points that your
answer should cover, rather than a descriptive answer.
V8 August 2011

Use of Icons
The following icons have been used throughout this Learning
Guide to indicate what you need to do next.
Reference/reading/resource/research - an additional
recommended text, audio or video tape or web site.
Individual Activity - may be self assessment questions,

problem solving, demonstration, simulation, lab,
checklist/short answer after reading, case study.
Complete the activity following instructions given.
Group Activity - may be problem solving, lab, case

study, demonstration. Complete the activity following
instructions given.
Feedback - turn to Feedback section at end of Part C:

Learning Guide to check answers and responses for
the activities.
Frequently Asked Questions - provides some

responses to key areas students have highlighted as
queries or difficulties.
Summary checklist - what has been learnt, in

preparation for assessment
Assessment - must be achieved to pass topic or group

of topics.
Additional reading and research to extend knowledge

of key area
Evaluation - tool to gain student feedback on course

content, structure and/or implementation issues
V8 August 2011

Graduate Attributes
In line with the requirements of Engineers Australia for
accreditation purposes, the engineering courses at RMIT are
designed to provide the community with engineers who:
 have the ability to apply knowledge of basic science and
engineering fundamentals
 have the ability to communicate effectively, not only with
engineers, but also with the community at large
 have in-depth technical competence in at least one
engineering discipline
 have the ability to undertake problem identification,
formulation and solution
 have the ability to utilise a systems approach to design and
operational performance
 have the ability to function effectively as an individual and
in multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural teams, with the
capacity to be a leader or manager as well as an effective
team member
 have an understanding of the principles of sustainable
design and development
 have an understanding of professional and ethical
responsibilities and commitment to them
 have an expectation of the need to undertake lifelong
learning, and the ability to do so.
This course integrates development and demonstration of these
attributes into the various topics, as indicated through outcomes
stated at the beginning and statements in the Summary and
Outcome Checklist for each topic.
V8 August 2011

V8 August 2011

Planning and Time Management Guide: Analysis of Complex Structures

Week Topic Learning outcomes Approx. Activities Resources Assessment
hours
Wk 1 Topic 1:  identify basic structural components and generalized internal 3 1A – lecture Hibbeler Final
Introduction forces notes/Hibbeler Lecture Examination
to Structures  explain the basic behaviour of structural system 1B – lecture Notes Assignment
and Loads notes/Hibbeler/ 1A
 extract design loads and loading combinations
worked examples
 determine support connections 1C – lecture
 define loading behaviours and apply them on members notes/Hibbeler/
 model an idealized structure based on the information of design worked examples/
loads and support connections. problems
2A – lecture
Topic 2:  state the convention for support conditions, resulting reactions 9
notes/Hibbeler/
Analysis of  explain superposition and equilibrium worked examples/
Statically
 distinguish statically determinate, statically indeterminate or problems
Determinate
unstable structures 2B – lecture
Structures
 determine degree of indeterminacy notes/Hibbeler/
worked examples/
 apply the equations of equilibrium to solve for the internal
problems
forces of statically determinate structures
2C – lecture
 define positive moments notes/Hibbeler/
 illustrate the internal forces at any cut cross-section through a worked examples/
free-body diagram problems
 express bending moments, shear forces as functions of distance Assignment 1
 draw the bending moment diagram (BMD) on the tension side released week 1
of a structure
 draw the shear force diagram (SFD) of a structure.
V8 August 2011


hours
Wks Topic 3:  state the assumptions based on material properties for a beam 24 3A – lecture notes/ Hibbeler Final
2-3 Qualitative problems/ Lecture Examination
 state assumptions for deformations due to load and moments
Analysis of reflection Notes Assignment
Beams and  state the diagrammatic convention for support conditions and 3B – lecture notes/ 1A
Frames resulting reactions problems/
 explain the principle of superposition reflection
 identify the points through which the deflected shape of the
structure is likely to pass
 draw a smooth elastic curve through the points
 define positive moments
 draw the BMD on the tension side of a structure
 express bending moments resulting from point loads as linear
expressions
 state the bending moments at supports
 place the internal hinge of the member at the point of
contraflexure
 introduce an artificial reaction to prevent horizontal movement
of the structure
 combine the BMDs of the original, unrestrained frame as the
combination of the restrained and sway solutions
 explain the relationship between the slope of the bending
moment diagram and the force normal to the structure
 show that the resultant of the shear and axial forces is equal to
the external reaction at the support
V8 August 2011


hours (submission
week)
Wks 4 Topic 4:  determine the orientation of the local axes for a member 12 lecture Using Space Assignment
Analysis of  define the structure in space by a set of global axes notes/software Gass for the 1B
Structures practice First Time
 input node coordinates relative to the global axes Space Gass
using
Computer-  select design units in a particular system software
aided  define the section and material properties of the member
Software  identify the support restraints
 determine the loads and apply them on nodes and members
 select linear and non-linear analysis for results
 interpret results obtained from the computer-aided software.
V8 August 2011


hours (submission
week)
Wk 5 Topic 5:  determine the degrees of freedom (DOF) for a given beam 12 5A – lecture Hibbeler Final
Analysis of structure notes/Hibbeler/ Lecture Examination
statically  apply the concept of supposition to define primary and worked examples Notes Assignment
indeterminate redundant structures of an actual statically indeterminate 5B – lecture 1B
beams using structure notes/Hibbeler/ Assignment 2
force method worked examples/
 sketch the deflected shape of each primary and redundant
problems
structure Assignment 1 Part A
 illustrate compatibility conditions of the structure to be submitted
 develop compatibility and force-displacement requirements to week 5
solve for the redundant forces Assignment 2
 isolate the continuous beam structure into several single-span released week 5
beam structures into different spans, and draw their free-body
diagrams (FBDs)
 draw the shear force and bending moment diagrams (SFD and
BMD) for the entire structure
 adopt the concept of force method for a case of the beam
structure with support settlements
 appreciate the principle of force method on the analyses of
statically indeterminate beams.
V8 August 2011


hours (submission
week)
Wks Topic 6:  explain the basic concepts of the slope-deflection method 48 6A1&2 – lecture Hibbeler Final
6-9 Analysis of  explain the development of linear and angular displacements at notes/Hibbeler/ Lecture Examination
Statically joints in structures worked examples/ Notes Assignment
Indeterminate problems/ 1B
 derive slope-deflection equations at near and far ends of a
Beams and reflection Assignment 3
member of the structure
Frames using 6B1&2 – lecture
Slope-  isolate a frame or continuous beam structure notes/Hibbeler/
deflection  calculate end moments with fixed supports for frame or worked examples/
Method continuous beam members with concentrated, distributed and problems/
other loads reflection
 apply the sign convention for computing fixed-end moments 6C1&2 – lecture
 derive fixed-end moments for single span beam structures notes/Hibbeler/
under combined load conditions worked examples/
problems/
 label all the supports and joints or nodes in order to identify the
reflection
spans of the beam structure with/without settlement of
6D1&2 – lecture
supports, and a framed structure with/without side sway
notes/Hibbeler/
 sketch the deflected shape of the beam structure and framed worked examples/
structure for the given loading conditions problems/
 determine the DOF for a given beam structure and framed reflection
structure 6E1&2 – lecture
 isolate the continuous structure into several single-span beam notes/Hibbeler/
structures, or a framed structure into different spans, and draw worked examples/
their FBDs problems/
reflection
continued over
V8 August 2011


hours (submission
week)
 compute the stiffness for all beam member spans for the given Assignment 2 to be
load conditions, and all framed member spans according to submitted week 7
specified geometric conditions Assignment 3
 compute the fixed-end moments of all spans for the given load released week 8
conditions
 define unknown angular and linear displacements for all
member spans
 calculate span rotation due to its linear displacements
 write slope-deflection equations for all member spans at near
and far ends
 write moment equilibrium equations at appropriate joints in
terms of the unknown DOF
 substitute the slope-deflection equations into the moment
equilibrium equations
 solve for unknown joint displacements
 determine the internal moments at ends of each member
 draw the shear force and bending moment diagrams (SFD and
BMD) for the entire structure.
 facilitate the use of the slope-deflection method for the elastic
analysis of beam structure with/without settlement of supports,
and a framed structure with/without side sway
V8 August 2011


