EXAMINATION SUBJECTS FOR

ENGINEERS AND BUILDERS

 EXAMINATION SUBJECTS FOR
ENGINEERS AND BUILDERS

ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

(FRAME ANALYSIS)
To my daughter
KAREN
 EXAMINATION SUBJECTS FOR
ENGINEERS AND BUILDERS

ADVANCED
THEORY OF
STRUCTURES
(FRAME ANALYSIS)

BRIAN J. BELL
C.Eng., M.I.C.E., F.I.Struct.E., F.S.E.
Senior Lecturer in Civil and Structural
Engineering at the Polytechnic of the South Bank
(.President of the Society of Engineers, 1971)

MACDONALD & EVANS LTD

8 John Street, London WC1N 2HY
191A
 First published January 1974
©
MACDONALD AND EVANS LIMITED
1974

ISBN: 0 7121 0124 1

This book is copyright and may not be re¬

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purposes of review) without the express
permission of the publisher in writing.

Printed in Great Britain by Fletcher & Son Ltd,

Norwich
 GENERAL INTRODUCTION

This series is designed as an aid to students in all branches of profes¬

sional engineering and building. The authors believe that when prepar¬
ing for an examination the average student’s first need is not a complete
work of reference but a clear, concise guide to the basic principles of his
subject. Throughout the series, therefore, only fundamental theory has
been covered in each book and a series of graded worked examples used
to show how widely these basic concepts can be applied to actual
examination questions.
In view of the changeover to metric units of measurement in Great
Britain, all books are in SI units where applicable as recommended by
the Council of Technical Examining Bodies.
In attempting to cover a wide field such as engineering and building
there will naturally be a certain amount of subject-matter common to all
disciplines which will be repeated in two or more books; conversely
some books will be specifically written for students in one particular
branch of engineering or building. Each book, therefore, will state in its
preface the type of student for whom it is intended and the examinations
for which it is suitable.
Details of the other books in the series will be found in the complete
catalogue of Macdonald and Evans Ltd., which can be obtained post
free on request.
M. J. Smith
General Editor

v
 AUTHOR’S PREFACE

When a student is confronted with a problem involving indeterminacy,

such as a continuous member, trussed frame or portal frame, he has to
decide which of the many available methods he can most usefully adopt.
Probably the most widely used is that of moment distribution, or
method of successive approximation. However, with the advent of the
strain-energy concept applied in semi-graphic form, the solution for
normal frames is often more easily accomplished. These semi-graphic
methods are the area-moment, or A La, method; the column analogy
and the Am technique, or influence coefficient method.
Another method still maintaining favour with some engineers is that
of slope-deflection, though for the more usual frames this method is
somewhat cumbersome. In recent times the adoption of matrix methods,
allowing programmed solution by electronic computer, have superseded
the traditional methods where multi-joint structures are to be analysed.
The methods available are the stiffness, or displacement, method and
the flexibility, or force method. Of the two, the stiffness method is
usually the more efficient for electronic computer computation.
Of the traditional methods, the moment distribution method provides
direct solution, whereas all others described involve the solution of
simultaneous equations. Such equations, which are tedious to solve,
may be rearranged into matrix form and solved by programmed com¬
putation using the Gaussian elimination method.
In order that he may determine the best and quickest solution of a
problem, the many specimen questions enable the reader to practise
methods other than those shown: examples of alternative methods are
given in some cases. For this reason, no examination questions have
been given at the end of each chapter.
The book is suitable for students preparing for a C.N.A.A. degree in
Civil or Structural Engineering, or for those taking a university degree.
It is also appropriate for students preparing for the Council of Engin¬
eering Institutions (C.E.I.) examinations, those of the Society of
Engineers or the City and Guilds Advanced Theory of Structures. It will
be particularly useful to students taking H.N.D. or H.N.C. in Civil
Engineering.
The author is indebted to Mr A. Brundritt, M.Sc., C.Eng., M.I.
Struct.E., for his assistance in checking a number of numerical solutions.
B.J.B.
September 1973

vi
 CONTENTS

General Introduction v

Author’s Preface vi

1. The Area-Moment, (A La), Method I

Mohr’s theorems 1
Single indeterminate frames 4
Variable inertia 11
Sloping members 14
Sloping base line 16
Twice indeterminate frames 18
Three times indeterminate frames 21
Simultaneous equations of displacement 24
Matrix form of equations 24
The Deflection of portal frames 26

2. The Column Analogy Method 31

Stress functions on a short column section 31
Fixed beams 33
Varying inertia 37
Portal frame analysis—the neutral point concept 40
Single indeterminate frames 42
Three times indeterminate frames 46
Sloping members 48
Moments of inertia for sloping members 48
Closed box frames 51
Asymmetric frames 54
Twice indeterminate frames 60

3. The Influence Coefficient Method—The Am Technique 64

Basic rules of the method 67
Single indeterminate frames 67
Varying inertia 70
Twice indeterminate frames 73
Matrix solution 76
Three times indeterminate frames 79
Closed box frames 84
General solution for Gaussian elimination technique 86
vii
viii CONTENTS

4. The Slope-Deflection Method 89

Basic equations 89
Equilibrium equations and procedure 93
Twice indeterminate frames 98
Three times indeterminate frames 100
Frames with sloping members 106
Multi-storey frames 113

5. The Moment Distribution Method 114

Basic relationships 114
Frames not subject to side sway 117
Simplified distribution for symmetrical frames 119
Frames subject to side sway 120
Joint moment ratios 120
Rectangular frame with hinged terminal supports 121
Rectangular frame with fixed supports 121
Rectangular frame with one hinged support and one fixed
support 122
Frame with inclined leg fixed and vertical leg with hinged
support 123
Inclined leg hinged, vertical leg fixed 124
Fixed terminal support to both legs 125
Pitched portal frames 125
Double-bay portal frames 138
Multi-storey frames 142
Naylor’s method (no-shear method) 149
Carry-over factor 152
Vierendeel frames 158

6. The Stiffness, or Equilibrium, Method 164

The flexibility, or force, method 164
The stiffness, or equilibrium, method 164
Stiffness method 165
The transformation matrix 169
Plane rigid frames 171
Flat grids 175
General procedure of the stiffness method 177
Plane beams with constant inertia 179
Varying inertia 182
Plane pin-jointed frames 186
Plane and grid rigid frames 191
Appendix 198

Index 200
 Chapter 1

THE AREA-MOMENT, (A La), METHOD

MOHR’S THEOREMS
The fundamental proofs leading to the propositions of Mohr were shown
in the companion volumes and may merely be restated here for refer¬
ence, thus:

(1.) The change in slope between the tangents to any two points
“a” and “b” on an elastically bent member is equivalent to the area
of the bending moment diagram between these points (A), multiplied
by 11 El.

(2.) The ordinate from any point “a,” measured perpendicularly

to the tangent from any point “b,” on an elastically bent member, is
equivalent to the first moment of area of the bending moment
diagram between these two points taken about “a,” (A x), multiplied
by 11 El,

where M is the ordinate of the bending moment diagram for an

elemental length dx.

The area-moment method is therefore an expression of the strain-

energy equations in semi-graphic form. As the number of indeterminacies
increase, a more complex sign convention is required. Adherence
to this convention and the adoption of a tabular method for setting
out the results quickly provides the system of simultaneous equations
to be solved. Solution of these equations determines the numerical
value and direction of the unknown reinstating actions applied to the
primary, or released, structure. The method therefore follows the basic
strain-energy routine:

(1.) The structure is released to a determinate form and external

known actions are applied.
(2.) The external actions are removed and unit reinstating actions
are applied at the point of release, the number of actions being equal
to the degree of indeterminacy.
(3.) The unknown reinstating actions are determined by equating
1
2 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

the displacements (or rotations), of the above conditions to the known

or assumed work condition of the point of release. For analysis, the
least work equation is generally adopted.
In order to easily apply this extension of Mohr’s fundamental pro¬
positions, two simple, convenient examples may be used.

In Fig. 1, when a simple cantilever is under the action of a concen¬

trated load at its free end, the displacement, or deflection, at that end
is given by:
(Area of bending moment diagram
X centroidal lever arm from the free end)/EI

f PL2 w 2L\ 1 PL3

\ 2 X 3 j El ~ 3EI

Similarly the rotation at the free end is

PL2
2 El

Thus with the cantilever as a horizontal beam, the vertical deflection at

the free end is given by the area of the bending moment diagram
multiplied by the horizontal lever arm from the free end. Similarly, for
a cantilever column under concentrated side loading at the free end,
the horizontal deflection is given by the area of the bending moment
diagram multiplied by the vertical lever arm from the free end. It may
be further simply stated that the deflection normal to the plane of the
member is given by the area of the bending moment diagram multiplied
by the lever arm from the free end in the plane of the member.
Figure 2 shows the relationship for any inclination of the member.
 THE AREA-MOMENT, (A La), METHOD 3

= ALh
Also
A# = ALy
Where a rigidly jointed, cranked member is involved, Fig. 3 (a), the
lever arm must be considered in terms of the plane of the members.
Thus the point in the plane of the member (where the normal drawn
through the centroid of the bending moment diagram for the member
intersects that member).
The displacement of the point “c,” is the summation of the displace¬
ments due to rotation of “b,” together with that due to bending
between “b” and “c.” In Fig. 3 (b),
4 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

EI% = PLxU

£7Aci due to rotation of “b” = = PL1L22

J PL23
£/AC2 due to bending = —r—

By tabulation, the vertical displacement of point “c” is seen to be

11 El x the separate bending moment on each member multiplied by
their separate horizontal lever arms from the point “c”. This also
follows for any inclined attitude of the cranked member.

SINGLE INDETERMINATE FRAMES

A rigidly jointed portal frame is considered as an elastic body having
external redundancy and is therefore capable of being solved by strain-
energy equations. Mohr’s methods depict these equations in semi¬
graphic form as seen in Figs. 4 (a), (b), (c) and (d) which considers the
singly indeterminate condition, that of a two-hinged structure.
In Fig. 4 (a), the frame is free to spread along the base line A-B, the
restraining force at one or both hinges being removed to produce the
primary or released structure. An external action applied to the frame
produces a moment M for an elemental length 8s (in the general case
shown where varying El can occur, Ml El). The diagram is seen to be
drawn on the tension side of the frame. Imaginary pointers from the
elemental length will be deflected from their initial position normal to the
base line. Let the angular change be a/2, then the total change for
the element is a, where a = M8s/EI for the general condition. Under the
application of external load the distance between hinges A and B is
increased by ay for the element of length 8s, thus the total change in the
length L is

In Fig. 4 (b) all external loading is now removed and unit thrust
applied along A-B, creating an inward movement at the release point.
If no yield has been considered at the hinge of the structure then the
total change in length inwards must equal the total outward change in
length along A-B, thus

For unit thrust mi = 1 X y — y (in general as above mil El — y/EI).

Notice that the moment is now drawn on the outside of the frame, and
is thus still on the tension side as the normal sign convention requires.
 THE AREA-MOMENT, (A La), METHOD 5

The total change in length may now be written as

for the unit action applied.

is

For a total unknown force T, for no yield at the hinges,

A A
6 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Thus

Note: The negative sign is omitted since one action is of opposite sense
to the other.
From Fig. 4 (c), if the unit thrust had been applied horizontally at the
hinges and vertical ordinates considered, then the displacement equation
becomes:

where H is the unknown horizontal force. Hence

If the horizontal distance between A and B is now considered as length L,

then the distance along A-B becomes L sec 0. Thus for normal hori¬
zontal displacement the equation may be written:

H=

where y is the vertical ordinate. This conforms to the general strain-

energy equation for a two-pinned rigid structure. In Fig. 4 (d) the
vertical ordinate for a typical member X-Y, is the vertical distance to
that member through the centroid of the bending moment diagram of
that member. Thus,

= area of bending moment diagram on X-Y multiplied by the lever

arm of member to the base line A-B through the centroid of the bending
moment diagram.
Restating the routine method of application:
Stage 1. Remove indeterminacy, that is, release to a primary struc¬
ture. Under the action of external load influence, the outward deforma¬
tion at the release = /io, i.e. the displacement in the direction 1 due to
external action.
Stage 2. Remove the external action and apply unit thrust at the
 THE AREA-MOMENT, (A La), METHOD 7
release to cause inward deformation,/n, i.e. the displacement in direc¬
tion 1 due to unit action in direction 1. (This displacement is clearly
of opposite sign to that in Stage 1.)
By the principle of least work,

fi — actual displacement at release in direction 1.

/i = 0
— /io + Hfn (assuming algebraic addition).
Therefore

This will be seen to be the condition for the Am technique described in

Chapter 3.

SPECIMEN QUESTION 1

Figure 5 (a) shows a two-pinned rigid portal frame under external action
of a concentrated load of 100 kN. Compute the horizontal thrust at the
hinges and construct the bending moment diagram if El for the frame is
constant.

10 Ok N

(a)

SOLUTION (1)
The frame is statically indeterminate to the first degree. Consider the
typical strain-energy mathematical approach.
H = unknown restraint at hinge

Momi
ds
/>• { El

u* i: El
ds
 8 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Where Mo refers to the bending moment due to external action, mi refers to

unit applied bending moment.

Part Mo mi Momi mi2 Limits

AB 0 y 0 y2 0-4
BC 25a 4 100 a 16 0-6
CD {25a - 100(a - 6)} 4 {100a - 400(a - 6)} 16 6-8
DE 0 y 0 y2 0-4

/ ds = / 100a dx+ {100a - 400(a - 6)} dx

6

100a2
^ + 2400,];
= 1800 + 1400 - 5600 + 4800
= 1800 + 600 = 2400

lt’sir = 1i’‘*y+la,6d'

-EM>J
64
= 2Xy + 16x8

= 42-67 + 128 = 170-67

14'06 kN
SOLUTION (2)
By the area-moment method (A La):

Part A La A La

Stage 1
Fig. 5 (b) BD 150 x f = 600 4 +2400

Stage 2 AB 4 x f = 8 8.
21-33
Fig. 5 (c) BD 4x8 = 32 4 128
DE 8 8 21-33
3

-170-67

By the principle of least work for no displacement at the hinges.

fi = 0 = 2400 - 170-67H
H = 14-06 kN

Figure 5 (d) shows the final bending moments in kilonewton-metres (kN m).

The method may be applied whether / is variable or not as shown in

the following Specimen Questions 2 and 3. In Specimen Question 3,
 THE AREA-MOMENT, (A La), METHOD 9

where a lateral force is introduced into the external action, it is clear

that a propping force must be applied to allow the simple horizontal
unit restraint to be used.

jlOOkN

(b)

SPECIMEN QUESTION 2
Figure 6 (a) shows a portal frame of constant El under the action of vertical
loading only. Determine the horizontal restraint at the hinges and sketch the
final bending moment diagram inserting principal values.
 10 ikN lO^kN

Stage 2 diagram
 THE AREA-MOMENT, (A La), METHOD 11

SOLUTION

Part A La A La

Stage 1 BC 200 X f + 200 x 2 = 600 5 3000

Fig. 6 (b) CD 200 X 2 = 400 4 1600
DE 200 X f = 200 3 600

+ 5200

Stage 2 AB = 12-5 10 41-67

5 X 4 ~s~
Fig. 6 (c) BC 5X4 = 20 5 100
CD 3x2 = 6 4 24
2 x | = 2 43 8-67
DE 3x2 = 6 3 18
EF 3 xf = 4-5 2 9

-201-33

h = 0 = 5200 - 201-33H
5200
H= 25-8 kN
201-33

The final bending moment diagram is shown in Fig. 6 (d).

Variable inertia
SPECIMEN QUESTION 3
A two-hinged rigid frame has a varying inertia in the ratio shown in Fig.
7 (a), where 3/i = 4h. Determine the horizontal thrust at the hinges.

SOLUTION
In the figure a propping force is applied at A. Reactions due to vertical
load:
A 50 X f = 37-5 t B 50 X f = 12-5 t

Due to lateral load:

A 50 x f = 37-5 \ B 50 x £ = 37-5 t
 50kN

50kN

(c)-

STAGE 2
 THE AREA-MOMENT, (A La), METHOD 13

Part A La A La
Stage 1 a 2°° x f - 133-33 2-67 355-56
Fig. 7 (b) b 2»°x2 - 100 4 400
c 230 x 2 133-33 5 666-67
d 103° X 2 - 33-33 5-33 177-76
e 1»°x4 - 100 6 600
f 2»°xJ - 100 6 600
g J-fa X 2 = 66-67 5 333-33
h if Xf = 25 4 100
+3133-33
Stage 2 a x 2 2 x f X f = 5-33 2-67 14-21
Fig. 7 (c) b x 2 2 x f x 2 = 4 4 16
c X 2 2 x f x 2 = 5-33 5 26-67
d x 2 2 x f x f = 1-33 5-33 7-1
e f x 4 =6 6 36
—99-98, say 100

/i = 0 = 3133-33 - 100 H
H= 31-33 kN
It is evident from Specimen Question 4, that sloping members present
no fresh problem, but show the advantage taken due to symmetry of
the frame and loading.

SPECIMEN QUESTION 4
Determine the horizontal thrust at the hinges for the two-pinned rigid portal
frame shown in Fig. 8 (a), assuming a constant El throughout.

SOLUTION
Here the loading is split up into two parts for the total M condition.
Considering half frame:

Part A La A La
Stage 1 a 10 x 2 = 20 4 80
Figs. 8 (b) and (c) b 10 x 13 = 130 7-5 975
c 2160 x JJ. =14 040 25
3 117 000
d 540 x | X 13 = 4680 7-5 35 000
+ 153 055

Stage 2 e 5 X | = 12-5 10 42-67

3
Fig. 8 (d) f 5 x 13 = 65 7-5 487-5
2 5
g 5 x Ta = 32-5 3
270-8
-800-97

153 055
= 191 kN
800-97
The final bending moment diagram is shown in Fig. 8 (e).
14 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Sloping members
Similarly in Specimen Question 5 the slope of the top boom and the
varying inertia present no difficulty. The propping force adopted to
counteract lateral load and allow simple restraints to be used is seen to
exceed the hinge restraint in the final bending moment diagram, to give
the net result of 4-7 kN.

SPECIMEN QUESTION 5
Draw the bending moment diagram for the frame shown in Fig. 9 (a).
 THE AREA-MOMENT, {A La), METHOD 15

SOLUTION

Part A La A La

Stage 1 a 140 v 223— - 20

1486-67
2 2 3
Figs. 9 (b) and (c) 8 0 x 6.4 = 256
b 6 1536
60 x _ 20
c 2 A 2 — 96 3
640
d 80 x f = 160 8 426-67
3
e x 2 2X5X1 = 10 3-5 35
*0|CN

vb

f x 2 32 192
X

6
II

+4316-33

Stage 2 g x 2 2 x f x 6-4 = 25-6 6 153-6

Fig. 9 (d) h x 2 1 x f x 6-4 = 12-8 20
85-67
3
j x 2 2 x 4 x f = 16 8 42-67
3

-281-94

4316-33
15-3 kN
281-94

The final bending moment diagram is shown in Fig. 9 (e).

16 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

® 40kN

Sloping base line

Specimen Question 6 shows in Fig. 10 (a) a rigid portal with a sloping
base line. Such a frame will invariably involve varying inertia owing
to the varying member conditions. As has been seen, when the exten¬
sion to Mohr’s methods was put forward by Professor Robertson in
1949 the lever arm normal to the base line was adopted. However, from
the proof, it is obviously advantageous to adopt vertical arm ordinates.

SPECIMEN QUESTION 6

Determine the horizontal thrust at the hinge supports A and E and con¬
struct the final bending moment for the frame shown in Fig. 10 (a). The
ratio of the inertias is 4:3:8 for h:h:h.

SOLUTION

From Fig. 10 (b) the semi-graphic method is shown, and it is seen that the
unit thrust at A and E causes an out-of-balance moment which must be
counteracted by a vertical moment at the hinge points. This value will be
(1 x 3)/10-4 = 0-289 kN located as shown.
 THE AREA-MOMENT, (A La), METHOD 17

50kN

Part A La A La

Stage 1 a 21-67 X f = 65 6 390

Figs. 10 (b) and (c) b 21-67 x f = 32-5 7-25 235-625
c 32-5 x f = 97-5 6-75 656

+ 1281-625

Stage 2 d 0-75 xf = 2-25 4 9

Fig. 10 (d) e 2 x 6 = 12 6-75 81
f 0-5 xf= 1-5 7 10-5
g 1 x 6= 6 5-25 31-5
h 1-5 x f= 4-5 6 27
j 0-75 x | = 1-125 2 2-25

-161-25

ft = 0 = 1281-625 - 161-2577,
1281-625
7-96 kN
161-25
Figure 10 (e) shows the final bending moment diagram.
18 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

50kN

TWICE INDETERMINATE FRAMES

At a point of release where more than one force is required to reinstate
the equilibrium conditions, a further sign convention is needed since
either force will create displacements in the vertical and horizontal
plane—Fig. 11 (a) for Specimen Question 7 shows the required con¬
vention. Further, if the columns of the frame vary in length, as in this
case, a horizontal demarcation line is necessary through the point of
release (the hinged support), producing positive and negative lever arm
distances.

SPECIMEN QUESTION 7
A rigid portal frame shown in Fig. 11 (a) has a constant value of E through¬
out, but varying inertia. There is a rigid ground support at A and a hinged
support at D. Determine the support reactions and construct the final bend¬
ing moment diagram.

m 8m 2m 1
* 1

f
i40kN

B 3 c E

4m 3

6m 4

E constant
A Inertia ratio in brackets
///////

SOLUTION

This question introduces further variations to those previously considered,

apart from the support conditions, in that a cantilever element under load
occurs outside of the frame. This cantilever element carries a simple moment,
which remains unaffected by the moments within the frame.
400 b
20 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

When the structure is released at the hinge D, the direction of the horizontal
component force will depend upon the direction of the relative displacements
Ai/0 and j\hi. Am is the horizontal displacement due to the vertical action.
In this case consider unit action towards the right causing counteraction of
the external action displacement. It does not, however, really matter which
way the reactive force is assumed, since in the final calculation the sign con¬
vention automatically provides the correct sense of the force. Thus if the
correct sense has been assumed initially, a positive answer will result for the
unknown restraint force. A negative result shows an incorrect original
assumption for force direction. Tabulation of the results is obviously neces¬
sary to maintain a simplicity of calculation. From Figs. 11 (b), (c) and (d) — ve
moments outside frame; +ve moments inside frame; all moments drawn on
tension side of frame.

Part A Ak Ah

La h A Loh Lav A Lav

Stage 1 a 100 x 6 = 600 8 -4800 1 -600
32 0 16
Fig. b 3 x I = 426-67 3 -2279 4 -1706-67
8 0
11 (b) c 3
x 8 = 213-33 4 -853-33 4 -853-33

1 -7932-33 +- -3160
Stage 2 d 2 x6 = 12 8 +96 1 + 12
Figs. e 8
10-67 16 +56-9 4 +42-67
3 x f = 3
11(c)
and(d) (V) t + 152-9 - +54-67
f 21 x | = 0-5 8 -4 _4
3
+0-67
1 X | = 8
g 2 8 + 16 3
+5-33
4
h 3 x 8 = 10-67 4 +42-67 4 +42-67
4 8
j 3 Xf = 2-67 0 +0 3
+7-14

(77) t + 54-67 -> + 55-81

Assuming that no yield occurs at the hinge D.
fv = 0 = -7932-33 + 152-9F + 54-6777
fjH — 0 = -3160 + 54-67F+55-81/7
Eliminating V,
-52 +V + 0-358/7=0,
-58 + V + 1-02/7 = 0,
.-. 0-662/7 = 6,
77 = 9-05 kN
Substituting 77,
-52 + V + 3-25 = 0,
V = 48-75 kN
Both results are seen to be positive, thus the correct sense was initially
assumed. Figure 11 (e) shows the final bending moment diagram which
is best determined by substituting actual values calculated back on to
the separate diagrams, but neglecting inertia change.
 THE AREA-MOMENT, (A La), METHOD 21

(e)

8.75kN

THREE TIMES INDETERMINATE FRAMES

This type of frame, being fully rigid at the ground supports, requires
that wherever the release is made, three reinstating actions are needed
to maintain equilibrium of the structure. Thus at any point of release
the three equations of static equilibrium must hold good, i.e. '£tV=0;
^ H — 0; 2 M = 0. Generally, for the simple single portal, a point
along the top boom is favoured for the release. Where perfect sym¬
metry exists for the geometry of the frame and the loading, a release
about this point of symmetry automatically reduces the problem by one
unknown since the vertical shear at such a point must be zero. A fur¬
ther addition to the sign convention is required for the rotational dis¬
placement, and this is shown in Fig. 12.
The release having been made, each portion of the structure requires
a determination for the value and sign of Ap, A# and 0. For equilibrium
the summation of portions to one side of the cut must equate to those
on the other side, thus providing three equations for the three unknowns,
V, H and M. Again, the method automatically caters for the wrong
sense in the initial assumption by a positive or negative result in the
final calculation.
22 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

SPECIMEN QUESTION 8

The frame shown in Fig. 13 (a) is fully rigid and has a constant value of El
throughout. No symmetry exists, thus no special benefit is gained by making
the point of release at the centre line of the top boom. The released, or pri¬
mary, structure is shown in Fig. 13 (b), together with the reinstating actions
for equilibrium. Determine the horizontal thrust at the supports and con¬
struct the final bending moment diagram.

SOLUTION

Figures 13 (c)-(k) show the separate cases for the released structure. In
the tabulation,
c+e+g+j=d+f+h+k

Part
(Fig. 13) Av Ah 0

(c) 200 x 1 x 2-33 = 466-67 200 x | x 0 = 0 200 X § = 200

200 x 4 x 3 = 2400 200 x 4 x 0 = 1600 200 x 4 = 800

-2866-67 + 1600 -1000

(d) 0 0 0

(e) 3x8x2 = 9 3 x § x 0 = 0 3xg= 4-5

3x4x3 = 36 3x4x2 = 24 3x4= 12

+45 -24 + 16-5

CD — —

(/) 3x|x2 = 9 3x1x0= 0 3x1= 4-5

3x5x3 = 45 3 X 5 X 2-5 = 37-5 3x5= 15

-54 -37-5 + 19-5

(g) 4 x | x 3 = +24 4 X J x 6 = -21-33 4 x i= +8

(H) (h) 5 x i x 3 = +37-5 5 x f x f = +41-67 5 x | = -12-5

(j) 1 x 3 X 1-5 = 4-5 1x3x0= 0 1x3= 3

1x4x3 = 12 1x4x2= 8 1x4= 4
(M)
+ 16-5 -8 +7

(k) 1 X 3 X 1-5 = 4-5 1x3x0= 0 1x3= 3

1x5x3 = 15 1 X 5 x 2-5 = 12-5 1x5= 5

+ 19-5 + 12-5 -8

For Ay,
-2866-67 + 45 F + 24H + 16-5M = 0 - 54F + 31-5H + 19-5M
99 F — 13-57/ — 3M = 2866-67 .(1)

For Ah,
+ 1600 - 24F- 21-33//- 8M = 0 - 37-5F+ 41-67H+ 12-5M
13-5 V - 63H - 20-5M = -1600 .(2)

For 0,
-1000 + 16-5F + 8H + 1M = 0 + 19-5F- 12-57/- 8M
-3F+20-5//+ 15M= 1000 .(3)
THE AREA-MOMENT, (A La), METHOD

lOOkN

<<
24 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

lOOkN

32.8

SIMULTANEOUS EQUATIONS OF DISPLACEMENT

A check at this point can be made to ensure that the equations are correct.
As will be seen in the following chapters, the total equation set for the three
indeterminate actions may be written:
fi = 0 = /io + Xafn + Xbf12 + Xcfiz
h = 0 = /20 + Xaf-21 + Xbf22 + Xcf23
h = 0 = /so + Xafzy + M/32 + Xcfzz
Where Xa, Xb, Xc are the unknown actions V, H, M. The coefficients of unit
action are the terms:
/11 /12 /13
/21 /22 /23
/31 /32 /33

Where
fix = displacement in direction 1 due to action in direction 1;
fi2 = displacement in direction 1 due to action in direction 2;
/21 = displacement in direction 2 due to action in direction 1, etc.

Clearly /12 = /21 by Maxwell’s reciprocal theorem, thus such equal numerical
values should be in evidence in the equations as is seen to be the case in the
following equations:
0 = -2866-67 + 99V- 13-5H - 3M
0 = -1600 - 13-5 F+ 63H + 20-5M
0 = -1000 - 3F+ 20-5H+ 15M

Matrix form of equations

It will be further seen that this set of homogeneous equations may be written
in matrix form for solution by computer, when V, Hand Mean be found by
Gaussian elimination of the augmented matrix. In the general form the
equation may be written:
 THE AREA-MOMENT, (A La), METHOD 25
99 -13-5 -3 “I rn F p2866-67-|

[ — 13-5
-3
63
20-5
In the augmented form:
20-5
15.J
• \H
LmJ
= 1600
Liooo J

99 13-5 -3 2866-67
— 13-5 63
20-5
20-5 1600
15 1000 1
The Gaussian elimination process for normal hand computation in algebraic
form is shown here together with the matrix method. This method is explained
in detail in Chapter 3.
From 1 and 3,
33 V — 4-5/7 -M= 955-55
-0-2F+ 1-36577 + M = 66-67
32-8 F — 3-135 77 1022-22
=

From 2 and 3,
0-66F - 3-0977 - M = -78
-0-2F + 1-36577 + M = 66-67
0-46 F- 1-7257/ = -11-33
Then
10-45 F -77 = 327-1
0-266 F — H = 6-58
10-184F = 333-68
F = 32-8 kN
342-7 H= 327-1
77= 15-6 kN
Substituting
-6-56 + 21-3 M = 66-67
M = 51-95 kNm
In matrix form,
99 -13-5 -3 2866-67

[ -13-5 63
20-5

-0-1365
20-5
15

-0-0303
1600
1000

29-1
]-[£]
61-16 20-09 1991
[: 20-09 14-91 1086-7
Forward
elimination
-0-1365 -0-0303 29-1
1 0-329 32-7

Forward
[: 0 8-31 429-8

elimination
row 3 -0-1365 0 30-61 Back
only
G 1
0
0
1
15-6
51-9!
substitution

0
0 0 32-8

G 1
0
0
1
15-6
51-95
26 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

The final bending moment diagram will be as in Fig. 13 (/):

Ma = -200 + 984 + 624 + 51-95 = 12-751
Mb = -200 + 984 + 51-95 = -49-65
Me = 32-8 + 51-95 = 84-75 (^Moments in
Mb = 51-95 = 51-95 fkNm
Me = - 984 + 51-95 = -46-45
Mf = - 984 + 78 + 51-95 = 31-55
It should be quite apparent to the reader that this method is not very elegant
since too many sign conventions must be remembered. This will be seen more
clearly when the reader has atttempted the Am technique.

