CE3300 Ch.1: Introduction to Structural Analysis

Structural analysis

Is the prediction of the performance of a given structure under prescribed loads and/or other external effects, such as support movements and temperature changes in the interest of 1. stresses or stress resultants, such as axial forces, shear forces, and bending moments; 2. deflections; and; 3. support reactions.

Structural engineering

Is the science and art of planning, designing, and constructing safe and economical structures that will serve their intended purposes.

Tension Structures

Are subjected to pure tension under the action of external loads. (eg. steel cables in suspension bridges)

Compression structures

Develop mainly compressive stresses under the action of external loads. (eg. columns & arches)

Trusses

Are composed of straight members connected at their ends by hinged connections to form a stable configuration that are put under uniform tension or uniform compression (eg. roofs)

Shear structures

Used in multistory buildings to reduce lateral movements due to wind loads and earthquake excitations. They develop mainly in-plane shear, with relatively small bending stresses under the action of external loads.

Bending structures

Develop mainly bending stresses under the action of external loads. (eg. beams, rigid frames, slabs, and plates)

Beam

Straight member that is loaded perpendicular to its longitudinal axis

Rigid frames

Are composed of straight members connected together either by rigid (moment-resisting) connections or by hinged connections to form stable configurations

Framed structure

Is frequently used to refer to any structure composed of straight members, including a truss

Rigid connection

Prevents relative translations and rotations

Hinge connection

Prevents only relative translations