hours
Wk 10 Topic 7:  subdivide the structure into a series of discrete finite elements 12 7A – lecture Hibbeler Final
Beam  label all supports and joints as nodes to identify the elements or notes/Hibbeler/ Lecture Examination
Analysis members of the structure worked examples/ Notes Assignment 3
using reflection
 identify the constraints at each end or joint of the given
Stiffness 7B – lecture
structure
Method notes/Hibbeler/
 write the DOF at each node for the given structure worked examples/
 use lowest code numbers to identify the unknown problems/
displacements reflection
 use highest code numbers to identify the known displacements 7C – Hibbeler/
 draw FBDs of the elements worked examples/
problems/
 transfer all intermediate loadings to the nodes
reflection
 identify known/unknown external force and displacement Pre-exam
vectors Workshop
 determine the force displacement relationship of each element Assignment 1 Part B
and then relate to one another using the force equilibrium to be submitted week
equations written at the nodes 10
 group these relationships together for the entire structure into a Assignment 3 to be
structure stiffness matrix submitted at pre-
exam workshop
 determine the unknown displacements for the given loading
 calculate the external and internal forces in the structure using
the force displacement relations for each member
 identify stiffness coefficients at near and far end code numbers.
Note: to pass you need an overall score of 50% or more, plus a pass in the examination.
V8 August 2011

V8 August 2011

Assessment
V7 August 2011

V7 August 2011

Assessment
Schedule
Topic covered Major Assessment Task Proportion of final Submission Time (or as
assessment advised)
All topics Final closed book three- 60% 13th December 2011
hour examination
Topics 1 to 3 Assignment 1 – Part A 10% 21st October 2011
Topics 4 and 6 Assignment 1 – Part B 10% 22nd November 2011
Topic 5 Assignment 2 10% 1st November 2011
Topics 6 and 7 Assignment 3 10% 3rd December 2011
Assessment Tasks
The assessment for Analysis of Complex Structures is designed to
determine your understanding of the contents covered
throughout the course as well as to encourage your
development of graduate attributes as stated in the Course
Outline.
The philosophy behind the assessment is to:
 expose you to „real-world‟ conditions in which engineers
work
 develop your professional behaviour and communication
skills
 enhance your learning by exploring key concepts and
solving problems as a team.
Assignments (40%)
There are three Assignments to be completed for this course. All
together are worth 40% towards your final assessment mark.
V7 August 2011

Final Examination (60%)

The final examination constitutes the major part of the
assessment of this course and carries 60% of the total
assessment. The examination is three-hour duration and covers
all Topics. This assessment aims at establishing the level of your
achievement in understanding and being able to use the
principal concepts taught in the course.
To be awarded a pass mark for this course you must achieve a

50% overall pass mark, and you must pass the final examination.
V7 August 2011

Learning Guide
V7 August 2011

Learning Guide
You are now beginning the course. Please turn to Topic 1 and
work your way through the sessions. Remember to use the chart
in the Course Outline if you are unsure about the next activity or
section of work to complete.
V7 August 2011

Topic 1: Introduction to Structures and

Loads
The first Topic will draw your attention to a broad concept of
structures. Generally speaking, a structure is made up of a series
connected parts used to support a load (or loads). It covers a
wide variety of objects that we usually experience in our daily
life. Some of obvious examples are buildings, bridges, towers,
dams, ship and aircraft frames, tanks, pressure vessels, off-shore
platform, etc.
Both the design and analysis are related by duality. The engineer
aiming for a good design must consider not only the structural
safety and its serviceability, but also both the economic and
environmental constraints need to be taken into the account. To
achieve this goal, the fundamental knowledge of material
properties accompanied by the laws of mechanics is important.
Since the structure has been preliminarily designed and all
material properties have been proposed, the structure is
analysed as to ensure for its safety, robustness and serviceability.
Various analysis assumptions, such as support and loading
conditions, are appropriately made based on the theory of
structural analysis. The obtained results are then used to verify
the initial design, and, if necessary, further suggest for the
suitable redesign solutions.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this Topic you will be able to:
 identify basic structural components and generalized
internal forces
 explain the basic behaviour of structural system
 extract design loads and loading combinations
 determine support connections
 define loading behaviours and apply them on members
 model an idealized structure based on the information of
design loads and support connections.
V7 August 2011

Background Skills and Knowledge

Before you start this Topic you are expected to be able to:
 explain the labeling of all types of support and joints
structure
 explain the coordinate system for common structures
 describe different structural materials and their sections.
A major focus of the content covered in Analysis of Complex

Structures is developing your skills in the analysis of
indeterminate structures. You are expected to have a sound
knowledge related the subjects of Statics and Structural Analysis,
or equivalent. It is worthwhile to recall the general definition of
statically determinate and indeterminate structures.
A determinate structure can be completely solved for external
restraints as well as internal member forces using equilibrium of
forces. The obvious example is a simple beam establishing a pin
and a roller support at its ends (i.e. containing three external
restraints). Three equations of equilibrium can be expressed.
Therefore, the reactions of the beam can be directly solved, and
the results are typically demonstrated through the bending
moment and shear force diagrams.
However, if an internal support is additionally introduced for
the same beam, the problem now involves the unknown four
external restraints, whilst only three equations of equilibrium
are available. This second beam, known as an indeterminate
structure, cannot be solved using solely equilibrium. It requires
more sophisticated analysis methods, which will be delivered in
the context of Analysis of Complex Structures.
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Session 1.1: Classification of Structures

The structure composes of various types of elements to support
design actions. It is desirable for a structural engineer to be able
to classify the types of structural components and functions.
This is to provide some understanding in the intrinsic behaviour
of elements concerned. The present session will address the
common types of elements which structures are composed. The
overall behaviour of a structural system collecting a combination
of these basic components is illustrated.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this session, you will be able to:
 recognize various types of elements composing a structure
 identify the generalized internal forces emerged from each
element
 define the intrinsic behaviour of typical structural systems.
Activity 1A
Classification of structures
Read:
 Lecture notes as given in class
 Hibbeler, Structural Analysis, seventh edition, sections
1.1-1.2 (pp. 3-8).
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Session 1.2: Loads

Anticipation of design loading actions is an essential criterion
for the accurate analysis and efficient design of structures. It is
required by an engineer that various types of loads (and
combinations of them) potentially resisted by any parts of the
structure should be appropriately designed. In this section, both
the basic load definitions and the design actions are presented.
Learning Outcomes
 classify various types of loads
 define design load combinations.
Activity 1B
Loads
Read:
 Lecture notes as given in class.
 Hibbeler, Structural Analysis, seventh edition, section
1.3 (pp. 9-26).
Study worked example:
 1.1 in Hibbeler, Structural Analysis.
V7 August 2011

Session 1.3: Supports and Connections

This section presents an idealized model of supports and
connections of structures. As mentioned earlier, the structural
system composes of a combination of various discrete elements.
These elements are in fact joined together through the so-called
support connections. The real behaviour of the connections is
practically specified by a designer. The three most common
types are pin connection, roller support and fixed joint.
Learning Outcomes
 define the types of supports and connections
 model the idealized structure based on support
connections.
Activity 1C
Supports and connections

Read:
2.1 (pp. 33-43).
Study worked example:
 2.1 in Hibbeler, Structural Analysis.
Solve problems:
 1.1 to 1.3, 1.5 in Hibbeler, Structural Analysis.
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Summary and Outcome Checklist

Tick the box for each statement with which you agree:
 I can recognize the basic elements of a structure.
 I can define the generalized internal forces of each
structural component.
 I can express an intrinsic behaviour of structural system.
 I can determine the loads and apply them on nodes and
members.
 I can identify the support connections.
 I can model an idealized structure based on loading and
support connections.
Assessment
This Topic will be assessed in the Assignment 1 and the Final
Examination.
V7 August 2011