THE DEFLECTION OF PORTAL FRAMES

It has been seen that where the release is made in a portal frame, the
displacement due to known external conditions has been reduced to
zero to determine the unknown restraints at that point. With these
unknowns calculated by solution of the simultaneous equations, it is
possible to consider all fixed points and compute the actual rotation of
those points, assuming that they remain rigid. Thus the frame can be
split up into component parts and the displacement between two known
positions calculated, in order that the final total deflected shape of the
frame can be plotted.

SPECIMEN QUESTION 9
Plot the actual deflected shape of the portal frame depicted in Fig. 14 (a).
The value of El may be assumed constant for the frame.

Stage 2
 THE AREA-MOMENT, (A La), METHOD 27
SOLUTION

For El constant, set El = unity (actual deflection values must necessarily

include the value of El).

Part A La A La

Stage 1 BC 240 X i/ = 1200 5 + 6000

Fig. 14 (b)

Stage 2 AB\ 2 x 5 x | = 25 10 83-33

2
Fig. 14 (c) CD/
BC 5 X 10 = 50 5 250

-333-33

6000
= 18 kN
333-33
Slope at B = deflection at C/span BC. Due to free bending moment diagram,
Ac = 240 x x J-3& = 6400 t. .
6bt = 6400/10 640
"" -

Due to fixing diagram,

Ac2 = 90 x 10 X 5 45001 v
0b2 = 4500/10 450 ^4

Net 6B = 0Bl - 6b2 = -640 + 450 = -190^^/ -

Consider leg AB; net horizontal displacement of point B = (b — a), see

Fig. 14 (</).
Horizontal displacement due to slope at B = —190 X 5 = —950
28 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Horizontal displacement due to bending along AB = 90x|xfx5 = 750

Net horizontal displacement of B = —950 + 750 = —200
Slope at A = -190 + 90 x f = -190 + 225 = +35
Check on displacement of B = —90 x 4 x 4- + 35 x 5 = —375 + 175
= -200

Considering point C in similar manner, from Fig. 14 (e). Due to free bending
moment diagram,
/As, = 240 x x = 5600 ;
\ 0cx — 560/10 - 560 +

Due to fixing diagram,

Ab2 = 4500 t,
9b2 = 450 —
Net 9c = 0Cl - 0c2 = 560 - 450 = +110 +
Consider leg CD:
slope at D + 110 - 5 X 18 X f = +110 - 225 = -115
Horizontal displacement of C due to slope atD = —115 x 5
= -575
Horizontal displacement of C due to bending along CD = 90 x f x |
= +375
Figure 14 (e):
Net horizontal displacement of C = —200 (check)
From Fig. 14 (/). Along member BC.
Tension on inside of frame, A t :
Ai = 60 x \ X A = 10
A2 = 120 X f x | = 80 As = 60 X y X j = 22-5
A3 = 180 X | x f = 270 A6 = 120 X f X f = 180
A4 = 240 x f x f = 640 A7=180xfxj = 607-5
A8 = 240 x f x f = 1440
 THE AREA-MOMENT, (A La), METHOD

Tension on outside of frame, A j :

Ai = 90 x 1 x 1 = 45 A5 = 90 X 1-5 X 3 = 101-25
A2 = 90 x 2 x f = 180
A6 = 90 x 3 x f = 270
A3 = 90 x 3 X f = 405
A4 = 90 X 4 X 4 = 720 A7 = 90x4-5 Xj = 911-25
A8 = 90 X 6 X f = 1620

lOOkN

°\W
13 ^4^3

Tension inside
\\\V\\WT

A| A2 A3 A4As A7 A(.
\T\\T

Tension outside

Net relative displacements, 4 :

Ax =35 As = 78-75
A2 = 100 A6 = 90
A3 = 135 A7 = 303-75
A4 =80 A8 = 180
Leg AB (leg CD similar), Fig. 14 (g):
Ax = 72 x 1 xH18xix|xl = 42
A2 = 54x2x| + 36xfxjx2 = 102
A3 = 36x3xf + 54xfxfx3 = 324
A4=18x4xf + 72xfxfx4 = 528
A5 = 90x|-xfx5 - 750
30 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

The following method should be adopted:

1. Determine reinstating force.
2. Calculate slope at either end of top boom.
3. Calculate horizontal displacement at upper node of support.
4. Determine relative displacements for each member along member.
5. Draw to scale from base line.
Figure 14 (h) shows the deflected shape required.
 Chapter 2

THE COLUMN ANALOGY METHOD

This method is derived in the same manner from the basic strain-energy
equations as the area-moment method, and is again a semi-graphic
form of those equations. However, whereas the area-moment method
(and, as will be seen, the Am technique), require a two-stage condition
for applied and reinstating actions, the column analogy method allows
a direct single-stage calculation. The analogy is that of the similarity
of conditions exhibited by the slope and deflection of a bent beam, and
the loading and moment on a short column section.
Consider a statically indeterminate member under any external
loading system:

Stage 1. Release the member to a primary, or determinate, state and

let Mo be the static moment over distance 8s at a section X. Then the
rotation over the length of the member is

L M0 ,
/;
Stage 2. If Mi is the indeterminate moment due to restraining action
at the point of release, then

(«) Rotation between fixed ends =

(horizontal
0b) Deflection in direction X =
displacement)

(vertical
(c) Deflection in direction Y —
displacement)

Stress functions on a short column section

Now consider a short column, eccentrically loaded about the prin¬
cipal axes. Let the stress at any point = /, and let 8/4 be the elemental
sectional area, then

(a) Load on the column = f f dA — P

]\^[XX
(b) Moment on column, X direction = J fy dA = -z— . y
1 XX

Pex
*XX

31
32 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Myy
(c) Moment on column, Y direction = \fxdA = X
hy
P 6y

7
1yy 'x

Figure 15 shows the section of a short column under the action of a load
P, eccentric about both of the principal orthogonal axes. The following
stress conditions occur for points A, B, C and D.

r P PSx P^y . \t s r
/a — + ~2 — 7— • y — 7 • X — +7V — fxx —fyy
A- lxx lyy

r P PSx P^y . it i r r
/b = + ~7 + 7 • y — 7— • x — +N Ar fxx — fyy
A lxx lyy

r | P | P^X , P^y . -\r | r , r

fc — + ~2 + 7— • T + 7~ • — f-N -\-fxx + fyy
xi lxx lyy

fD— + ~Z — 7— • y + 7-^ • * = +N — /xz +/yy

Zt ixx iyy

It naturally follows that where eccentricity is zero in either plane the

equations shown above are reduced to a simpler form. The positive
and negative signs given for the position of the load should be noted,
the figure being adaptable for beam, portal structure or box frame.
For a bent beam, the final moment M at any point must be
M — Mo — M\. By Mohr’s theorem, for a fixed-ended member,

Mo (L Mi
ds ds
El L El
also
Mo ,
—fpf x ds —
[LM1 ,
El L -mxds
 THE COLUMN ANALOGY METHOD 33
Thus the known values of the “free moment” diagram can be used since
the total summation is made for the full length of the member. The
analogy is then,

Mi=f Yl = dA 9 =/ ds = P

Then for the column section,

M = M0-f
The following conditions must be satisfied for the analogy to exist:

(1) The length of cross-section of the column equals the length of

the beam. The above must also be true for curved members, when
the shape of the column cross-section must coincide with the beam
profile.
(2) The width of the cross-section of the column = 1 /El of the
beam section. Thus if the inertia of the beam varies in the total
length of the member, then the width of the analogous column
cross-section must vary by the same proportions.
(3) The loading on the column cross-section at any point is the
static moment on the corresponding beam section.

FIXED BEAMS
To explain the method fully and for simple comparison with other
methods, consider the case of a fixed-ended beam of constant EI.
Figure 16 (a) shows the assumed beam condition and Fig. 16 (b) the
corresponding analogous column section. Figures 16(c), (d) and (c)
show the three possible modes of release to the static state, and Figs.
16(f), (g) and (h) the corresponding loaded columns.

From Fig. 16(f): ea = Va — sign of “bending” stress A+, B~.

From Fig. 16 (g): c& = j — Vb, sign of “bending” stress A—, B+.

From Fig. 16 (h): ec — Vc — j, sign of “bending” stress A+, B-.

Area of Mi diagram for each condition is equal to determinate Mo dia¬

gram for that condition.
In the case of a beam under loading in one plane, the X-X axis
coincides with the longitudinal axis of the member. The loading is not
eccentric about this axis, thus
Mxx
■y= o
IXX

Area of analogous column cross-section,

1
34 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Total load on the column section,

Inertia,
, _ 1 £3
lyy 12 X El

Assuming condition (/):

Tut S | E | P&a , jP , Myy

Mia =/a=+^ + t-.x = + T + X — +A fyy
Al lyy A. lyy

M<yy
A/f — r — j_P Pe“ i -P
■ x — -\-N — f%yy
+a~TTv-x- +A •yy

For the condition (/), the moment Mo at A is zero, thus

Ma = Mo a ~ Mia
= 0 — (+A fyy).
 THE COLUMN ANALOGY METHOD 35
Similarly for condition (g), considering end A. If, however, the con¬
dition (h) had been chosen, then Mo will have a real positive value if the
free moment “loading” has been considered positive.

SPECIMEN QUESTION 10
Prove that the fixing moment at end A, for a uniform fixed beam of length
L, and on level and horizontal support, is equal to — Wab2/L2, if a single con¬
centrated load W is placed distant a and b from ends A and B respectively
(El is constant).

SOLUTION

The beam is shown in Fig. 17 (a), the free bending moment diagram in
Fig. 17 (b) and the analogous column in Fig. 17 (c).

Let £7=1, then area of column section = LI El = L

Mo , Wab L Wab Wab

I 2L

Inertia Iyy = L3112; eccentricity = e = (L — 2a)/6,

Wab (L — 2a\ WabL Wa2b

Myy = Pe =
2 (^) - 12 6
36 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Eccentricity to fibres considered = x — L/2 for both ends.

Miyy WabL Wa2b\ L 12

± x=
12 6 J 2 ' L3
iyy

Wab Wa2b\ _ ,
2L l2 j Jyy

, . ,r , , Wab , Wab Wa2b Wab (L

/a = +N + fyy = -^rr~ + --— = —— < -
2L 2L L2 L2 \2 +2 0
Wab
{£-«}
L2

L2
Wab2
Ma = Moa - Mia = 0
L2
Wab2
L2
In the above solution the static condition adopted, was the simply supported
beam. An alternative solution is given using the release condition (16e).

ALTERNATIVE SOLUTION

The static beam is shown in Fig. 17 (d), the free bending moment diagram
in Fig. 17 (e)and the analogous column in Fig. 17 (/). £7=1; area of column
section = L.

Resultant load P
(f)
 THE COLUMN ANALOGY METHOD 37
Inertia Iyy = L3/12.

Eccentricity = e = 6 + y - ^ j = | (3b + a)

Myy = Pe = -y . - (36 + a) = -y (36 — o)

Eccentricity to fibres considered = x = L/2 for both ends.

, Myy .. Wa2 , x L 12
± W*=Tr(34 + <,)-2'L*
Wa2
(36 + a) — fyy
2 L2
7a — +N + fiyy
Wa2 , Wa2 , x Wa2 JEa2
(a -H 6 36 -)- a) — (2a + 46)
~2L+ 2&(3b + a) = 2 L2 2L2

-jj- (a + 26)

Ma = Moa — Mia

Wcfi Wo. 72 - 2a6)

= Wa - yr (« + 26) = ^ ([a + 6]2

lEa 1E662
^ (a2 + 2ab + b2 - a2 - 2ab) = -y^r

It will be noticed by the reader that the solution has resulted in a

positive answer, and clearly to obtain the required negative sign for Ma,
the value of MoA should be made negative. The equation would now
show an addition of Mia. This introduces the requirement of a sign
convention for the loading to the analogous column. The convention
adopted is that the direction of the load on the column section points
away from the tension side of the bent beam member in its considered
static condition. Thus in Fig. 16, condition (/), although the “moment
load” was drawn on the upper side of the column section, the direction
of the loading should be upward. Conversely, in condition (6), where
tension occurs on the upper face of the bent beam, the direction of the
loading on the column should be downward pointing. The static release
conditions considered provide loading of opposite sense, and it should
be clear to the reader that for (h) the final fixing moment to the beam
will be on the same side of the member as the static moment considered.
Hence M became positive since Mo was given a positive value.

Varying inertia
The second important convention is that of the sign given to the
eccentricity of the load about the centroid of the analogous column
section. This is shown in another example for a fixed beam where the
member has a varying inertia.
38 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

SPECIMEN QUESTION 11

Figure 18 (a) shows a non-uniform fixed beam with concentrated load

occurring along the member at a point other than the position of the change
of inertia. Determine the fixing moments at the ends of the member and
sketch the bending moment diagram. E is constant throughout and h = 2Ii.

SOLUTION

Figure 18 (b) shows the free bending moment and Fig. 18 (c) the properties
of the analogous column and the eccentricities. The summation for total
loading and moment can then be inserted in the column stress equation. E is
constant for the beam, say unity. Put Ii = unity, then Eh — 1 and may be
omitted from calculations.

Properties of column section

AC: Aac = 5-5 x i = 2-75\
Total A = 5-25.
Acb = 2-5 X 1 = 2-5 )
Moment about B
= 2-75(2-5 + 2-75) + 2-5(1-25)
= 14-4 + 3-13 = 17-53.
Centroid of column section about B
1
17-53 x 3-35 m from B.
5-25
Inertia, Iyy
5-53
B
X
+ 2-75 1-92
2 X 12
X
] = 6-9 + 9-92 = 16-82

2-53
P
X
+ 2-5 x 2-12
12 '] = 1-3 + 11-0 = 12-3

2 Iyy = 29-12
Eccentricities about centroid of column section
AC: ei = +2-65
P2 = +0-4
S3 = +0-82
CB: e4 = -1-68
Column areas of parts
2-5 5
A% — A3 = 1-25 Aa = = 2-5.
Z.

Loading and moments

px = 1|8 x 1<5 = 141
Piei = 141 X 2-65 = 374
Pz = 94 X 1-25 = 117-5 P2P2 = 117-5 X 0-4 = 47
P3 = 2+ X 1-25 = 58-75 P3C3 = 58-75 X 0-82 = 48
Pa= X 2-5 =117-5 Pag a = 117-5 X -1-68 = -197
p = 434-75 /. Pe = 272
 THE COLUMN ANALOGY METHOD 39
10 Ok N
3m .1 5m
':

I? *1
! c (a)

. 5.5m 2.5m.1
1 Y 1 ” 1
-e3=0.82

3x5x100 94kN m
8 (b)
=!88kN m
94kN m
1 1 \
-1-68

_ p2=D 4
18
e, =2.651 3.35m

(c)

2EI,

126.IkN m (d)
5l.3kN m

P = 434-75
= 82-6 kNm
A ~ 5-25
97? v 4-65
/a = +82-6 + 29-\2'= 82-6 + 43'5 = 126-1 kNm
97? v 3-35
/b = +82-6 - 29-12 = 82-6 ~ 31-3 = 51-3 kNm

The working of the column analogy can often be simplified if a tabular

calculation is adopted.
40 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Second
Analogous column Moment of moment of Moment of
area about area about leg load about
Length Width Area end B B bd3 Mean Load centroid
Section d b A Av Av2 12 B.M. P Myy = Pe

AC 5-5 i 2-15 14-4 75-6 6-9 94 Pi = 141 Pie 1= 374

94 Pz = 117-5 47
P2C2 =
47 Pz = 58-75 P3C3 = 48
CB 2-5 1 2-5 3-13 3-92 1-3 47 Pi = 117-5 Piet —
-197

5-25 17-53 79-52 8-2 434-75 272

3-35

Correction to inertia:
2-75 x 3-352 = 30-6
2-5 x 3-352 = 28

58-6

79-52 - 58-6 = 20-92

Net. Ax2 = 20-92, Iyy = 8-2 + 20-92 = 29-12
This could be obtained by taking moments about the centroid directly in the
tabulation, thus
2-75 x T92 = 9-92
2-5 X 2-12 = 11

20-92
This latter is the method adopted in future tabulation. The “stresses” will
result as before, and hence the end moments which are shown in Fig. 18 (d).

PORTAL FRAME ANALYSIS—

THE NEUTRAL POINT CONCEPT
Where a release is made in an indeterminate structure (considering
three times indeterminate), the virtual work equations may be written:

/i =/i0 + Xafi\ + Xbf12 + Xcfiz = 0 Xa = H \ may be inter-

h — ho + Xahx + Y&/22 + Xcfzz = 0 Xb= V j changeable
h = /30 + Xafzx + Xbf32 + W/33 = 0 Xc = M
Where
f _ f Mpmi
-fio J ds J[M0
ei • % ds, —- A. y — Mxx
= moment from known load about X-X.
r [ Mom2 , f Mo , .
ho = j - Ei “s = I ~eJ ■ y as = Ax = Myy

ho =
! P (since m = 1 always)
 THE COLUMN ANALOGY METHOD 41

f1 mi2
EIdsA
— Ixx
/n=J

/22 = j1 ~£jds — lyy

f ds
/33 = J = A = area of section
Ti
f mim2 ,
product inertia
EI * — Ixy =
II
(M

(mi, m2, m3 are moments due to unit restraining actions in the equations).
If the origin of the redundant reactions is at the centroid of the elastic
weights (i.e. the centroid of the structure being where the X-X and
Y- Y axes intersect), then the moments of the elastic weights about the
axes are zero, and similarly the product inertia, Ixy, is always zero.
The above equations may then be written:
fl — flQ + Xafll + Xb X 0 + Xc X 0 = 0
y _ /10 Mx
■A. a ~r— i.e. H=
J11 IXX
h — /20 + 0 T" Xbf22 + 0 = 0

Xt=-& i.e. V=^

J22 lyy
Similarly,
y _ ^30 . ^
Xc = —7- i.e. M ——
.733 A
(This value not to be confused with the final moment in the beam
calculation.) The sign convention is taken care of by considering mo¬
ments drawn on the released, or primary, structure being always on the
tension side of the member concerned.
The concept of the neutral point or elastic centre adopts an imaginary
inelastic bracket attached to the structure at the point of release and
taken back to the elastic centre. The area of the rigid bracket is

[— = 0
J El
The elastic weights (redundant actions) are given unit values, thus Xa,
Xb, Xc, and are applied at the neutral point. Figures 19 (a) and (b) show
two possible conditions of release for a rigid portal structure. The
directional movement of the neutral point can be determined by inspec¬
tion of the corresponding equations of virtual work, the reactions at
this point opposing such movements.
42 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

(b)

Since the centroid of the analogous column is at the elastic centre,

then the concept is readily used in the column analogy method. Thus:

' ^
Tj M XX P
M' =
II
JI —-7-

IXX hy A

= fxx = fyy N
But the “stress” M — M — Mi, where Mi is the indeterminate mo¬
ment. Therefore
Mi = Hy + Vx + M'

SINGLE INDETERMINATE FRAMES

The existence of a hinge or pin at the support of a portal frame allows
the possibility of a large rotation at that point. Thus, where a hinge
occurs, the area of the analogous column cross-section will become an
infinite amount. For a two-pinned portal, therefore (1 X indeterminate),
the total area of the analogous column is infinite and the centroid is
on a line through the hinges with which I%x will coincide. Iyy, the
inertia about the Y- Y axis, will contain a term for the (area of hinges)2,
and will therefore be infinite in value.
The equation for the indeterminate “stress” will reduce to —fxx • y,
since

•7 = 0 and fyy .x = .x=0

A. lyy

SPECIMEN QUESTION 12
A two-hinged portal of constant El is under the action of a lateral con¬
centrated load as shown in Fig. 20 (a). Determine the bending moments in
the frame and the support reactions. Assume El constant.

SOLUTION

The free bending moments are indicated on Fig. 20 (a) and the analogous
column is shown in Fig. 20 {b).
 THE COLUMN ANALOGY METHOD 43
Vertical Moment
height Analogous Second of load
from column moment about
Length origin area of area Mean Load centroid
Member L y A Ay2 1CG B.M. P Mxx

T, Li r. Lx3 Li3 WLx WLx2 WLx3

AB
2 4 12 2 2 3
WY.1 WLxLi BT.i2Z.2
BC Lt Li Li Lx3 Li neglect
2 2 2
Lx Lx3 Lx3
CD Li Lx 0 0 0
2 4 12

Lx3 , r „ Lx3 WLx3 , WLi2£2

-j- + Lx3Li — —j 1 ^

Li3 Li3 2Li3

/*« = + Li2L2 + t±_ + Li*L2

= Lx'(?± + L.) = ILx'fi +|)

p M,yy
/a = /d = 0 /b = /c N= -7 = 0 .A = 0
/! •^yy

Mxx ■Mi + t) PfXi

/b + -7— • T = Li =
.XX 2Li2
(l + f)
J*Xi
Mb = Mob — /b = PJ'Xi
2 ~ 2
ITXi H-Xi
Me = Moc — /c = 0
2 2
The final bending moment diagram is shown in Fig. 20 (c).
44 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

30kN/m
A/VWWWVAA/WW

SPECIMEN QUESTION 13
Calculate the bending moments for the portal frame depicted in Fig. 21 (a).
El is constant.
SOLUTION

Figure 21 (b) shows the Mo diagram and Fig. 21 (c) shows the analogous
column section to be symmetrical about the infinite area at the hinges. The
Y-Y axis therefore lies on the vertical centre line. The standard tabulation
provides the “stress” / directly. For this example the release considers the
simply supported condition.
Vertical Moment
height Analogous Second of load
from col. moment about
Length origin area of area Mean Load centroid
Member L y A Ay2 ICG B.M. P Mxx

AB 4 2 4 16 5-33 0 0 0
BC 2 5 2 50 0 67 30 60 300
CD 8 6 8 288 neglect (a) 30 240 1440
(6) 160 1280 7680
DE 2 5 2 50 0-67 30 60 300
EF 4 2 4 16 5-33 0 0 0

420 + 120 Mxx = 9720

Ixx = 432-0
 THE COLUMN ANALOGY METHOD 45

N = /f :=

II

II
0 /a 0

Myy = /e
n
7
1vy 'A 0 /c = /d
9720 x 4
/b = + -- +90 Mb = 30 - 90 = -60 kN m
432

9720 x 6
fc = + = + 135 Me = 30 - 135 = -105 kN m
432

MBl = -90 kN m

Mg = 270 — 135 = +135 kN m, since /g = /c

For comparison with the area-moment method Specimen Question 2 is

solved by the column analogy method showing that for the two-
hinged condition the method, adopting the tabular layout compares
favourably. The frame is shown in Fig. 22 (a).

SOLUTION

From Fig. 22 (c). The frame is still symmetrical due to infinite area at A
and F.

Vertical
height
Analogous above Second Moment
Length col. area origin moment Mean Load of load
Member L A y Ay2 lea B.M. P Mix

AB 5 5 2-5 32-5 10-42 0 0 0

BX 2 2 5 50 — 100 200 1000
XC 2 2 5 50 — 200 400 2000
CD 2 2 4 32 0-67 200 400 1600
DE 2 2 3 18 — 100 200 600
EF 3 3 1-5 6-75 2-25 0 0 0

189-25 + 13-34 Mxx = 5200

Ixx = 202-59
[Note slight change of value Ixx and stage 2 (A La).]

Mxx _ 5200
25-6 kN
Ixx 202-59
25-6y
“Stresses” /a = 0 Moments Ma = 0
/b = 128 Mb = -128
fx = 128 Mx = 72
fo = 128 Me = 72
/d= 76-8 Md = 123-2
/e = 76-8 Me = -76-8
/f = 0 MF = 0

The final bending moment diagram will obviously be as shown in

Fig. 6 (d).
46 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

10 Ok N lOOkN

It will be found increasingly convenient to use a tabular method for

the “analogy” calculations as the indeterminacy increases in order to
reduce the “horizontal arithmetic” to a minimum.
Since symmetry provides a simple solution by this method, the inter¬
mediate case of twice indeterminate frames and asymmetric frames will
be dealt with later. Both of these conditions are non-symmetrical and
involve a further complexity to the equation of indeterminate stress by
the introduction of the quantities of product inertia.

THREE TIMES INDETERMINATE FRAMES

For the fixed-base condition, the centroid of the cross-section will no
longer lie on the line through the supports, since with their removal the
infinite column area disappears. Their replacement by fixed ends causes
an abrupt end to the column, no rotation being considered at the bases.
For this condition the “bending stresses” must be considered about both
horizontal and vertical axes. The equations for “stress” will conform,
depending upon the position of the loading, with those shown in Fig. 15.

SPECIMEN QUESTION 14
Determine the bending moments for the rigid portal frame shown in Fig.
23 (a). El is constant for the frame.

SOLUTION

From Figs. 23 (6) and (c), the condition of release chosen provides tension
on the inside of the frame producing upward loading on the column section.
If the simply supported release had been used the moments on the frame would
have produced tension on the outside with consequent downward load to the
column.
 THE COLUMN ANALOGY METHOD 47

4m
Y

Height to centroid:
Vertical height Analogous EYasT moment of
Length from origin column area area about origin
Member L y A Ay

AE 2 l 2 2
EB 2 3 2 6
BC 4 4 4 16
CD 4 2 4 8

12 32

2-67
48 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Second Second
Vertical moment Horizontal moment
height of area distance of area
from about from about
x-x x-x y-y y-y Mean Load
Member V Av2 ICGx x Ax2 ICGy B.M. P A/zz Myy

AE 1-67 5-54 0-67 2 8 _ 1-25 2-5 417 5

EB 0-33 0-22 0-67 2 8 — 0 0 0 0
BC 1-33 7-10 neglect 0 0 5-33 0 0 0 0
CD 0-67 1-77 5-33 2 16 — 0 0 0 0

14-63 + 6-67 32 + 5-33

Ixx = 21-30 Iyy = 37-33

P 2^ Mxx 4- 17 Myy 5x2

0-208 0-195 0-268
^ ~ 12 Ixx 21-3 Iyy 37-33
Stresses:
/a = +0-208 + 0-521 + 0-268 = +0-997
/e = +0-208 + 0-130 + 0-268 = +0-606
/b = +0-208 0-261 + 0-268 =
— +0-215
/c = +0-208 0-261 — 0-268 =
— -0-321
/n = +0-208 + 0-521 — 0-268 = +0-461
Moments:
Moa = 1-25 =: 44oe Ma == 1-25 - 0-997 = + 0-253
Mob = Moc = Mod = 0 Me = 1-25 — 0-606 = + 0-644
Mb = -0-215
Me = +0-321
Md = -0-461

Moments drawn on tension side of frame; + sign indicates tension on inside

face. The final bending moment diagram is shown in Fig. 23(d).

Sloping members
The introduction of sloping members for pitched or mansard portals
presents no further complexity except in the properties of these members.
The moment of inertia is best considered in terms of the horizontal or
vertical ordinates. From Fig. 24:

Moment of inertia for sloping members

(b — L sin 0; a = L cos 0)

M rLl2
r fA V2 dx 0 I 2 2 dx
,m = }BxEr2l xti El

rLl 2
ha = 2 \m (x sin 6)2 ~= 2 f ~ sin« 6 %
o El o El

L3 sin2 0 Lb2
= 2lTsln 9J„ -Ei = Y1EI Y2EI
 THE COLUMN ANALOGY METHOD 49

Similarly,

_ La2
lyy ~ 12EI

(U 2
. 0 »dxL3 sin 0 cos 0 Lab
lxy x sin 0 . x cos 0-=y = -7^777-
= 2 *' El 12 El Y2E1

SPECIMEN QUESTION 15
A symmetrical pitched portal frame has varying inertia in accordance with
that shown in Fig. 25 (a). Determine the final bending moments for the frame.
E is constant.

SOLUTION

The frame being symmetrical therefore means that the Y-Y axis passes
through the crown. Further, since the frame has hinged supports, the X-X
axis coincides with the base line through the hinges. The area of the analogous
column is infinite.
This example further compares the column analogy with the area-moment
method, the conditions and final moments for the latter method being shown
in Figs. 9 (a) and (c). Figures 25 (b), (c) and (d) also show the separate load¬
ing cases summating to the total released moment.
50 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES
 THE COLUMN ANALOGY METHOD 51
Properties of analogous column:

Member A V Av2 Icgx

AB 4 2 16 5-33
BC 3-2 6 115-2 4-26
CD 3-2 6 115-2 4-26
DE 4 2 16 5-33

262-4 19-18

For Icg of sloping members see Fig. 24.

