Analysis of Structures

Definition of trusses and frames

Analysis of structure is the process by which we determine how the loads applied to a structure
are distributed throughout the structure.
The basic procedure developed in the last chapter for isolating a body by constructing a correct
free-body diagram is essential for the analysis of statically determinate structures.
The basic element of a plane truss is basically the triangle and structures built from it are known
as simple trusses.

Simple Trusses
Types of Structures
1. Truss/es are designed to support loads which are stationary fully constrained structures.
Trusses consist exclusively of straight members connected at joints of each member.
Member of truss are acted upon by two equal and opposite forces directed along the
members. The force is towards the joint. Bridges, roof supports, derricks, and other such
structures are common examples of trusses.

2. Frames are also designed to support loads and are also stationary, fully constrained
structures. Frame always contain one multi force member, where the member is acted
by three or more forces which in general not directed along the members. The force
application is on lateral part.

In simple trusses the members of a truss are joined together by means of pins, riveting or by
welding.
Forces present in member of a truss are:

In dealing withTension
equilibrium of structures, the forces to consider are as follows:
1. External Forces Compression
a. Force Applied
b. Reaction of body in contact
2. Internal Forces
- Reaction of members of a structure
 Methods in Solving Simple Truss
1. Methods of Joints
2. Methods of Sections

Methods by Joints
Steps to follow in solving by methods of joints:
1. Choose a pin (joint) on which no more than two members act;
2. Draw the free-body diagram of the pin having only two unmarked members, assuming
the forces in the unmarked members to be either tension or compression;
3. After determining the forces at a pin, mark the original truss diagram with appropriate
arrows at each end of the member whose force you have found;
4. From the original truss diagram, select the next pin at which there are two unmarked
members;
5. In many cases it is preferable to work from one end of the truss to the middle member,
and then from the other end of the truss back toward the same mid-member.
C
Where:
R = reactions
F = Force Applied
AC BC
CD

A B
AD BD
D

F
R1 R2
Ex. (1) Determine the forces in the members of the roof truss shown in figure.

F.B.D.

DH

Solution: DV
AV
 ∑Fx = 0
100 cos 30-Dh = 0
Dh = 86.6 lb

∑MD = 0 +

100 (BD cos 30) + 100 sin30 (BDcos30) – 100 c0s30 (BDsin30) - A V (2BDcos30)=0
Av = 50 lb

∑Fy = 0 +
Av+Dv-100sin30-100 = 0
50 + DV – 150 = 0
DV = 100 lb

@ joint A

∑Fy = 0 + ∑Fx = 0 +
300

50 – AB sin30 = 0 AC – AB cos 30 = 0
AV

AB = 100 Compression AC = 86.60 lb Tension

AB
AC

@ joint C
BC ∑Fx = 0 ∑Fy = 0
CD – AC = 0 BC – 100 = 0
CD = AC BC = 100 lb T
AC CD CD = 86.60 lb T

100
@ joint D
∑Fy = 0
BD Dv – BD sin 30 = 0
300
BD = 200 lb C
CD DH

Dv

Method of Sections
In method of section, a cutting plane is passed through the entire truss, separating it into two
parts without cutting more than 3 members. To apply this method, use the two basic equations:
∑Fx = 0 and ∑Fy = 0, including a moment equation usually about the point of intersection
of two unknown members.
Example:
Using the methods of section, determine the force in members BD, CD, and CE of the roof truss
shown.

F.B.D.

R2 = Fy
Fx = 0

∑MF = 0 (clockwise direction +)

36 R1 - 360 (12) = 0
R1 = 120 KN
R1 + R2 = 360
R2 = 240 KN

9
tanθ=
12

Ɵ = 36.8 0

∑MC = 0 (counter clockwise direction +) ∑MD = 0 (counter clockwise direction +)

BD (9) = 120 (12) CE (9) = 120 (24)
BD = 160 KN (Compression) CE = 320 KN (T)

∑Fy = 0
120 - CD sin 36.80 = 0
CD = 200 KN (C)
 Name: ____________________________________________
Plates No. _ Program/Year: ____________Date Submitted: ___________

Solve the following problems clearly and neatly.

I. By joint

1. Determine the force in each bar of the truss shown in figure caused by lifting the 120 –
lb load at constant velocity of 8 ft. per sec. What change in these forces, if any, results
from placing the roller support at D and the hinge support at A?

2. Compute the force in each member of the Warren truss shown in figure.

II. By Members
1. In the fink truss shown in figure, the web members BC and EF are perpendicular to
the inclined members at their midpoints. Use the method of sections to determine
the force in members DF, DE, and CE.

2. Determine the force in bars BD, CD, and DE of the nacelle truss shown in figure.