Topic 2: Analysis of Statically Determinate

Structures
The Topic applies the concept of statics in engineering
mechanics for the analysis of statically determinate structure.
The concept makes use of two principles, namely superposition
and equilibrium condition. You will learn how to apply these
principles to solve for the internal forces of statically
determinate structures.
The determinate structure is the most common form of structure
the modeller needs to analyse. Solely a total number of
equations expressing equilibrium and superposition are
sufficient for numerically solving all unknown internal forces
underpinning this simple structure. You will be introduced with
the concept of how to determine whether the structure of
interest is statically determinate, statically indeterminate or even
unstable. The degree of indeterminacy is necessarily calculated
in the case of indeterminate structures. To some extent, the
resulting internal forces will be demonstrated, in a practically
engineering sense, by means of the free-body, bending moment
and shear force diagrams.

 classify the common types of loads and structures
 specify the externally applied loads acting on structure
members
 demonstrate an idealized model of structures.
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Learning Outcomes
 state the diagrammatic convention for support conditions
and resulting reactions
 explain the principle of superposition
 explain the concept of equilibrium condition
 distinguish whether the structure is statically determinate,
statically indeterminate or unstable
 determine degree of indeterminacy
 apply the equations of equilibrium to solve for the internal
forces of statically determinate structures
 illustrate the internal forces at any cut cross-section
through a free-body diagram
 express the bending moments and the shear forces as
functions of distances
 draw the bending moment diagram (BMD) on the tension
side of a structure
 draw the shear force diagram (SFD) of a structure.
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Session 2.1: Superposition and Equilibrium

This session will introduce you to the two basic concepts,
namely superposition and equilibrium. They form a theoretical
basis for various types of analysis methods.
Learning Outcomes
 classify the external loading actions and analyse the
structure subjected to each load case
 collect and sum the results of each load case to form the
results of a complete structure
 express the equilibrium concept and equations
Activity 2A
Superposition and equilibrium

Read:
2.2 and 2.3 (pp. 45-47).
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Session 2.2: Determinacy and Stability

This session establishes the sufficient and necessary criteria for
determinacy and stability of the structure concerned.
Learning Outcomes
 define reactive forces at support connections
 draw basic free-body diagram of structures
 determine whether the structure considered is statically
determinate, statically indeterminate or unstable
 specify the degree of determinacy
Activity 2B
Determinacy and stability

Read:
2.4 (pp. 47-53).
Study worked examples:
 2.3 to 2.6 in Hibbeler, Structural Analysis.
Solve problems:
 2.9, 2.11 to 2.16 in Hibbeler, Structural Analysis.
V7 August 2011

Session 2.3: Application of Equilibrium

Equations
In the previous session, the principles of superposition and
equilibrium have been introduced. These concepts can be
applied to solve for unknown reactions at the supports. The
focus of this session is on a statically determinate structure.
When the problem is statically determinate, the structure is not
only stable, but a number of available equilibrium equations are
sufficient for the calculation of unknown reaction forces. Once
the support reactions are computed, a free-body diagram at any
cut sections can be drawn, and the corresponding internal forces
are obtained using the method of sections. These internal forces
can be expressed as functions of distances of the structure
involved. The functions are graphically demonstrated through
the well-known bending and shear force diagrams.
Learning Outcomes
 calculate unknown reactions at the supports of a statically
determinate structure
 draw a basic free-body diagram of a cut section
 apply the method of section to obtain internal forces at any
cut-section
 check whether a structural system is in equilibrium
 express the internal forces as functions of structural
distances
 draw the bending and shear force diagrams
V7 August 2011

Activity 2C
Application of equilibrium equations

Read:
2.5 (pp. 54-63).
Solve problems:
 2.17 to 2.21, 2.23, 2.25, 2.26, 2.34 to 2.36, 2.41, 2.42
in Hibbeler, Structural Analysis.
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This Topic helped you to understand the qualitative method of
analysis of beam and framed structures.
 I can determine whether the structure is statically
determinate, statically indeterminate or unstable.
 I can explain the principle of superposition and
equilibrium.
 I can state the diagrammatic convention for support
conditions and resulting reactions.
 I can develop the concept of equilibrium and superposition
to solve for the support reactions of a statically determinate
structure.
 I can define a positive moment.
 I can express the internal forces as functions of distances of
a structure.
 I can draw SFD and BMD (on a tension side) of a structure.
 I can show that the resultant of the bending moments and
shear forces satisfies equilibrium condition.
Assessment
This Topic will be assessed in all Assignments and the Final
Examination.
V7 August 2011

V7 August 2011

Topic 3: Qualitative Analysis of Beams and

Frames
This Topic will help you to understand the qualitative method of
analysis of beam and framed structures. The qualitative
approach is based on logic rather than numbers. As a structural
engineer, you need to be able to draw the deflected shape,
determine reactions and draw the bending moment diagram of
the structure. Before you can carry out exact analysis, you must
know the appropriate size of the structural members. The exact
analysis will provide a good check on the preliminary
qualitative analysis. Therefore, for accurate qualitative analysis,
basic understanding of the structural behaviour is essential.
Qualitative analysis provides the relationship between the load
and the resulting behaviour of the structure.
Qualitative analysis needs different skills to quantitative
solutions. The qualitative approach is not fixed. It can be started
with the deflected shape or from the bending moment diagram.
As the use of computer methods is now extensively in practice
checking the output results through approximate method is very
important. Once this approach is understood, computer data
errors can be eliminated to a large extent.

 compare the basic mechanical properties of materials
 explain the concept of equilibrium for different types of
structures
 explain the principle of superposition for displacements in
structures
 draw the deflected shape of common beam and frame
structures
 calculate loads, moments and support reactions for
common structures
 explain the classification of structure as determinate or
indeterminate.
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Learning Outcomes
 state the assumptions based on material properties for a
beam
 state the assumptions for deformations due to load and
moments
 state the diagrammatic convention for support conditions
and resulting reactions
 explain the principle of superposition
 identify the points through which the deflected shape of
the structure is likely to pass
 draw a smooth elastic curve through the points
 draw the bending moment diagram on the tension side of a
structure
 express bending moments resulting from point loads as
linear expressions
 state the bending moments at supports
 place the internal hinge of the member at the point of
contraflexure
 introduce an artificial reaction to prevent horizontal
movement of the structure
 combine the bending moment diagrams of the original,
unrestrained frame as the combination of the restrained
and sway solutions
 explain the relationship between the slope of the bending
moment diagram and the force normal to the structure
 show that the resultant of the shear and axial forces is
equal to the external reaction at the support.
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Session 3.1: Beams

In this session you will be asked to examine problems both
qualitatively and quantitatively. You will be focussing on the
analysis of beam structures.
Analysis steps
In qualitative analysis of beams and frame structures, the
complete solution must consist of the deflected shape,
determination of reactions and drawing of the bending moment
diagram. You should follow some of the following important
rules for proper understanding of the structures.
1. The bending moment at the extreme support is normally
zero unless a fixed support is there.
2. The bending moment at an internal support is unlikely to
be zero.
3. A bending moment diagram from point loads consists of
straight lines. The bending moment diagram can change
direction under the load or reaction.
4. The bending moment at the hinge in a structure is zero.
5. A beam structure will always deflect in the direction of the
load unless there is another reactive force.
6. At the point of contraflexure, the deflection diagram will
change the slope direction.
7. The bending moment diagram under a uniformly
distributed load is always a curve.
8. Slope and deflection at a fixed support are always zero.
9. The slope in the bending moment diagram is always
associated with force normal to the structure.
Learning Outcomes
 analyse the beam structures qualitatively
 draw a smooth elastic curve through the identified points
 draw the bending moment diagram on the tension side of a
structure
 express bending moments resulting from point loads as
linear expressions.
V7 August 2011

Activity 3A
Qualitative analysis of beams

Read:
Develop solutions:
 Problem 3.1: For the beam shown in Figure 3.1, show
the reactions with their direction, draw the approximate
bending moment diagram, and sketch the probable
deflected shape.
Figure 3.1, copyright RMIT University, 2008

Reflection:
 Relate your solutions to the learning outcomes.
Solve problems:
 Tutorial problems given in class
V7 August 2011

Session 3.2: Frames

In this session you are required to analyse frames. This is a
development from one-dimensional to two-dimensional
structural elements. The framed structures can also be
determinate or indeterminate. The fixity or rigidity at the joints
will allow the transfer of bending moments in vertical members
to horizontal members. You will be asked to practise the
solution of the problems qualitatively. The solutions are
normally hard at the start, but after some practice, solutions can
be easy and structurally understandable.
Learning Outcomes
 analyse framed structures qualitatively
 draw a smooth elastic curve through the identified points
 draw the bending moment diagram of the framed
structure.
V7 August 2011

Activity 3B
Qualitative analysis of frames

Read:
Develop solutions:
 Problem 3.2: For the frame displayed in Figure 3.2,
show that the reactions with their direction, draw the
approximate bending moment diagram, and sketch the
probable deflected shape.

