CHAPTER I: INTRODUCTION

LECTURE 2: Supports and Structural Stability

1.1 Types of supports and support reactions;
1.2 Conditions for instability, stability, and redundancy of structures;
1.3 Degree of static indeterminacy (Degree of Indeterminacy) for planar and spatial
structures; and
1.4 Degree of kinematic indeterminacy (Degree of Freedom) for planar and spatial
structures

LEARNING OUTCOME (LO):

LO 3: Determine the type of supports and able to evaluate support reactions;
LO 4: Evaluate the conditions for instability, stability, and redundancy of beams,
trusses, and frames; and
LO 5: Calculate the degree of Indeterminacy and Degree of Freedom of structures.

DISCUSSION/PRESENTATION OF THE LESSON:

1.1 Types of Supports and support Reactions

The supports of structure restrain its movement to maintain stability (the body is at
equilibrium); it is either partially or completely restrained to a stationary body such as the
ground or another structure. Generally, there are three types of supports: (1) hinge, (2) roller,
and (3) fixed support. The distribution of the reactive forces of support may be simplified by a
single force called the Resultant of the Reactive Forces which possesses the following elements:
(1) the point of application, (2) the direction, and (3) the magnitude.

Three (3) types of Supports

1. Hinge/pin Support
It can resist forces in any direction but not bending moment of forces. In short,
two components of forces can be supported by hinge support.

Figure 10 (a): Hinged support in actual construction

Figure 10 (b): Idealization of Hinged support and its components

2. Roller Support
The reaction acts normal or perpendicular to the supporting surface through the
center of the connecting pin. This type of support cannot resist bending moment and
lateral force along the surface of support, means that only one component can be
supported.

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Structural Theory 7
 Figures 11 (a): Roller supports in actual construction

Figure 11 (b): Idealization of roller supports, and its normal component

3. Fixed Support
This type of support prevents the end of the member from translation and
rotation, thus it can resist forces in any direction and bending moment of forces. Three
components of the forces can be supported.

Figure12 (a): Fixed supports in actual

construction

Figure 12 (b): Idealization of fixed support, and its components

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Structural Theory 8
1.2 Conditions for Instability, stability, and redundancy of structures
Structures such as beam, truss, and rigid frame may have considered to be rigid body
sustained in space by a number of supports. If the structure is to remain at rest, it must satisfy
the equations of equilibrium (∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0, ∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 ∑ 𝑀𝑜 = 0) considering the external force
system of the structure, consisting of the loads on the structure and the support reactions. It
is noted that when one considers the design of a structure, careful thoughts must be given to
the number and arrangement of the supports directly related to the static stability and
determinacy of the structure. Structure is treated as one monolithic rigid body supported by
support reactions. Thus, there will be no internal condition involved, and the stability and
determinacy of the structure will be judged solely by the stability and determinacy of supports.

1.2.1 Static Instability described by considering two elements of reaction supplied by

supports, such as two forces each with a definite point of application and direction, are not
sufficient to ensure the stability of a rigid body, since the two reactive forces are either collinear,
parallel, or concurrent, these cases violate the conditions of equilibrium, not because of the
lack of strength of supports but the insufficient number of support elements.

A structure is unstable when:

1. Reactive forces are collinear. If two components of the support reaction are collinear
(they lie in the same line of action) as shown in figure 13 (a), they cannot resist an
external load that has a component normal to line of reactions.

2. Reactive forces are parallel. If the components of the support reactions are parallel,
refer to figure 13 (b), they cannot prevent the body (structure) from lateral sliding
when subjected to external loadings.

3. Reactive forces are concurrent. If the reactive forces are concurrent (they meet at a
common point called concurrent point), see figures 13 (c) and 13 (d), they cannot
resist the moment about the concurrent point 𝑂, due to any reactive force not
through the concurrent point.