Ixx = 262-4 + 19-18
= 281-58
Mean
Section B.M. P ex Mxx Point y / M = Mo — Mi

Case 1
Fig. 25 (*)
FB 5 5 3-5 17-5 A 0 0 0
BC 5 16 6 96 F +3 45-9 60 - 45-9 = +14 1
CD 5 16 6 96 45-9 65 - 45-9 = +19-1
DG 5 5 3-5 17-5 B +4 61-2 85 - 61-2 = +23-8
C +8 122-4 145 - 122-4 = +22-6
227
D +4 61-2 5 - 61-2 = -56-2
Case 2 G +3 45-9 5 - 45-9 = -40-9
Fig. 25 (c) 45-9 0 - 45-9 = -45-9
BC 50 160 6-67 1065-6
CD 50 160 6-67 1065 6 E 0 0 0

2131-2
Case 3
Fig. 25 (rf)
AB 40 160 2-67 426-67
BC 40 128 6 768
20 64 5-33 341-33
CD 20 64 6-67 426-67

1962-67

Total Mxx = 4320-87

4320-87
/= y ± 281-58
y = ± 15-3 y

y is always positive,
Mi = + 15-3 y

Closed box frames

These may be considered on a similar basis to normal symmetrical
fixed-base portals. As with all examples the condition of release in no
way affects the final result, but sometimes reduces the length of calcu¬
lation. An example of this is shown in Specimen Question 16.
52 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

SPECIMEN QUESTION 16
A closed symmetrical box frame has inertia conditions as shown in Fig.
26 {a). Determine the final bending moments in the frame.

SOLUTION
From Fig. 26, the loading is also seen to be symmetrical about the vertical
axis, and thus by judicious release one unknown may be eliminated (see com¬
parison with Am technique in Chapter 3). In the column analogy method
the symmetry about the axis Y- Y means that no calculation is necessary for
Myy, Iyy and X.

. Myy
.x= 0
Iyy

Vertical distance Second moment

Area from X-X about X-X
Part A V Av2 /CG

2
EA — = 1-33 1-5 3 0
1-5
AB 3 0 0 2-25
BC 1-5 6 0
Vs = 267
CD 3 0 0 2-25
DE 1-33 1-5 3 0
A = 11-33 12 + 4-5
Ixx = 16-5

Part Mean B.M. P e Mxx

10 10 2
EA -1-5 -6-62
3 I x T5 = 445
AB 10 10 x 3 =30 0 0
FB 10 10 x 2 = 20 0-833 16-66
BG 10 10 x iL = 13-33 1-5 20

10 10 x ~ = 13-33 1-5 20

Total for half frame 81-11 50-04

Total 162-22 100-00

Mxx , P , r i lr
/= ± —j • y ~h ~7 — Aifxx N +
l xx A

+ 162-22 = +14-35
11-33
100-08
fxx — i 16-5
.y - ±6-06y
 THE COLUMN ANALOGY METHOD 53

Point y fxx / M
E -1-5 -909 5-22 -5-22
A -1-5 -909 5-22 4-78
F -0-5 -3-03 11-28 -1-28
B + 1-5 9-09 23-4 6-6
G + 1-5 909 23-4 -13-4
C + 1-5 909 23-4 6-6
H -0-5 -3-03 11-28 -1-28
D -1-5 -909 5-22 4-78
Since initial moments on outside of frame were considered positive, then posi¬
tive results on outside of frame. The final bending moment diagram is shown

(e)
54 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Asymmetric frames
Where the frame, and therefore the column cross-section, is non-
symmetrical owing to differing leg lengths or differing inclination of the
legs, a further complication arises. On referring to the neutral point
concept, it will be clear that the term of the product inertia will now have
a value and must therefore be included in the equation of stress. Thus,
in terms of virtual work:

/lO + Xafu + Xbf12 — 0 — MXX + Xa Ixx T~ Xblxy

/20 + Xaf2,1 + Xbf22 — 0 = Myy -f- XaIxy T* Xblyy

Mxx — Xalxx _j _i__ ix XIyy — XaIxy

Xb = and also Xb —
Ixy lyy

■ . Mxxlyy XaJxxIyy = —MyyIXy XoJxylxy

From which
Mxxlyy Myylxy
= -
Ixxlyy (Ixy)2
Similarly,
Myylxx Mxxlxy
*6 = -
Ixxlyy (Ixy)2

The equation of stress becomes:

r 1 P_ 1 fMxxlyy MyyIXy\ . fMyylxx — MXxIxy\

A ( Ixxlyy (Ixy)2 J \ Ixxlyy — (Ixy)2 )

The strict convention of signs depending upon the position of the

load must be noted. As with all other cases a tabular calculation pro¬
vides the easiest solution.

SPECIMEN QUESTION 17

A non-symmetrical fixed base frame of constant El is shown in Fig. 27 (a).

Determine the final moments and support reactions. This example again
directly compares the analogy with the area-moment method.
 THE COLUMN ANALOGY METHOD 55
SOLUTION

From Fig. 27 (b), which shows the analogous column section. (Note the
sign convention adopted.)
Aa
Member A a b Aa Ab v = —- — 2-63 m
A
AB 4 2 0 8 0
BC 6 4 3 24 18 t Ab ~ _
h = — = 3-2 m
CD 5 1-5 6 7-5 30 A

15 39-5 48 2x4
Mo = 100 X

400 uvr
= — kN m
Properties of analogous column:

Member n An2 IcGx m Am2 IcGy Amn = IXy

AB -0-63 1-59 5-33 -3-2 40-8 0 8-05

BC 1-37 11-25 0 -0-2 0-24 18 -1-64
CD -M3 6-38 10-42 2-8 39-2 0 -15-8

19-22+ 15-75 80-24 + 18 -9-39

= 34-97 hiy 98-24 Ixy = -9-39

P= x | = 400

400
N = +26-67
“ + 15 :
Mxx = 400 X 1-37 = +548
Myy = 400 x -0-53 = -212
Mxxlyy — +53 800 Myylxx = —7410
Myylxy = + 1990 Mxxlxy — ■—5150
+ 51 810 -2260
Ixxlxy — 3440
Vxy)2 = _88
3352

/— +Ar±/a:x Yfyy
= +26-67 + 15-46^ - 0-676x

Joint X fyy y fxx / M

A -3-2 +2-16 -2-63 -40-6 -11-77 + 11-77

B -3-2 +2-16 + 1-37 +21-2 + 50-03 -50-03
C +2-8 -1-89 + 1-37 +21-2 +45-98 -45-98
D +2-8 -1-89 -3-63 -56-05 -31-27 +31-27

M = Mo — f Positive moments on inside of frame since Mo was con¬

sidered positive.
56 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

The final bending moment diagram is shown in Fig. 27 (/) and is seen to
agree approximately with Fig. 13 (/). (Greater accuracy other than slide-
rule computation would have produced the same results as Fig. 13 (/).)

SPECIMEN QUESTION 18

Determine the final bending moments in the simple non-symmetrical

frame shown in Fig. 28 (a). El may be assumed constant.

SOLUTION

In Fig. 28 (a) it is seen that the frame has hinged terminal supports and
thus the analogous column (Fig. 28 (b)) has infinite area at these points. The
X-X axis will therefore pass through the hinges and the Y-Y axis will be
equidistant from each hinge. Iyy will be infinite, hence Ixy for the member AB
is infinite. The total area being infinite then P/A is zero, as will be Myyllyy.
The problem is therefore a simple problem only involving the term
Mxx • y/Ixx — f

Member A n An2 IcGxx

AB 8-5 3 76-5 25-5 lx* = 346-5 + 44

BC 6 6 216 0-5 = 390-5
CD 6 6 54 18

Member Mean B.M. P Mxx

AB 15 127-5 510
BC 15 90 540

Mxx = 1050 (moments on inside of frame considered positive)

Mxx! Ixx — 2-7

Joint y fxx — / M

A 0 0 0
B 6 16-2 13-8
C 6 16-2 -16-2
D 0 0 0
Final B.M. shown in Fig. 28 (e).
THE COLUMN ANALOGY METHOD 57
58 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

In the Specimen Question 19 (see Chapters 3 and 5 for the same

problem carried out by Am technique and moment distribution respec¬
tively), the product inertia is required consisting of Amn + Ixy, the
latter for member CD only. This member slopes to the left and thus
cos 0 will be negative, making Ixy negative. This term is sometimes
omitted in the analysis, but in this case the frame is seen to be ill con¬
ditioned, since a small change of property will produce a relatively
large change in result. The term must therefore be included for the
correct result to be obtained.

SPECIMEN QUESTION 19

Determine the moment conditions for the non-symmetrical frame shown

in Fig. 29 (a). E is constant for the frame.

SOLUTION

From Fig. 29 (b):

Member A a b Aa Ab - 10‘67 1 770

" = 6TT = 1729
AB 3 1-5 0 4-5 0
3 9-75
BC 2 3 1-5 4-5 2-25
CD 5 1 4-5 1-67 7-5 ,' = 6l7= >-58
3

6-17 10-67 9-75

Member n An2 I CGx m Am2 ICGv Amn ICGxy

AB -0-229 0-157 2-25 —1-58 7-489 _ + 1-0854 _

BC + 1-271 2-423 — -0-08 0-0096 1-125 -0-1525 —

CD -0-729 0-887 2-22 + 2-92 14-239 1-25 -3-5648 -1-67

3-467 + 4-47 21-737 + 2-375 -2-63 —1-67

lxx = 7-937 lyy = 24112 Ixy — -4-3

P 9
Member Mean B.M. P MXx Myy T= +iV= +
A 6-17
AB 3 9 -6-561 -14-22
= +1-455
BC 0 0 0 0
CD 0 0 0 0

9 -6-561 -14-22

Mxxlyy -158-198 MyylxX -112-864 Ixxlyy +191"377

fofyylxy +61*146 Mxxlxy +28-212 (7s2/)2 +18-49
-219-344 -141-076 + 172-887

/= +N ± fxx ±fyy = +1-455 - l-27y - 0-816*

THE COLUMN ANALOGY METHOD 59

(a)
60 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Joint y fxx X fyy / M

A -1-729 +2-2 -1-58 + 1-29 +4-495 + 1-055

B + 1-271 -1-61 -1-58 + 1-29 + 1-135 — 1-135
C + 1-271 -1-61 + 1-42 — 1-156 -1-311 + 1-311
D -2-729 +3-47 + 1-42 -3-61 + 1-315 -1-315

M = Mo — Mi. Positive moments on outside of frame since Mo was con¬

sidered positive and was outside of frame.
Figure 29 (c) shows the final moment for the frame.

TWICE INDETERMINATE FRAMES

The other non-symmetrical condition mentioned earlier is that of the
twice indeterminate structure, where, owing to the presence of one
hinged support, the analogous column will have only one position of
infinite area. In Fig. 30, support A is rigid while support D is hinged.

Y
Any loading

rrm

Hinged end
representing
infinite area

Since the infinite area occurs at D only, both X-X and Y- Y axes must
pass through this point. The X-X axis is again drawn horizontally and
will cut leg AB somewhere along its length. To provide the correct
sign for moment and product inertia it is necessary to adhere to the
same strict sign convention. A simplification which is inherent where a
hinge exists is that the total area of the analogous column must be
infinity, and therefore the term for direct “stress” will again be zero in
the general equation.

SPECIMEN QUESTION 20
Figure 31 (a) shows a twice indeterminate portal frame on level supports.
Calculate the reactions at support D and sketch the final bending moment
diagram for the frame.
 THE COLUMN ANALOGY METHOD 61

(c)

SOLUTION

From Fig. 31 (b). Owing to infinite area at D, PI A = 0.

Mxx d = 0 = Myy-Q fl) — 0 Md == 0

Properties of analogous column:

Member Area n An2 /CG* m Am2 lcGv Amn = IXy

AB 2 1 2 0-67 -3 18 0 -6
BC 3 2 12 0 -1-5 6-75 2-25 -9
CD 2 1 2 0-67 0 0 0 0
16+F33 24-75+ 2-25 -15 = /**,

Ixx = 17-33 lyy = 27

Mean
Member B.M. P Mxx Myy Joint y fx X fy / M

AB 80 160 160 -480 A 0 0 -3 + 80-7 + 80-7 -0-7

BE 40 40 80 -106-8 B +2 -18-94 -3 + 80-7 + 61-76 + 18-24
EC 0 0 0 0 C +2 — 18-94 0 0 —18-94 + 18-94
CD 0 0 0 0 D 0 0 0 0 0 0

240 -586-8
62 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Mxxlyy — 6490 My y 1xx — —10 180 Ixxlyy — 468

Myylxy 8800 Mxxlxy = 3600 (Ixy)^ — 225
-2310 -6580 243
/ = -9-52y - 27-Olx
M = Mo — Mi

SPECIMEN QUESTION 21
Determine the final moments on the non-symmetrical frame shown in
Fig. 32 (a). The release system to be chosen should be for the simply sup¬
ported condition. El is constant.

solution

From Fig. 32 (b). Owing to hinge at D, analogous column has infinite area,
PI A = 0.

Properties of analogous column:

Member Area n An2 IcGx m Am2 IcGy Amn — IXy

AB 5 -0-5 1-25 10-42 -3 45 0 +7-5

BC 3 2 12 0 -1-5 6-75 2-25 -9
CD 2 1 2 0-67 0 0 0 0
15-25 + 11-09 51-75 + 2-25 -1-5 = /*„
Ixx = 26-34 Iyy = 54
 THE COLUMN ANALOGY METHOD 63

Mxxlyy — 21 800
Member Mean B.M. P Mxx Myy
Myylxy = 455
AB 0 0 0 0
BC i x 101-25 202-5 405 -303-75 21 345
CD 0 0 0 0
Myylxx — -8000
Mlxxlxy == —607-5
-7392-5

Ixxlyy — 1420
(Ixy)2 = 2-25
/ = 15-1 y - 5-2x 1417-75

Joint y fxx X fyy / M

A -3 -45-3 -3 15-6 -29-7 +29-7

B 2 30-2 -3 15-6 45-8 -45-8
C 2 30-2 0 0 30-2 -30-2
D 0 0 0 0 0 0
The final moments are also shown in Fig. 32 (c).
 Chapter 3

THE INFLUENCE COEFFICIENT METHOD —

Am TECHNIQUE

The influence coefficient method and more particularly the Am tech¬

nique are a direct application of the basic strain-energy equations for the
solution of structures, both determinate, for normal deflection, and
indeterminate, by equating virtual displacements. The theorems of
Castigliano are generally tedious to perform and a semi-graphic
method is greatly to be desired. Consider the second theorem, adopting
the principle of least work. Thus

where U = U\ + U2 = total strain energy for the structure;

Ui — strain energy for the structure under external loading, con¬
sidering a determinate form;
U2 = strain energy due to indeterminate action only.
In frameworks X is the misfit of the redundant member or actual dis¬
placement of a support, and the indeterminate force, R, is determined by
„ X — ^ FpfL/AE
2PL/AE
When the misfit is zero, then 8U/dR = 0, and therefore

where Fo = force in the members due to external action;

/ = force in the members due to unit action in the direction
of the unknown force;
2 FofL/AE = the displacement under external action for the point
considered;
^f2L/AE = the displacement under unit action in the direction of
the unknown force.
Thus in terms of displacement, considering least work,

where fio — displacement of a point (1) under external action;

/11 = displacement of a point (1) under unit action.

64
 THE INFLUENCE COEFFICIENT METHOD 65

Since the sense of /io will be opposite to that of fu, then the negative
sign may be dispensed with.
The above equation shows the simplest form of the influence coeffi¬
cient method for a structure having a single indeterminacy, and is seen
to be the condition for a two-span continuous beam or a two-hinged
portal frame or a single indeterminate space truss.
Where more than one indeterminate action occurs, the equation
increases and further equations are required for each unknown action.
Thus for twice indeterminate conditions, letting the unknowns be Xa
and Xb,

/i = 0 =/io + Xafll T" Xbf 12 — actual displacement in direction 1

fz = 0 =/2o T- ^a/21 + Xbfzz — actual displacement in direction 2
For three times indeterminate condition, with unknowns Xa, Xb, Xc,

fl = 0 — fio + Xafll T~ Xbf 12 + Xcfis

fz = 0 = /20 + Xaf21 + Xbf22 + XcflZ
fz = 0 = fzo + Xafzi + Xbfz2 + Xcfzz etc.
As has already been seen in the previous chapters the unknown actions
are usually in terms of vertical and horizontal forces and a moment as
required. In bending,

F M2 .
U=
I mds
8U fp M 8M fp M
ds mi ds
8Xa L EI • 8Xa K EI'
The actual moment M = M0 + Xami for a single indeterminacy, thus

8U Mo , mi*
= /l = -=ri mi ds ds = 0
dXa ~E1

PM0 .
-yrj mi ds
f EI /io
Xa
/n
/
P^ds
EI
This can be seen to conform with the general equation for horizontal
thrust at the springing of a two-hinged arch or portal structure.
The expressions, in general form, for a three times indeterminate
structure will be as above, where Mo is the moment due to external
action on the released structure and mi, m2, m3, etc., are the moments
due to unit actions at the point of release.
It has been shown by Smith and Bell (Theory of Structures) that the
method can easily cater for the simple deflection of a determinate
structure or combine unknown actions for direct and bending strain
66 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

energy. The mathematical analysis was still somewhat tedious by hand

computation owing to the resulting set of homogeneous simultaneous
equations to be solved. Thus a semi-graphic integration is preferred, the
resulting simultaneous equations being transcribed to matrix form for
solution by electronic means.
A well-known method of graphic integration is the adoption of
Simpson’s rule, the simplest conception of which is the mid-ordinate
rule. From Fig. 33 it can easily be found that the volume of the wedge
is:

Volume = ^(flX0+y-f ay'j =

The method, as the equations show, combines the general two-stage

displacement condition, and thus product integrations are required for
varying combinations of moment diagrams (the direct force condition
for trussed frames will always be of rectangular shape). Moment will
be:

(a) triangular or trapezoidal due to concentrated loading;

(b) parabolic due to uniformly distributed loading;
(c) rectangular due to constant moment loading.

Such a method will also take account of any change in inertia for
separate members or along a particular member, each portion being
taken separately.
Although this form of arithmetical integration provides a relatively
easy approach, a simpler conception adopts the area of a particular
geometric form multiplied by the ordinate of the second diagram
beneath the centroid of the first diagram, in order to obtain the same
product. This technique, known as the Am technique, appears to be
somewhat similar to that of the area-moment method for simple inde¬
terminate forms, but shows much greater advantage and ease of use as
the number of indeterminacies increase.
 THE INFLUENCE COEFFICIENT METHOD 67
BASIC RULES OF THE METHOD
The method requires only a few basic rules which apply equally for
both simple or complex forms of structure. The rules may be briefly
stated:

(1) Release to primary structure is required. Sometimes, judicious

release may result in the reduction of unknowns to be solved, as was
seen in the box frame structure in Chapter 2, and recalculated later.
(2) Two separate loading stages are necessary, viz.:
(a) Mo due to known external actions;
(b) mi, m2, m3, etc., due to unit restraining actions.
(3) Since the method is an integration of geometric form, separate
integration is required to either side of any discontinuous point in a
function. (Thus an “in-span” concentrated-load moment diagram will
require to be considered in two portions either side of the apex of the
triangular figure.)
(4) All moment diagrams are to be drawn on the tension side of the
member concerned. The convention adopted throughout will be for
positive moments to be considered for those inside the frame and
negative for those outside.
(5) Any wrong initial assumption for the direction of a unit action will
become apparent by a negative result in the solution of the simultaneous
equations. The negative sign in the result shows only that the wrong
direction was chosen, the numerical value will not alter and only a
negligible change of the overall calculation is involved to obtain the
final resulting moments.
(6) Where changes of inertia occur, only one diagram for the product
is to be considered in the M/7 form, otherwise the resulting product
would be in terms of M/I2. To maintain simplicity, an example is
found in the products Momz', m\mz\ mtfnz', where the mz diagram is for
unit moment, thus the ordinate m multiplier is always unity.
(7) Sway is automatically accounted for, as with the previous methods,
provided that a suitable propping force is applied at the Mo stage.

The method is the general “flexibility”, or force method and is ideal

for use with structures which may be reasonably solved by hand com¬
putation. It should be remembered that the cross-products of the unit
actions conform to Maxwell’s reciprocal theorem, thus,/i2 = h\‘,f\z —
/3i;/23 =/32; etc.

SINGLE INDETERMINATE FRAMES

In order to introduce the method for application with frames a com¬
parison is made with the portal frame shown in Fig. 20. Application
to simple beams and truss frames was fully developed by Smith and
Bell (Theory of Structures).
68 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

SPECIMEN QUESTION 22
A rectangular portal frame with hinged supports is under the action of a
sway force W. Determine the final moments for the frame.

SOLUTION
Figures 34 (a) and (b) show the two-stage loading conditions for displace¬
ment. Figures 34 (c), (d), (e) and (/) show the product integration combinations.

Part A m Am

2Li WLx3
S Momi ds = /io c wu x * - ™
3 3

WLx2L2
d WLi x L22 - ^L2lLa -U
2
J mx2 ds = fix e LlL2 Lx Lx2L2

2Lx 2Lx3
f 2 XLl Xy = Ll2
3 3

J Momi ds = /lo = /WLli , WLx2L2\ = — WLx2

T 3 2
/ {y + f
2Li3
| mi2 ds = /n = Li2L2 +
3 2i«T + T
 THE INFLUENCE COEFFICIENT METHOD 69
(algebraic)
f\ = 0 = /io + Xafn

Xa
Til 2
The final bending moment diagram is shown in Fig. 34 (g).

SPECIMEN QUESTION 23
Determine the final bending moments for the frame shown in Fig. 35 (a).
El is constant for the frame.

SOLUTION

From Figs. 35 (b) and (c) the two-stage displacements are clearly shown
with the areas and m values for each portion of the diagrams.

A m Am

/io 127-5 4 —510\ —1050

90 6 -540/

25-5 4 102^
/u 36 6 216 > + 390
18 4 12)

Xa = unknown horizontal thrust at hinges

1050
X 2-7 kN
390
The final bending moment diagram is shown in Fig. 35 (d).
70 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Varying inertia
SPECIMEN QUESTION 24
Determine the bending moments in the frame shown in Fig. 36 (a). The
inertias of the members vary as
/i : h :h
4:3:8
E is constant for the frame.
[262.5]

SOLUTION

From the figure, either the loadings may be considered separately or, as
shown here, taken together. The figure shows diagram areas, and for the mi
condition (Fig. 36 (c)) the M\I values in ( ) brackets to allow simple product
integration. Areas of bending moment diagrams are shown in square
brackets [ ] in both the mi and Mo diagrams (Figs. 36 (6) and (c)). Consider¬
ing all loads and taking moments about A (note the propping force at A),
then
VE = 42-5 + 3-75 = 46-25 kN )
similarly, V = 50 + 40 = 90
Va = 47-5 - 3-75 - 43-75 kNJ
 THE INFLUENCE COEFFICIENT METHOD 71

Part A m Am
J Momi ds = /io 45 -0-5 —22-5>
75 -1-25 -93-6
109-375 -1-33 -146-0
-1308-1
262-5 -1-75 -460-0 >
15-625 -1-67 -26-0
280 -2 —560-0^

J- mi2 ds — fn -4-5 -0-5 2-25]

-15 -1-5 22-5
-7-5 -1-67 12-5 > 94-25
-24 -2 48
-18 -0-5 9

-130-81 + 94-25Xa = 0
v 1308-1
Xa ~ 94-25 ~ ^ 85 kN
The final bending moments are shown in Fig. 36 (d).
In order to make further comparison between differing methods of
solution, compare Specimen Question 25 with that shown in Fig. 10
(calculated by A La method).

SPECIMEN QUESTION 25
Determine the moments and reactions for the pitched portal frame shown
in Fig. 37 (a).

SOLUTION
Release is considered at E as before, and the moment and Ml I diagrams
are drawn as in Figs. 37 (b) and (c). In order to fully understand the method
of obtaining the ordinate values, the diagrammatic combination is again
shown in detail. Tabulation of results is maintained for neatness and clarity.
N.B. Only one of the diagrams must be in terms of Mil for each product
integration.
72 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Moments on outside -

Part A m Am

a 21-67 x f = 65 -6 -390
b 21-67 x f = 32-5 -7-25 -235-625
c 32-5 X f = 97-5 -6-75 -656

-1281-625

d 0-75 x f = 2-25 4 9
e 2 x 6 = 12 6-75 81
f 0-5 xf= 1-5 7 10-5
g 1 x 6= 6 5-25 31-5
h 1-5 X f = 4-5 6 27
j 0-75 Xf= 1-125 2 2-25

161-25

fw 1281-625
= 7-96 kN
7ii 161-25

The final moments are as shown in Fig. 10.

 THE INFLUENCE COEFFICIENT METHOD 73

TWICE INDETERMINATE FRAMES

The conditions for twice indeterminate frames have already been amply
illustrated, suffice it to say that
| Mm ds = J MoWi ds + J Momz ds
also
f m2 ds = J mi2 ds + $ m22 ds

further by Maxwell’s law,

J ds = J WZ2W1 ds

The displacement equations are thus

fi = 0 = /10 + Aa/11 + Ab/12
h = 0 = /20 + Aa/21 + Zb/22

SPECIMEN QUESTION 26
Determine the frame moments and support reactions for the portal frame
shown in Fig. 38. El is constant.

80kN
74 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

SOLUTION

From Figs. 38 (a) (Mo), 38 (b) (mi) and 38 (c) (m2), the tabulated results may
be easily obtained, it being unnecessary to redraw the separate moments for
combination as the figure can be referred to for each member concerned.
Notice has been drawn in the tabulation to the resulting values of the combi¬
nations, for each part to show the terms corresponding to those of the column
analogy. The same release has been considered, since if the support A had
been released there would be three indeterminate actions to calculate.

fi = 0 = -586-4 + 21Xa - \5Xb

/2 = 0 = +240 - 15Xa + 17-33 Xb

0 = -39-1 + 1-8Xa - Xb
0 = +13-85 - 0-865Xa + Xb

0 = -25-25 + 0-935Xa
Eliminating Xb,
25-^5
= o+ffi = 27-01 kN
Substituting Xa,
0 = -39-1 + 48-62 - Xb
Xb = 9-52 kN
The final moment diagram is shown in Fig. 38 (d).

SPECIMEN QUESTION 27
Calculate the frame moments and support reactions for the asymmetric
frame shown in Fig. 39 (a).
10 Ok N lOOkN
 THE INFLUENCE COEFFICIENT METHOD 75

SOLUTION

Figure 39 (a) shows the release to be made at the hinge to maintain mini¬
mum reinstating actions (at any other point along the frame three indeter¬
minate actions occur). Areas and M/I values are shown in brackets on Figs.
39 (b), (c) and (d) to allow a simple tabulation to be made. The directions of
the reinstating action have been chosen to keep all diagrams on the same
side of the frame.

Part m Am
1_0
/io 600 X = 3000 5 6000

3000 8_ 1600
/20 1 5

X ■2§6• = 18 36]
10 =
x Ta 30 8.
48 > 204
/n 2 5
10 =
12 x Ta 60 10 120j
2 5

8 x 32 16
1 5
/22 8 x 48 4 268-8
8 xU 40 16
1 5

18
30 16 136
/12 15
_8
60 1 5
76 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Substituting in the general equations,

fl — 0 = flO + Xafll + Xbf 12

fz — 0 = _/20 + Xa fzi ~t“ Xb fzz

0 = 6000 + 204Xa + 136X6

0 = 1600 + 136Xa + 268-8X&

29-4 + X0 + 0-668X6 = 0
11-78 + Xa + 1-98X6 = 0

17-62 - 1-312X& = 0
X6 = 13-4 kN
Substitute
29-4 + Xa + 8-95 = 0
Xa = -38-35 kN

The negative result means that the direction for the action Xa was chosen
wrongly and ought to have acted upwards to cause moments on the inside of
the frame. However, the numerical value is correct. The final moments may
be deduced by inserting the actual values for Xa and X& for the m 1 and m2
diagrams.

Matrix solution
In matrix form the equations could have been written as:

204 136 1 [Xal -60001

.136 268-8J • [X6J [ -1600J
or, using the augmented matrix:

[204 136 -60001 _ [Xal

Ll36 268-8 -1600J - LxbJ

Then, by Gaussian elimination process:

136 6000
204 ' 204
1362 -136 x 6000
136 - 136 x 1 268-8 -1600 -
204 204

0-668 -29-41
[i 178 2398J

1 0-668 -29-41
0 1 13-42J

0 -38-371
fi 1 13-42J

Xa = -38-37 kN
Xb = 13-42 kN
This process is explained in detail at the end of this chapter.
 THE INFLUENCE COEFFICIENT METHOD 77

SPECIMEN QUESTION 28
Determine the final bending moment diagram for the asymmetric frame
shown in Fig. 40 (a). El assumed constant.

SOLUTION

From the previous problem it should be clear that non-symmetry presents

no new rule to this method. The release is sensibly taken at the hinge and the
assumed reinstating unit actions applied. From Figs. 40 (b) (Mo), 40 (c) (mi),
40 (d) (m2).