Reflection:
 Relate your solutions to the learning outcomes
Solve problems:
 Tutorial problems given in class
When you have completed Problems 3.1 and 3.2, the solutions will be
provided through myRMIT.
V7 August 2011


This Topic helps you to understand the qualitative method of
analysis of beam and framed structures.
 I can state the assumptions based on material properties of
a beam.
 I can state assumptions for load and moment deformations.
 I can state the diagrammatic convention for support
conditions and resulting reactions.
 I can explain and apply the principle of superposition.
 I can identify the points through which the deflected shape
of the structure is likely to pass.
 I can draw a smooth elastic curve through the points.
 I can define positive moments.
 I can draw the BMD on the tension side of a structure.
 I can express bending moments resulting from point loads
as linear expressions.
 I can state the bending moments at a simple support.
 I can place the internal hinge of the member at the point of
contraflexure.
 I can introduce an artificial reaction to prevent horizontal
movement of the structure.
 I can combine the bending moment diagrams of the
original, unrestrained frame as the combination of the
restrained and sway solutions.
 I can explain the relationship between slope of the bending
moment diagram and the force normal to the structure.
 I can show that the resultant of the shear and axial forces is
equal to the external reaction at the support.
Assessment
Examination.
V7 August 2011

V7 August 2011

Topic 4: Analysis of Structures using

Computer-Aided Software
With the rapidly growing number of new developed
technologies, the use of computer-aided software has played a
vital role on the analysis and design of many (both newly built
and existing) structures. This can be explained from the fact that
using the software often aids the design engineer to overcome
various burdens arisen from the intrinsic behaviours
underpinning complex structures, such as those subjected to the
extremely earthquake/seismic motions or even those artistically
expressed by an irregular slim shape. Utilising this technology
has widely broadened the engineering knowledge and
boundary to achieve the safe design and accurate analysis of
many sophisticated structures with minimum but effective
efforts.
A wide variety of computer analysis software is available on the
market ranging from the sophisticated state-of-the-art programs,
so-called Abaqus and ANSYS, to the more users friendly but
adequate for general purposes, such as Space Gass and SAP2000.
The development of these programs has accumulatively
received the tremendous efforts and thousand hours of research
approaches from a number of experts/researchers in the areas.
However, the ultimate responsibility belongs to the designers
and users who need to made their own judgement as well as the
appropriate interpretation of the results obtained.
This Topic will introduce to you the use of computer-aided
software, so-called Space Gass. Whilst the specific program is
demonstrated, the basic procedures of how to utilise the
program should be invariant for most of the standard software.
Space Gass is a structural analysis and design program for
frames, trusses, grillages and beams. It is suitable for any job
from small beams and portal frames to high-rise buildings,
towers and bridges.
Space Gass has the option of graphic display. The main graphic
window displays the model‟s geometry in three dimensions
(3D). Space Gass has been configured in such a way that you can
perform almost every operation graphical. Toolbars and pull-
down menu operations are very friendly and easy to follow.
Problem data can also be entered through the graphic editor,
which feels very similar to a 3D computer aided drafting system.
V7 August 2011

In this software, another form of data input is an enhanced form

of spreadsheet called „Datasheet Input‟, which is available for all
types of data. Space Gass is suitable for all structures with most
materials - such as steel, concrete, timber and aluminium.
Learning Outcomes
 determine the orientation of the local axes for a member
 define the structure in space by a set of global axes
 input node coordinates relative to the global axes
 select design units in a particular system
 define the section and material properties of the member
 identify the support restraints
 determine the loads and apply them on nodes and
members
 select linear and non-linear analysis for results
 interpret the results obtained from the computer-aided
software.

 label all types of support and joints
 explain the division of structure into a finite number of
elements
structure
 explain the coordinate system for common structures, with
local and global coordinates
 transfer all the loading actions to the relevant nodes
 describe different structural materials and their sections
 express complexity of the structure involved.
V7 August 2011

Activity 4A
Using Space Gass for the first time

Read:
 Using Space Gass for the First Time, which follows this
Activity Box.
Practice with Space Gass:
 Follow the steps outlined in Using Space Gass for the
First Time by using your student software. Make sure
you can follow each step and relate them to the
problems that they demonstrate.
Using Space Gass for the First Time

The first step in using Space Gass is to locate its icon on the
desktop of your computer, and to click on it.
When you open the software you will have to click on two items
that relate to the appropriate use of your student version of
Space Gass, and its limitations with respect to the full operating
version. The following window will appear (possibly with
different graphics in the work area of the window).
When you are about to start a new analysis using Space Gass
you need to select File, New.
V7 August 2011

Before you start any work you should check that the units are
appropriate to the problem you are working with. You do this
by going to Structure, Units:
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and making any necessary changes in the Units window:
Next, you need to input some headings (Structure, Headings):
V7 August 2011

Exercise 1: Single-span Fixed Ends Beam

We now consider the following single-span fixed ends beam
subjected to a point load of W = 10 kN, where L = 5 m.
L/2
Copyright RMIT University, 2009
Using the structure Wizard the following steps are used to

create the beam in Space Gass.
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Now select some input data.

Enter the length L as 5 m.
Change the supports to encastre (fixed) condition.
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The section properties can be left at the default section of

150UB140.
Now enter the loads on the beam. The beam has only one point
load at mid-point of 10 kN. Therefore the load is a member
concentrated load. Enter the loads either through the datasheet
or the graphical selection of the member.
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The beam is now ready for analysis - either linear or non-linear

analysis.
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The BMD is shown on the screen.

A manual analysis should give a solution of WL/8. With this
you can check whether the Space Gass output is correct. WL/8 =
10  5/8 = 6.25 kNm OK.
V7 August 2011

Exercise 2: Continuous Beam

The second example involves the more complex continueous
beam as shown:
Copyright RMIT University, 2009
Since this beam is a continuous beam (more than two supports),

the continuous beam option in Space Gass structure Wizard can
be used.
Generating the beam requires entering each span starting from

the left hand end. Enter L=4 insert, L=4, insert and L=3 insert to
create the three spans.
V7 August 2011

Note that the initial model has pin supports at all the nodes.
These need to be changed to reflect the given conditions – there
is a fixed support at the left hand end, two internal rollers and a
free end.
Double click on each of the nodes and change the support
conditions.
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Display the structure.
The structure has one member distributed force of 24 kN/m and

one node force of 3 kN. These can be now entered following the
same process as in Exercise 1.
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The loading diagram can be displayed by clicking on the icon on

the left-hand edge of the Space Gass window.
Bending moment diagram is displayed below, and agrees with

the manual solution using slope deflection method.
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V7 August 2011

Exercise 3: Simple Frame

The third example determines the following frame structure:
20 m
8 kN
10 m
15 m
Copyright RMIT University
This structure cannot be created using structure Wizard.

