Wendelin H. Mueller III, P.E., Ph.D.

Portland State University

Civil Engineering

CE524 Matrix and Computer Methods in Structural Analysis

Catalog Data: CE 524/624 Matrix and Computer Methods in Structural Analysis (4) Fundamental concepts of analysis for statically determinate and indeterminate structures utilizing matrices; displacement methods applied to trusses and rigid frames; techniques for the analysis of large complex structures for static and dynamic loads.

Textbook: None

References: C.K. Wang, Structural Analysis on Microcomputers, MacMillan.

Hibbeler, R.C., Structural Analysis, 3rd. ed., Prentice Hall, 1995.

Goals: To teach matrix analysis techniques for the solution of wire type structures.

Prerequisites by Topic:

1. Indeterminate Structural Analysis

2. Matrix Algebra

Topics (2 hour classes):

1. Matrix operations and Wire Structural Systems (1 class)

2. Stiffness method (trusses, beams and frames): static matrix, Hooke's Law, compatibility matrix (4 classes)

3. Supports using Penalty Method (3 classes)

4. Stiffness method (grids): static matrix, Hooke's Law, compatibility matrix (1 class)

5. Mixed Structures (trusses, frames and springs): static matrix, Hooke's Law, compatibility matrix (4 classes)

6. Direct element method (trusses, beams and frames): element stiffness matrix, total structural stiffness matrix, structural transformation matrix, stiffness matrix (4 classes)

7. Discontinuities: internal, supports, springs (1 classes)

8. Curved Members (1 class)

9. Examinations (2 classes)

Computer Usage:

General use of microprocessors and programmable calculators to solve simultaneous equations and perform matrix algebra in the solution of homework.