Part A m Am

405 X 5 = -2025 3 —6075\

-6986
X 405 x 3 = -405 I X 3 = 2-25 -911 /

/20 a-e 405 x 2 = -810 -1 810

a-f 405 x 3 = -1215 1-5 -1822-5 |-202-5
b-g -405 -2 810

3x5= 15 3
3 x f = 4-5 2

J22 2e-e 2 x 2 x | = 4 5-33

f-f 3 x | = 4-5 I j-26-33
g-g 2x3 = 6 2 12 .

f\2 = c-e 3x2 = 6

/21 c-f 3X3 = 9 -1-5
d-g 3 X f = 4-5

/1 = 0 = -6986 + 54Xa - 1-5X&

f2 = 0 = -202-5 - 1-5Xa + 26-33Xb

0 = -4647 + 36Xa - Xb
0 = -77 - 0-057 + Xb

Eliminating Xb
0 = -4724 + 35-943X*
= 129-78 kN

Substituting Xa
0 = -202-5 - 195 + 26-33X&
/. Xb = 15-06 kN

The final moment diagram is shown in Fig. 40 (e), which is seen to agree with
that in Fig. 32 although the release conditions for the primary structure were
different. The reader should again notice the same numerical values in the
calculations, showing that one method provides an accurate check on another.
78 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

90kN/m
WV\A/WW\A
 THE INFLUENCE COEFFICIENT METHOD 79

THREE TIMES INDETERMINATE FRAMES

As shown in the previous chapters, this state of structure allows the
release to be made at any point, since three restraints are required no
matter where the cut is made. This last remark is always true, except in
the case of symmetry where one of the unknowns can be made zero.
From the fundamental principles of statics in such a structure, for
equilibrium at the point of release V = 0, // = 0, M = 0, thus
the third unknown action must be a moment.
The full equations are:

fi = 0 =/io + Xafn + Xbf12 + Xcfl3

h — 0 =/20 + Xaf21 + Xbfl2 + Xcf23
/3 = 0 =/30 + Xcf31 + Xbf32 + Xcf33

The solution of three simultaneous equations can be somewhat pro¬

tracted as seen in the example in Chapter 1. The Gaussian-elimination
and back-substitution method is therefore more suitable for electronic
computation—a simple programme in Algol shown at the end of the
book is easily seen to follow the normal hand method. A simple routine
hand method in terms of Gaussian elimination on the augmented
matrix should be easy to follow. The three equations above may be
written in matrix form as follows:

fix /l2 /l3

/21 /22 /23
/31 /32 fzz

where [/n/12/13] etc. is the coefficient matrix, {Xa, Xb, Xcj is the column
vector of unknowns and {—/10, —/20, —/30} is the solutions vector.
The augmented matrix is made by adding the solutions vector to the
right-hand side of the coefficient matrix without change of signs. Using
Gaussian elimination this right-hand-side column will show the solution
values of the unknowns in correct order.

SPECIMEN QUESTION 29
Calculate the final moment diagram and support for the rigid frame shown
in Fig. 41. El assumed constant.

SOLUTION
Figure 41 shows the general release condition for a rigid structure, it being
generally found more suitable to make the cut in the top boom member as
with the A La method. The M0 diagram is shown in Fig. 41 (a) and the mi,
m2 and m3 diagrams in Figs. 41 (b), (c) and (d) respectively.
80 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES
 THE INFLUENCE COEFFICIENT METHOD 81

Part A m Am

/io 200 X 4 = -800 2 -1600

/20 200 x 4 = -800 3 -2400 1

200 x | = -200 -2866-67
2-33 -466-67J

/30 -800 1 —8001

-1000
-200 1 -200/

4 X f = 8 8. 21-331
fix 63
5 Xf= 12-5 i3o 41-67 J
3

/22 3x4= 12 3
3 x f= 4-5
-3
2 11 >99
3 x 5 = -15
3 x f = -4-5 -2 1J
/33 4x1=4 1 41
3x1 = 3 1 3
>15
3x1 = 3 1 3
5x1 = 5 1 5j

/l2 3x4= 12 2 24 1
-13-5
3X5= -15 2-5 -37-5 J

/l3 8 1 8
^20-5
12-5 1 12-5,

/23 12 1 12
4-5 1 4-5
3
-15 1 -15
-4-5 1 -4-5, (-
From which the equations become:

-1600 + 63Xa - 13-5Xb + 20-5*c = 0

-2866-67 - 13-5Xa + 99 A& - 3XC = 0
-1000 + 20-5Xa- 3Xb + 1526c = 0

Thus despite rearranging the notation of unknown actions, the same set of
homogeneous equations are evolved, as may be checked with Specimen
Question 8. Thus
Xa = 15-6 kN
Xb = 32-8 kN
Xe = 51-95 kN

The bending moment diagram is shown in Fig. 41 (e).

SPECIMEN QUESTION 30
Determine the bending moments and reactions for the rigid asymmetric
frame shown in Fig. 42 (a). E is constant for the frame.
82 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

SOLUTION
The release has been made at hinge D to allow comparison with the frame
of Specimen Question 19. However, due to non-symmetry the separate
results will not show direct comparison. Figures 42 (b), (c), (d) and (e) show
the reinstating actions together with area and Ml I values.

Part A m Am

/io 9 6 54
/20 9 2 18
/30 9 1 9

/11 18 6 108
9 2-25 20-25
>144-5
4-5 2-5 11-25
7-5 0-67 5 J
/22 3 2-5 7-5
4-5 3 13-5
>53-89
12 2 24
10 0-888 8-89 J
/33 3 1
3 1
3 0-5 T5 6-17
5 0-33 1-677

/l2 18 2-5 45 ^
9 2 18
•78-67
4-5 2 9
7-5 0-888 6-67 J
fcz 3 1
3 1
4-5 1 4-5
12 0-5 •16-83
6
10 0-33 3-33 J
/l3 18 1 18 'l
9 0-5 4-5
4-5 0-5 27-25
2-25
7-5 0-33 2-5 J
The equations may be written:
54 + l44-5Xa + 78-67Xb + 21-25XC = 0
18 + 78-67 Xa + 53-89A& + 16-83XC = 0
9 + 27-25 Xa + 16-832T& + 6-17Xc = 0
Using Gaussian elimination on the augmented matrix:
-144-5 78-67 27-25 — 54—1
78-67
[' 27-25
53-89
16-83
16-83
6-17
-18
-9J
0-545 0-188 -0-373-

G 11-09
1-98
2-03
1-03
11-3
1-13 . ]
THE INFLUENCE COEFFICIENT METHOD 83
84 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Xa = —0-808 kN (thus acts upwards at D)

Xb = 1-264 kN (correct initial assumption)
Xc — —1-335 kN m (thus acts in anticlockwise direction, not clockwise
as assumed)

The final moment diagram is shown in Fig. 42 (/) and is seen to agree with
Specimen Question 19.
The Gaussian-elimination process has been carried out for this problem to
give the reader a further example for practice when learning the technique.

Closed box frames

SPECIMEN QUESTION 31
Solve the box frame shown in Fig. 43 adopting the Am technique. E may
be assumed constant.

SOLUTION
This is a three times indeterminate structure, but since symmetry occurs
both for frame and loading, judicious positioning of the release will immedia¬
tely remove one unknown. This is shown in Fig. 43 (a) when it is quite clear
that the vertical shear at E will be zero.
N.B. It must be remembered that the Mil diagram is only taken once in
the product multiplication. Figure 43 (b) shows Mo values and Figs. 43 (c),
(d) and (e) the mi, mz and m3 values respectively.

Part A m Am

f Momi , . 2 x 40 = 80 2 160
j El ds~fl° 2
2
X
X
3 X 10 = 60
20 X f = 40
1- 5
2- 33
90
93-33

-343-33

f Mom3 , , 80 0-67 53-33

] El ds~f3° 60 1 60
40 1 40
2x jx2x 10= 13-33 0-67 8-88

-162-21
2 x 3 X |= 9 2 18
/£*-*> 3 x 4 = 12 2 24

+42
2x4x1= 8 0-67 5-33
/£*-* 2x3x1= 6 1 6

+ 11-33
f m\m3 , r 9 1 9
J El ds~fl3 12 0-67 8
— fsi
+ 17
 THE INFLUENCE COEFFICIENT METHOD 85

4m

The general compatibility equations reduce to

/lO + Xafll + Xcf13 = 0
fzo + Xaf31 ~ Xcf33 = 0

Thus 42 Xa+ 11 Xc = 343-33

llXa + ll-33Xc = 162-21

Solving the equations gives

Xa = 6-06 kN
Xc = 5-23 kN m
Final bending moments are shown in Fig. 43 (/).
86 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Again as example for Gaussian elimination technique:

17 343-33]
11-33 162-21J

0-405 8-175]
4-45 23-21 !

1 5-23
0 6-06

0 6-06
1 5-23.
= 6-06 kN
Xc = 5-23 kN m

GENERAL SOLUTION FOR GAUSSIAN ELIMINATION

TECHNIQUE
It has been seen that the semi-graphic methods (A La and Am),
together with that of slope-deflection (see Chapter 4), lead to a number of
equations which require to be solved simultaneously. This may be
carried out by the normal algebraic method (which is in fact the Gaussian
elimination technique), but it is generally more convenient to set down
the equations in matrix form and perform a series of routine operations
which lead to the formation of an identity matrix multiplied by a vector
of the required results of the unknowns.
To illustrate the procedure a simple set of equations will be adopted
and the required operations recorded. This method is seen to be
exclusively adopted for the frame solutions in Chapter 4, the operations
again being recorded in order to give the reader confidence in use.
Consider a set of equations for three unknowns, Xa; Xb; Xc:

2 Xa -f- 4 Xb -T Xc — —11
—Xa d- 3 Xb -— 2 Xc — —16
2Za - 3Xb + 5XC = 21

All of the equations are seen to be independent. Written in matrix

form:
A X = b
r 2 4 in1 1rXa~\ r■-ih
L
-1
2
3
-3
-2
5J
M
1 1\Xb = -16
LxJ L. 2lJ
The augmented matrix Ab, is formed by transferring the solutions
vector to the right-hand side of the coefficient matrix. Thus
 THE INFLUENCE COEFFICIENT METHOD 87

The procedure by forward elimination and back substitution

intends to rearrange the coefficient matrix so that one answer only is
transferred in the multiplication of rows by columns, giving the solu¬
tion to each unknown in the vector of unknowns. Forward elimination:
4 row 1
Ab\ -
[ 3
-3
row 2 compare with
row 3

Operations
0) 1 2 0-5 -5-5 (1) Divide row 1 by an, thus 1/an.
(2) -1 -2 -0-5 5-5 (2) Multiply new row 1 by an, thus
(1/fln) x an.
(3) 0 5 -1-5 -21-5 (3) Subtract (2) from row 2.
(4) 2 4 1 -11 (4) Multiply new row 1 by an, thus
(I/011) X an.
(5) 0 -7 4 32 (5) Subtract (4) from row 3.
A new matrix is formed with two elements eliminated, thus

and operations carried out on the sub-matrix portion under the

bracket.
pi 2 0-5 —5-5 1
0 5 -1-5 -21-5 row 1 compare pn 012 013~|
Lo -7 4 32 J row 2 with \_an 022 023J

Operations
0) 1 -0-3 -4-3 (1) Divide row 1 by an, thus l/an.
(2) -7 2-1 30-1 (2) Multiply new row by an, thus
(I/011) X an.
(3) 0 1-9 1-9 (3) Subtract (2) from row 2.

A new matrix is formed with further elimination.

pi 2 0-5 -5-5-]
0 1 -0-3 -4-3
Lo 1 1 1-9 l-9_ row 1 compare with [an an]

(1) 1 1 (1) Divide row 1 by an, thus 1/an.

Again considering the portion under the bracket, a new matrix is

formed which has now become an upper triangular matrix.
2 0-5 —5-5-1
Ab4 — 1 -0-3 -4-3
0 1 1 J
88 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Backward substitution
The same operations are carried out but in a reverse direction.
Considering the portion to the right of the bracket only.

r1 2 0-5 —5-5—]row 3 ran #33 |

-0-3 -4-3 row 2 compare with an #22
Lo0 o1 1 1 J row 1 L#h #12-1
Operations
(1) -0-3 -0-3 (1) Multiply row 1 by 021-
(2) 0 4 (2) Subtract new row 1 from row 2.
(3) 0-5 0-5 (3) Multiply row 1 by azi.
(4) 0 -6 (4) Subtract new row 1 from row 3.
2 0 row 2 r#2i #22 #23 I
, compare with
Ab 5 — r.
1 0 =n row 1 Lan #12 #13j

Lo 0 1 j

Again considering only that portion within the bracket,

Operations
0) 2 0 -8 (1) Multiply row 1 by an.
(2) 0 0 2 (2) Subtract new row 1 from row 2.
pi 0 0 2~\
A-b 6 — I 00 10-4
Lo_0 o i iJ
It is now seen that the formation of the identity matrix from the
original coefficient matrix is complete and the right-hand-side vector
within the augmented matrix becomes the solutions vector required.
Thus:
A . X=b
A-1 A . X = A~lb
I. X =
X = A~'b
This may be written:
r1 o °-i r 2i rXa~\
0 1 0 . -
Lo 0 iJ L iJ LxJ
Thus Xa = 2; Xb — —4; Xc = 1 are the required solutions.
The method has been written out in entirety in this case and appears
at first glance to be perhaps just as laborious as the normal algebraic
process, but it will be seen later that only parts of the whole process
need be written down each time and with practice this is easily achieved.
 Chapter 4

THE SLOPE-DEFLECTION METHOD

This method was introduced by Professor G. Maney in 1915 and is a

direct mathematical approach and extension of the original Mohr
conception of analysis. The name of the method describes the indeter¬
minate moment at the end of a member set down as an equation of
rotation and deflection at that joint. It therefore follows that for a
simple indeterminate member two equations are required to be solved
to enable the final bending moment diagram to be constructed.

BASIC EQUATIONS
The total end moment is then expressed as the algebraic sum of:

(1) the normal standard end moment for the fully fixed condition
CFM);
(2) the end moment due to joint rotation (M0);
(3) the end moment due to joint displacement (Ma).
A strict sign convention is obviously necessary to ensure a relative
dependence of the simultaneous equations for conditions about a joint.
These may be stated as follows:
(1) Normal end fixing moments, for the external load condition,
are positive when in a clockwise direction.
(2) The slope is positive when the tangent to the beam rotates in a
clockwise direction.
(3) The relative end displacement rotation is positive when the
member rotates in a clockwise direction.
This is shown for general conditions in Fig. 44.
Considering a fixed-ended member with a settlement A as in Fig. 44,
then from the figure,
A P(L/2)3 . \2EIA
2 “ 3 El '• “ L3
1# PL 6EIA

The moment is anti-clockwise and therefore negative. (It should also

be noted that this is an important moment distribution proof.)
6EIA
.'. Ma — Mb
L2
89
90 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

The effect of rotation is considered by releasing each end of the fixed

beam A-B separately to produce a clockwise rotation at the fixed end.
It can be seen that the rotation of the fixed end is one-half of that
applied at the free end.
From the simple Mohr conception for a fixed beam, Fig. 45:
Ra' = secondary reaction at A = 0
. L 2L L L
' ‘ M A - 2 ' 3 + Mb ‘ 2'3 °
Rb = El eB
A Ma . \ . | + Mb . j . y = EIQbL

when Ma = —2EIQb/L and Mb = 4£70b/T. Similarly, releasing end

A,
Ma = 4EIQa/L andMb = -2F/0A/L
2 El
Ma - 4EIQa/L - 2EIQB/L = (20A _ 0B)
2 FT
Mb = 4£/0b/L - 2£/0A/T = (20B - 0A)
 THE SLOPE-DEFLECTION METHOD 91
But when setting out the general equation the end moments may be
written:

Ma — —j— (20a -)- 0b)

= ^ (26b + 0a)

since the sign of the rotation will automatically be found from the solu¬
tion of the equations formed for a joint.

(+)

The summation for rotation, displacement and external load-fixing

moments, when considering a fully fixed member, may therefore be
written:

MAB = -£-(20A + 0B - - FMab

Mba = ^(20b + 0A - + FMba

or, if written in terms of the stiffness of a member (thus K = IjL):

Mba = 2EK(2§a + 0b - 3<£) - FMab

Mba = 2EK(2Qb + 0a - 3cf>) + FMba

where <f> = A/L = deflection per unit length.

The above equations may be used for any conditions, but if one end
of the member concerned is permanently free then the moment at that
end must be zero. For this propped cantilever condition it is sensible
to simplify the above to form further standard equations. Thus from
92 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Fig. 46, allowing a displacement A at the fixed support, the moment at

that end will be
3£/A
Mab = 0 Mba -
L2

Due to rotation, since Mab = 0, then,

30bF7
M BA = r

Therefore total Mba due to rotation and displacement is

Thus the full end moment

Mba = 3EK(QB -<!>) + FMba

where it must be remembered that the fixing moment for external load
is that for the propped condition. Figure 47 provides the standard
cases for fixed end moment of both fully fixed and propped members.
The slope-deflection method is generally somewhat tedious, but is
particularly useful for the analysis of structures having up to three
indeterminacies where known yield and rotation of joints has occurred
 THE SLOPE-DEFLECTION METHOD 93

1 a 1 b
**•

f * r

1 L/2 V L/2

ht
1 + 3WLV
7
L r
/—w/unit length
V

or is likely to occur. Where there are more than three indeterminacies

the equations are best laid out in matrix form for solution by computer.
For the solution of continuous beams three conditions should be
considered with the standard equations:

(1) If any external end is simply supported, then at that point

M = 0 and the simplified equations can be adopted.
(2) If any external end is fully fixed, then at that point 9 = 0
(this does not apply to interior supports).
(3) For any interior support, equilibrium is required at the joint,
and therefore the moments about that joint must sum to zero or the
value of any applied moment at that joint.

It should also be remembered that if settlement occurs at an internal

support then the adjacent spans to either side of that joint will be
rotated in the opposite way.
The above conditions also apply to simple frames where symmetry in
both geometry and loading is evident. Where sway occurs a further
equation is required for total equilibrium of the structure, thus

J,h = o

Equilibrium equations and procedure

These conditions are briefly shown in Figs. 48 (a), (b) and (c).
From Fig. 48 (a). Unknowns: 0b, 6c, 6d-
94 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Ma is negative for spans AB and BC, and positive for span CD.
Equations:
Mb a + Mbc — 0
Mcb + Mct> = 0
Mbc — 0

Any specified span loading

>
A B,
-Ll ^ -^2_L3 °1
 THE SLOPE-DEFLECTION METHOD 95
From Fig. 48 (b). Unknowns: 0b; 0c. Equations:

A/b a + M,bc = 0
Mcb + 4/cd = 0
Mdc = 0
0A = O

Mba + Mab MCD

L\ E2
+ = 0

From Fig. 48 (c). Unknowns:

0b; 0c; 6d; 6e; 4>i\ fa-

Equations: 4 joint equations.

0a = 6f = 0

Mcb + M bc -MdE + M ED
hi
+ hi
Wi = 0

Ha + Hf + Wi + W2 = 0

rj Mb a -r 4/ab „ 4/ef + A/fe

j- Lzf =-?-
h2 //2

The application of the basic slope-deflection equations to analysis

may be set down on a simple procedure as follows:

(1) Write down the basic slope-deflection equations for each end
of each span, inserting values where these are known.
(2) Write down the equilibrium equations for the whole system
(one such equation is required for each unknown term of 0 and A in
the system).
(3) Substitute the basic slope-deflection equations in the equi¬
librium equations and solve for the unknown terms.

N.B It must be remembered that all unknown joint rotations may be

assumed positive, but the assumptions regarding deflection must be
consistent for adjacent spans meeting at the joint.
When analysing frameworks in which there are no joint deflections,
i.e. all the deflection terms in the slope-deflection equations are zero,
sufficient conditions of equilibrium are obtained by summing all the
joint moments to zero, assuming that there are no external applied
moments at any of the joints. Where joint deflections do occur, as in
portal frames involving sway, additional conditions of equilibrium are
obtained by balancing the shear at various levels, thus as in Fig. 48 (c)
shear equations may be obtained for each bay of the multi-storey frame.
96 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

SPECIMEN QUESTION 32
A column of constant El is shown in Fig. 49 (a). A moment is applied at
point B by a cantilever bracket load, causing a rotation and horizontal dis¬
placement at that point. Determine the bending moments in the column.

SOLUTION

Consider the member as having two spans AB and BC. Rotation at B,

0b and horizontal displacement AB (see Fig. 49 (b)).
Two conditions of
equilibrium are required:
Mb a + Mbc = —50 .... (1)
Horizontal reactions at A and C exist and must be equal and opposite.
Mcb + Mbc Mb a + Mab
"4 2
or 2(Mba + Mab) — (Mcb + Mbc) = 0 . (2)
Assume that point B moves to the left. Slope-deflection equations:
2EI
Mab = (eB + “2
)
xi 2EI
Mba = — 26*+^) 6a = Oc = 0

2 El
Mbc = ^20b -
t)
McB-2f(6B-^
4 /
Substituting in the equations of equilibrium,
2EI 3Ab\ , 2El
2
20b +
2 )
+ ^20b — -50
t)-

2F/0b + ^^2 + EIQb - = _50

3F/0b + ^^2 = -50 (1)

o-J[¥(#*+2f5)+2r(M-+2r)]

= 2^F/(30b + 3Ab)J - [y (30b - ^2)1

Q = 9EIQb 27£/An
2 4 (2)
 THE SLOPE-DEFLECTION METHOD 97
Solving (1) and (2) simultaneously,

3£/6b + f£/AB = -50

|£/0b + \1EIAb = 0

400
240b + 9Ab
El
20b + 3Ab = 0

400
240b + 9Ab
El
240b + 36Ab = 0

400
27Ab
“ El

400
Ab
21EI

Substitute in 20b + 3AB = 0,

44-445
20b
El

22-2225
0B =
El

(c)
98 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

check:
133-33
80b + 3Ab =
El
2El / 22-2225 3 x 14-815
Mab =
2 V El
-t-
2 El )
= -22-2225 + 22-2225 = 0
2 El 2 x 22-2225 3 x 14-815'
Mb a =
2 V( El 2EI
= -44-445 + 22-2225 = -22-2225
> -50
2 El / 44445 3 x 14-815 \
Mbc
4 V El 4EI )
= -22-2225 - 5-5556 = -27-718

1EI 3 x 14-815 \
MCB = —J— -22-2225 - 4£/ -j
4
= -11-1112 - 5-5556 = -16-6667
Horizontal shear = ( — 50 — 16-6667 + 0)/6 = 11-11 kN. Maximum deflec¬
tion when bending moment diagram areas ± are equal, thus at 1 m from B
along BC (see Fig. 49 (c)).

TWICE INDETERMINATE FRAMES

SPECIMEN QUESTION 33
Determine the deflected profile and the bending moments for the portal
frame shown in Fig. 50 (a). Eis constant for the frame. 7i : h : h = 3 : 2 : 1.

SOLUTION

From Fig. 50(6) there are three unknowns 0b; 0c; Ab, where Ab is the
sway of member BC. Assume BC moves to the right so that Ab is positive for
both AB and CD, (B and C stay at the same level).
Equilibrium conditions:
(1) Mb a + Mbc = 0.
(2) Mcb + Mcd = 0.
(3) Horizontal reactions at A and D sum to zero.
(Mba + Mab) Mcd _ „
Li + ~U~
Slope-deflection equations:
2Eh(a 3A\ 2x3 r a 3A\
Mab = ~U l9- ~ ZI j = To- • E 16b - TO j
= O-6E0B - 0-18FA

M™-2-zr(29»-rJ=lm1-E(26 ■-$)
= 1-2E0B - 0-18EA
THE SLOPE-DEFLECTION METHOD 99

30kl\l/m

94kN
100 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Mbc = ^ (26b + 6c) - FMbc = ■ £(20b + 0c) - 30 X 6"

U 12

= 1-33£0b + O-67£0C - 90

Mcb = (20c + 0b) + FMcb = —t— • £(20c + 0b) + 90

U
= O-67£0b + 1-33£0C + 90
2 EIz 3£/3 /fl A \
Mcb —
U h - 9f -£) T7 \9c _I3/

= T (0C “ = °'75£0C “ °,188£A

Substituting these equations in those for the equilibrium of the structure and
solving simultaneously.

Mba + Mbc = 0 = 1-2£0B - 0-18EA + 1-33£0B + O-67£0C - 90

= 0
= 2-530b + O-67£0C - 018£A - 90

Mcb + Mcb = 0 = 1-33£0B + O-67£0B + 90 + O-75£0C - 0-18£A

= 0
= O-67£0b + 2-O8£0c - 0-18£A + 90

(Mab + Mba) + Mcd = o.()6£0b - 0 018£A + O-12£0B - 0 018EA

Li Li
+ O-188£0C - 0-047EA
= 0 = O-18£0b + O-188£0c - 0-083EA

when
0B = 49-8/E K
0C = -61-7/£*j
A = -28-9 IE

(The negative sign indicates movement in opposite sense to that assumed).

Approximate moments are found by substitution in the equations when hand
computation is used, together with horizontal and vertical reactions as shown
in the figure. The vertical reaction is found by normal vertical static and
elastic shears, thus (30 x 6)/2 ± (Mbc + Mcb)/6, (thus Li — 6 m).

THREE TIMES INDETERMINATE FRAMES

SPECIMEN QUESTION 34
Figure 51 (a) shows a fixed portal frame under the action of vertical and
side loading. The inertia of the members is in the ratios shown. Determine
the frame moments. E is constant for the frame.

SOLUTION

From Fig. 51 (b): Assuming the frame deflects to the right.

Kab = Kcb = j = 0-2

Kbc = % = 0-67
FMbc = 100 x 2 x 42/62 = 88-88 kN m
FMcb = 100 x 22 x 4/62 = 44-44 kN m
 THE SLOPE-DEFLECTION METHOD 101

ilOOkN lOOkN
2m I 4m Im

20kN.
=4

E constant
1=1 1=1 5m (a)

A D

(b)

(c)
102 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Slope-deflection equations:
2F
Mab = 2EK(0 + 6b — 3 <f>) = -y (0b — 3 <j>) = O-4.E0B — 1 •2E<j>
Mba = 2EK(2Qb - 2<f>) = O-8£0B - 1-2E<f>
Mbc = 2EK(2Qb + 0c) - FMbc = 2-67EQb + 1-33£0C - 88-88
Mcb = 2EK(2QC + 0b) + FMcb = 1-33 £0B + 2-67£0c + 44-44
Mod = 2EK(2QC - 3</>) = O-8E0C - l-2£0
Mdc = 2£A:(0c - 3^>) = O-4£0C - 1-2E<f>
Equilibrium conditions:
Joint B 2 = 0 = Mba + Mbc
O-8E0b - 1-2E<f> + 2-67E0B + l-33£0c - 88-88 = 0
3-47E0B + 1-33E0C - 1-2E<j> - 88-88 = 0
Joint C Me = 100 x 1 = 100 kN m (clockwise, thus positive)
Mcb + Mcd =100
1-33E0B + 2-67E0C + 44-44 + O-8E0C - 1-2E<f> = 100
1-33E0B + 3-47£0c - 1-2E<f> + 44-44 = 100
1-33E0B + 3-47E0C - 1-2E</> - 55-56 = 0
Sway equations:

(MaB + + (Mcp + mdc) = _20> thus Ha + Hg = _20 kN

Li L\

KO-4E0B - 1-2E<j> + O-8E0b - 1*2jE^ + O-8E0C - V2E<f> + 0-4£©c - l-2E<f>)

= -20
O-24E0B + O-24E0C - 0-96E<f> = -20
or may be written:
1-2E0b + l-2E0c - 4-8-E^ = -100
The equations may be written in matrix form:
p-47 1-33 —1*2 I r0B-]
E 1-33 3-47 -1-2 . 0C
Ll-2 1-2 -4-8 J L <M
In terms of the augmented matrix this becomes
Operation
3-47 1-33 - 1-2 88-88"]1 row 1 (1) Divide row 1 by an
Abi = 1-33 3-47 - 1-2 55-56 row 2 (2) Multiply new row 1
[ 1-2 1-2 -4-8 -100 J
| row 3 by «2i
(3) Subtract (2) from
row 2
(4) Multiply new row by
031
(5) Subtract (4) from
row 3
(1) 1 0-385 -0-347 25-6
(2) 1-33 0-514 -0-463 34-1
(3) 0 2-952 -0-737 21-46
(4) 1-2 0-463 -0-416 30-7
(5) 0 0-739 -4-384 -130-7
 THE SLOPE-DEFLECTION METHOD 103

Operations
0-385 -0-347 25-6 “ (1) Divide row 1 by an
P
(2) Multiply new row
Ab% — 2-952 -0-737 21-46 row 1 1 by tf2i
0
Lo 0-737 -4-384 -130-7 J row 2 (3) Subtract (2) from
row 2
(1) 1 -0-25 7-26
(2) 0-737 -0-184 5-35
(3) 0 -4-2 -135-05
Operations
p 0-385 -0-347 25-6 -1 (1) Divide row 1 by an
Ab 3 =
1 -0-25 7-26
0
0

-p>.
N>

Lo —135-05_ row 1
1

1 0-385 -0-347 25-6 “1 row 3

0 1 -0-25 7-26 row 2
Abd =

0 0 1 32-2 row 1
0
Thus the original matrix has become an upper triangular matrix and back
substitution may be applied.
Operations
(1) -0-25 -8-05 (1) Multiply row 1 by 021
(2) 0 15-31 (2) Subtract new row 1 from row 2
(3) -0-347 11-1 (3) Multiply row 1 by 031
(4) 0 36-7 (4) Subtract new row 1 from row 3
Operations
pi 0-385 0 36-7 ~ row 2 (1) Multiply row 1 by 021
0 1 0 15-31 row 1 (2) Subtract new row 1 from row
Ab 5 =
2
_0 0 1 32-2 _
(1) 0-385 0 5-9
(2) 0 0 30-8

n 0 0 30-8 “I
Ab 6 = 0 1 0 15-31
Lo 0 1 32-2 J
This may be written:
0 on p30-8 -| peB~|

?J - kn=LJ
1_
1
E ’
0
Final moments. (E = 210 x 106 kN/m2)
Mab = 0-4 X 30-8 - 1-2 X 32-2 = 12-4 - 38-8 = -26-2
Mba = 0-8 X 30-8 - 38-6 = —13-8\ . _ n
Mbc = 2-67 x 30-8 + 1-33 x 15-31 - 88-88 = + 13-8/ net “ 0
Mob = 1-33 X 30-8 + 2-67 X 15-31 + 44-44 = + 126-41
net =100
Mcd = 0-8 x 15-31 - 38-6 = -26-4/
Mdc = 0-4 x 15-31 - 38-6 = -32-5
Check shear balance.
1-20b + l-20c - 4-8^ = 36-8 + 18-2 - 155 = -100—check
104 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

The final moments and deflected frame profile are shown in Figs. 51 (c) and
(b) respectively.
The slope-deflection method is particularly useful when known yield con¬
ditions apply to the structure.