(a) (b)

(c) (d)

Figure 13: Conditions for Unstable Structure

Mathematically, in each of the cases mentioned above, one equilibrium condition is not
satisfied or met. Just like in case 1 (reactive forces are collinear) and case 2 (reactive forces are
parallel) the condition ∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0 is violated, and in case 3 (reactive forces are concurrent) the
condition ∑ 𝑀𝑜 = 0 is not fulfilled. Since the body (structure) is not in equilibrium, therefore it
is unstable.

1.2.2 At least three elements (components) of reaction are necessary to restrain a body
in stable equilibrium, refer to figures 14 (a) and (b). If a rigid body is subjected to restraints by
three elements (or components) of reaction, and the restraints can be solved by the three
available equilibrium equations. The satisfaction of the these equations, ∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0, ∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0,

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Structural Theory 9
𝑎𝑛𝑑 ∑ 𝑀𝑜 = 0, for loads and reactions acting on the body guarantees that the body will neither
move horizontally or vertically nor rotate. The structural system is said to be statically stable
and determinate.

Figure 14 (a): A Simply Supported Beam

Figure 14 (b): A Cantilever Beam

1.2.3 If there are more than three elements (components) of reaction as shown in figure
15, the body is necessarily more stable because of the additional restraints. Since the number
of unknown components of reaction is more than the number of equations for static
equilibrium, the structural system is said to be statically indeterminate with regard to the
reactions of support. It is stable provided that no external geometric instability is involved.

Figure 15: A Continuous Beam

1.2.4 That the number of elements (components) of reaction should be at least three is
a necessary but not a sufficient condition for an externally stable structure. There are cases
that are obviously not stable with respect to the support system even though three or more
than three elements (components) of reaction are supplied. These condition which results from
the inadequacy of arrangement of supports, is called external geometric instability, which is
unstable.

1.2.5 It is noted that a monolithic rigid body is rigid by definition, hence it will have no
problem of internally instability. At any cut section of a monolithic rigid body, the elements of
internal force, can always be determined by the equations of equilibrium, once the reactions
are completely defined.

The following figures below show the different structural system of a structure.

Figure 16 (a) Figure 16 (b)

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Structural Theory 10
 Figure 16 (c) Figure 16 (d)

Figure 16 (a). Externally indeterminate but internally determinate. There are 6 components of
the reactions which is more than the available equilibrium equations, therefore, it is externally
indeterminate. One of the member of the frame is discontinuous, hence it provides additional
equations internally, therefore, it is internally determinate.

Figure 16 (b). Externally determinate but internally indeterminate. The number of components
of the reaction is equal to the available equilibrium equations, therefore, it is externally
determinate. The members of the frame are rigidly attached to other members, additional
equation is needed to analyze the internal forces of the frame, therefore, it is internally
indeterminate.

Figure 16 (c). Externally and internally determinate. The number of components of the reaction
is equal to the available equilibrium equations, therefore, it is externally determinate, and one
of the member of the frame is discontinuous, hence it provides additional equations internally,
therefore, it is internally determinate.

Figure 16 (d). Externally and internally indeterminate. There are 6 components of the reactions
which is more than the available equilibrium equations, therefore, it is externally
indeterminate, and the members of the frame are rigidly attached to other members, additional
equation is needed to analyze the internal forces of the frame, therefore, it is internally
indeterminate.

Redundancy of structures can either external redundant or redundant member. The

external redundant is the excess reactions which is necessary for equilibrium. Likewise,
redundant member is the excess members of a structure necessary to maintain equilibrium
conditions.

Internal connections (see figure 17) in structures such as internal pin or hinge is use in
order to lessen the span of a member and to provide additional equation. Such internal
connections are applicable only to beams and frames, but not to trusses since it will make the
structure unstable.

Figure 17: Example of Internal Connection

Geometric instability is most likely to happen whenever internal connections are

introduced into the stable structure. The inserted internal connections will provide additional
number of equations to make the beam statically determinate. However, when a load is applied,
a small initial displacement will occur and will not be resisted elastically by the structure. In
such situation, the beam is unstable not because of the inadequacy of the supports but
because of the inadequacy of the arrangement of members. This condition is referred to as
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Structural Theory 11
internal geometric instability, (see figure 18). In this case collapse will not occur but the beam
will come to rest in a position such as that marked by the dashed lines shown in the figure.
The dash line indicates a possible form of displacement.

