Introduction to Finite Elements

Lecture 2
Matrix Structural Analysis of Framed
Structures

Introduction
In this chapter, we shall derive the element
stiness matrix [k] of various one dimensional
elements. Only after this important step is well
understood, we could expand the theory and
introduce the structure stiness matrix [K] in its
global coordinate system.

Introduction
As will be seen later, there are two fundamentally
dierent approaches to derive the stiness
matrix of one dimensional element. The rst one,
which will be used in this chapter, is based on
classical methods of structural analysis (such as
moment area or virtual force method). Thus,
in deriving the element stiness matrix, we will be
reviewing concepts earlier seen.

Introduction
The other approach, based on energy
consideration through the use of assumed shape
functions, will be examined later. This second
approach, exclusively used in the nite element
method, will also be extended to two
dimensional continuum elements.

Influence Coefficients
In structural analysis an inuence coecient Cij
can be dened as the eect on d.o.f. i due to a unit
action at d.o.f. j for an individual element or a hole
structure. Examples of Inuence Coecients are
shown in Table 2.1.
It should be recalled that inuence lines are
associated with the analysis of structures subjected
to moving loads (such as bridges), and that the
exibility and stiness coecients are components
of matrices used in structural analysis.

Influence Coefficients

Flexibility Matrices

Remember the Virtual Force Method!

Flexibility Method

Stiffness Coefficients

Force Displacement: Axial Def.

Force Displacement: Flexural Def.

Force Displacement: Flexural Def.

Force Displacement: Torsional Def.

Force Displacement: Torsional Def.

Force Displacement: Shear Def.

Force Displacement: Shear Def.

Force Displacement: Shear Def.

Effect of Translation on Shear Def.

Effect of Rotation on Shear Def.

Putting it All Together

Using basic structural analysis methods we have derived
various force displacement relations for axial, exural,
torsional and shear imposed displacements. At this point,
and keeping in mind the denition of degrees of freedom,
we seek to assemble the individual element stiness
matrices [k]. We shall start with the simplest one, the
truss element, then consider the beam, 2D frame, grid,
and nally the 3D frame element.
In each case, a table will cross-reference the force
displacement relations, and then the element
stiness matrix will be accordingly dened.

Truss Element

Beam Elements
There are two major beam theories:
Euler-Bernoulli which is the classical
formulation for beams.
Timoshenko which accounts for transverse
shear deformation eects.

Euler-Bernoulli Beam Theory

Euler-Bernoulli Beam Element (Flexure)

Timoshenko Beam Element

Timoshenko Beam Element

Timoshenko Beam Element

Timoshenko Beam Element

2D Frame Element (Beam+Truss)

Grid Element

3D Frame Element

3D Frame Element

Remarks on Element Stiffness

Matrices