SPECIMEN QUESTION 35
Figure 52 (a) shows an asymmetrical fixed portal frame where both trans¬
lational and rotational yield has occurred. Determine the bending moments
produced in the frame. El is constant and equals 6 x 103 kN m2.

SOLUTION

From Fig. 52 (b), assume sway of BC is to the right (A). Slope-deflection

equations:
2 x 6 x 103
Mab ^0b = 24000b - 1440A
5

2 x 6 x 103
Mba ^ 20b -2y) = 48000b - 1440A
5
2 x 6 x 103
Mbc ( 20b + 0c - -3- X ^°02 j = 60000b + 30000c - 4-5
4
2 x 6 X 103
Mcb ( 0b + 20c - -fi’002 j = 30000b + 60000c - 4-5
4

2 X 6 x 103
Mcb ^ 20c + 0D - ^ j = 80000c + 40000D - 4000A
3
2 x 6 x 103
Mbc f 0c + 20d - = 40000c + 80000b - 4000A
3
Thus

Mcb 80000c + 4000 X 0-005 - 4000A = 80000c + 20 - 4000A

Mbc 40000c + 40 - 4000A.
Equilibrium equations:

Mba + Mbc = 0
= 10 8000b + 30000c - 1440A = 4-5 . . . (1)
Mcb + Mcd = 0
= 30000b + 14 0000c - 4000A = -15-5 . . (2)
(Mab + Mba) (Mcd + Mpc) _ _
Lab Lcb
= 3Mba + 3Mbc + 5Mcd + 5Mdc
-300 = 21 6000b + 60 0000c - 48 640A (3)
Thus:
pl0-80
3-00
3-00
14-00
— 1 -44~|
-4-00 .
r0B~i
0c =
T~ 0-0045-1
-00155
L21-60 60-00 -48-64J La J L-0-3000j
Using the augmented matrix,

rl0-8 3 -1-44 0-0045-]

Abl=\ 3 14 -4 -0-0155
l_21-6 60 -48-64 -0-3 J
 THE SLOPE-DEFLECTION METHOD 105

4m

Performing the operations as shown previously for forward elimination and

back substitution, by Gaussian elimination:
Operations
1 0-278 -0-133 0-000 417 Row 1/tfn 0)
3 0-834 -0-399 0-001 251 New row 1 x 021 (2)
0 13-166 -3-601 -0-01 675 Row 2 — (2) (3)
21-6 6-00 -2-88 0-009 New row 1 x #31 (4)
0 54-00 -45-76 -0-309 Row 3 — (4) (5)
p 0-278 -0-133 0-000 417“1
13-166 -3-601 -0-016 75
Lo0 54 -45-76 -0-309 J
| 13-166 -3-601 -0-016 75
I 54 -45-76 -0-309
1 -0-274 -0-001 272 Row 1 /an (1)
54 -14-76 -0-066 87 New row 1 x 021 (2)
0 -31-00 -0-024 03 Row 2 - (2) (3)
106 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

0-278 -0-133 0-000 417-1

Ab 3 — 1 -0-274 - 0-001 272
0 -31 0-024 03 J

Operations
-31 -0-024 03
1 0 007 751 Row 1/an (1)

-0133 0-000 417

-0-274 -0-001 272
1 0-007 751

-0-274 -0002 12 Row 1 x «2i (1)

0 0-000 848 Row 2 — (1) (2)
-0-133 -0001 034 ROW 1 X 031 (3)
0 0-001 451 Row 3 — (3) (4)
0-278 0 0-001 451
1 0 0-000 848

0-278 0 0-000 235 Row 1 X 021 0)

0 0 0-001 216 Row 2 — (1) (2)

0 0-001 216—1
0 0-000 848
1 0-007 751J

The approximate moments are as shown in Fig. 52 (b), the conditions of

equilibrium being satisfied.

FRAMES WITH SLOPING MEMBERS

In the foregoing it has been seen that the displacement term of the
slope-deflection equations is taken normal to the axis of the member.
Thus for rectangular frames it is assumed that the horizontal member
has no vertical displacement unless a translational vertical yield occurs
at a terminal ground support.
Where the frame has sloping legs, the displacement at the joint of such
a leg, normal to the axis of that member will produce component dis¬
placements in the horizontal and vertical planes consistent with the
geometry of the frame. It is therefore insufficient to consider only the
horizontal shear for the equilibrium of the frame since the inclination of
the member has the effect of introducing a further moment. Moments
about a sufficient number of points should therefore be taken to allow
the formation of other equations in order to eliminate the unknown
conditions.
 THE SLOPE-DEFLECTION METHOD 107
If axial deformation of any member is neglected, then the lateral
displacements at the joints of the inclined members will be proportional
and, depending upon the geometry, will produce further, proportional,
horizontal and vertical displacements. A general condition is shown in
Fig. 53 (El assumed constant). From the figure:

*1 hi
BZ = YZ = xi tan a = yi AB — tan a = —
COS a cos a hi
Then
, BZ xi
^AB = AB = hi

*2 h
CR = RS = x% tan (3 = y>2 CD - tan p = jr-
COS P COS P

. CR x%
= CD = h

, yi + )>2 1 fxiai xzai]

*c = —r~=r\Tr + TS7
When xi = X2 = A, and hi = hz = h,

</>BC = ^ (ai +

Expressing as displacement ratios:

<
PQ
>H

CS
II
II

YZ = A3\ A3 ai a AB .
. . Ai = - A;
BZ = AiJ Ai AB ai
AS = |A
A hi A AB .
A”i AB •• Ai = tta

Similarly,

RS = A4 a4 _02_ a CD .
A2 =-A4
CR = A2 A2 CD a2
_A hi_ a CD . A*=SA
A2 CD Az = tta

Slope-deflection equations:
2 El l 3A\
Mb a = 2EKAb(2Qb — 3<£i) = (20b —

Mbc = ^(20b + 0c + 3^) = (20b + 0c + ^})

108 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Mc“ = ^29 c-3« = ^(29c-f)

Joint equilibrium:
Mba + Mbc = 0
Mcb + Mcd = 0
 THE SLOPE-DEFLECTION METHOD 109

Also from Fig. 53:

Moments about B (left) = Mba + Mab + HaHi — VaOi + ^Pen
= 0
Moments about C (right) = Mcd + Mdc + Fd«2 — Hnhz + ^Pec
= 0

Moments about B (right) = Mbc + Mdc + — Vt>(L + #2)

+ %Pe B = 0

2 Pen = sum of moments about point N, to one side, of external actions

on the frame.

SPECIMEN QUESTION 36
Determine the moments in the frame shown in Fig. 54 (a). E may be
assumed constant.

SOLUTION

The unknowns are 0b, 6c and Ai. From Fig. 54 (b):

A3 = AaAx = 1-25A!
A2 = f Ai = 0-75Ai

Equilibrium equations:

Mb(L) Mba — 8 H — 0

Mc(L\ — 8H + 6 V = 0
Mcb
6F= -Mcb + 8H
- —Mcb + Mba
Md(L) Mdc + 12 V — 600 = 0
Mdc — 2Mcb + 2Mb a — 600 = 0
Also Mba + Mbc = 0; Mcb + Mcd = 0.
Slope-deflection equations:
Mab = 0

Mba = 3 X l *E- (eB + y ) = F875F0B + 0-234£Ai

Mbc = 2 X 26 X E (20b + 0c - ^ = O-75F(20b + 0c - 0-375Ax) \

..
2x2 x E
Mcb = 20c + 0b - = O-75F(20C + 0B - 0-375Ai)

2x5 X E
Mcd = = F(20c + 0-375Ai)
io (2°° + w)
2 x 5 x E (a , 3A3\
Mdc = -in- = F(0c + 0-375Ai)
9c + -m
110 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES
 THE SLOPE-DEFLECTION METHOD 111
From the equations of equilibrium:

A/ba + Mbc = 0

1-875F0B + 0-234£Ai + 1-5F0B + O-75F0C - 0-281£Ai =f 0

3-375F0B + O-75F0C - 0-047FAi = 0

Mcb + Mcd = 0
l-5F0c + O-75£0b - 0-281 FA x + 2F0C + 0-375FAi = 0
O-75F0B + 3-5F0c + 0094FAx = 0

Mbc — 2Mc& -)- 2 Mb a = 600

But
Mb a = —Mbc
Mcb = —Mcb

Mbc + 2Mcd — 2Mbc = 600

F0c + 0-375FAi + 4F0C + 0-75FAi - 3F0B - 1-5F0C + 0-562FAi = 600

-3F0b + 3-5F0c + l-687FAi = 600
Thus:
3-375 0-75 —0*047 1
r0B_l r °1
l 0-75
-3
3-5
3-5
0-094
1-687_ 1
0C
LAiJ
=
|_600j
0

3-375 0-75 -0-047 °n

0-75 3-5 0-094 0
Ab± - 600
[■ -3 3-5 1-687
~E_ 1 Operations

1 0-222 -0-0140 0 l/an

0-75 0-166 -0-0105 0 (1/on) x 021
0 3-334 0-1045 0 2 — 021/on
3 -0-666 0-042 0 (l/oil) X 031
600 3 — 031/011
0 4-166 1-645
IT

1 0-222 -0-0140 °n
Abo
[: 0
0
3-334
4-166
0-1045
1-645
°
600

3-334 0-1045 0
600 Operations
4-166 1-645
E
1 0-0314 0 1/on
4-166 0-131 0 021/011
600 2 — 021/011
0 1-514
~E
112 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

0-222 -0-0140
1 0-0314
Ab3
0 1-514

600
1-514
E
397 1 /an
1
E

0-222 -0-0140
1 0-0314
Ab4 =
0 1

-0-0140 0
0-0314 0
397
1
E

12-4
0-0314 021/011
E
5-55
-0-0140 031/011
E

5-55
1 0-222 0
E
12-4
Ab5 = 0 1 0
E
397
0 0 1
E

5-55
0-222 0
E
12-4
1 0

2-75
0-222 0 02l/0ll
E
8-3
0 0 2 — 022/011
E
1
00 1^

1 0 0 0B

12-4
0 1 0 • = 9c
E
397
0 0 1 Ai
_ E—
 THE SLOPE-DEFLECTION METHOD 113
Mba = 15-5 + 92-8 = 108-3
Mbc = 0-75(2 X 8-3 - 12-4 - 149)
= 0-75 x 144-8 = -108-3
Mcb = 0-75(2 x -12-4 + 8-3 - 149)
= 0-75 x -165-5 = -124-2
Mod = (-24-8 + 149) = 124-2
Mdc = -12-4 + 149 = 136-6

Which agrees approximately with the results by the Am technique. The

final moments and deflected shape are shown in Fig. 54 (c).

MULTI STOREY FRAMES

The method is applicable to multi-storey frames when, besides the
usual joint equations, horizontal shear balance is equated at various
levels to provide sufficient conditions to solve the unknowns. Consider
the two-storey structure with fixed terminal ground support as shown
in Fig. 48 (c). There are six unknowns: 0b, 6c, 9d, 0e, <f>i, <f>2, thus six
equations are required for solution. It will be obvious from the previous
specimen questions using this method that without the use of an elec¬
tronic computer for the solution of the equilibrium equations the method
is totally impracticable.
 Chapter 5

THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD

An introduction with general proofs of this method, by the late Professor

Hardy Cross, was given by Smith and Bell (Theory of Structures). It
will, however, serve a useful purpose to briefly recapitulate the method
and convention to provide quick reference.

BASIC RELATIONSHIPS
(1) In Fig. 55 (a) the external actions will cause joint D to rotate as
in Fig. 55 (b). If joint D is clamped rigidly (see Fig. 55 (c)) then the
normal fixed-end moments can be considered. With the clamp removed
the joint will rotate and cause a redistribution of moments into the
members meeting at that joint. These members will, in turn, each
transfer part of the moment back to their opposite ends. The amount
of moment redistributed will depend upon the out-of-balance of the
total moment either side of joint D, and the relative stiffnesses of the
connected members.
(2) The relative stiffness of a member, K, is defined as the ratio of the
inertia divided by the length, thus K = IjL for each member.
(3) Distributed moments depend upon (1) and (2) above, thus the
total out-of-balance moment is distributed in relation to the distribution
factors at the joint. These may be conveniently calculated in tabular
form:

Relative Distribution
Joint Member stiffness Sum factor
C/) (M) (RS) (S) (DF)

D DA Ki = h/Lx Kl - Y
Kx+K2+ Kz
K2
DB K2 = h\U (Ki +K2+ Kz)
K\ + K2 + Kz
Kz r?.
DC Kz = h/Lz
Kx + K2 + Kz~

X + Y + Z = unity
The above is for fixed-ended members. Where any member is pinned
or simply supported at the end opposite to that of the joint considered,
then the relative stiffness of that member is three-quarters of the stiffness
114
 THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 115
of a similar fixed-ended member. Therefore, in Fig. 55 (a), if end C is
hinged,

A'dc = ^ = | x /3/T3, etc.

and the sum of the relative stiffnesses would be

Ki + K2 + |^3, etc.
(4) In (1) above, it was stated that part of the moment is transferred
to the opposite end of the connected member. This moment depends
upon the carry-over factor. This may be simply considered as the ratio
of the moment applied at the free end of a propped cantilever divided
by the moment induced at the fixed end. The induced moment will be
half of the applied moment and of the same sign. Thus in Fig. 55 (c);
116 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Mad = ^Mda; Mbd = £Mdb; Mcd = ^Mdc- The carry-over factor

is therefore 0-5, and positive. This carry-over is applied to the separate
members after each distribution of moments at a joint is considered. It
must also be applied after the final distribution when the member
concerned has a fully fixed end opposite to the connected joint end,
as no moment comes back from a fixed end.
(5) Sign convention: Clockwise moments are considered positive;
anti-clockwise moments, negative.
(6) Displacement of a member normal to its longitudinal axis, i.e. a
sinking support for a horizontal member, or lateral displacement of a
joint for vertical members, is considered positive when the member is
rotated in a clockwise direction. For fully fixed members,

.. 6EIA 6EKA
m=--lt-= —

When the member has a free end, that end may be permanently freed
and thus half the moment at that end transfers to the fixed end,

.. 3E1A 3EKA
m=—lt = ~—

The convention of signs is shown in Figs. 55 (d), (e) and (f).

The procedure has already been shown for the solution of continuous
beams and simple frames by Smith and Bell (Theory of Structures, Ch. 1).
The calculations here are maintained in tabular form rather than on
the diagrammatic frame itself.
Non-sway conditions exist for:
(1) a structure which is fully propped against lateral movement;
(2) where both the geometry of the frame and the external loading
are symmetrical.
 THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 117
FRAMES NOT SUBJECT TO SIDE SWAY
SPECIMEN QUESTION 37
Calculate the moments for the box frame shown in Fig. 56 (a), using the
moment distribution method. E may be assumed constant. (C/. Specimen
Question 29.)

SOLUTION

From Fig. 56 (a).

Joint Member Relative Stiffness Sum Distribution factor

1-5 8-5 ±5 _
A AB 0-53
4

00
12
1
AD 0-47

II
loo
3

Other joints similar.

F.E.M.:
AB 20 x f = 10 Free moment 20 x | = 20

, _ . 10 x 2 x l2 _ „
BC and DA --= 2-22
32 10 x 2 x 1
6-67
10 x 22 x 1
= 4-44
32
5x4x4
DC = 6-67 5x4 x f = 10
12

D A B c D

0-47 0-47 0-53 0-53 0-47 0-47 0-53 0-53 D.F.

-4-44 +2-22 -10 + 10 -2-22 + 4-44 -6-67 +6-67 F.E.M.

+ 105 + 3-66 +414 -414 -3-66 + 1-05 + 118 -118 Bal.

+ 1-83 -0-53 -207 +2-07 + 0-53 -1-83 -0-59 +0-59 Co.

-114 + 1-21 + 1-37 —1-37 — 1-21 + 1-14 + 1-28 -1-28 Bal.

+0-61 -0-57 -0-68 + 0-68 +0-57 -0-61 -0-64 +0-64 Co.

-0-59 +0-59 + 0-66 -0-66 -0-59 +0-59 + 0-66 -0-66 Bal.

+ 0-29 -0-29 -033 +0-33 + 0-29 -0-29 -0-33 + 0-33 Co.

Cancel
{ -0-29 + 0-29 +0-33 -0-33 -0-29 +0-29 + 0-29 + 0-33 Bal.

-4-78 +6-58 -6-58 + 6-58 -6-58 +4-78 -4-78 + 4-78 Totals

The final moments (Fig. 56 (b)), are seen to compare with the solution by
column analogy and Am.
A further example for symmetry of geometry and loading which
shows an interesting reduction of procedure is seen in Fig. 57. Here,
as will be seen in later examples, only half of the frame need be con¬
sidered, but in doing so the stiffness of the beams must be altered to
half of the actual value and the carry-over factor for the beams made
zero. The approximations converge at a more rapid rate, simplifying
the overall solution.
118 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

SPECIMEN QUESTION 38
Determine the moments in the symmetrical frame shown in Fig. 57 (a)
using: {a) the normal method of distribution; (b) the simplified method of
distribution. E may be assumed constant.
SOLUTION

(a) F.E.M.: CD 15 x = 45 kN m
BE = 90 kN m
Distribution factors:
Joint Member Relative stiffness Sum Distribution factor
C CD 1 2 0-5
CB 1 0-5
B BC 1 4 0-25
BE 2 0-5
BA 1 0-25

Joint A B C
Member AB BA BE BC CB CD
D.F. 1 0-25 0-5 0-25 0-5 0-5
F.E.M. -90 -45
Bal. +22-5 +45 +22-5 +22-5 +22-5
Co. + 11-25 -22-5 + 11-25 + 11-25 -11-25
Bal. +2-81 +5-62 +2-81
Co. + 1-4 -2-81 + 1-4
Bal. +0-7 + 1-41 +0-7 -0-7 -0-7
Co. +0-35 -0-7 -0-35 +0-35 +0-35
Bal. +0-13 +0-26 +0-53 +0-26 -0-35 -0-35
Totals + 13-13 +26-27 -63-45 +37-17 + 34-45 -34-45
[table continues at top of next page
 THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 119

Joint D E F
Member DC DE ED EB EF FE
D.F. 0-5 0-5 0-25 0-5 0-25 1
F.E.M. +45 +90
Bal. -22-5 -22-5 -22-5 -45 -22-5
Co. + 11-25 -11-25 -11-25 +22-5 -11-25
Bal. -2-81 -5-62 -2-81
Co. -1-4 +2-81 -1-4
Bal. +0-7 +0-7 -0-7 -1-41 -0-7
Co. -0-35 -0-35 +0-35 +0-7 -0-35
Bal. +0-35 +0-35 -0-26 -0-53 -0-26 -0-13
Totals +34-45 -34-45 -37-17 +63-45 -26-27 -13-13

Simplified distribution for symmetrical frames

(b) Considering half frame (Fig. 57 (b)):

Joint Member Relative stiffness Sum Distribution factor

C CB 1 3/2 0-66
CX ixl = l 0-33

B BA 1 3 0-33
BY 1x2=1 0-33
BC 1 0-33

A B C
AB BA BY BC CB CX

D.F. 1 0-33 0-33 0-33 0-66 0-33

F.E.M. -90 -45

Bal. +30 +30 + 30 + 30 + 15

Co. + 15 +15 + 15
Bal. -5 -5 -5 -10 -5

Co. -2-5 -5 -2-5

Bal. + 1-67 + 1-67 + 1-67 + 1-67 +0-83

Co. +0-83 +0-83 +0-83

Bal. -0-14 -0-28 -0-28 -0-28 -0-56 -0-28

Totals + 13-19 +26-39 — 63-61 +37-22 +34-44 -34-45

Further carry-over and balance would give the same results as before. Final
moments are shown in Fig. 57 (c).
120 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

l5kN/m
AAAAAaAA<VWVWWVVVVV»

KCX-2Xl

3m

i, h
Kby“2x^

3m

3m
(a)

FRAMES SUBJECT TO SIDE SWAY

From previous methods it has been seen that where the geometry of
the frame, or the condition of external loading is non-symmetrical, then
the frame will deflect laterally. Similar lateral joint movement obviously
also occurs when unbalanced side loading is applied. Whereas the
methods previously discussed naturally and automatically included
the sway condition in the general calculation, this is not the case in
the moment distribution method. For successive approximations a par¬
ticular joint ratio is required, depending upon the geometry of the
frame, for the amount of moment to be distributed, in order that the
lateral shear may be balanced. The calculation for the normal non¬
sway condition must therefore be maintained separate from the sway
calculation until the final summation of moments.

JOINT MOMENT RATIOS

The various moment ratios for joints which undergo lateral sway are
as set out below.
 THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 121
(1) Rectangular frame with hinged terminal supports
The top boom member is assumed to move laterally along its hori¬
zontal axis, with no shortening of the member, for the normal con¬
dition where no sinking of terminal support occurs. From Fig. 58:

A_
0b = 20 a;
Lx

3£/iA 3£/iA 3 is/2 A

Mba = = F\L\ Fx = similarly £2
Lia Lx3 £i3
Thus

£i£i3_ £2£23 Fx 7i/£i3

.'. for constant E\,
3£/i “ 3Eh £2 72/£23

Mba = £i£il • ^ba _ 7i/£i2 _ £i/£i

Mcd = F2L2 j Mcd 72/£22 £2/£2

(2) Rectangular frame with fixed supports

Top boom condition as in (1) above. From Fig. 59:

6£/iA
Mab = Mba =
£i2

(Mab + Mba) _ 12£/iA

£i “ £i3

The fixed-ended member is assumed to have a point of inflection at the

mid-length of the member, the moment at that point being zero.
Therefore, if A is the total length deflection, then the deflection for half
length = A/2.
122 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Consider a cantilever having a length L/2, with a force F at the free

end. Then for each column,

A FX(L/ 2)3 a_F,L»

2 _ 3£7 12£7
considering separate inertia and length,

Mb a h/L\2 *r/Li
as above.
Mcd /2/T22 K2/L2

A A

(3) Rectangular frame with one hinged support and one fixed support
Top boom condition considered as in (1) above. From Fig. 60:
(a) For fixed leg, from above,

A F1L13
2 ~ 24£Zi
(b) For hinged leg, from above,

F2L23
A =
3 Eh
. 2F\Li3 F2T23
“ 24£7i ~ ~3Eh
 THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 123

. Mba_4/i/L13 W U J/i/Li2) „(Ki/Li\

'• Mcd I2IL23 2U {I2/L22 J \K2IL2]

Where any member of a frame has an inclination from the vertica 1

a relative lateral movement of that member will automatically produce a
relative vertical displacement of the joint connecting that member to
the rest of the frame. It is easily seen from the Fig. 61, that an initially
horizontal top boom member in such a frame will also undergo a lateral
displacement with respect to its longitudinal axis. The moment ratio
must therefore be considered for either side of a joint, besides maintain¬
ing equivalent relative joint ratios for the frame. Where both legs are
inclined from the vertical, the ratios will depend upon the inclination,
length, inertia and terminal support conditions of the legs.

(4) Frame with inclined leg fixed and vertical leg with hinged support
From Fig. 61, assuming that E is constant for the frame. For joint B,
considering half-length members about that joint:
Ax _ Fi(Li/2)3, A2 _ F2(L2/2)3
2 3Eh ’ 2 3 Eh
12F/1A1 „ 12£72A2
Fi =
Li3 5 2 “ L23

F2L2 6F/2A2'
Mbc =
2 ~lF~ > Mbc _ /2A2/T22 K2E2IL2
F1L1 6F/1A11 Mba AAi/Li2 Ki&i/h
M BA
2 Li2 J
124 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

For joint C:

. F3L33 . „ 3£73AS
A3=3Eh ••f3 = _Z?“

3F/3A3
M CD = F3L3
L32

6F/2A2
M CB = Mbc

. Mob ^fh^2/L22\ _ ^/*-^2A2/F/2^

Mcd \h^3/L32J {K3/S.3/L3 J

(5) Inclined leg hinged, vertical leg fixed

F3L3
Mba = F\Li; Mbc=—Mcd
2
. Mbc __ J/2A2/L22) _ J^Aa/Lsl
•’ Mb a ViAi/Li2/ Z\^1A1/Li/

Mcb /2A2/L22 K2A2/L2

Mcd /3A3/L32 K3/S.3/L3
 THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 125

(6) Fixed terminal support to both legs

A/bc_Mcb _K^2\U
M^a ~ K1&1/L1’ Mcd “ X3A3/L3

Pitched portal frames

Such frames, having four members, require two separate sway cases
to be considered: (1) sway at B with D propped (Fig. 62 (b)); (2) sway
at D with B propped (Fig. 62 (c)). Figure 62 (a) shows the non-sway
case. E may be assumed constant.
If sway factor for case (1) = X, and sway factor for case (2) = Y,
final moments for the frame will be:

(a) Non-sway condition;

(b) X times the moments in case (1);
(c) Y times the moments in case (2).

(c)
126 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

X and Y are found by the solution of simultaneous equations which

balance the horizontal forces at B and D respectively. This is similar to
the sway calculations required for two-storey frames.

SPECIMEN QUESTION 39
The simple rectangular frame shown in Fig. 63 (a) is asymmetrically loaded.
El is constant for the frame. Determine the final moments and horizontal
reactions.

SOLUTION

F.E.M.:
45 x 1 x 22
BC 20 kN m
32
45 x l2 x 2
CB 10 kN m
32
Free moment:
45 x 1 x 2
BC 30 kN m
3
Distribution factors:
Joint Member Relative stiffness Sum Distribution factor

B BA 4-4 V -L — 3 29
&=0-31
A 5 2 0 60
BC 1 & = 0-69
3

Joint C similar.
Non-sway condition—stage 1 moments (Fig. 63 (b))
Joint A B CD
D.F. 0-31 0-69 0-69 0-31
F.E.M. -20 + 10
Bal. +6-2 + 13-8 ^ ^ -6-9 -3-1

Co. -3-45 ^+6-9

Bal. + 1-07 +2-38 ^^ -4-76 -2-14
Co. -2-38 +1T9
Bal. +0-74 + 1-64^^ ^ -0-82 -0-37
Co. -0-41 ^*+0-82
Bal. +0-13 +0-28 -0-57 -0-25
Total 0 +8-14 -8-14 +5-86 -5-86 0
8-14
Ha. — T = +1-628 kN -v

Ht> = — —= -M72 kN <-

Net out-of-balance force = Ha — HD = P = 0-456 kN. This net out-of¬

balance force acts to the right, thus for the non-sway condition a prop is
assumed to act to the left at the upper boom level.
THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 127

X
B
Vertical

KBX_TKBC
(d)
128 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Sway condition—stage 2 moments (Fig. 63(c))

From the direction of the prop it is seen that the frame will tend to sway to
the right. Assuming no reduction in the length of BC, if joints B and C are
swayed to the right by an amount A, under the action of a sway force of equal
and opposite value to that of the prop, moments will be induced into columns
BA and CD.
Mba KiA/U KA/L
Mcd K2A/L2 KA/L

Assume an arbitrary moment of 10 kN m

B C
D.F. 0-31 0-69 0-69 0-31

F.E.M. -10 -10

Bal. + 3-1 +6-9 ^^+6-9 +3-1

Co. +3-45 +3-45

Bal. -1-07 -2-38-^^ ^^^-2-38 -1-07

Co. — 1T9 ^ —1T9

Bal. +0-37 +0-82 +0-82 +0-37

Co. +0-41 ^*>+0-41

Bal. -0-13 -0-28 -0-28 -013

Totals -7-73 +7-73 +7-73 -7-73

With a symmetrical frame, as in this case, or when the frame is fully fixed at
the terminal supports, it is seen that exactly similar operations occur either
side of the vertical centre line. This work can be reduced if advantage is taken
of the symmetry.
From the slope-deflection equations:

2EI\
Mba = 20b
Li

2 Eh
Mbc = (26b + 0C)
£2

But Ob 6c

4£7i9b
Mba
Li

6F/20B
Mbc =
£2

. Mba _ f Ii/Li
Mbc 13/i/2£2J m

Thus using only half of the frame and adopting one and a half times the stiff¬
ness of the boom member, where Kbx = %Kbc (Fig. 63 (d)):
 THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 129

Joint Member Relative stiffness Sum Distribution factor

B 13
BA Ix{=^ 2 0 TJ = 0-23
BX H = °'77

Sway force = Ha + Hu — 3-092 kN, but actual force = 0-456 kN. Thus
stage moments must be factored by
0-456
0-1474
3-092
stage 2 moments then become:
B C

— 1-14 -4-1*14 +1-14 —1-14

Total moments:
B C

stage 1 +8-14 —8-14 +5-86 -5-86

0-1474 x stage 2 —1-14 + 1-14 + 1-14 -1-14

+7-00 -7-00 +7-00 -7-00

Then
7-00
Ha = 1-628 - —^ = 1-4 kN =
5
7-00
Hu = M72 + ^|^= 1-4 kN =
5
Shear:
B C

Static 30 15
Elastic — —
30 kN 15 kN
From stage 1, with prop force,
VA = 4-5 x 2 + (0-456 x 5)/3 = 30-76
Fd= 4-5 x 1 - (0-456 x 5)/3 = 14-24 Totals
Va = 30-76 - 0-76 30 kN
From stage 2 with sway force, VD = 14-24 + 0-76 15 kN
Va = -(0-456 x 5)/3 = -0-76
Vd = +(0-456 X 5)/3 = +0-76
Final moments are as shown in Fig. 63 (e).
130 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

The procedure may thus be stated:

(1) Carry out normal non-sway moment condition assuming a
prop to counterbalance the out-of-balance shear.
(2) Insert a sway force of equal and opposite sign to that of the
prop and sway the frame in that direction (actual force = X).
(3) Assuming arbitrary moments, distribute in accordance with the
frame ratios.
(4) From the stage 2 moments obtained in (3), calculate arbitrary
displacing force Y.
(5) The ratio X/ Y is called the “sway factor” and is applied to all
moments in stage 2.
(6) Final moments for the frame are the summation of the non¬
sway moments (1), and sway moments derived from (5).