Figure 18: Internal Geometric Instability

1.3 Degree of Static Indeterminacy (Degree of Indeterminacy) for Planar and Spatial
Structures
Static Indeterminacy or Degree of Indeterminacy (DI) is the difference of the unknown
forces (internal forces and external reactions) and the equations of equilibrium.

A. Static Indeterminacy or Degree of Indeterminacy (DI) of Beams

Criteria to evaluate the stability of Beams

1. If 𝑟 < 𝑐 + 3, the beam is unstable
2. If 𝑟 = 𝑐 + 3, the beam is statically determinate provided that no geometric
instability (internal and external) is involved
3. If 𝑟 > 𝑐 + 3, the beam is statically indeterminate

Degree of Indeterminacy (𝐷𝐼) = 𝑟 − 3 − 𝑐 equation 1

Where in:
𝑟 = 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠,
𝑐 = 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑛𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑠 𝑛𝑒𝑒𝑑𝑒𝑑
𝑐 = 1 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑛𝑎𝑙 ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑒/𝑝𝑖𝑛
𝑐 = 2 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑟𝑜𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑟
𝑐 = 0 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑎 𝑏𝑒𝑎𝑚 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑛𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛
3 = 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑎𝑣𝑎𝑖𝑙𝑎𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑙𝑖𝑏𝑟𝑖𝑢𝑚

If 𝐷𝐼 = 0 the beam is statically determinate

Example 1: Evaluate the stability and calculate degree of indeterminacy of the given beam.

Solution:

Using equation 1 𝐷𝐼 = 𝑟 − 3 − 𝑐

𝑟 = 6 : since a fixed support provides 3 components of reaction

then, 2 𝑓𝑖𝑥𝑒𝑑 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡𝑠 𝑥 3 = 6
𝑐 = 1: since the internal connection is a hinge

𝐷𝐼 = 6 − 3 − 1
𝑫𝑰 = 𝟐

Therefore, the beam is statically indeterminate to the 2 nd degree

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Structural Theory 12
Example 2: Evaluate the stability and calculate degree of indeterminacy of the given beam.

Answer: Since the reactions are concurrent (they meet at a common point);
therefore, the beam is unstable.

Example 3: Evaluate the stability and calculate degree of indeterminacy of the given beam.

Solution:

Using equation 1 𝐷𝐼 = 𝑟 − 3 − 𝑐

𝑟 = 5 : since a fixed support provides 3 components of reaction, and 1

component for each roller support

𝑐 = 0: no internal connection

𝐷𝐼 = 5 − 3 − 0
𝑫𝑰 = 𝟐

Therefore, the beam is statically indeterminate to the 2 nd degree

B. Static Indeterminacy or Degree of Indeterminacy (DI) of Trusses

Each bar (member) of a truss is a two-force member; hence each represents one
unknown element of internal forces. The total number of unknown elements for the entire
system is counted by the number of bars or members (internal) and the number of
independent reaction components (external). If a truss is in equilibrium, every isolated
section must likewise be in equilibrium. For a truss having 𝑗 joints, the entire system may
be isolated into 𝑗 free bodies, in which each joints treated as concurrent force system and

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Structural Theory 13
 yields two equilibrium equations, ∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0 and ∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0. Hence, a total of 2𝑗 independent
equations obtained.

Criteria to evaluate the stability of Trusses

1. If 𝑟 + 𝑚 < 2𝑗, the truss is unstable
2. If 𝑟 + 𝑚 = 2𝑗, the truss is statically determinate provided that it is also stable
3. If 𝑟 + 𝑚 > 2𝑗, the truss is statically indeterminate

Degree of Indeterminacy (𝐷𝐼) = 𝑟 + 𝑚 − 2𝑗 for planar (2D) case equation 2(a)

Where in:
𝑟 = 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠,
𝑚 = 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑚𝑒𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟𝑠
𝑗 = 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠

If 𝐷𝐼 = 0 the truss is statically determinate

The satisfaction of condition 𝑟 + 𝑚 ≥ 2𝑗 does not ensure a stable truss. For the truss to
be stable requires fulfillment of the following conditions: (1) the value of 𝑟 must be equal to or
greater than the three required for statical stability of supports, and (2) there must be no
inadequacy in the arrangement of supports and bars (members) so as to avoid both external
and internal geometric instability.