Therefore coordinates of nodes are used to create the structure.
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Now create the members connecting the nodes.
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Note that at the nodes all the members are connected with fixed
connections. Space Gass denotes this with FFFFFF.
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Now your structure is created.
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Nodes 1 and 4 have external restraints which are fixed

connections. Double click on nodes 1 and 4 and select fixed
connection icon. Node restraints can be displayed now.
Insert the applied load as a node load at node 2.
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Before you can analyse you need to identify section properties.

The identical section is used for all members. Assume the section
to be 150 UC 30. This can be selected using the library of steel
sections.
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You‟ll note that the sign convention is opposite to that of the

Hibbeler solutions. The magnitudes of the bending moments are
correct. The figure below gives the displacement diagram for the
frame.
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Exercise 4: Portal Frame

The final example concerns the portal frame selected from the
Example 4.10 of Woolcock et al. (Woolcock, Kittipornchai,
Bradford, Design of Portal Frame Buildings, Australian Institute of
Steel Construction, 1999).
The Structures Wizard is used to identify the nearest inbuilt structure
that the software provides. It can later be customised for our particular
problem.
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This item is appropriate for our problem

(single bay portal frame)
When you click on the selected structure you will be presented

with the detail window - in this case the Single Bay Portal
Frame. The details for our particular problem have been entered.
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Note that the geometry parameters that you are required to

specify are defined in the image at the top left. Note also that the
Properties items are defined by the options available at the
bottom right. In this example Rafter is being defined and 360
USB 44.7 is selected as defined in the problem. You will need to
make the same sort of definitions for Material, Column, Haunch,
Rafter Prop.
When you have completed the details specifications and clicked
on OK, a graph of this item will be inserted into the work area of
the main Space Gass window:
You now need to do a series of checks for Material Properties

(especially taking note of Young‟s Modulus) and Section
Properties (note here that the absence of 3 and 4 does not
indicate a problem).
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It is now necessary to modify the default structure to match our

problem definition. In this case we need to remove the central
member. Highlight the member by clicking on it, then right click
and remove it by selecting „Delete‟.
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Whenever you make a change to the drawing you will find it

useful to refresh the image by selecting View, Redraw:
The next stage in the analysis is to label the drawing (View,

Labelling and Annotation). In the example below you can see
Node Numbers, Member Numbers and, at the bottom right,
Section Names.
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You need to now check nodes, members and node restraints.
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Before analysis can be completed the Loads must be applied to

the nodes (Node Loads) and members. In this example the only
member loads are distributed (Member Distributed Forces), but
if there were a combination of load types each of these would
have to be defined. When you have entered the appropriate
forces select OK to apply them.
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You can also define load combinations (Combination Load

Cases). One has been defined here (10), where Case 1 is a dead
load and Case 2 is a live load.
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Finally you need to load the Load Case Titles:
You can check loading by using the menu bar at the left.
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loading
Now we need to activate Analysis of the problem that we have

just defined - both Linear Static Analysis and Non-linear Static
Analysis. (Linear Static Analysis only is shown below, but the
process is exactly the same for Non-linear Static Analysis. You
might need to perform Buckling Analysis also, but this feature is
disabled in your student version of the software.)
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When the Analysis components you have selected are completed

and you click on OK for each of them, you can check Bending
Moment Diagrams (BMDs), Shear Force Diagrams (SFDs) etc.
using the menu bar at the left. (When you hover the mouse
cursor over each button it will tell you what its function is.)
BMD
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SFD
Notes: As you show different views of the structure you will

find the redraw useful to clean up the image.
Make sure you have only one of the menu buttons at the left
depressed at a particular time if you want to see, say, just the
BMD. If you have BMD and SFD selected at the same time the
display will combine each of these components on the one
diagram.
You will need to study the impact of all loads and all defined
combinations of loads to determine the critical BMD and SFD
and thus check the member design, which is required to carry
suitable loads.
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 I can determine the orientation of the local axes for a
member.
 I can define the structure in space by a set of global axes.
 I can input node coordinates relative to the global axes.
 I can select design units in a particular system.
 I can define the section and material properties of the
member.
 I can identify the support restraints.
 I can determine the loads and apply them on nodes and
members.
 I can select linear and non-linear analysis for results
 I can express the results obtained from the computer-aided
software.
Assessment
This Topic will be assessed in the Assignment 1.
V7 August 2011

Topic 5: Analysis of Statically Indeterminate

Beams using Force Method
Most of the structures have been widely designed as statically
indeterminate. Solving the intermediate problem is not
straightforward, since a number of equilibrium equations are
less than a number of unknown forces. The current Topic will
introduce you with the fundamental principle of force (or
flexibility) method to solve for the statically indeterminate beam.
The force method makes use of some additional equations
entailing compatibility and force-displacement relations. At the
beginning of the analysis, superposition classifies the actual
indeterminate structure as principle and redundant structures.
Then, compatibility and force-displacement relations are defined
to determine the unknown redundant forces. Equilibrium
conditions are adopted to obtain the remaining forces as when
the redundant forces are solved.

 classify determinacy and stability of the structure
 determine degrees of redundancy for a statically
indeterminate structure
 draw an elastic deflection curve of a statically determinate
beam
 describe basic statics, strength of materials and load
analysis techniques
 calculate loads, shear forces and bending moments in a
single-span beam
 define shear force and bending moment diagrams for a
simple beam structure
 express the concept of superposition for the beam structure
 demonstrate an equilibrium condition.
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Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this Topic, you will be able to:
 determine the degrees of freedom (DOF) for a given beam
structure
 apply the concept of supposition to define primary and
redundant structures of an actual statically indeterminate
structure
 sketch the deflected shape of each primary and redundant
structure
 illustrate compatibility conditions of the structure
 develop compatibility and force-displacement
requirements to solve for the redundant forces
 isolate the continuous beam structure into several single-
span beam structures into different spans, and draw their
free-body diagrams (FBDs)
 draw the shear force and bending moment diagrams (SFD
and BMD) for the entire structure
 adopt the concept of force method for a case of the beam
structure with support settlements
 appreciate the principle of force method on the analyses of
V7 August 2011

Session 5.1: Primary and Redundant

Structures
In this session, you will learn how to classify the actual statically
indeterminate problem as a combination of primary and
redundant structures. This is based on the knowledge of
superposition. In essence, a number of redundancies are equal to
the degrees of determinacy. The technique allows you to simply
draw the deflection of each sub-structure which is now statically
determinate.
Learning Outcomes
 define primary and redundant structures from an actual
indeterminate beam structure
 appreciate that each sub-structure is statically determinate
 sketch the deformation of each sub-structure
 explore various possible combinations of primary and
redundant structures, and identify the most effective one.
Activity 5A
Primary and redundant structures

Read:
 Lecture notes as given in class
10.1 and 10.2 (pp. 401-407).
 Expression of primary and redundant structures in
Examples 10.1 to 10.5 in Hibbeler, Structural Analysis.
V7 August 2011

Session 5.2: Force Method for Beam Analysis

The force method composes of the three main ingredients,
namely superposition, compatibility and equilibrium. More
explicitly, the principle of superposition transforms an actual
indeterminate structure to a combination of primary and
redundant structures. The unknown redundant forces are solved
using the equations underpinning compatibility of the structural
system. Since all redundant forces have been obtained, the
problem becomes statically determinate. It is simple to adopt the
equilibrium equations to solve the remaining reactions and
internal forces.
With the prescribed procedures, the statically determinate
problem can be performed, even for the beam subjected to
settlement at its supports. The results are illustrated as usual by
means of the free-body, bending moment and shear force
diagrams.
Learning Outcomes
 develop the equations of compatibility to compute the
unknown redundant forces
 carry the equilibrium conditions to obtain all remaining
reactions and internal forces
 apply the concept of force method to solve the statically
indeterminate beam problems
 express the results by means of the free-body diagram
 draw shear force and bending moment diagrams of beam
structures.
V7 August 2011

Activity 5B
Force method for beam analysis

Read:
10.3 (pp. 409-417).
Review:
10.2 (pp. 404-407).
Solve problems
 10-2, 10-3, 10-6, 10-7, 10-9, 10-10, 10-13, 10-17 in
Hibbeler, Structural Analysis.
V7 August 2011