SPECIMEN QUESTION 40
Determine the final moments for the non-symmetric frame shown in
Fig. 64 (a). El may be assumed constant.

SOLUTION

F.E.M.:
BC = CB

= 90 x = 67-5 kN m

32
Free moment = 90 x -g- = 101-25 kN m

Joint Member Relative stiffness Sum Distribution factor

1 8 f = 0-375
B BA 5 1 s'
BC 1
3
| = 0-625
i 1 7
C CB 3 24 ■b = °'47
CD 3 v 1 — 3
4^2 8
= 0-53

Non-sway condition—stage 1 moments (Fig. 64 (b))

\ ]3 C D
D.F. 1 0-375 0-625 0-47 0-53 0

F.E.M. -67-5 +67-5

Bal. +25-7 +41-8. ^—31-7 -35-8
s'
Co. + 12-85^ -15-85*^^-+20-9
Bal. ^+6-0 +9-85^ -11-0
^~99
Co. + 3-0 —4-95^ ^>+4-92
Bal. _-Fl-89 +3-06. -2-31 -2-61
^
Co. +0-95^ -1-15*^ ^+1-53
Bal. +0-22««- +0-44 +0-71 -0-72 -0-81
Totals + 17-02 + 34-03 -34-03 + 50-22 -50-22
 THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 131

Ha = = +10-21 kN

50-22 <-
Hu = ~ -25-11 kN
->
Net propping force required = 14-9 kN

Mba = 0-32Mcd
Assuming arbitrary moments, let Mcd =100 kN m, then Mba = 32 kN m.
Sway condition—stage 2 moments (Fig. 64 (c)).

A B CD
D.F. 1 0-375 0-625 0-47 0-53 0
F.E.M. +32 +32 + 100
Bal. „ -12-2 -19-8^ ^-47 -53
Co. — 6-1^ —23-5 -9-9
Bal. ^+9-0 + 14-5^ ^+4-65 + 5-25
Co. +4-5-^ +2-32^<^+7-25
Bal. ^ -0-88 144\ ^-3-4 -3-85
Co. _0-44 -1-7 ^-0-72
Bal. +0-33 +0-65 -1-05 +0-34 +0-38
Totals +30-29 +28-57 -28-57 -48-78 +48-78

Ha = = +11-77 kN

Hu = +^y^ = +24-39 kN

Total displacement force = Ha + Hd

36-16 kN
But actual force = 14-9 kN
14-9
Thus sway factor = = 0-414
36-16
Final moments:
r-i
A B D

Stage 1
moments + 17-02 +34-03 -34-03 + 50-22 -50-22 0
(non-sway)
0-414 x stage 2
sway + 12.5 + 11-8 -11-8 -20-1 +20-1 0
moments
Final moments +29-52 +45-83 -45-83 +30-12 -30-12 0
132 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

90kN/m
A/WWVWM Prop^l^ .9

36.16

These moments are shown in Fig. 64(d) and seen to compare with the solu¬
tions by column analogy and Am technique.

SPECIMEN QUESTION 41
Determine the moments, shears and member thrust for the frame shown in
Fig. 65 (a). El for the frame is constant.
 THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 133
SOLUTION

F.E.M.bc - 100 x | = 75 kN m
Free moment = 100 x £ = 150 kN m

Distribution factors:
Joint Member Relative stiffness Sum Distribution factor

1 14-5 6
B BA -rH = 0-415
8*5 51 14-5
BC i
6 i« - °'585
C CB 1 * = 0-5
6 i
CD 1 i = 0-5
6

Non-sway conditions—stage 1 moments (Fig. 65(b))

i\ 3 (: D

D.F. 0-415 0-585 0-5 0-5

F.E.M. -75 +75

Bal. +31 +44 -37-5 -37-5

Co. -18-75 +22

Bal. +7-75 + 11 -11 -11

Co. -5-5 +5-5

Bal. +2-3 +3 -2-75 -2-75

Totals +20-62 +41-25 -41-25 +51-25 -51-25 -25-62

Moments about C to the right:

-51-25 - 25-62 + 6Hu = 0
76-87 in 0, , XT
Hu = —7— = 12-81 kN
6

Moments about B to the right:

-6Vu + 6 X 12-8 + 100 X 3 - 41-25 - 25-62 = 0
j/D = 3io = 51-67 kN
Fa = 100 - 51-67 = 48-33 kN

Moments about B to the left:

41-25 + 20-62 + 48-33 x 6 - 6Ha = 0.
TT 351-85 „ , *
Ha = —7— = 58-64 kN
6
◄-
Net propping force = 58-64 — 12-81 = 45-83 kN

Sway force = 45-83 kN

134 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES
 THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 135
From Fig. 65 (c)—sway frame to the right. Let Ai = A, then by geometry
A2 = A3 = Ajy/2.

Moment ratios:
Mbc fhAz/Lz2'l <f A/(6 x 6 x V2)) 8-52
Mba UiAi/Li2.f <L A/(8-5 x 8-5) J 6V2=^2
Mcb ]rhAz/Lz2^l JrA/(6 x 6 x v'2)3
1
Mcd ^hAzIL?2)r -1^A/(6 x 6 x y/2)J

Thus
Mbc = V2Mba
Mcb = Mbc = Men
Let
6EIA 6 x 1 x 1 x 1
Mbc = Mcb (put = 100)
L2 6 x6
Then
Mbc
Mba 0-118 x 100 x | = 70-7
V2~

or put another way (from Fig. 65 (c)):

Mi : M2 : M3

V2 . 1.1
(6+2)2 : 62 ' 62
0-707 : 1 : 1

70-7 : 100 : 100 (arbitrary moments)

Sway conditions—stage 2 moments Figs. 65 (c) and (d)

A B CD

0-415 0-585 0-5 0-5

-70-7 -70-7 + 100 + 100 -100 -100

-12-2 -17-1

-6-1 -8-6
+4-3 +4-3

+2-1 +2-1
-0-5 -0-9 -1-2

-77-3 -83-8 + 83-8 +95-7 -95-7 -97-9

Moments about C to the right:

-95-7 - 97-9 + 6Hd = 0

193-6 ■<-
Ht> 32-26 kN
6
136 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Moments about B to the right:

+83-8 + 193-6 - 97-9 — 6Fd = 0
179-5
VD = - Fa = — = 29-91 kN t
o

Fa = 29-91 kN \
Moments about B to the left:
-179-5 - 77-3 - 83-8 + 6Ha = 0
■<-
56-76 kN
o
->
Total sway = Ha + Ht> = 56-76 + 32-26 = 89-02 kN

Sway factor P = = 0-515

Final moments (see Fig. 65 (e)):

A 3 C: d

Stage 1 +20-62 +41-25 -41-25 + 51-25 -51-25 -25-62

0-515 x
Stage 2 -39-81 -43-15 +43-15 +49-29 -49-29 -50-42

-19-19 -1-9 + 1-9 + 100-54 -100-54 -76-04

Moments about C to the right:

-100-54 - 76-04 + 6Hb = 0
<-
176-58
HD 29-43 kN
6
Moments about B to the right:
+ 1-9 + (100 x 3) - 76-04 + 176-58 — 6Fd = 0
Fd = 67-07 kN t Fa = 32-93 kN t
Moments about C to the left:
+ 100-54 - (100 x 3) - 19-19 + (32-93 x 12) - 6Ha = 0

176-51 -►
Ha = 29-42 kN
6
The equilibrium equations for the frame could be written:
Mab + Mba — 6Ha + 6 Fa = 0 U)
Mab + A/cb — 6Ha + 12 Fa = 300 . (2)
Mab + Mdc + 12 Fa = 300 . (3)
{(2) — (1)} Mcb — Mba + 6 Fa = 300 . (4)
{(4) X (2)} 2Mcb - 2Mba + 12Fa = 600 . (5)
{(3) — (5)} Mab + 2Mba + 2Mcd + Mdc = —300 (6)
Note: In (6) 2Mcd has been substituted for —2Mcb
 THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 137

Equation (6) can be applied to stage 1 and stage 2 moments.

Stage 1:

+20-62 + 82-5 - 102-5 - 25-62 = -25

Correction required = —275

Stage 2:
-77-3 + 167-6 - 191-2 - 97-9 = 534

275
Sway correction factor = 0-515
534
138 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Thus sway correction factor can be found without recourse to determination

of vertical and horizontal reactions. Final moments are shown in Fig. 65 (e).

Thrust in members and shear diagram

The forces at A may be resolved perpendicular and tangential to the
member AB (see Fig. 65 (/)).
The shear diagram for the frame can be constructed on the same diagram.

DOUBLE-BAY PORTAL FRAMES

The solution of this type of frame is particularly well suited to the
moment distribution method as are those where double-storey con¬
ditions occur.

SPECIMEN QUESTION 42
Determine the final bending moments in the frame shown in Fig. 66 (a).
E is constant for the frame, but the stiffnesses of the various members vary as
shown.

SOLUTION
150 x 3 x 62 200 x 6 x 32
F.E.M. CD ' 92 = 200 + 133-33 = 333-33
92

150 x 6 x 32 200 x 3 x 62
DC 92 = 100 + 266-66 = 366-66
92 '

Free span moment CD:

_ 600 + 900
Rc =- g- = 166-66 kN

j?D = 350 - 166-66 = 183-33 kN

Mx= 3 x 166-66 = 500 kN m
My = 3 x 183-33 = 550 kN m

Distribution factors:

Joint Member Relative stiffness Sum Distribution factors

B BA 1 1-67 0-6
BC 0-67 0-4

C CB 0-67 0-25
CF 1-33 2-67 0-5
CD 0-67 0-25

D DC 0-67 1-67 0-4

DE 1 0-6
 THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 139
Non-sway condition—stage 1 moments (see Fig. 66 (b))
Joint A B C D E F

Member AB BA BC CB CF CD DC DE ED FC

D.F. 1 0-6 0-4 0-25 0-5 0-25 0-4 0-6 1 1

F.E.M. —333-33 + 366-66

Bat. + 83-33 + 166-66 + 83-33 -146-66 - 220

Co. +41-66 -73-33 +41-66 -110 + 83-33

Bal. -25 -16-66 + 18-33 + 36-66 + 18-33 -16-66 -25

Co. —12-5 +9-166 -8-33 -8-33 + 9-166 -12-5 + 18-33

Bal. -5-5 -3 666 +4-166 + 8-33 +4-166 -3-666 -5-5

Co. -2-75 + 2-08 -1-833 —1-833 +2-08 -2-75 -4-166

Bal. -0-62 -1-25 -0-83 + 0-916 + 1-833 + 0-916 -0-83 -1-25 -0-62 + 0-916

Totals -15-87 -31-75 + 31-75 + 96-57 + 213-49 -310-06 + 251-75 --251-75 —125-87 + 106-75

■<-
(31-75 + 15-87) 46-62
Ha = -5-18 kN
9 9

320-24
Hf = 35-58 kN
9
-<-
(251-75 + 125-87) 377-62
He 62-93 kN
6 6
Net sway force: 135-58 — 68-11 = 67-47 kN = prop force. Sway frame to
the right with force 67-47 kN.

Arbitrary sway moments for stage 2 (see Fig. 66 (c))

Mba _ [KiA/Li-] f 1/9 'i _ 1 _ 3

Mcf \k2AIL2J 11-33/9/ 1-33 4

Mde _ /'JTsA/Ls'I f 1 1 1-5 _ 9

Mcf XKzA/lJ 11-33/9J 1-33 8
Mba = |-Mcf thus Mcf = §Mba
also Mcf = §Mde

Mba Mcf : Mde

Try 1 11 •* £8
6 8 : 9
60 80 : 90
Conversely
6EKiA 6 X 1 x 1 x 7 2
Mba =
Li 9 3
6x1 x 4 x 1 8
Mcf =
3x9 9
6 x 1 x 1 x 1
Mdf = = 1
6
140 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

150kN 200kN

(a)

31.75 96.57 310.06

 THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 141
Sway conditions—stage 2 moments (see Fig. 66 (d))
Joint A B C D E F

Member AB BA BC CB CF CD DC DE ED FC

D.F. 1 0-6 0-4 0-25 0-5 0-25 0-4 0-6 1 1

F.E.M. -60 -60 -80 -90 -90 -80

Bal. + 36 + 24 + 20 +40 + 20 + 36 + 54

Co. + 18 + 10 + 12 + 18 + 10 +27 + 20
Bal. -6 -4 -7-5 -15 -7-5 -4 -6

Co. -3 -3-75 -2 -2 -3-75 -3 -7-5

Bal. + 2-25 + 1-5 +1 +2 +1 + 1-5 + 2-25

Co. + 1-12 + 0-5 + 0-75 + 0-75 + 0-5 + 1-12 +1

Bal. -015 -0-3 -0-2 -0-375 -0-75 -0-375 -0-2 -0-3 — 0-15 -0-375

Totals -44-03 -28-05 + 28-05 + 23-875 -53-75 +29-875 + 40-05 -40-05 -64-97 -66-875

From Fig. 66 (d):

ft = ^ ='W

ft-12*2? =W
Total shear = 38-91 kN (from arbitrary applied moments)
 142 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Actual force = 67-47 kN, thus sway factor to be multiplied to stage 2 moments
is
67-47
1-73
38-91

Member AB BA BC CB CF CD DC DE ED FC

Stage 1 —15-87 -31-75 + 31-75 +96-57 +213-49 -310-06 + 251-75 -251-75 -125-87 + 106-75
moments

1-73 -76-2 -48-6 + 48-6 + 41-4 -92 + 50 + 69-3 -69- 3 -112-5 -115-5
X stage 2
moments

Final -92-07 -80-35 + 80-35 + 137-97 + 121-49 -260-06 + 321-05 -321-05 -238-37 -8-75
moments

Shear check:
(80-35 + 92-07) 172-42
Ha = -19-16
9

(121-49 - 8-75) 112-74

Hf = 12-52
9

(321-05 + 238-37) 559-42

He = = -93-24

-> 100 + 12-52 = 112-52 kN

-(19-16 + 93-24) = -112-40 kN
(discrepancy due to minor cumulative calculation errors). Final moments
are shown in Fig. 66 (e).

MULTI STOREY FRAMES

When a rigid frame is unsymmetrical geometrically, or is loaded in a
non-symmetrical manner, the frame will sway horizontally. It has been
seen that the horizontal shear must be balanced in order to determine
the correction moments for the frame. Thus when a frame consists
of more than one storey, the horizontal shear must balance for each
storey independent of the other storeys.
Figure 67 (a) shows a frame under any side loading which will obvi¬
ously cause sway to the right. However, it is not known by how much
the sway will be distributed to the top and bottom frames (X and Y
respectively). Two side-sway conditions must therefore be considered,
as shown in Figs. 67 (b) and (c).
The procedure for a two-storey frame is as follows:

(1) Distribute the moments due to the applied loading, assuming

that there is no joint translation, and determine the unbalanced shear
for each storey. These are shown as Si and S% on Fig. 67 (a) (assum¬
ing that positive is ->). This distribution is for non-sway conditions.
 THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 143
(2) Apply arbitrary sway to the top storey as in Fig. 67 (b), and
determine the unbalanced shear for each storey, i.e., S3 for the top
storey, S4 for the bottom storey. S3 will now be a displacement force,
and S4 will now be a propping force.
(3) Apply arbitrary sway to the bottom storey as in Fig. 67 (c), and
determine the unbalanced shear for each storey, i.e., S5 for the top
storey, S& for the bottom storey. S5 will now be a propping force,
and S3 will now be a displacement force.
(4) Sway correction must now be carried out to balance the shears,
Sd and So. Correction factors have to be applied to the conditions
(b) and (c). Let the factor for (b) — x, and the factor for (c) = y.
Then:
(alg.)
S3X + Ssy — —Si
(alg.)
Six + S&y = — S2

or written as a set of simultaneous equations:

(alg.) (alg.)
51 ~F S3X -j- S&y = 0
(alg.) (alg.)
52 ~b S4X -|- S&y — 0

(c)
144 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

The equations are now solved for the values of * and y. The final
moments are then the summation of the moments from:
(alg.) (alg.)
(0 + (2) x + (3)_y
The procedure is exactly the same for any number of storeys, a sway
correction being required for each separate storey producing a number
of storey factors. Since there must be a storey factor for each correction,
the number of terms in each equation must equal the number of storeys
+1. The number of equations to be solved simultaneously = number of
storeys.
If settlement of a support occurs, then the fully clamped condition
requires the moment M = 6EKA/L to be applied to each end of each
beam. Normal distribution factors are applied to the frame.

SPECIMEN QUESTION 43
Determine the moments for the two-storey frame shown in Fig. 68 (a).
E is constant for the frame, but the separate ratio of stiffnesses of the members
vary as shown. Column DEF sinks 5 mm.
^ab = Kbc = Kct> = .STde = A'ef = 13-35 x 103 mm3
TsTbe = 26-7 x 103 mm3; E = 210 kN/mm2

50kN
 THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 145
SOLUTION

From the settlement condition, column DEF moves down relative to

column CBA, then the induced moments in CD and BE are negative.
M = 6EKA/L.

Settlement moments:
.. 6 x 210 x 13-35 x 103 x 5 1rtelXT
Mcd = Mdc =-8 x 1Q3- = 10-5 kN m

Mbe = Meb = 2 x 10-5 = 21 kN m

F.E.M.:
50 x 3 x 52 cnciXT 100 x 6 x 22 ., XT
Mcd = -^-= 59-5 kN m Mbe =-^-= 37-5 kN m
82 82

50 x 33 x 5 , XT 100 x 62 x 2
Mdc = -777-= 35 kN m Meb =-^- X 112-5 kN m
82 82

Free moments:
50 x 3 x 5 100 x 6 x 2
CD 93-75 kN m BE 150 kN m
8 8
The distribution factors can be determined directly from the ratio of the
stiffnesses of the members.

Joint Member Relative stiffness Sum Distribution factor

B BA 1 0-25
BE 2 4 0-5
BC 1 0-25

C CB 1 2 0-5
CD 1 0-5

Joints D and E are similar.

Non-sway condition—stage 1 moments (see Fig. 68 (b))

*- - 1
A B C D E F

AB BA BE BC CB CD DC DE ED EB EF FE

1 0-25 0 5 0-25 05 05 0-5 0-5 0 25 0-5 0-25 1

-21 —10 5 —10 5 -21

— 375 -59-5 + 35 + 112-5

-58-5 -70 -24-5 +91-5

+ 14-63 + 29-25 + 14-63 + 35 + 35 -12-25 —12-25 -22-9 -45-75 -22-9

+ 7-32 -22-9 + 17-5 + 7-32 — 6-13 + 17-5 -11-45 — 6-13 + 14-63 — 11-45
+ 0-68 + 1-35 + 2-7 +1-35 -0-59 -0-59 -3-03 -3-03 — 2-13 -4-25 — 213 -1-06

+ 80 + 15-98 -49-45 + 33-48 + 41-73 -41-72 + 26-68 -26-73 -31-16 + 56-13 -25-03 —12-51
 146 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

From Fig. 68 (a) the elastic shear may be determined for each storey bay
(no static shear occurs on members in this case).

Member ends Elastic shears

AB-BA 1(8-0 + 15-98) = 4-79

BC-CB i(33-48 + 41-73) = 18-8
DE-ED ^(26-73 + 31-16) = 14-47
EF-FE |(25-0 + 12-51) = 7-5

Thus unbalanced shears (+ve -+):

51 = -18-8 + 14-47 = -4-33 prop

52 = +18-8 - 14-47 - 4-79 + 7-5 = +7-04 prop

All joints are now clamped and sway is applied to top storey only. Thus, from
Fig. 68 (c),
A/ = 6EKS/L = say -50
Mbc = Mcb = Mde = Med

Stage 2 moments—sway member CD to the right (see Fig. 68 (d))

A B C D E F

AB BA BE BC CB CD DC DE ED EB EF FE

1 0-25 0-5 0-25 0-5 0-5 0-5 05 0-25 0-5 0-25 1

-50 -50 -50 -50

+ 12-5 + 25 + 12-5 + 25 + 25 Exactly similar

+ 6-25 + 12-5 + 12-5 + 6-75 + 12-5

-6-25 -12-5 -6-25 -9-62 -9-62 by symmetry

-313 -6-25 — 4 81 — 313 -4-81

+ 1-38 + 2-76 + 5-53 +2-76 + 3-97 + 3-97

+ 4'5 + 901 +23-28 -33-30 -27-03 +27-03 + 27-03 -27-03 -33-30 +23-28 +9-01 +4-5

From Fig. 68 (d) the elastic reactions are determined to find the values of the
displacement and propping forces.

Member ends Elastic shears

AB-BA |(4-5 + 9-01) = 2-7

BC-CB 1(33-30 + 27-03) = 15-08
DE-ED = 15-08
EF-FE = 2-7

Thus unbalanced shears (+ve -*):

->
53 = +15-08 + 15-08 = +30-16 displacement
<-
54 =-30-16 - 5-2 =-35-36 prop
 THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 147
From the non-sway conditions, the prop at level BE is seen to be to the right.
Thus BE will be swayed to the left in this case (Fig. 68 (e)). All joints are
clamped and a prop considered at level CD.

Stage 3 moments—sway member BE to the left (Fig. 68 (/))

M = 6EKA/L
Mbc = Mcb = Mde = Med = say — 50 kN m
Mab = Mba = Mef = Mfe = +50 x f = +40 kN m
I 11
A B C D E F

AB BA BE BC CB CD DC DE ED EB EF FE

1 0-25 0-5 0-25 0-5 0-5 0-5 0-5 0-25 0-5 0-25 1

+ 40 +40 -50 -50 -50 -50 + 40 +40

+ 2-5 +5 + 2-5 + 25 + 25 Exactly similar

+ 1-25 + 2-5 + 12-5 + 1-25 + 12-5

-3-75 -7-5 -3-75 -6-88 -6-88 by symmetry

— 1-88 -3-75 -3-44 —1-88 -3-44

+ 0-89 + 1-79 + 3-58 + 1-79 + 2-66 + 2-66

+ 40-39 + 40-54 -0-17 -40-4 -29-85 + 29-84

 148 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

From Fig. 68 (/):

Member ends Elastic shear

AB-BA 1(40-39 + 40-54)= 16-18

BC-CB i(40-4 + 29-85) = 17-56
DE-ED = 17-56
EF-FE = 16-18

Unbalanced shears (+ve -*):

-►
55 = 2 x 17-56 35-12 prop
■<-

56 = 2(—17-56 - 16-18) —67-48 displacement

Sway correction factors:

Let factor for stage 2 moments = X, and factor for stage 3 moments = Y.
The final moments must show no propping or displacement forces at the
levels BE and CD, thus the values of X and Y may be determined by
the solution of two simultaneous equations involving the forces found for the
levels BE and CD. Thus:
(alg.) (alg.)
51 + S3X + S5F=0 for level CD
(alg.) (alg.)
52 + SaX + S6F=0 for level BE
A -4-33 + 30-16X+ 35-18 Y =0
+7-04 - 35-36X- 67-48 F =0

/. -0-143 + X+ 1-166 F = 0
+0-199 - X- 1-91 Y = 0

+0-056 — 0-745 F = 0
F - 0-075
Substituting:
-0-143 + X + 0-0875 = 0
X = 0-0555
Check:
+0-199 - 0-0555 - 0-1432 = 0
Final moments:
Stage 1 + (X) stage 2 + (F) stage 3:

A B C D E F

AB BA BE BC CB CD DC DE ED EB EF FE

(i) + 8-0 + 15-98 -49-45 + 33-48 + 41-73 -41-72 +26-68 --26-73 — 3116 + 56-13 -25-03 —12-51

(2) X + 0-25 + 0-5 + 1-29 -1-84 -1-5 + 1-5 + 1-5 -1-5 -1-84 + 1-29 + 0-5 + 0-25

(3) Y + 3-02 + 3 04 -0 01 -3-03 -2-24 + 2-24 +2-24 -2-24 -3-03 -0-01 + 3-04 + 3-02

+ 11-27 +19-52 -48-17 + 28-61 + 37-09 -37-08 + 30-42 -30-47 -36-03 + 57-41 -21-49 -9-24
 THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 149
From Fig. 68 (g), checking shears:

Member ends Elastic shears

AB-BA 1(11-27 + 19-52)= 6-158

BC-CB 1(28-61 + 37-09) = 16-42
DE-ED 1(30-47 + 36-03) = 16-62
EF-FE 1(21-49 + 9-24) = 6-146

Sa = -16-42 + 16-62 = +0-2

Sy = +16-42 - 16-62 - 6-158 + 6-146
0-212
= -

These errors are due to slide-rule working.

It is evident that despite the rather tedious calculations, the method has a
simple routine which may be used for any number of storeys, and provides
a useful result. The final bending moment diagram is shown in Fig. 68 (g).

NAYLOR’S METHOD (NO-SHEAR METHOD)

For symmetrical frames the procedure may be simplified by using a
method presented by N. Naylor (Structural Engineer, April 1950), the
method is also sometimes called the “no-shear method.”
This technique allows joint and sway distributions to be made
simultaneously, but requires a different set of distribution factors to
those used for the normal moment distribution method. Consider the
portion of a symmetrical structure with column heights AB and AD
and a beam length AC (see Fig. 69 (a)). The outer ends of the columns
are fixed against rotation, and the outer end of the beam is rigidly
connected at A.
Allow the upper end of the column and the end of the beam to sway
horizontally. No horizontal reactions are developed at these points,
but the beam end at C must be propped vertically to prevent vertical
displacement at this point. Apply a moment M at A (no propping
forces are developed at B and C since these points are free to sway).
There is, therefore, no shear in the columns of the element considered
due to rotation at A, therefore the bending moment is constant through¬
out each length. From Figs. 69 (b), and (c), considering column AD:

A/adTad similarly for column AB

EIab
Consider beam AC,
MacLac w 1 w 2 _ MacLac
A “ EIac 2 X 3 ~ 3Elac

• b - ^adLab _ MabLab _ MacLac

•' A~ EIat> ~ Elab ~ 3 EIac
. „ Mad _ Mab _ Mac
• • A ~ Ka~d ~ Kab ~ 3Kac
150 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

(b)

-AD lAD

Column AD

(c)
 THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 151
From Fig. 69 id). For a given stiffness of beam AE it is evident that
Kac — 2A'ae, since Lac = \ . Lab-

. M ab . Mab . Mab
Kat> Kab Kab

the ratio is 1 : 1 : 6

This method is only applicable to frames where the column lengths

and stiffnesses in any floor height are equal, and the beams are of
constant cross-section. The moment M may therefore be distributed in
the ratio: f x beam distribution factors to £ x column distribution
factor.

If the structure is considered about the vertical centre line, and the
relative stiffness of the beam is considered \ x stiffness of the total
beam then the ratio is 3 : \ (see Fig. 69 (e)).
The usual approach considers a full column stiffness and \ x beam
stiffness for normal moments, then the ratio for sway correction is:

I AT)
Kab =
Mab Mac
Lab
> Kab Kac
Iac /ae 2/ae 1 6
Kac = t— —
Lac %Lab Lab ,

considering full beam stiffness. Similarly,

^ac = ^ X
Lab £
\

Mab . Mac
sway ratio becomes \ : 3
Kab 3Aac

when Abeam with no carry-over = Afuii beam/2

152 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

This latter method is particularly useful where symmetrical vertical

loading allows application of the half-frame technique previously
described. The sway condition then only requires the multiplier for
beam stiffness of 3, and the multiplier for column stiffness of \ from
the basic non-sway condition. Where no symmetrical vertical loading
condition occurs it is simpler to adopt the normal 1 : 6 ratio.
When storey heights differ, the correct moment ratio, Mi : M2 for
balanced shear must be provided for. For a fixed portal frame the sum
of the terminal moments in the columns = 4M. Thus for the two-storey
structure shown in Fig. 70—top storey:

4Mi
shear due to terminal moments = —-—
Ti

4Mi
total unbalanced shear to top storey Fi +
Li

For equilibrium, unbalanced shear = 0,

Fi + = 0

Similarly for bottom storey, total unbalanced shear = 0,

(alg.) 4 M2
Fi + F2 + = 0
l2
Hence the ratio Mi : Mo.
The final moments for the frame are given by the summation of non¬
sway and sway moments. The final shears at the supports are found by
the normal means, thus

Mad + M da
etc.
Tad

Carry-over factor
Since each column acts as a cantilever, the carry-over factor = — 1.
 THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 153
SPECIMEN QUESTION 44
Determine the final moments and shears for the symmetrical two-storey
frame shown in Fig. 71 (a). E is constant for the frame.
Zab = /bc == /de = /ef = 1, /cd = /be = 2

SOLUTION

Using Naylor’s method, considering vertical loading only (non-sway con¬

dition). Loading is symmetrical about the vertical centre line, thus the half¬
frame technique may be applied since frame is also symmetrical about this
axis.
Distribution factors:
Kb a= Kef = j
Kbc = Kdf, = \
Kct> = Kbe = ■§• X j = -g-

+20 ^
ls_
CM
o
1
2

CM
o
I

-40^
^M2+25 !

