Computationally efficient analysis procedure for frames with segmented and linearly-tapered cross sections

Abstract

Computationally-efficient analytical procedure that provides high-quality analysis results for two-dimensional skeletal structure with segmented (stepped) and linearly-tapered non-prismatic flexural members has been developed based on the stiffness method of structural analysis. A computer program coded in FORTRAN 90 has been developed to facilitate the computational procedure. Concentrated and uniformly-distributed loads have been taken into consideration in the development of the computational procedure. The stiffness coefficients have been formulated employing both closed-form and numerical techniques. High quality computational procedures have been established to handle closed-form analytical solutions that have been observed to produce results that are close to theoretical values and that generally surpass those from commercially available software products.

A numerical example has been presented to demonstrate the accuracy of the proposed computational procedure and related computer routines. The accuracy of the proposed analysis technique has been verified by comparing the results with theoretical results and those obtained using a commercial structural analysis software system.

Keywords: Computer-oriented analysis, Linearly-tappered cross-sections, Step-wise segmented cross-sections, Rigid frames, Computational efficiency, High-quality computations.