The Topic illustrates the use of force method for the analysis of
 I can apply the principle of superposition to transform the
actual statically determinate structure to a combination of
primary and redundant structural systems.
 I can express the compatibility relations of the structure.
 I can solve the unknown redundant forces using the
concept of compatibility.
 I can obtain the remaining reactions and internal forces
through the equilibrium equations.
 I can appreciate the fundamental principle of force method
and its application to the solution of statically
indeterminate beam problem.
 I can draw the free-body diagrams of the structure.
 I can draw shear force and bending moment diagrams for
the complete structure.
 I can sketch the deflected shape of the statically
indeterminate beam.
Assessment
Examination.
V7 August 2011

Topic 6: The Slope-Deflection Method for the

Analysis of Beams and Frames
The analysis of structures has always been a subject of research
and interest. Most structures fall into one of the following four
classifications:
 trusses
 cables and arches
 beams and frames
 surface structures.
One of the simplest structures is the single-span simply
supported beam - a beam supported on a roller at one end and a
pin at the other end. More complicated forms of beam structures
are those with fixed ends and those that are continuous over
supports. These types of structures require special methods of
analysis and are classified as statically indeterminate. For
example, if you look at multi-storey or industrial buildings
during construction, you can see the continuous beams, frame or
truss structures.
Have you ever thought about what must go into analysing and
designing these types of structures before they are constructed?
In this Topic you will learn how to analyse these types of
structures with the slope-deflection method. This method can be
employed to analyse all types of statically indeterminate
structures.
In the slope-deflection method of analysis, all the joints are
considered rigid. Thus the joints at the interior supports of
continuous beams are 1800 rigid joints and the joints in a frame
are normally 900 rigid joints. (Joints can be different from 900 in
a framed structure.) When beams or frames are deformed, the
rigid joints are considered to rotate as a whole. And the angles
between the tangents to the different parts of the elastic curve
meeting at the joint after deformation remain the same as those
in the original undeformed structure.
V7 August 2011

Not only beams with settlement of supports but also frames

with side sway can be computed using the method of slope-
deflection. Axial, wind or earthquake loads often cause the side
sway (displacement) towards left or right directions in framed
structures. The side sway may occur if the structure is not
symmetric. In this case, loads will cause unequal moments at
member ends.

 explain the concept of deflection for simple beam
structures
 describe basic statics, strength of materials, and load
analysis techniques
 calculate loads, shear forces and bending moments in
single-span beam structures
 develop shear force and bending moment diagrams for the
simple beam structures
 classify structures as stable or unstable structures, and
determinate or indeterminate structures.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this Topic, for a given elastic
beam or elastic structure with known support and loading
conditions, you will be able to:
 explain the basic concepts of the slope-deflection method
 explain the development of linear and angular
displacements at joints in structures
 derive slope-deflection equations at near and far ends of a
member of the structure
 isolate a frame or continuous beam structure by assuming
every single member with fixed supports
 calculate end moments with fixed supports for frame or
continuous beam members with concentrated as well as
distributed and other loads
 apply the proper sign convention for computing fixed-end
moments
V7 August 2011

 derive fixed end moments for single span beam structures

under combined load conditions
 label all the supports and joints or nodes in order to
identify the spans of the beam structure with/without
settlement of supports, and a framed structure
with/without side sway
 sketch the deflected shape of the beam structure and
framed structure for the given loading conditions
 determine the degrees of freedom (DOF) for a given beam
structure and framed structure
 isolate the continuous structure into several single-span
beam structures, or a framed structure into different spans,
and draw their free-body diagrams (FBDs)
 compute the stiffness for all beam member spans for the
given load conditions, and all framed member spans
according to specified geometric conditions
 compute the fixed-end moments of all spans for the given
load conditions
 define unknown angular and linear displacements for all
member spans
 calculate span rotation due to its linear displacements
 write slope-deflection equations for all member spans at
near and far ends
 write moment equilibrium equations at appropriate joints
in terms of the unknown DOF
 substitute the slope-deflection equations into the moment
equilibrium equations
 solve for unknown joint displacements
 determine the internal moments at ends of each member
 draw the shear force and bending moment diagrams (SFD
and BMD) for the entire structure.
 facilitate the use of the slope-deflection method for the
elastic analysis of beam structure with/without settlement
of supports, and a framed structure with/without side
sway.
V7 August 2011

Session 6.1: Sketching the Elastic Curve

Most structures fall into one of the following four classifications
- trusses, cables and arches, beams and frames, or surface
structures. Framed structures can be with side sway or without
side sway.
Framed structures with no side sway will not move sideways
towards left or right. No side sway in framed structures can be
achieved, if the structures are laterally restrained. No side sway
can also occur if the framed structure is symmetric and is
symmetrically loaded. Frame structures with no side sway are
analysed in a similar way to beam structures with no settlement
of supports. These types of structures can have single or
continuous beam member spans, along with column members
under different types of support conditions. These types of
structures are in general statically indeterminate.
Beam structures can be single or continuous span structures
with different types of support conditions including fixed ends
and those that are continuous over supports. These types of
structures are classified as statically indeterminate.
Analysing beam structures with this method involves
determining the unknown slopes and deflections due to applied
loads on the structure. Single beam span or each member span
of a beam is treated individually. Fixed-end moments are
calculated for each member of the structure. End slopes and
deflections are computed using slope-deflection equations.
Finally the end moments are calculated by applying the
principle of superposition.
If you look at multi-storey or industrial buildings during
construction, you can see the continuous beam structures.
In this session you will learn how to sketch the deflection
diagram of beam and framed structures. Before you calculate
slope or deflection at a point on a beam structure or framed
structure; it is always helpful to sketch the shape of the structure
when it is loaded in order to visualise the computed results as a
partial check. For sketching the deflected shape of the structure,
it is necessary to know the restrictions that are present at a
support of the structure in the form of pin, roller or fixed-end.
V7 August 2011

Learning Outcomes
When you have completed this session you will be able to sketch
the deflected shape of beam structures (with no settlement of
support) and framed structures (without side sway).
Activity 6A - Part 1
Sketching the deflected shape of beam structures

Read:
Lecture notes as given in the class.

11.1 to 11.3 (pp. 453 - 460).
11.1 and 11.2 in Hibbeler, Structural Analysis (you will

understand these examples more fully as you progress
through this Topic).
Develop solutions:
Problem 6.1: Sketch the deflected shape of the given

beam structure.
Reflection:
V7 August 2011

Activity 6A - Part 2
Sketching the deflected shape of framed structures

Read:
Lecture notes as given in class.
11.4 (p. 469).
11.5 and 11.6 in Hibbeler, Structural Analysis (you will
Develop solutions:
 Problem 6.2: Draw the deflected shape of the given
frame structure of problem 11.16 in Hibbeler, Structural
Analysis and shown below this Activity Box (Figure 6.2).
Reflection:
4 kN 8 kN 3 kN
Fixed
A B D
3m 3m 3m
6m
Fixed
Figure 6.2, Copyright RMIT University (from Hibbeler, Structural Analysis,

Problem 11.16)
V7 August 2011

Session 6.2: Slope-Deflection Equations and

Internal Moments
In this session you will learn how to use slope-deflection
equations for the analysis of beam and framed structures.
For slope-deflection equations related to beams you need to
isolate the beam structures, then calculate fixed-end moments
and write slope deflection equations at near and far ends of the
beam structures.
In the case of framed structures you need to isolate the framed
structure into single-span members, then calculate fixed-end
moments and write slope-deflection equations at the near and
far ends of the members of the structure. At the end of this
session, you will learn how to calculate internal design moments
for the analysis of framed structures. Solution of slope-deflection
equations by joint equilibrium will provide you the resulting
internal moments at the member ends of the framed structures.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this session, you should be able
to:
 write slope deflection equations of beam structures without
settlement of supports, and framed structures without side
sway
 calculate the internal moments of beam structures without
settlement at supports and framed structures without side
sway.
V7 August 2011