^M2+25 '

’A
(b) (c)
154 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Joint Member Relative stiffness Sum Distribution factor

1 8
B BA 5 23
i 23 5
BE 8 40 23
1 10
BC 4 23

1 3 2
C CB 4 8 3
1 1
CD 8 3

F.E.M.:
15 X 82
(a) 2nd storey CD 80 kNm
12
60 X 82
(b) 1st storey BE 320 kN m
12
Free moments:
15 x 82
(a) 120 kNm
8
60 x 82
0b) 480 kN m
8
Stage 1. Non-sway condition (see Fig. 71 (b))
Vertical

Joint B C

Member BA BE BC CB CD
end

D.F. 0-348 0-217 0-435 0-67 0-33

F.E.M. -320 -80

Bal. + 111-5 +69-5 + 1-39 +53-4 +26-6

Co. +26-7 +69-5

Bal. -9-3 -5-8 -11-6 -46-3 -23-2

Co. -23-15 -5-8

Bal. +8 +5-05 + 10-1 +3-9 + 1-9
Co. + 1-95 -5-05
Bal. -0-68 -0-42 -0-85 -3-38 -1-67
Totals + 109-52 -251-67 + 142-15 +76-35 -76-37

AB + 54-76
Sway correction
(a) Considering 1 : 6 ratio:

Kba = A'eF = T
ATcb = Ajde = \
Kcx = Kby = 6Kct> = 6A"be = | X 6 = |
 THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 155

Joint Member Relative stiffness Sum Distribution factor

B BA 4
39
3 39 30
BE 2 20 39
5
BC 4 39

1 7 1
C CB 4 4 7
3 6
CD 2 7

(b) Considering distribution factors for vertical loading condition:

D.F. beams x 3 (since multiplier \ was used, total multiplier = -|)
D.F. columns x \
l
.Kba Kef A columns X i 2 0
Acb = ade = tJ TS"
Kcx = Kby = | X j X 3 3.
8

Joint Member Relative stiffness Sum Distribution factor

i 1 4 _
B BA 20 5 39
= 0-1
3 3 9 30 _
BE 1 2 2 0 39
= 0-77
1 5 -
BC 4 39
= 0-13
1 7 1 .
C CB tV 4 4 7
= 0-14
3 6 _
CD i 2 7
= 0-86

Thus whichever method is adopted it is seen that the same resulting distribu¬
tion factor is obtained.
From Fig. 71 (c) sum of terminal moments = AM.
156 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Top storey: shear = 0 for equilibrium

4Mi
= +20 +
Li

4Mi
= +20 + Mi = —20 kN m
4
Bottom storey:
4M2
0 = -20 +
U
4M2
= -20 + M2 = +25 kN m
5

Stage 2. Sway distribution (see Fig. 71 (c)) (carry-over factor — — 1)

Joint A B C

Member AB BA BC CB

D.F. 1 0-1 0-13 0-14

F.E.M. +25 +25 -20 -20

Bal. -0-5 -0-65 +2-9

Co. +0-5 -2-9 +0-65

Bal. -0-29 +0-29 +0-38 -0-09

Columns +25-21 +24-75 -23-17 -16-44

Beams 1-58 + 16-44

Final moments:

AB BA BE BC CB CD

(1) + 54-76 + 109-52 -251-67 + 142-15 +76-35 -76-37

(2) +25-21 +24-75 -1-58 -23-17 -16-44 + 16-44

Total +79-97 + 134-27 -253-25 + 118-98 + 59-91 -59-93

DC DE ED EB EF FE

(1) +76-37 -76-35 -142-15 +251-67 -109-52 -54-76

(2) + 16-44 -16-44 -23-17 -1-58 +24-75 +25-21
Total +92-81 -92-79 -165-32 +250-09 -84-77 -29-55

Ha = (+79-97 + 134-27)+ = +42-84 kN - >

Hf = (-84-77 - 29-55)1 = -22-84 kN
 THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 157
checking shear balance:
Net -> = 20 + 42-84 - 62-84
Net <-= -40 - 22-84 = -62-84
The final bending moment diagram is shown in Fig. 71 (d).
Single-storey frames can also be considered using this method, the upper
column stiffness for a joint B, being zero.

SPECIMEN QUESTION 45
Determine the final moment for the frame shown in Fig. 72 (a) under the
action of side loading P. E is constant for the frame; the separate stiffness
ratios are as shown.

SOLUTION

From Figs. 72 (b) and (c):

Load on half frame at B = — kN

P h
to

F.E.M. = —P kN m
X

II
1

~2X2 =
Distribution factor:
{a) Using 1 : 6 ratio:

Joint Member Relative stiffness Sum Distribution factor

B BF 0 0
BA 1 13 1
1 3"
BC 2x6=12 12
1 3

(b) Using \ ratio:

Joint Member Relative stiffness Sum Distribution factor

B BF 0 0
BA 1x1 = 41 13
~4~ iV = 0-077
2x3
BC 3 = 0-923
2

Distribution:

Joint A B

Member AB BA BC

D.F. 1 0-077 0-923

F.E.M. -P -P
Bal. -0-077F +0-077P +0-923F

Totals — 1-077P -0-923P +0-923F

The final moments are shown in Fig. 72 (d).

158 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

VIERENDEEL FRAMES
The problem of side loading on a symmetrical portal frame may be
directly applied to a Vierendeel girder. The moments due to the loads
at the rigid supports indicate contraflexure at the mid-point of the
chord members. The 1 : 6 ratio method is applicable since there are
no lateral loads acting on the Vierendeel strut members; the method
considers a portion to one side of the vertical and horizontal centre
lines. A simple condition occurs for an even number of bays, but, where
the girder consists of an odd number of bays and the centre bay is
bisected, the member concerned will have twice the stiffness of the
total member (constant inertia assumed).

SPECIMEN QUESTION 46
Determine the bending moments, shear and thrusts in the Vierendeel
girder shown in Fig. 73 (a). E is constant for the frame and the various
stiffness ratios are as shown.

SOLUTION

The column portions AP, BQ, etc. (Fig. 73 (b)) will have six times the
stiffness of AE, BF etc.
Kab = 4
Kap = 6 x 4 = 24 A'ab : Kbx Kbq : Kab
Kbq =6x3=18 1 : 2 : 4-5 : 6
Kbx =2x4 = 8
 THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 159

4 0kN 40kN

(c)

20 20
0 0 (19.75)

(19.75) (33.71) 2Q
20
1 (d)
(20) (20) (20) (20)

20 20
(19.75) (33.71)
0 ' ( (19.75)
20 20
160 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Distribution factors:

Joint Member Relative stiffness Sum Distribution factor

A AP 6 1 i = 0-857
AB 1 i =0-143

B BA 1 7-L = <M33
4-5
BQ 4-5 7-5
~5 = 0'601
BX 2
h=

F.E.M.:
Mab = Mba =20 x \ = 30 kN m
Mbx = (20 - 20)f = 0
The distribution tabulation for this type of frame is usually set out for a
horizontal summation instead of the normal vertical lay-out for multi-storey
frames. However, either tabulation may be adopted as shown.
Thus:

(a)
D.F. F.E.M. Bal. Co. Bal. Co. Bal. Total beams Columns

A AB 0143 -30 + 4-3 -4-0 4-0-57 -0-57 4-0-08 -29-62 4-29-62

B BA 0133 -30 4-4-0 -4-3 4-0-57 -0-57 4-0-075 -30-225 4-20-935

BX 0-266 4-8-0 4-1-14 4-0-15 4-9-29

X XB 1 -8-0 —1-14 — 0-15 -9-29

0b)
Joint A B X

Member AP AB BA BQ BX XB

D.F. 0-857 0-143 0-133 0-601 0-266 1

F.E.M. -30 -30

Bal. 4-25-7 4-4-3 4-4-0 4-18-0 4-8-0

Co. -4-0 -4-3 -8-0

Bal. 4-3-43 4-0-57 4-0-57 4-2-59 4-1-14

Co. -0-57 -0-57 -114

Bal. 4-0-49 4-0-08 4-0-075 4-0 345 4-0-15 -0-15

Totals 4-29-62 -29-62 -30-225 4-20-935 4-9 29 -9-29

Final bending moments for the frame are shown in Fig. 73 (c). Shear taken on
upper or lower half of frame. Thrusts:
Across AE ±(2x 29-62)1 = ±19-75 kN (members AB and EF)
Across BF ±(2 x 20-935)1 = ±13-96
Members BC and FG ±(19-75 ± 13-96) = ±33-71 kN
See diagram, Fig. 73 (d).
 THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 161
SPECIMEN QUESTION 47
Determine the moments, shear and thrust for the members of the Vierendeel
frame shown in Fig. 74 (a). The ratio of member stiffnesses is as shown. E
is constant for the frame.

SOLUTION
From Fig. 74 (b), using Naylor’s method and adopting the 1 : 6 ratio.
F.E.M.:
AB 125 x f = 187-5 kNm (-)
BC (125 - 50)| = 112-5 kN m (-)
CD (125 - 50 - 50)f = 37-5 kN m (-)
Distribution factors:
Joint Member Relative stiffness Sum Distribution factors

A AB 4 28 i = 0-143
AE 4 X 6 = 24 6 = 0-857
B BA 4 A = 0-154
BF 3x6=18 26 A = 0-692
BC 4 Ts = 0-154
C CB 4 fs = 0-16
CG 3 X 6 = 18 25 if = 0-72
CD 3 A = o-i2

Total
D.F. F.E.M. Bal. Co. Bal. Co. Bal. beams Columns

AB 0143 -187-5 + 26-8 -46-2 + 6-6 -7-8 + 111 -206-99 + 206-99

BA 0154 -187-5 + 46-2 -26-8 + 7-8 -6 6 + 2-17 -164-73 + 252-41

BC 0154 —112 5 + 46-2 -240 + 7-8 -7-35 + 2-17 -87-68

CB 016 -112-5 + 24-0 -46-2 + 7-35 -7-8 + 1-25 —13-39 +146-91

CD 012 -37-5 +18 0 + 5-55 + 0-94 —13-01

DC 1 -37-5 —18-0 -5-55 -0-94 -61-05
162 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

206.99

137.99 137.99 306.26 306.26 404.20

206.99 252.41 137.99+2x252.41 146.91
3 306.26
=306.26 +2x146.91
2x2036-" =137.99
146.91 3
252.41
206.99 " =4 04.20
4 ^ .
137.99 137.99 306.26 306.26 404.20

(f)
 THE MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD 163
The bending moment diagram is shown in Fig. 74(c).
The shear diagram is simply constructed, considering loading for each
chord as depicted in the frame portion shown in Fig. 74 (d).
Similarly the thrust in the vertical column members must be equal to the
value of the vertical panel point loading of the portion of the frame shown. The
thrust in the chord members is calculated from the elastic shears at the ends
of the column members, adding each increment as calculation progresses
towards the vertical centre line of the frame (see Fig. 74 (e)).
Frames with non-symmetrical loading must be considered for each portion
either side of the vertical centre line.
Elastic shears (see Fig. 74(f)) :
AJ ±(2 x 206-99)1 = 137-99 kN = thrust in AB
= thrust in JK
BK ±(2 x 252-41)J = 168-27 kN
Thrust in BC = thrust in KL
= 137-99 + 168-27 = 306-26 kN
CL ±(2 x 146-91H = 97-94 kN
Thrust in CD = thrust in LM
= 137-99 + 168-27 + 97-94
= 404-20 kN
 Chapter 6

THE STIFFNESS, OR EQUILIBRIUM, METHOD

The advent of the electronic computer now allows computations to be

made which were hitherto too complex for hand calculation, and has
reintroduced the mathematical approach to the solution of structures.
It has been seen that the force and moment displacements on a struc¬
ture lead to a set of independent homogeneous equations which are
best expressed in matrix form and solved by Gaussian elimination
technique. Matrix methods are eminently suited to computer use,
neither order nor number of operations being limiting.
The student wishing to avail himself of this powerful tool does not
have to know a great deal about matrices in order to adopt the method,
but will perhaps be stimulated to further study to obtain greater
elegance of solution and to tackle more complicated structures. This
chapter must therefore be considered only as an introduction to the
subject.
There are two methods connecting action and displacement of a
structure:

(1) The flexibility, or force, method

This method considers the determination of the reinstating forces
and moments of the released frame deformed by known external action.
The equation relating force and displacement may be expressed as
F. p — d, thus flexibility multiplied by force is equal to displacement.
(The previous method of Chapter 3, the Am technique, expressed the
matrix in terms of flexibility coefficients.)

(2) The stiffness, or equilibrium, method

This method considers the determination of reinstating displace¬
ments, and is expressed by the equation: p = Kd, thus force equals
stiffness multiplied by displacement. It is easily seen that there is an
inverse relationship between these two equations, thus,

d = Fp = K~lp similarly p — Kd — F~ld

that is,

K — F-1 or F = K-1
both K or F represent a matrix of coefficients which must be square in
order to have an inverse matrix.
It is not within the scope of this volume to expand the mathematical
164
 THE STIFFNESS, OR EQUILIBRIUM, METHOD 165
matrix operations, but, the examples given are complete and should
easily allow the reader to follow the process of solution by the stiffness
method. This method has many advantages compared with the
flexibility method; it is not dependent upon the conditioning of the
structure and is suitable for both hand and computer techniques.

STIFFNESS METHOD

The analysis of structures by the stiffness method considers the follow¬

ing points:

(1) All structures are skeletal. The structure may therefore be

divided and subdivided into simple elements which are jointed
together. Such joints may be flexible or rigid.
(2) The structure behaves in a linear manner, therefore the
materials of the structure behave in accordance with Hooke’s law
and the small deflection theory is applicable.
(3) A joint may be considered for all practical connections between
members, together with any other point or points which may usefully
be considered in this way, i.e. where a load or moment occurs.
(4) There is a coordinate system for every member, each of which
is related by geometry to the coordinate system of the total structure.

Figure 75 shows the general three-dimensional coordinate system for

a typical member (b), the x-axis being the longitudinal axis, the y- and
z-axes being mutually perpendicular and coincident with the other
principal axes. The coordinate system is right-handed. Each end of
the member is described either by number or letter; similarly, forces,
moments and displacements of a particular member end may be
described.
Thus for end 1 (sometimes termed end i):

p ib = p ib = fix = A,X
fly fi,y
flz fi,z
mix mi,x
miy ™Uy
mu mi,z

where fix, (or f\,x), is the force applied in direction x at end 1, (or
end i), etc. mix, (or mi, x), is the moment applied about the x-axis at
end 1 (end i), etc.
The numbering system for member ends is generally adopted through¬
out. Displacements and rotations may be similarly described for each
end of a member.
Again, considering the general rigid space member of Fig. 75, the
six restraint actions may be written:
166 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

dib = displacement for end (1) of member (b)

&la;

Sly
hz
01a:

01y
Qlz

The structure coordinate system (frame coordinate system) may be as

above where the structure is a simple beam member, or may embrace a
large number of members forming the frame, when it will follow the
main setting-out axes of the structure.

For a frame under external action, it is clearly evident that such

actions must be inter-related to the principal axes of the total structure.
Let x', y' and z' be the principal axes of the frame. Therefore, in con¬
sidering the total structure, the actions and displacements of the
separate members must be transformed to the frame coordinate system
by linear transformation methods, pib, p2!t» d{b, d'ib- An external
load and moment vector can describe the six external actions of a rigid
space frame, the component directions being in terms of the frame co¬
ordinate system. Thus (the suffix b being understood): and

w{ = w{x
wiy
Wlz
wix
W{y
W1Z

where w{x = the external force applied at end 1 along x';

w{x = the external moment applied at end 1 about x', a clock¬
wise direction being considered positive (right-hand rule).
 THE STIFFNESS, OR EQUILIBRIUM, METHOD 167
Consider the typical member in Fig. 76. The force/displacement re¬
lationship can be written in the form p — Kd.

Tib — -KribC/ib + -Ki2b<^2b

P2b — 1^21b^lb + ^22b^2b

par K12I
\_K21 K22J

is the stiffness matrix for the member, K\\ and K22 are the direct
matrix coefficients for each particular end and K12, K21, the cross¬
stiffness coefficients for end 2 to end 1 and vice versa. The direct
stiffness matrices are symmetric matrices, i.e. a mirror effect of terms is
seen about the leading diagonal. The cross-stiffness matrices are
symmetric in the numerical value of the terms, but not in sign. K21 is
the transpose of K12, i.e. the columns of matrix K12 become the rows of
matrix K21. In general for any member:

Pi = Kndi + ATi2^2
P 2 = K.2\d\ + ^22^2

Member b ^2b

The member-end and cross-stiffness coefficients depend upon the

type of structure under consideration, i.e. the number of joint constraints
required for equilibrium.
Number of column
coefficients of
Type of structure n X n matrix
Plane pin jointed (P.P.) 2
Plane rigid jointed (R.P.) 3
Pin jointed space (P.S.) 3
Flat grid (F.G.) 3
Rigid space (R.S.) 6
It has been stated that each member relationship must be trans¬
formed relative to the frame coordinate system in order that deforma¬
tion of joints can be determined for the total structure under external
actions. This is achieved for a particular member by operating on the
member matrices with a transformation matrix applicable to the orien¬
tation of that member. This transformation matrix will transfer forces
168 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

and displacements of a particular member from its own coordinate

system to that of the frame. For a typical member, let such transforma¬
tion matrix be represented by matrix T, the transpose of this matrix by
TT. Then:
p' = Tp also d = TTd' but p' — K'd'

Therefore
p{ = TKnTTd{ + TK12r?d2 = Knd{ + K{2d2
p'2 = TK2iTTd[ + TK22TTd2 = K2ld[ + K22d'2

Since d{, d'2 are required in the frame equations, K{\, K{2, etc. can be
described as TKnT1; TKnTT, etc.
Consider the simple condition of a member in a plane pin-jointed
truss. In Fig. 77 the member under consideration is marked 1-2 and is
seen to displace in the frame by amounts d\ and d2 under the actions of
forces pi and p2. Then p\ — —p2 and d = d\ — d2 (i.e. not the defor¬
mation of the member which would be d2 — d\). For the member 1-2,
the strain energy U = p2L/2AE, and dU/dp — d — pL/AE. Thus
FA
p = ~d=Kd when K = EA/L

also ^ii = K22 — K12 = K21.

N
 THE STIFFNESS, OR EQUILIBRIUM, METHOD 169
FA
Pi = ~P2 = -(dX- d2) = K(ch - d2)

= Kdi — Kd%
P2 = —Kd\ + Kdz

In matrix form:

d-[j c:]

The transformation matrix

From Fig. 78, showing member axes x, y and frame axes x', y'.

Px — p cos a r~p’x~1 Fcos a~l

or I = I . p, or p' = Tp
Pv — p sin a \—Py-i LsinaJ
where

t= rcos a_l
— [_sin a J
and hence
TT — [cos a sin a]
170 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

This latter is shown in the figure, since

d = dx cos a + dy sin a

= [cos a sin a] — TTd'

K' = TKTT = fC°S “1 [cos a sin a]

u |_sin a J

-—rc°s2 a s*n a cos al

L [_sin a cos a sin2 aj

Although the transformation matrix has been written here in trigono¬

metric form, the simplest method of calculation for hand computation
(in order to understand the principles of operation) is to build a

“projection of. .. on ..matrix by visual inspection of the orientation

of the member, since the arrangements mostly conform to well-known
trigonometric relationships. The “signed” value must be in keeping
with the convention of the positive direction of the axis on to which
the member is projected. For example, by inspection of Fig. 79, the
transformation matrix may be built up:

Projection of x y

on •’c' rcos a sin a

y sin a cos a

Figure 80 shows simplified diagrams for orientation of members in a

plane pin-jointed frame.
 THE STIFFNESS, OR EQUILIBRIUM, METHOD 171

1 i
y y
" “““ ~~ -
i
no b sin ,b
al f
1 T- 1
!
1
• cos a | „.| a =90°
(a) (b) (a) (b)
r i n ~ n ~\ r
1 i -i i 0 i 0
0 ! o
i_ _! L i J L -1

PLANE RIGID FRAMES

Progressing to the rigid plane frame, there will now be three axes to
consider as depicted in the general case. For plane frames, however,
the z-axis of the member coordinate system coincides with the z'-axis
of the frame coordinate system. From Fig. 81 it is seen that

z-coordinate in x', y' = 0

x- and ^-coordinates in z' = 0
z-coordinate in z' = 1
172 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Therefore:
projection of X y %
x' 1—cos a —sin a On1
on sin a cos a 0 = transformation
y'\l
z' _ 0 0 lJ1 matrix T

which may be written:

~x'~\ |“cos a —sin a 0“I

y' = sin a cos a 0 .
_z' —I Loo iJ
Whereas for plane pin-jointed frames under external loading at the
nodes, the only action in the member is a direct tension or compression,
for plane rigid frames end shear and moment must be considered. There
are thus three components for the load and displacement vectors.

System coordinates for a uniform member in plane bending are shown

in Fig. 82, adopting the Livesley convention. The small-deflection
theory is considered and thus the change in distance between the ends
due to curvature is neglected. Then for (elastic modulus = E; cross-
sectional area = A; inertia = /):

(1) Direct force/displacement:

Plx — —P2x = —j~ (Siz — &2z)

(2) End moments/translation and rotation:

From Fig. 83 the well-known equation of slope deflection,

3A
M\2 = M21 = 2 EK
L
 THE STIFFNESS, OR EQUILIBRIUM, METHOD 173

gives

From Fig. 84: (z) Rotation 0n applied, end 2 fixed.

(k) Rotation 622 applied, end 1 fixed.
By the slope-deflection equations:

M12 = 2EK(2Qn + 022) = 2ffl022

M21 = 2EK(2%22 + 0n) = 4EKQ22

(for condition of figure).

Thus for
4£70i2 2£70i
CO mu =
L ’
W2Z - L

2 F/02z 4F/02;
(») mu =
L ’
W22 — L
174 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Summating:
6EI. 4EI 6EI, ,
miz - -jYbn/ + °iz j2 ^2z

6EI 2 El 6EI i 42$/ a

m2z = -JJ diy + -j- die ~JJ 02y + ~jr~ °2z

Then,
miz + rn2z 12£/* , 6EIa 12El* , 6£/0
L ~jj&~ bly + ~jjblz —jz~ °2v + ~]T °2z

(3) End shear:

The full force/displacement relations may now be written in matrix

form:

End (1):
EA EA
Plx 0 0 Six 0 0 S2a;
L L
\2EI 6 El \2E1 6 El
Ply = 0 Sly + 0
L3 L2 L3 L2
6 El 4EI 6EI 2 El
mu 0 ©lz 0 02z
L2 L L2 L

End (2):
L 1

EA
P2x 0 0 Sl£ 0 0 §2x
L
12EI 6 El 12£7 6 El
P2y = 0 Sly + 0 §2y
L3 L2 L3 L3
6 El 2 El 6EI \El
mzz 0 01. 0 02z
L2 L _ _ L2 L
The above corresponds to:

for the member 1-2.

 THE STIFFNESS, OR EQUILIBRIUM, METHOD 175
FLAT GRIDS
No great step occurs after considering the foregoing to the analysis of
a flat grid structure. Figure 86 shows the general member and frame
system of coordinates, together with the actions and displacements on
those three principal planes. It is noticed here that plane y coincides
with the plane y'.
Refering to the layout of stiffness coefficients for the plane member in
bending.
Plx Ply mu becomes mix Ply mu
P2.X ?2y mzz becomes m<ix P2y m2z
hy 6lz becomes 01a; 01 z
§2a; §2y 02 z becomes 02a; §22/ 02z

EA GJ
becomes
L L
where G is the modulus of rigidity, or the shear modulus, and J is the
torsion constant ('Ivv for circular sections).

From Fig. 86 the general transformation matrix for a member 1-2

is easily seen to be:
Projection of x y z
r x' |pcos a 0 —sin a~i
on < / o 1 o
1l z' Lsin a 0 cos a J

For the particular but frequently used cases of Figs, 87 (a) and (b) a
visual inspection shows:
(a) When a = 90°:
Members in lines a-b, c-d and e-f have a i o on
transformation matrix: o 1 o
0 0 lJ
176 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Members in lines g-h, j-k and 1-m 0

have a transformation matrix: 1
0

(.b) When a = 45°:

Members such as a-b have a transformation 1 0 1
matrix: V2 V2
0 1 0
1 0 1
V2 V2

Similarly members in the line a-c have a ~ 1 T~

transformation matrix:
0
V2 V2
0 1 0
1 0 1
_V2 V2

(c)
 THE STIFFNESS, OR EQUILIBRIUM, METHOD 177
The configuration of the grid shown in Fig. 87 (c) combines the two
systems above.
Space frame systems are similar to the above, but have six actions
to each joint, three forces and three moments on the principal axes,
giving rise to translations and rotations in those directions.

GENERAL PROCEDURE OF THE STIFFNESS METHOD

(1) For the frame, mark all active joints for displacement in terms
of member-end displacement. All ground joints are considered for
zero displacement. For example see the frame shown in Fig. 88.
(2) Force/displacement equations can be written for active member
ends, the only members having the full equations as above being those
with active joints at each end of that member. In the case of the frame
shown in Fig. 88 where only one active joint occurs, each of the members
1-2 and 1-3 will only have a direct matrix for the end 1, since ends 2
and 3 have zero displacement.

For member (a):

Pi = Kndx and pi — K[xd{
For member (b):
pi = Kudx and p[ = K{xdi
Hence p[ = /tfa + pin
(3) As previously described, the member-end stiffness must be trans¬
formed to the frame coordinate system. For the rigid structure shown
there must be three columns to the coefficient matrix to correspond to
the joint constraint requirements. The transformation must, therefore,
consider x, y and z planes for each member.

Kk = 7a ATa Tl

Kb = 7* Kb T%

As stated in (2) above, for the frame in Fig. 88 only Kn is required for
each member.
178 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

(4) Assembly of the stiffness matrix.

For any general structure having joints 1, 2, 3, etc. active end joints,
and q, r, etc. ground joints {see Fig. 89). Each active joint contains the
sum of all direct end stiffness coefficients for members meeting at that
joint. It will only contain cross-stiffness coefficients if the member at
that active joint has another active joint at its other end. Consider,
for example, the frame shown in Fig. 90.

Joint 1 contains: K22 a + K\ ib + Ki2\>

Joint 2 contains: K22b + A2ib + K22C
The stiffness matrix may be written:

1
K22&
1 ^I2b

tfllb j
1

1 1 K22h
^21b ,
1
‘ ^22c

The equation, p' — K'd', becomes:

r>n = ^ k{2b i n/ri

LP2 J L^21b J^22b + K22c_\ |_^2_|
 THE STIFFNESS, OR EQUILIBRIUM, METHOD 179
(5) Joint displacements d[ and d% are derived from d' — K'~x p',
using Gaussian elimination, or by Gaussian elimination of the aug¬
mented matrix. (Solution by each method is shown in a later example.)
(6) From the joint displacement results obtained, the member dis¬
placements can be determined from d = TT d', thus 8*, 8„ and 02 for
each member concerned.
(7) Finally, using p = Kd (or as is often written to avoid confusion
with the original force p used in the calculation, Kd — w), where the
result contains px, py and mz for each member. This equation contains
the substituted values of d found in (6) above. Hence direct thrust in
the x-direction, end shear in the ^-direction and moment about the z-
axis are derived for each member joint to build up the completed
diagrams for the frame.

Plane beams with constant inertia

SPECIMEN QUESTION 48
Assemble the stiffness matrix for a plane beam, of length L and uniform
El, rigidly fixed at the ends.

SOLUTION
From Fig. 91(a):
Case 1
dz = 02 = 0 (cantilever supported at node 2)
piL3 miL2
di
3 El ~2Er

e, = 2EI
+ miL
El

L3 L2
di 1 3 2 Pi 1 Pi
A
6i ~ El mi _ El mi
L
_ _ 2
Consider matrix A. Inverting by Gaussian elimination:

L3 L2 12 6 _ '

3 2 1 0 1 0 L3 L2
becomes
L2 0 1 0 1 _6 4
L
2 L2 L

Thus
"12 6"
Pi L3 L2 di di
= El = Kn
mi 6 4 6i 0i
p L
180 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

For the beam element:

^ p = Pi + P2 = 0 P2 = —pi + 0

2 m = —piL + mi + m2 = 0 mi = piL — mi

fcH“l -?] [£>“* Pi]

12 6'
L3 L2 di di
= Kn
6 2 0i 0i
u L _

Case 2
From Fig. 91 (b), c?i = 0i = 0.

