Description

Theory and applications of structural analysis.  Matrix form of equilibrium and compatibility. Virtual work. Matrix form of displacement and force method; direct stiffness implementation of displacement method.  Modeling of two- and three-dimensional structures. Verification and interpretation of structural response.

There will be two midterm examinations with a single, one-sided sheet of notes. A comprehensive final examination will cover the material from the entire course. Only one single-sided sheet of notes will be allowed in the final examination.

Grading will be based on the following weights: Class participation: 10%, Homework: 20%, Midterms: 35%, Final Exam: 35%

Course Objectives

Structural analysis is the process of computing and interpreting the deformations and forces of the model of a structural system under specified loads and environmental effects. Analysis is an integral part of the structural design process. The objective of this course is two-fold: (1) develop the modern theory of structural analysis, and (2) improve understanding of structural system behavior through modeling and analysis. Underlying the theory of structural analysis are three key concepts: equilibrium of internal with applied forces, compatibility of deformations with displacements, and the relationship between forces and deformations. Equilibrium and compatibility are closely related through the principle of virtual work, which will be used extensively in the theoretical development. Analysis methods will be compactly expressed with matrix notation, so that advantage can be taken of available matrix algebra software.

We will make use of two software packages that support matrix operations to help us with the tedium of repetitive calculations in homework assignments. These packages are Mathcad© and Matlab©.

Mathcad is relatively easy to learn, has a user-friendly interface and is useful in analysis and design. Its printed output has the look of a word processor and is, thus, suitable for conveying calculations to others. Thus, it is a great tool for documenting analysis and design calculations in professional practice and is widely used in government agencies and in engineering companies. The latest academic release of the product is Mathcad 13 and a student licence is available from the Scholar's Workstation for $29.99. The latest version of Mathcad is installed in the CEE instructional computing network in the 3rd floor of Davis Hall.  Most examples and homework solutions will be prepared with Mathcad.

Matlab's user interface is not as user-friendly as Mathcad's and its documentation abilities are modest. But the impressive collection of built-in array functions, its great plotting capabilities, and its powerful scripting and programming abilities make it ideal for advanced studies and research. Those who took E77 know already a lot about Matlab, but it is good to keep sharp by practice and, if motivated, extend the basic skills you have. The latest student version is Release 14, Service Pack 3 and it is available from Mathworks for $99 and from the Scholar's Workstation for $95. The latest release is installed in the CEE instructional computing network in the 3rd floor of Davis Hall.