For space truss (truss in 3-dimensional, 3D) the Degree of Indeterminacy is evaluated
by the equation,
𝐷𝐼 = 𝑟 + 𝑚 − 3𝑗 equation 2(b)

Example 4. Evaluate the stability and calculate degree of indeterminacy of the given truss.

Solution:

Using equation 2(a) 𝐷𝐼 = 𝑟 + 𝑚 − 2𝑗

𝑟 = 3 : since a hinge support provides 2 components of reaction, and 1 component

for roller support
𝑚 = 13 𝑚𝑒𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟𝑠 𝑜𝑟 𝑏𝑎𝑟𝑠; members 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, and 13
𝑗 = 8 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠; joints a, b, c, d, e, f, g, and h

𝐷𝐼 = 𝑟 + 𝑚 − 2𝑗
𝐷𝐼 = 3 + 13 − 2 𝑥 8
𝑫𝑰 = 𝟎

Therefore, the truss is statically determinate

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Structural Theory 14
Example 5. Evaluate the stability and calculate degree of indeterminacy of the given truss.

Answer:

The truss is unstable because of internal geometric instability due to lack of lateral
resistance in panel abde.

• Considering this possible situation may occur in the given truss, a lateral force, 𝑃 acted
upon the given truss, members will displace to the left which makes the body unstable.
To attain stability, add diagonal members, ad and be to counter act lateral forces.

Example 6. Evaluate the stability and calculate degree of indeterminacy of the given truss.

Solution:

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Structural Theory 15
 Using equation 2(a) 𝐷𝐼 = 𝑟 + 𝑚 − 2𝑗

𝑟 = 3 : since a hinge support provides 2 components of reaction, and 1 component for

roller support
𝑚 = 20 𝑚𝑒𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟𝑠 𝑜𝑟 𝑏𝑎𝑟𝑠; members 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17,
18 19, and 20
𝑗 = 10 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠; joints a, b, c, d, e, f, g, h, i, and j

𝐷𝐼 = 𝑟 + 𝑚 − 2𝑗
𝐷𝐼 = 3 + 20 − 2 𝑥 10
𝑫𝑰 = 𝟑

Therefore, the truss is statically indeterminate to the 3 rd degree

C. Static Indeterminacy or Degree of Indeterminacy (DI) of Rigid Frames

A rigid frame is built of beams (horizontal members) and columns (vertical members)
connected rigidly. Just like a truss, a rigid frame may be separated into number of free bodies
of joints, which requires that every member of the frame be taken apart. The stability and
determinacy of a rigid frame is evaluated by comparing the number of unknowns (internal
unknowns and reaction unknowns) with the number of equations of statics available for their
solution. In a cut section of a member of a rigid frame, a three unknown magnitudes (normal
force, shearing force, and resisting moment) existed. However, if these quantities are known at
one section of a member, similar quantities for any other section of the same member can be
determined. Thus, there are only three independent, internal, unknown elements for each
member in a rigid frame. Therefore, the total number of independent unknowns in a rigid frame
is (3𝑚 + 𝑟).
A system of forces and couples are acting in a rigid joint of a frame when isolated as a
free body. For equilibrium of a rigid joint, this system, therefore, must satisfy three equilibrium
equations ∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0, ∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0, and ∑ 𝑀𝑗 = 0. Thus, the number of independent equilibrium
equations is 3𝑗 for the entire system.
It is possible that an internal connection (hinges and/ or other devices of construction)
are introduced into the rigid frame, in order to provide additional equations of statics.
Therefore, the total number of equations of statics available for the solution of the (3𝑚 + 𝑟)
unknowns is (3𝑗 + 𝑐).