Activity 6B - Part 1
Slope-deflection equations for a given beam

Review:
11.1 to 11.3 (pp. 453-461).
 Look again at the worked examples you studied in
Activity 6A - Part 1.
Develop solutions:
 Problem 6.1 continued: Derive slope-deflection
equations of the given beam.
Solve problems:
 11.1 to 11.7, 11.14, 11.15, 11.17 in Hibbeler, Structural
Analysis.
Reflection:
Now that you have looked at the slope-deflection equations for

beams, we can move on to look at the equations for framed
structures.
V7 August 2011

Activity 6B - Part 2
Slope-deflection equations for a given framed

structure
Review:
11.4 (pp. 469).
Study Worked Examples:
Activity 6B - Part 2.
Develop solutions:
 Problem 6.2 continued: Derive slope-deflection
equations of the given framed structure in the problem
11.16 in Hibbeler, Structural Analysis as adapted in
Figure 6.2.
Solve problems
 11.9 to 11.11, 11.13, 11.16, 11.18, 11.19 in Hibbeler,
Structural Analysis.
Reflection:
 Relate your solutions to the learning outcomes and
satisfy the issues raised in Assignment 2.
Now that we have formed the slope-deflection equations we will

look at the internal moments generated for both beam and
framed structures.
V7 August 2011

Activity 6C - Part 1
Internal moments for a beam structure

Review:
11.1 to 11.3 (pp. 453-461).
Develop solutions:
 Problem 6.1 concluded: Determine the internal
moments for the given beam structure
Reflection:
V7 August 2011

Activity 6C - Part 2
Internal moments for a framed structure

Review:
11.4 (pp. 469).
Develop solutions:
moments for the given framed structure in the problem
10.16 of Hibbeler, Structural Analysis as adapted in
Figure 6.2.
Reflection:
Now that you have completed Problems 6.1 and 6.2 you should check the
answers and solutions provided in myRMIT
V7 August 2011

Session 6.3: Support Settlement of Beams,

Side Sway of Framed Structures
In this session you will further learn how to develop slope-
deflection equations for the analysis of beam structure with
settlement at its supports and framed structures with side
sways.
Learning Outcome
Upon completion of this session, you should be able to:
 write slope-deflection equations of beam structures with
settlement of supports
 calculate the internal moments of beam structures with
relative settlement at supports
 write slope-deflection equations of members of the framed
structure with side sway
 calculate the internal moments of members of a framed
structure with side sway.
Activity 6D - Part 1
Slope-deflection equations for a given beam with

settlement of supports
Read:
11.1to 11.3 (pp. 453 - 468).
 11.3 and 11.4 in Hibbeler, Structural Analysis
Develop solutions:
 Problem 6.3: Draw the deflected shape of the given
beam structure of the problem 11.4 of Hibbeler,
Structural Analysis, adapted by adding settlement at
support C and shown below as Figure 6.3.
Reflection:
V7 August 2011

Figure 6.3, copyright RMIT University, 2008 ( adapted from Hibbeler, Structural
Analysis, problem 11.4 with the addition of settling of support C)
Activity 6D - Part 2
Slope-deflection equations for a given framed

structure with side sway
Read:
11.5 (p. 469).
 11.8 to 11.10 in Hibbeler, Structural Analysis (you will
Develop solutions:
 Problem 6.4: Sketch the deflected shape of the framed
structure in Figure 6.4.
 Problem 6.5: Sketch the deflected shape of the framed
structure in Figure 6.5.
Solve problems
Reflection:
V7 August 2011

20 m
8 kN
10 m
15 m
Figure 6.5, copyright RMIT University
V7 August 2011

Activity 6E - Part1
Internal moments for a beam structure with settling

of supports
Review:
11.1to 11.3 (pp. 453 - 468).
Activity 6E - Part 1.
Develop Solutions:
moments for the given beam structure adapted from
problem 11.4 of Hibbeler, Structural Analysis (Figure
6.3).
Reflection:
V7 August 2011

Activity 6E - Part 2
Internal moments for a framed structure with side

sway
Review:
11.5 (p. 469).
Activity 6E - Part 2.
Develop Solutions:
moments for the given framed structure in Figure 6.4.
moments for the given framed structure in Figure 6.5.
Reflection:
Now that you have completed Problems 6.3 to 6.5 you should go to
myRMIT
V7 August 2011


Topic 6 has shown you the basic concepts of the slope-deflection
method for analysis of statically indeterminate structures.
Sessions 6.1 demonstrates the basic concepts of linear and
angular displacements, the calculation of fixed-end moments for
the beam members and frame members, the slope-deflection
method, and shear force and bending moment diagrams.
Session 6.2 is based on the deflected shape of beam and framed
structures, development of slope-deflection equations and
internal moments at ends of each member of the beam structure
or framed structure.
Section 6.3 presents the slope-deflection method for the analysis
of beam structures with settlement of supports, and framed
structures with side sway.
 I can explain the development of linear and angular
displacements at joints in structures.
 I can explain the basic concepts of the slope-deflection
method of analysis.
 I can label all supports and joints (nodes) to identify the
spans of a beam and framed structure.
 I can sketch the deflected shape of the beam structure for
given loading conditions.
 I can identify the degrees of freedom (DOF) for a given
beam structure.
 I can isolate the beam structure into single-span beam
structures and draw their free body diagrams (FBDs).
 I can compute the stiffness for all member spans of a
structure according to specified geometric conditions.
 I can compute fixed-end moments for all beams spans with
the given load conditions.
 I can define unknown linear and angular displacements for
all beam spans.
 I can calculate span rotation due to linear displacements at
supports.
V7 August 2011

 I can write slope-deflection equations for all member spans

at near and far ends.
 I can write shear equations for a beam structure with
settlement at its supports as well as a framed structure
with side sway.
 I can write moment equilibrium equations at appropriate
joints in terms of unknown DOF.
 I can substitute slope-deflection equations into the moment
equilibrium equations.
 I can solve for unknown joint displacements.
 I can determine internal moments at ends of each member.
 I can draw shear force and bending moment diagrams for
the complete structure.
Assessment
This Topic will be assessed in the Assignments 1, 3 and the Final
Examination.
V7 August 2011

Topic 7: Beam Analysis Using Stiffness

Method
As described in the previous sections, the analysis of structures
is based on mathematical solution of equations. In the earlier
Topics you have learnt to analyse the structures using the slope-
deflection method. Matrix methods can also be employed to
make use of force and displacement methods for the analysis of
structures. When the matrix method uses force as unknowns for
the analysis of structures, it is called the flexibility method. A
matrix method based on displacement as unknowns is termed
the stiffness method. The stiffness method can be successfully
used for the analysis of determinate and indeterminate
structures. It is very efficiently used in computer programming
solutions, where it calculates displacements and forces directly
and is preferred over the flexibility method. A structure for the
stiffness method is considered to be an assembly of structural
elements connected at a finite number of points, referred to as
nodal points. External loads are applied to the structure at the
nodal points as concentrated loads, and external displacements
of the structures are described in terms of nodal point
displacements. For example, if you look at multistorey or
industrial building frames during construction, you can
imaginarily break the structure into individual members or a
series of discrete finite elements.
Have you ever imagined what must go into analysing these
types of structures with matrix methods before being finally
designed and constructed? In this Topic you will learn how to
analyse these types of structures with the stiffness method. This
method can be employed to analyse all types of statically
determinate and indeterminate structures.
This Topic will help you to understand the basic concepts of the
stiffness method.
V7 August 2011