PiL3 mzL2
di
3 El ' 2ET

PiL2 mzL
02
2 El + El
Then,

~L3 L2
dz 1 3 2 Pi

02 El mi
* L
_2
 THE STIFFNESS, OR EQUILIBRIUM, METHOD

which, by Gaussian elimination becomes,

1_

_1
2ft

1
P2 d2 d2
= El = *22
m2 6 4 02 02
L2 L
- - - -
Then,

K 1= -1 [=1 -?] = CK22

12 6'
L3 L2 d2 d2
EI = *12
6 2 02 02
L2 L
N.B. K12 = *2it.
From p = Kd:

Pi di
mi 9i

P2 d2
m2 02

-di 0i j d2 02 -
12 6
di 1 12
L3 L2 1 L3
*n ! *12
6 4 1 6
1 0i L2 L
—1-

1 L2
S

*= EI •
II
3

12 6 12
■13

L3 L2 1 L3
*21 1 *22
6 2
1 02 1 6
L2 L L2
>- 1
* is a symmetric matrix.
An alternative form may be written:

Pi = jj<i 12^i + 60iL - 12d2 + 602L

^ = E <j 6di + 40iL - 6d2 + 202L )■ etc.

Thus:
Pi 12 6 -12 6 di
mi 0i L
6 4-62
L EI •
P2 ~ L3 -12 -6 12 -6 d2
m2 6 2-64 02L
L — -
182 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

It should be plain that the above is suitable for members having thrust,
end shear and end moment. Where a load occurs along the member, the
basic rule of introducing a node at the load point immediately creates a twin-
element member. The stiffness matrix must obviously be increased in order
to account for the third nodal point. If there is no effect then zeros may be
added to increase to the correct matrix size.

Varying inertia
Consider the beam of Fig. 92 having uniform E, but varying inertia h over
length La and h over length Lb. Stiffness of the member,
K = K& + Kb
Node (2) is common to both elements, thus K22 is common to both Ka. and
Kb. There will be no effect to K& from node (3), thus da, 63 may be considered
as zero. Similarly there will be no effect to Kb from node (1), thus d\, 0i may
be made zero.

di 0i da 02 da 63

Ku K12 1 0 di /
Ka / 0
1 0i
' ft / /
K23 C/2 thus K= / /
K21
1 02 0 f Kb
f

0 K32 Kaa C/3 —

1 03
I
1
—

di 0i da 02 da 03
12 6 12 6
0 0 di
La3 La2 L-a3 La2
6 4 5 2
0 0 0i
La3 La L a2 L&
Ka. = Eh 12 6 12 6
0 0 c/2
La3 La2 L a3 La2
6 2 6 4
_ 0 0 02
La3 La L a2 La,
0 0 0 0 0 0 da
0 0 0 0 0 0 03
Kb would be similar, in terms of Eh and Lb for numerical values forming
a square in c/2, 02, da, 03. All other terms being zeros.
 THE STIFFNESS, OR EQUILIBRIUM, METHOD 183
For the simple condition, when /a = /b = /; La = Lb = L (thus total
span 2L). E is constant.

di 0i dz 02 dz 03
12 6 12 6
0 0 di
L3 L2 L3 L2
6 4 6 2
0 0 6i
L2 L
1^ L2
1-j ~ L
1
^

a: - £•/ 12 6 12 4 12
12 12 __66 + 66_ 12
12 _6
6_
L3 L2 L3 + L3 L2 _r L2 L3 L2
6 2 4 , 4 6 2
02
L2 L L2 ^ L2 L L L2 L
12 6 12 6
0 0 dz
L3 L2 L3 L2
6 2 6 4
0 0 03
L2 L L2 L_

SPECIMEN QUESTION 49
Figure 92 shows a simply supported beam of variable inertia sustaining a
concentrated load P at the change of inertia. E is constant for the beam.
Solve for dz, 0i, 02 and 03.

SOLUTION
The separate stiffness matrices of elements (1)—(2), (2)-(3), comprising the
sub-matrices
'tfii M

*21 *22j

may be written in terms of La, Ia, Lb, h as described above. The total
stiffness matrix may then be set out for the ratio h = 2/a and the terms for
columns d\ and dz omitted.
di 0i dz 02 dz 03 _
12 6 12 6
0 0 di
L3 L2 L3 L2
6 4 6 2
0 0 Oi
L2 L L2 L
12 6 36 6 24 12
dz
L3 L2 L3 L2 L3 L2
6 2 6 12 12 4
02
L2 L L2 L L2 L
24 12 24 12
0 0 dz
L3 L2 L3 L2
12 4 12 8
0 0 03
L2 L L2 L
N.B. Check symmetry about leading diagonal.
184 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Neglecting columns and rows containing d\ and dz and rearranging:

d2 0iL 02L 03L
" 36 -6 6 12" d2
„ EI -6 4 2 0 0i L
K L3 6 2 12 4 02L
12 0 4 8 03£

Thus
~P2 36 -6 6 12 d2
mi
0 -6 4 2 0 0i L
L EI
m2 ~ L 3
0 6 2 12 4 02I
T ~
m3
T '
0 12 0 4 8 03L
L —
Then:
PL3
36^2 - 60iL + 602L + 1203L (1)
' El
0 -6d2 + 40iL + 202L . (2)
0 6d2 *F 20iL -F 1202L -F 403L (3)
0 12^2 + 402L + 803L (4)
From (2),
0iL = \d2 - i02L
From (4),
03I = -fd2 - i02L
Substitute in (3),
0 = 6d2 + 3 d2 — d2L + 1202L — 6d2 — 2Q2L
3 d2 + 902L
02L —\d2
0iL \d2 + \d2 = \d2
03L -f dt + \d2 = -%d2
PL3
36d2 - 10d2 - ld2 - \6d2
El
8d2
PL3
d2 =
8 El
PLi3
64 El
Since,
span
L or span = 2L

spanJ Li3
L3 = say
8
Lj*
L2
4
 THE STIFFNESS, OR EQUILIBRIUM, METHOD 185
5 PLi3 5PLi3
Then, 0i L = -
3 ' 64 El 192 El

PLi3
02L
192 El

APLx3 PLi3
192JE7 48El
Thus
5PLif. _PLi1 2 _ PLi3
0i
96 El' 2 96EI’ 3 2AEI

ALTERNATIVE SOLUTION BY GAUSSIAN ELIMINATION OF AUGMENTED MATRIX

Operations
dz 36 -6 6 12 -P (1) Divide row 1 by 36

01L -6 4 2 0 0 (2) Subtract — 6 x new row 1

from row 2
02L 6 2 12 4 0 (3) Subtract 6 x new row 1
from row 3
03L 12 0 4 8 0 (4) Subtract 12 x new row 1
from row 4

~1 -1/6 1/6 1/3 -PI 36- (1) Divide row 2 by 3

(2) Subtract 3 x new row 1
0 3 3 2 -P/6 from row 3
0 3 11 2 P/6 (3) Subtract 2 X new row 1
Lo 2 2 4 P/3J from row 4

P -1/6 1/6 1/3 —P/361 (1) Divide row 3 by 8

0 1 1 2/3 -P/18

0 0 8 0 P/3
Lo 0 0 8/3 4P/9 J

n -1/6 1/6 1/3 -P/361 (1) Divide row 4 by 8/3

0 1 1 2/3 -P/18
0 0 1 0 P/24

.0 0 0 8/3 4P/9 _

n -1/6 1/6 1/3 —P/361 (1) Subtract 2/3 x row 4 from

0 1 1 2/3 -P/18 row 2
0 0 1 0 P/24 (2) Subtract 1/3 x row 4 from
0 0 0 1 P/6 row 1
186 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

1 -1/6 1/6 0 -PI 121 (1) Subtract 1 X row 3 from

0 1 1 0 -PI 6 row 2
0 0 1 0 P/24 (2) Subtract 1/6 x row 3 from
row 1
0 0 0 1 P/6 _

1 -1/6 0 0 -13P/1441 (1) Subtract —1/6 x row 2

0 1 0 0 -5P/24 from row 1

0 0 1 0 P/24
0 0 0 1 P/6 J

1 0 0 0 -P/ 8 d%
0 1 0 0 -5/724 0i L
0 0 1 0 PI 24 02L
0 0 0 1 PI 6 03L

The augmented matrix now consists of an identity matrix and a solutions

vector. This vector corresponds to the column vector of unknowns d2, 9i L,
02L, 03L, which are seen to be the same as the solutions of the equations.

Plane pin-jointed frames

SPECIMEN QUESTION 50
A pin-jointed plane frame under the action of external loading is shown
in Fig. 93 (a). The cross-sectional area of members 1-2, 1-3 and 1-4 is A,
and for members 2-3 and 3-4, A/2. If the material of the frame has a constant
elastic modulus, determine the member forces of the frame.

SOLUTION

Only external forces are required, thus stiffness

Kn = K2 2 = Kl2 = K21 =
 THE STIFFNESS, OR EQUILIBRIUM, METHOD 187
By visual inspection of the frame:

Values of K' = TKTT:

2- 3
J-Kiii = Kt't = Kit = Kl1 =
3- 4 [:]«■■«=[v:] [T;]

'0 o’
k

1-3 Kit = Kli =

II

II

[-:]■»■« :] 0 -1

— y/2 V2— — V2 V2—I

s0*
k

1-2 Kit = KL =
II

ii

-0 70?] 0'7071-0-707 -0-707] =

[? d [= 3]

— V2 V2— — V2 V2—|
k

1-4 Kk = Kn =
ll

il

-O 7O7] 0 707 [°'707 -°-707i =

4 i2 [1 -?]

1 3

0-707 0 0 0
0 1-707 0 -1
0 0 10
0-101
188 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

1
K'~1 = 0 0 0
0-707

0
0-707 ° 0-707
0 0 1 0
1 1-707
0 0
0-707 0-707

2P (I)

Inverse matrix obtained by normal Gaussian elimination. (Complete example

in Specimen Question 49.)
d' = K'~Y

TV2 0 0 0~ 2P
= j^2 V2P - V2p]
1 0 V2 0 V2J 0
0
-P

r° 01 0 2P
|_0 V2 o W 2 + 1)J 0
= [o - (V2 + l)pj
0
-P

p = KTTd'

1[‘ o] [_(V2°+1)J = 0 = P34

i r 1 nr 2V2Pi
Pl2 V2[_ V2 V2J L-V2pJ

= ~V~2P + 72 = (tension)
 THE STIFFNESS, OR EQUILIBRIUM, METHOD 189

»-*[>.-jj K:]
2 P 3P
= -^jTjP + ^2 y2 (comPress'on)

-0 [-V2?]-' [° -'] [-(V2°+.)J

= y/lP — (-y/2 -f l)i> = —p (tension)
The diagram of member forces is shown in Fig. 93 (b).

SPECIMEN QUESTION 51
Figure 94 (a) shows a straight beam 5, 1, 2, fixed at its ends 5 and 2, and
propped at midspan (point 1), by members 1, 3 and 1,4. These members are
fixed at supports 3 and 4. The stiffness sub-matrix, Kn is given in the form:
A
0 0
L
121 61
Ku = E 0
L3 L2
61 41
0
L2 L
The sub-matrices, Kiz = K21 = 0. For the frame, E = 210 kN/mm2; IP =
140 kN.
Incorporating area and inertia, the stiffness matrices in millimetre units are:

Calculate moment and shear forces in beam at midspan.

190 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

SOLUTION

Omit E until the end of the calculation. Consider half frame as in Fig.
94 (b). Transformation matrices to frame coordinates:

.
1 2 1, 3
Projection of Projection of
Ta * y Fb x y z
on ■'

'
ri
0
o
1
on
0
on T H °1
-if0
' Lo 0 lJ ' L o o u

Fa = FaT = unit matrix

Kila, = FaA'iiaFa1 = -STlla

FtA'iib =
r f f °l
L
-A
-i
A
5
3.

o
3
5
4
A
f
o
on
u
- 1
0 • 0
iJ L o
ToW
0
-2-l
°1
~2C>
4J
4
5 00 5 000 T§o“|
3 _4_
5 00 5 000
[- 0 1
2 0

4 3_
5 00 5 000 10 0
FbAaibFbT =
[-
3
5 00
0
_4_
5 000
_1
2 0
_4_
10 0
4 ]■[! ID
r o- 00676 -0-00432 0-03“]
-o- 00432
L o- 03
0-00424
0-04 rJ
Kh = {Kh& + Khb}E

r 0-13176 -0-00432 0-03~|

= E -0-00432 0-02424 1-04
L 0-03 1-04 54 J
 THE STIFFNESS, OR EQUILIBRIUM, METHOD 191
K'd' = w' at point 1, 8* = 0; Sy = ?; 0* = 0

0-02424

• x ~p
■G3-[f]
'' y 0-02424E V
P = Kd;d= T*d'
For member a, T = TT = /; da = dV.

m -.. Lop *1 ;iJ Lr-noj

\-mzA 50

Px = 0
vE
py = shear at end of member a
50
mz = moment at end of member a = — vE
70 x 210
= -57-8 kN
Pv 0-02424 x 210 x 50
mz = —288-8 kN mm

Plane and grid rigid frames

SPECIMEN QUESTION 52
Figure 95 (a) shows a rigid plane frame having three constraints at the
active joint 1. The frame marking has been made such that the stiffness matrix
will only contain positive terms. Support joints at one end of each member
make it necessary to consider only the direct stiffness of the members at end 1.
Both members are of square cross-section, thus if A = 1 then / oc 1/12. E is
constant for the frame. For simplicity of calculation set both Fand L = 1.

SOLUTION

The form of Kn will be as shown in the previous specimen question, a

table may therefore be written out of the matrix elements for each of the
members.

Member A I L A/L 6I/L2 12//L3 MIL

a (1-2) 1 1/12 2 1/2 1/8 1/8 1/6
b (1-3) 1 1/12 1 1 1/2 1 1/3

Thus for a member a:

paia
Ka =

similarly for member b.

Ki2,a, = K21& = Kzia, = 0 = A'i2b = Kzvo ~ Kzzx,

 192 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

The total stiffness K' in terms of the frame coordinates = *ua + *nb. As
noted before, K' = TKTT, where matrix T is the transformation matrix to
rotate member coordinates into frame coordinates (this matrix is orthogonal).

rEA/L o on
*11= 0 12 EI/L3 6EI/L2
L 0 6EI/L2 4EI/L J

Transformation matrix—see Fig. 95 (a)

Member a:
Projection of

on
x
y
z'
R?ol
Lo o iJ
= 7a, then P?o]
Lo o iJ
= nT

Member b:
Projection of

r°
1_1
^ o o

“ 0 1 -1 0-1
cr

-1 en 1 TbT
II

0 0 0 =
on
i\ _ 0 0 Lo 0 lJ

K TK TKTT
*11 a =
r 1/2 o o_ 1/2 0 0 “| ri o o_ “1/2 0 0 —I
0 1/8 1/8 0 1/8 1/8 0 10 0 1/8 1/8
L 0 1/8 1/6 H- _ 0 1/8 1/6J pa Lo 0 1_ ]- _ 0 1/8 1/6J
= A'u,

r10 011/2°i
L 0 1/2 1/3_ [-• s a -

L
0
-10
1

0 1/2
1/2—1
0
J
1/3 pa ro

Lo
1
-1
0
o
o~
0
1_ P
“ 1
0
Ll/2
0
10
0
1/2—1

1/3 J
= K(n
 THE STIFFNESS, OR EQUILIBRIUM, METHOD 193

p 0 o-| ri o f-1 o i“| n

K' — Alia + AHlb = 01i + 0 10 = 0f|
Lo 1 0ij u Li i iJ u
K' d' = IV

Premultiply by K'~\
[HD GO-[-a
K'-1 .K'.d'=K '-i w
. d' = K'~l .w' = d'
The inversion of the stiffness matrix may be achieved by a number of
differing methods, three of which are given:

(1) by using determinants;

(2) by partitioning the matrix;
(3) by adopting Gaussian elimination procedure.

The example below adopts method (3) which is usually to be preferred.

However, as will be seen, a further multiplying is still required after
obtaining the inverse of the stiffness matrix in order to determine the
frame displacement vector. Adopting the same procedure, the same
result can be achieved in one operation by performing a Gaussian elimi¬
nation on the augmented matrix.

Inverse of the stiffness matrix by Gaussian elimination

Operations

1 1[“3/2 0 1/2 1 r i 0 °1
(1) Divide row 1 by 3/2
(2) Subtract 1/2 x new row 1
2 o 9/8 1/8 0 1
°lJ from row 3
3 11_1/2 1/8 l/2_l L o 0
1 1P 0 1/3 1 r 2/3 0 °1
(1) Divide row 2 by 9/8
2 9/8 1/8 o 1 (2) Subtract 1/8 X new row 2
3 Lo0 1/8 1/3_I 1_—1/3 1 °
oJ from row 3

0 -| r 0 (1) Divide row 3 by 23/72

1_1
^ O O

1/3 2/3
1 1/9 0 8/9 (2) Subtract 1/3 x new row 3
p from row 1
i Lo 0 23/72J 1_—1/3 -1/9
(3) Subtract 1/9 x new row 3
from row 2

0 on 1r 70/69 8/69 —72/69 1

l 0 8/69 64/69 — 8/23
0 lJ 1L-24/23 -8/23 72/23J

1ri-oi4 0-116 — 1 -042 1

K'-i
0-116 0-928 —0-348
L-1-042 -0-348 3-13 J
194 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

This can be verified by any of the other methods, but a good check shows
itself in the symmetry of the off-diagonal elements.

ran
8/ =
r 1-014
0 116
0-116 -1-042i
0-928 -0-348 . -40
r
=
q ~\
-3-5940
r °'55<2 "1
Le/J L-1-042 -0-348 3-13 J L 0 J L 0-35Q J

By Gaussian elimination on the augmented matrix:

T3/2 0 1/2 0 “1
0 9/8 1/8 —4Q = augmented matrix [K' w']
Ll/2 1/8 1/2 0 J
r 1 0 1/3 20/3~|
0 9/8 1/8 -4 0
Lo 1/8 1/3 -0/3J
Operations as above in order to reduce matrix K' to identity matrix 7.

r 1 o 1/3 2(2/3 “I
0 1 1/9 —32Q/9
LO 0 23/72 (2/9 J

r 1 0 0 0-55(2 “I
0 1 0 -3-594(2
L 0 0 1 0-35(2 J
Results of displacement vector in right-hand column of matrix.
d = TTd'
Member a: —-
(1-2) -1 0 “ 0-550 “I
0 1
°1 ~
0-55(2 ~
-3-594Q -3-5940
= 0 • =
LezJ _ 0 0 1 J _ 0-35(2 - _ 0-350 J

Member b:
d-3) ” 0 -1 “
0-55Q "I 1" 3-5940-1
pn
1 0
°1 -3-594G 0-550
= 0 • =
LeU _ o 0 1 J _ 0-350 J _ 0-350 J
6
ti

= w
li

Member a:
0-2) FP~ ri/2 0 0 - r 0-550 "I “ 0-2750—1
Py = 1/8 V8 • -3-5940 = -0-4060
_jriz— L o0 1/8 l/6_ L 0-350 _ 0-3910_J
Member b:
0-3) yp~ r1 0 0 ~ r 3-5940“ - 3-5940-1
Py = 0 1 i/2 • 0-550 = 0-7250
—mz- Lo 1/2 !/3— L 0-350 _ L 0-391 Qj
Final forces and moments are shown in Fig. 95 (b). The forces and moments
found at the joint for the members are external to those members. Thus the
internal force in the members is of opposite sense. This is shown for moment,
thrust and shear in Figs. 95 (c), (d) and (e) respectively.
 THE STIFFNESS, OR EQUILIBRIUM, METHOD 195
4Q

3.596Q I I0.406Q

SPECIMEN QUESTION 53
Figure 96 (a), shows a simple flat grid with rigid joints. The joints 1, 2, 4
and 5 are ground joints, thus the only active joint is that marked 3. The area
of the exactly similar members may be taken as unity. The members are of
rectangular cross-section, thus the inertia may be assumed 1/12. The modulus
of rigidity of the material is 3E/8, E being constant for the frame. A con¬
centrated load, P, acts at joint 3, in the direction of the /-axis. The torsional
constant of the members is assumed 1/3.

SOLUTION
The members are all the same length, thus L may be considered unity.
Coordinate axes for the members 1-3; 3-5, coincide with the frame co¬
ordinate axes. Coordinate axes for the members 2-3; 3^1, are displaced by
90° for x'- and z'-axes, but coincide for the /-axis.
Transformation matrices:
2- 3 r o o n
3- 4 010
L-l 0 OJ
196 ADVANCED THEORY OF STRUCTURES

Member A I J L GJ/L 6//L2 12//L3 4I/L

All 1 1/12 1/3 1 1/8 1/2 1 1/3

Member T K TK TKTT
1-3 r i o on pi/8 o o n p i/8 o on p 1/8 0 01
0 1 -1/2 0 1 -1/2 0 1 -1/2
LsrJ L o -1/2 1/3 J L 0 -1/2 1/3 J L 0 -1/2 1/3_J

35 C: i 3 pi/8 o
0 1
L 0 1/2
o ”| p 1/8 o
1/2
1/3 J L 0
0 1
on p 1/8 0
1/2 0 1
1/2 1/3 1 L 0 1/2 1/3_|
01
1/2

23 [.:: a pi/8 o
0 1
L o -1/2
o "| p 0 -1/2 1/3 | p 1/3 -1/2
-1/2 0
1/3J |_—1/8 0
1 -1/2 -1/2
OJ L 0
1
on
0
0 1/8J

[-•;a ri/8
L0
0
o
1
1/2
on p 0
1/2 0
l/3_l |_—1/8
1/2
1
0
1/3—1 P 1/3
1/2
OJ L o
1/2
1/2
1
0
0n
0
1/8 1

K'=E r 11/12 o on
0 4 0
L 0 0 11/12_I
S e
=
rn/12 o
o 4
on
o
re*'-]
v
L o o n/i2J Le/J
Using Gaussian elimination on the augmented matrix, the solution vector is
determined, d' = K'~lp'.

rn/12 oo on
0 4 0 P
L 0 0 11/12 0J Operation
[ioo on (1) Divide row 1 by 11/12
0 1 0 P/4 (2) Divide row 2' by 4
0 0 1 oJ (3) Divide row 3" by 11/12

Solutions vector: Thus 8/ = P/4

d = TTd'

2- 3 ro o -in
3- 4 =01 0
Li o oJ
 THE STIFFNESS, OR EQUILIBRIUM, METHOD 197

In terms of py, the four shears add up to the load P.

In expressing displacement, as was seen in the beam problem, the actual
vector should read:

Then similarly in the solution vector.

mz = P/8 = MIL or M = PL/8
The simple check is shown in Fig. 96 (b).
The above considers fixed ends for the grid members. If the torsional
constant is zero and free outer ends are considered there will be a rotation
about the Z-axis and thus lines corresponding to mz and 02 for outer joints in
two planes should be included in the matrix for the members. This will obvi¬
ously increase the total stiffness matrix K'.
 Appendix 1

JOB BRIANBELL.S 24ABJBE,FERNDALE RD

LALGOL SIMQ
****
DOC SOURCE SIMQ
’BEGIN’’COMMENT’ THIS BLOCK COMPUTES THE SOLUTION OF THREE
SIMULTANEOUS EQUATIONS BY THE GAUSSIAN
ELIMINATION PROCESS. EACH STEP OF THE
OPERATION IS PRINTED;
’ARRAY’ A[l:3, 1:4]; ’INTEGER’ I ,J; ’REAL’ X;
WRITETEXTf’( ” (’P 3C 2S’)’GAUSSIAN $ELIMINATION$OF
^AUGMENTED $MATRIX$FOR$THE$S OLUTION$OF$
THREE^SIMULTANEOUS$EQUATIONS.’(’3C’)’’)’);
’FOR’ I:= 1 ’STEP’ 1 ’UNTIL’ 3 ’DO’
’FOR’ J:= 1 ’STEP’ 1 ’UNTIL’ 4 ’DO’ A[I ,J]:=READ;
X:=l/A[ 1, 1];
’FOR’ J:= 1 ’STEP’ 1 ’UNTIL’ 4 ’DO’
A[ 1, J]:=[ 1,J]*X;
’FOR’ J:= 2,3,4, 1 ’DO’
’BEGIN’ A[2,J]:=A[2, J ] -A[2,1]*A[1,J];
A [ 3, J ]:=A[3,J] -A[3, 1]*A[1,J]
’END’;
’FOR’ I:= 1 ’STEP’ 1 ’UNTIL’ 3 ’DO’
’BEGIN’’FOR’ J:=1 ‘STEP’ 1 ’UNTIL’ 4 ’DO’ PRINT (A[I,J],2,4);
NEWLINE(3)
’END’; NEWLINE(3);
X:=l/A[ 2,2];
’FOR’ J:=2 ’STEP’ 1 ’UNTIL’ 4 ’DO’ A[2,J]:=A[2,J]*X;
’FOR’ J:= 3,4,2 ’DO’
A[3,J]:=A[3,J]-A[3,2] *A[2,J];
’FOR’ I:= 1 ’STEP’ 1 ’UNTIL’ 3 ’DO’
’BEGIN’’FOR’ J:= 1 ’STEP’ 1 ’UNTIL’ 4 ’DO’ PRINT (A[I,J] ,2,4);
NEWLINE (3)
’END’; NEWLINE (3);
X:=l/A[3,3];
’FOR’ J:= 3 ’STEP’ 1 ’UNTIL’ 4 ’DO’ A[3,J]:=A[3,J] *X;
’COMMENT’ ALL ABOVE DOWNWARD ELIMINATION. ALL BELOW
BACKWARD SUBSTITUTION;
’FOR’ J:= 4,3 ’DO’
’BEGIN’ A[2,J]:=A[2,J] -A[2,3] *A[3,J];
A[ 1,J]:=A[ 1,J] -A[ 1,3] *A[3,J]
’END’;
’FOR’ I:= 1 ’STEP’ 1 ’UNTIL’ 3 ’DO’
’BEGIN’’FOR’ J:= 1 ’STEP’ 1 ’UNTIL’ 4 ’DO’
PRINT (A[I ,J] ,2, 4); NEWLINE (3)
’END’; NEWLINE (3);
’FOR’ J:= 4,3,2 ’DO’
A[1,J]:-A[1,J] -A[1,2] *A[2,J];
’FOR’ I: 1 ’STEP’ 1 ’UNTIL’ 3 ’DO’
’BEGIN’’FOR’ J:= 1 ’STEP’'l ’UNTIL’ 4 ’DO’ PRINT (A[I,J] ,2,4);
NEWLINE(3)
’END’
’END’;
****
 APPENDIX 199

DOC DATA SIMQ

2, 4, 1,-11,-1, 3,-2,-16, 2,-3, 5, 21

GAUSSIAN ELIMINATION OF AUGMENTED MATRIX

FOR THE SOLUTION OF THREE SIMULTANEOUS EQUATIONS
1.0000 2.0000 0.5000 -5.5000
0.0000 5.0000 -1.5000 -21.5000
0.0000 -7.0000 4.0000 32.0000

1.0000 2.0000 0.5000 -5.5000

0.0000 1.0000 -0.3000 -4.3000
0.0000 0.0000 1.9000 1.9000

1.0000 2.0000 0.0000 -6.0000

0.0000 1.0000 -0.0000 -4.0000
0.0000 0.0000 1.0000 1.0000

1.0000 0.0000 0.0000 2.0000

0.0000 1.0000 - 0.0000 -4.0000
0.0000 0.0000 1.0000 1.0000
 INDEX

A La method, 2 Joint moment ratios, 120

Am technique, 64
Asymmetric frames, 54
Livesley convention, 172
Beams:
constant inertia, 179 Mohr’s theorems, 1
fixed, 33 Moment distribution method, 114
varying inertia, 182, 183 non-sway, 119
side sway, 120
Carry-over factor: Multi-storey frames, 113, 142
normal, 115
no-shear, 152
Column analogy method, 31 Naylor’s method, 149
Computer analysis, 198 Neutral point concept, 40
Cross-stiffness matrix, 167
Principle of least work, 64
Deflection of portal frames, 26
Double-bay frames, 138
Short column equations, 32
Elastic shear, 146, 148 Simultaneous equations of displacement,
24, 40, 65, 79
Flat grids, 171, 195 Slope-deflection method, 89
Flexibility method, 64, 164 basic equations, 89
Frames: equilibrium equations, 93
pitched portal, 125 Sloping base line, 16
plane, pin-jointed, 186, 189 Sloping members, 14, 106
plane, rigid, 171, 191 Stiffness method, 165
general procedure, 177
Gaussian elimination method, 76, 82, Strain energy method, 8
86, 102, 111, 179, 185, 193, 198 Sway factor, 130, 148

Indeterminate frames: Torsional constant, 175, 195

single, 4, 42, 67 Transformation matrix, 168, 169, 172,
twice, 18, 60, 73, 98 175-6, 177, 187, 190, 192, 195
three times, 21, 48, 79, 100
Inertia:
for sloping members, 48 Vierendeel frames, 158
varying, 11, 37, 70, 182, 183 Volume integration, 66

200
 EXAMINATION SUBJECTS
FOR ENGINEERS AND BUILDERS
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plete work of reference but for a short guide to the basic principles ot his subject.
This series of books is designed to prepare students for the examinations ot tne
Institution of Civil Engineers and the Institution of Structural Engineers, but they
are also suitable for H.N.C. or degree studies. The theory behind each subject is
fully discussed, and the series as a whole provides a useful outline ot civil engineer¬
ing subjects. All quantities in the books are written in SI units.

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81" X 51" 104 pp. 14 illustrations Price: 70p

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