Criteria to evaluate the stability of Rigid Frame

1. If 𝑟 + 3𝑚 < 3𝑗 + 𝑐, the rigid frame is unstable
2. If 𝑟 + 3𝑚 = 3𝑗 + 𝑐, the rigid frame is statically determinate provided that it is also
stable
3. If 𝑟 + 3𝑚 > 3𝑗 + 𝑐, the rigid frame is statically indeterminate

Degree of Indeterminacy (𝐷𝐼) = 𝑟 + 3𝑚 − 3𝑗 − 𝑐 for planar (2D) case equation 3(a)

Where in:
𝑟 = 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠,
𝑚 = 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑚𝑒𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟𝑠
𝑗 = 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠

If 𝐷𝐼 = 0 the rigid frame is statically determinate

It should be noted that satisfaction of the condition 𝑟 + 3𝑚 ≥ 3𝑗 + 𝑐does not warrant a

stable rigid frame unless 𝑟 ≥ 3 and also, that no geometric instability (external and internal) is
involved in the system.

For space rigid frame (rigid frame in 3-dimensional, 3D) the Degree of Indeterminacy is
evaluated by the equation,

𝐷𝐼 = 𝑟 + 6𝑚 − 6𝑗 − 𝑐 equation 3(b)

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Structural Theory 16
Example 7. Evaluate the stability and calculate degree of indeterminacy of the given rigid
frame.

Solution:

Using equation 3(a) 𝐷𝐼 = 𝑟 + 3𝑚 − 3𝑗 − 𝑐

𝑟 = 9 : since a fixed support provides 3 components of reaction,

3 𝑓𝑖𝑥𝑒𝑑 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡 𝑥 3 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠 = 9
𝑚 = 8 𝑚𝑒𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟𝑠 𝑜𝑟 𝑏𝑎𝑟𝑠; members 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8
𝑗 = 8 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠; joints a, b, c, d, e, f, g, and h
𝑐 = 0, no internal connection

𝐷𝐼 = 𝑟 + 3𝑚 − 3𝑗 − 𝑐
𝐷𝐼 = 9 + (3 𝑥 8) − (3 𝑥 8) − 0
𝑫𝑰 = 𝟗

Therefore, the rigid frame is statically indeterminate to the 9th degree

Example 8. Evaluate the stability and calculate degree of indeterminacy of the given rigid
frame.

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Structural Theory 17
Solution:

Using equation 3(a) 𝐷𝐼 = 𝑟 + 3𝑚 − 3𝑗 − 𝑐

𝑟 = 7 : 2 ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑒𝑑 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡 𝑥 2 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠 = 4 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠

1 𝑓𝑖𝑥𝑒𝑑𝑑 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡 𝑥 3 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠 = 3 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠
a total of 7 reactive components
𝑚 = 8 𝑚𝑒𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟𝑠 𝑜𝑟 𝑏𝑎𝑟𝑠; members 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8
𝑗 = 9 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠; joints a, b, c, d, e, f, g, h, and at the internal pin
𝑐 = 1, internal pin

𝐷𝐼 = 𝑟 + 3𝑚 − 3𝑗 − 𝑐
𝐷𝐼 = 7 + (3 𝑥 8) − (3 𝑥 9) − 1
𝑫𝑰 = 𝟑

Therefore, the rigid frame is statically indeterminate to the 3rd degree

Example 9. Evaluate the stability and calculate degree of indeterminacy of the given rigid
frame.