Learning Outcomes
 subdivide the structure into a series of discrete finite
elements
 label all the supports and joints as nodes in order to
identify the elements or members of the structure and
specify each node number enclosed with in a circle
 specify each member or element by a number enclosed
with in a square and show arrowhead towards the far end
 identify the constraints at each end or joint of the given
structure
 write the degrees of freedom at each node for the given
structure
 use lowest code numbers to identify the unknown
displacements
 use highest code numbers to identify the known
displacements
 draw free body diagrams of the elements
 transfer all intermediate loadings to the nodes
 identify known/unknown external force and displacement
vectors
 determine the force displacement relationship of each
element and then relate to one another using the force
equilibrium equations written at the nodes
 group these relationships together for the entire structure
into a structure stiffness matrix
 determine the unknown displacements for the given
loading
 calculate the external and internal forces in the structure
using the force displacement relations for each member
 identify stiffness coefficients at near and far end code
numbers
V7 August 2011


 explain the concept of deflection for the simple beam
structures
 explain the concept of force vectors in mechanics
applications
 explain the concept of linear and angular displacements in
beam structures
 use statics, strength of materials, and load analysis
techniques and knowledge for calculating loads, shear
forces and bending moments in single-span beam
structures
 draw shear force and bending moment diagrams for
 compute the fixed-end moments for various load
conditions for single-span beam structures
 explain the concept of the slope-deflection method for
 classify structures as stable or unstable, and determinate or
indeterminate.
V7 August 2011

Session 7.1: Superposition Element Stiffness

Matrix
In this session you will be asked to develop an element stiffness
matrix for prismatic members to be used in the analysis of
structures using superposition. This matrix is normally used in
analysis of framed members. To develop this matrix, you are
required to understand the basic matrices for beam and truss
elements. These beam and truss element matrices are
superimposed to form the required matrix.
At the end of this session, by using your preliminary knowledge,
you will be able to develop, using superposition, a 6 x 6 element
stiffness matrix for framed structures.
Note: For the sign convention to be used in analysing problems
in this course we will use the convention followed by Hibbeler
in your textbook.
Learning Outcomes
 establish a member stiffness matrix, for each member of the
structure
 express load displacement relations in terms of the local co-
ordinates for each individual member
 compute the stiffness coefficients for member stiffness
matrices
 explain the fundamental concepts for the development of
beam and truss element matrices.
V7 August 2011

Activity 7A
Beam member stiffness matrix

Read:
15.1-15.3 (pp. 589-593).
 15.1 and 15.2 in Hibbeler, Structural Analysis.
Reflection:
 Relate your example solutions to the learning outcomes.
V7 August 2011

Session 7.2: Global Element Stiffness Matrix

In this session you will be asked to develop a global element
stiffness matrix for prismatic member to be used in analysis of
structures. This matrix is normally used in analysis of beam
members. To develop this matrix, you are required to
understand the basic matrices for beam elements. The results of
the previously developed elemental stiffness for each
component of the structure are now expressed in terms of global
coordinates. These matrices are then assembled to form the
global stiffness matrix for each member. All the global member
matrices are formed into a single structure stiffness matrix for
the entire structure.
These matrix operations can be used to obtain solutions of
simple to complex problems. The applications of these matrices
are very important because all linearly elastic, statically
determinate and indeterminate structures can be solved by a
matrix system of linear equations.
At the end of this session, you will learn to develop a global
stiffness matrix for each element of the structure. After writing
member stiffness matrices, you will also learn to merge these
matrices into a single structure stiffness matrix for beam
structures.
Learning Outcomes
 find global stiffness matrix for each structure member
 write the final equation for final global stiffness matrix for
each member of the structure
 compute the stiffness influence coefficients for solution of
member stiffness matrices
 merge all the member stiffness matrices to form the
structure stiffness matrix
 determine the support reactions and compute the internal
moments at ends of each member
 explain the fundamental concepts for the development of a
beam member stiffness matrix in local coordinates.
V7 August 2011

Activity 7B
Global transformation matrix

Read:
 Hibbeler, Structural Analysis, section 15.4.
Develop solution:
 Problem 7.1: Determine the reactions at the supports
for the following beam structure. EI is constant.
6 5
4
12 kN
3 6 kN/m
2 1
1
3
1 2
2
Figure 7.1, copyright RMIT University (adapted from Hibbeler, Structural

Analysis)
Reflection:
Now that you have completed Problem 7.1 you should go to myRMIT to
check the solution.
V7 August 2011

Session 7.3: Examining Computer Analysis

Results
In this session you will learn to examine computer results by the
manual stiffness matrix method.
Learning Outcomes
 compare the results obtained from the computer-aided
software (e.g. Space Gass) with those obtained by the
stiffness matrix method.
Activity 7C
Comparing manual and computer results

Read:
 Hibbeler, Structural Analysis, Structural Analysis,
seventh edition, section 15.1 - 15.4.
 Develop your own solutions for Problem 7.1 (Activity
7B) by using the appropriate computer-aided software
(e.g. Space Gass), and compare your results with those
produced manually.
Solve problems:
Reflection:
 Discuss any discrepancies you observe between the
computer-aided software and manual solutions.
V7 August 2011


In this Topic you learned that matrix methods can be employed
to make use of displacement methods for the analysis of
structures. A matrix method based on the displacement concept
is termed as the stiffness method.
 I can subdivide the structure into discrete finite elements.
 I can label all the supports and joints as nodes in order to
identify the elements or members of the structure and
specify each node number enclosed with in a circle.
 I can specify each member or element by a number
enclosed with in a square and show arrowhead towards
the far end.
 I can identify local co-ordinate axes and specify the sense
of its direction for its displacements and internal loadings.
 I can identify the constraints at each end or joint of the
given structure.
 I can write the DOF at each node for the given structure.
 I can assign lowest code nos. to unknown displacements.
 I can assign highest code nos. to known displacements.
 I can draw FBDs of the elements.
 I can determine the force displacements relationship of
each element and then relate to one another using the force
equilibrium equations written at the nodes.
 I can group these relationships together for the entire
structure into a structure stiffness matrix.
 I can determine the unknown displacements for the given
loading.
 I can calculate external and internal forces in the structure
using the force displacement relations for each member.
 I can identify stiffness influence coefficients with near and
far end code numbers.
V7 August 2011

Assessment
Examination.
V7 August 2011

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Civil, Environmental and Chemical Engineering

Analysis of Complex Structures

Published by RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia 3000.

This courseware is copyright. Apart from any use permitted under

Project development team:

Progress Through the Course 7

Planning and Time Management Chart 15

Topic 1: Introduction to Structures and Loads 29

Topic 2: Analysis of Statically Determinate Structures 35

Topic 3: Qualitative Analysis of Beams and Frames 43

Topic 4: Analysis of Framed Structures using Computer-Aided 51

Topic 5: Analysis of Statically Indeterminate Beams using the Force 87

Topic 6: The Slope-deflection Method for the Analysis of Beams and 93

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Analysis of Complex Structures 9

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Analysis of Complex Structures 10

Analysis of Complex Structures 11

Individual Activity - may be self assessment questions,

Group Activity - may be problem solving, lab, case

Feedback - turn to Feedback section at end of Part C:

Frequently Asked Questions - provides some

Summary checklist - what has been learnt, in

Assessment - must be achieved to pass topic or group

Additional reading and research to extend knowledge

Evaluation - tool to gain student feedback on course

Analysis of Complex Structures 12

Analysis of Complex Structures 13

Analysis of Complex Structures 14

Planning and Time Management Guide: Analysis of Complex Structures

Analysis of Complex Structures 15

Week Topic Learning outcomes Approx. Activities Resources Assessment

Analysis of Complex Structures 16

Week Topic Learning outcomes Approx. Activities Resources Assessment

Analysis of Complex Structures 17

Week Topic Learning outcomes Approx. Activities Resources Assessment

Analysis of Complex Structures 18

Week Topic Learning outcomes Approx. Activities Resources Assessment

Analysis of Complex Structures 19

Week Topic Learning outcomes Approx. Activities Resources Assessment

Analysis of Complex Structures 20

Week Topic Learning outcomes Approx. Activities Resources Assessment

Analysis of Complex Structures 21

Analysis of Complex Structures 22

Analysis of Complex Structures 23

Analysis of Complex Structures 24

Topics 1 to 3 Assignment 1 – Part A 10% 21st October 2011

Topics 4 and 6 Assignment 1 – Part B 10% 22nd November 2011

Topic 5 Assignment 2 10% 1st November 2011