Solution:

Using equation 3(a) 𝐷𝐼 = 𝑟 + 3𝑚 − 3𝑗 − 𝑐

𝑟 = 5 : 1 ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑒𝑑 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡 𝑥 2 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠 = 2 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠

1 𝑓𝑖𝑥𝑒𝑑𝑑 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡 𝑥 3 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠 = 3 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠
a total of 5 reactive components
𝑚 = 9 𝑚𝑒𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟𝑠 𝑜𝑟 𝑏𝑎𝑟𝑠; members 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9
𝑗 = 8 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠; joints a, b, c, d, e, f, g, and h
𝑐 = 0, no internal connection

𝐷𝐼 = 𝑟 + 3𝑚 − 3𝑗 − 𝑐
𝐷𝐼 = 5 + (3 𝑥 9) − (3 𝑥 8) − 0
𝑫𝑰 = 𝟖

Therefore, the rigid frame is statically indeterminate to the 8th degree

___________________________________________________________________________________________
Structural Theory 18
1.4 Degree of Kinematic Indeterminacy (Degree of freedom) for Planar and Spatial
Structures

Kinematic Indeterminacy is the number of possible relative displacements of the nodes

in the directions of stress resultants. In short, it is the total number of free movements of
joints of a truss or a rigid frame.

A. For trusses, a joint (or node) can move horizontally or vertically, therefore, there are
only 2 possible movements in a joint (or node). Possible movements of a joint or node
can be restrained by providing supports, hence, for hinged or pin support no possible
movements may occur in the joint wherein the support is located; for roller support,
there is only one (1) possible movement, that is in the direction normal to the reactive
force.

To determine the total possible displacement of the nodes of a truss or the degree-of-
freedom of a truss, consider the following:

1. At joints or nodes without supports. Count the number of joints or nodes of the truss
excluding the joints or nodes with supports. These joints or nodes have 2 possible
movements, horizontally (𝛿𝐻 ) and vertically (𝛿𝑉 )

𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑒𝑥𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡

= 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑟 𝑛𝑜𝑑𝑒𝑠 𝑒𝑥𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡 𝑥 2

2. At joints or nodes with supports. Zero displacement at a hinged or pin, and one (1)
possible displacement for roller.

3. Add possible displacement from item number 1 and item number 2. The total
number of displacement is the degree-of-freedom (DOF) of a truss.

Example 10. Determine the degree-of-freedom of the truss.

Solution:

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑒𝑥𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡𝑠 = 6 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠, joints c, b, d, e, f, and g

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠 𝑒𝑥𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡 = 6 𝑥 2 = 12

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑎 = 0, since at joint a supported by hinged

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 ℎ = 1, since horizontal movement is possible

𝐷𝑂𝐹 = 12 + 0 + 1 = 13

𝐷𝑂𝐹 = 13 answer

Another solution:
• For statically determinate truss, the DOF is equal to the number of members

Based from the example 4, this truss is statically determinate or DI = 0

Therefore, 𝐷𝑂𝐹 = 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑚𝑒𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟𝑠 = 13

𝐷𝑂𝐹 = 13 answer

___________________________________________________________________________________________
Structural Theory 19
Example 11. Determine the degree-of-freedom of the truss.

Solution:

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑒𝑥𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡𝑠 = 8 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠, joints c, b, d, e, f, g, h, and i

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠 𝑒𝑥𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡 = 8 𝑥 2 = 16

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑎 = 0, since at joint a supported by hinged

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 ℎ = 1, since horizontal movement is possible

𝐷𝑂𝐹 = 16 + 0 + 1 = 17

𝐷𝑂𝐹 = 17 answer

Another solution:
• For statically indeterminate truss, the DOF is equal to the number of
members less the degree of indeterminacy (DI)

Based from the example 6, this truss is statically indeterminate to the 3rd degree

Therefore, 𝐷𝑂𝐹 = 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑚𝑒𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟𝑠 − 𝐷𝐼

𝐷𝑂𝐹 = 20 − 3 = 17
𝐷𝑂𝐹 = 17 answer

B. In a rigid frames there are effectively three possible components of displacement for
each joint or node which does not constitute a support, they are two components of
translation (𝛿𝐻 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝛿𝑉 ), and rotation (𝜃𝑗 ). At each hinged (pinned) support there is
an additional one movement due to the release of rotational restraint, (𝜃𝑗 ). For a
roller support, two additional movements due to the release of rotational restraint
(𝜃𝑗 ), and a translational restraint, either horizontal or vertical, (𝛿𝐻 𝑜𝑟 𝛿𝑉 ). And in case
of fixed support, no additional translation nor rotation since the three components
(𝛿𝐻 , 𝛿𝑉 , 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝜃𝑗 ) are restraint.

To determine the total possible displacement of the nodes of a rigid frame or the
degree-of-freedom, consider the following:

1. At joints or nodes without supports. Count the number of joints or nodes of the rigid
frame excluding the joints or nodes with supports. These joints or nodes have 3
possible movements, horizontally (𝛿𝐻 ), vertically (𝛿𝑉 ), and rotation (𝜃𝑗 ).

𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑒𝑥𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡

= 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑟 𝑛𝑜𝑑𝑒𝑠 𝑒𝑥𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡 𝑥 3

2. At joints or nodes with supports. Zero displacement at fixed support, 1 possible

movement for hinged or pinned support, and 2 possible displacements for roller
support.

3. Add possible displacement from item number 1 and item number 2. The total
number of displacement is the degree-of-freedom (DOF) of a rigid frame.
Notes:

• The introduction of a pin (internal connection) in a member at a node or

joint of a rigid frame produces an additional degree-of-freedom. An
additional rotation, (𝜃2𝑗 ) is released.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
Structural Theory 20
 • In many cases the effects due to axial deformations is significantly smaller
than those due to the bending effect and consequently an analysis
assuming axial rigidity of members is acceptable. Assuming axial rigidity
of a member reduces the degree-of-freedom, since the member is restraint
at the joint or node.

Example 12. Determine the degree-of-freedom of the rigid frame.

Solution:

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑒𝑥𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡𝑠 = 5 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠, joints c, b, e, f, and h

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠 𝑒𝑥𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡 = 5 𝑥 3 = 15

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑎, 𝑑, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑔 = 0, since all possible movements are
restraint due to the fixed support.

𝐷𝑂𝐹 = 15 + 0 = 15

𝐷𝑂𝐹 = 15 answer

Example 13. Determine the degree-of-freedom of the rigid frame at example 12, but it is
assumed that all columns are axially rigid.

Solution:

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑒𝑥𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡𝑠 = 5 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠, joints c, b, e, f, and h

Since the columns are assumed to be axially rigid, then it is considered restraint
vertically. So, there are only two possible movements (𝛿𝐻 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝜃𝑗 ). for each joint or node
excluding support.

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠 𝑒𝑥𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡 = 5 𝑥 2 = 10

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑎, 𝑑, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑔 = 0, since all possible movements are
restraint due to the fixed support.

𝐷𝑂𝐹 = 10 + 0 = 15

𝐷𝑂𝐹 = 10 answer

Example 14. Determine the degree-of-freedom of the rigid frame at example 12, but it is
assumed that all columns and beams are axially rigid.

___________________________________________________________________________________________
Structural Theory 21
Solution:

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑒𝑥𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡𝑠 = 5 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠, joints c, b, e, f, and h

Since the columns and beams are assumed to be axially rigid, then it is considered
restraint vertically and horizontally, respectively. So, only rotation(𝜃𝑗 ) is released for
each joint or node excluding support.

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠 𝑒𝑥𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡 = 5 𝑥 1 = 5

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑎, 𝑑, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑔 = 0, since all possible movements are
restraint due to the fixed support.

𝐷𝑂𝐹 = 5 + 0 = 5

𝐷𝑂𝐹 = 5 answer

Example 15. Determine the degree-of-freedom of the rigid frame in which an internal pin is
used at joint p.

Solution:

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑒𝑥𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡𝑠 = 6 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠, joints b, c, d, f, g and p

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠 𝑒𝑥𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡 = 6 𝑥 3 = 18

𝐴𝑑𝑑𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑎𝑡 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑝 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑝𝑖𝑛, 𝜃2𝑗 = 1

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑎, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑒 = 2 𝑥 1 = 2, since hinged support

provides 1 possible movement

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 ℎ = 0, since all possible movements are restraint
due to the fixed support.

𝐷𝑂𝐹 = 18 + 1 + 2 + 0 = 21

𝐷𝑂𝐹 = 21 answer

REFERENCES:

___________________________________________________________________________________________
Structural Theory 22
 A. BOOKS
• McKenzie, W.M. C., Examples in Structural Analysis, Taylor and Francis,
2006
• Hibbler, R.C., Structural Analysis, 9th Ed., Prentice Hall
• Rajan. S.D., Introduction to Structural Analysis and Design, John Wiley &
Sons, 2001

SELF-CHECK ACTIVITY NO. 2.1:

Direction: Evaluate the structural stability of the following structures. If stable, determine the
degree of indeterminacy (𝐷𝐼), and if unstable, state the reason.

1.

2.

3.

SELF-CHECK ACTIVITY NO. 2.2:

Direction: Determine the degree-of-freedom of the following trusses and rigid frames.

1.

2.

3.

___________________________________________________________________________________________
Structural Theory 23
ANSWERS AND SOLUTIONS TO SELF-CHECK ACTIVITY NO. 2.1
1. 𝑫𝑰 = 𝟏

Solution:
Using equation 1 𝐷𝐼 = 𝑟 − 3 − 𝑐

𝑟 = 6, At point A 2 components of reaction, At point B and point E 1 component each,

and at point F 2 components of reaction.

𝑐 = 2, since 2 internal pins

𝐷𝐼 = 6 − 3 − 2
𝑫𝑰 = 𝟏

Therefore, the beam is statically indeterminate to the 1st degree

2. Unstable. The reactive components are parallel, as shown in figure below, therefore
the system is unstable in that condition.

3. 𝑫𝑰 = 𝟔

Solution:
Using equation 3(a) 𝐷𝐼 = 𝑟 + 3𝑚 − 3𝑗 − 𝑐

𝑟 = 6,
2 𝑓𝑖𝑥𝑒𝑑 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡𝑠 𝑥 3 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠 = 6 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠
𝑚 = 7 𝑚𝑒𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟𝑠 𝑜𝑟 𝑏𝑎𝑟𝑠,
members 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7
𝑗 = 7 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠,
joints a, b, c, d, e, f, and g
𝑐 = 0, no internal connection

𝐷𝐼 = 𝑟 + 3𝑚 − 3𝑗 − 𝑐
𝐷𝐼 = 6 + (3 𝑥 7) − (3 𝑥 7) − 0
𝑫𝑰 = 𝟔

Therefore, the rigid frame is

statically indeterminate to
the 6th degree

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Structural Theory 24
ANSWERS AND SOLUTIONS TO SELF-CHECK ACTIVITY NO. 2.2

1. 𝑫𝑶𝑭 = 𝟏𝟓

Solution:
𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑒𝑥𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡𝑠 = 5 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠, joints b, c, d, e, and f

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠 𝑒𝑥𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡 = 5 𝑥 3 = 15

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑎, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑔 = 0, since all possible movements are
restraint due to the fixed support.

𝐷𝑂𝐹 = 15 + 0 = 15
𝐷𝑂𝐹 = 15

2. 𝑫𝑶𝑭 = 𝟓

Solution:
𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑒𝑥𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡𝑠 = 5 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠, joints b, c, d, e, and f

Since the columns and beams are assumed to be axially rigid, then it is considered
restraint vertically and horizontally, respectively. So, only rotation(𝜃𝑗 ) is released for
each joint or node excluding support.

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠 𝑒𝑥𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡 = 5 𝑥 1 = 5

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑎, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑔 = 0, since all possible movements are
restraint due to the fixed support.

𝐷𝑂𝐹 = 5 + 0 = 5
𝐷𝑂𝐹 = 5

3. 𝑫𝑶𝑭 = 𝟏𝟎

Solution:
𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑒𝑥𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡𝑠 = 5 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠, joints b, c, d, e, and f

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠 𝑒𝑥𝑐𝑙𝑢𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑢𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡 = 5 𝑥 2 = 10

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑗𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑎, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑔 = 0, since all possible movements are
restraint due to the hinged support of the truss.

𝐷𝑂𝐹 = 10 + 0 = 10
𝐷𝑂𝐹 = 10

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Structural Theory 25