Chapter 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Have you ever wondered how a structure is designed and constructed? Do you
know the materials used in constructing a building and how they are meticulously
calculated and analyzed using different engineering methods? Well one of the
materials that we have to be familiar with are, Beams. Now, what is a beam?
Beam is a structural element that is capable of withstanding loads, like dead
loads, live loads and other external forces, principally by resisting bending. The
bending force induced into the material of the beam as a result of the external loads,
own weight, span and external reactions to these loads is called bending moment.
Beams are conventionally characterized by their profile (shape of cross-section), their
length, and their material. (Wikipedia)
In this study, we have to be familiarized with the basic concept of the analysis
of beams using the matrix stiffness method and develop a computer program based on
the matrix stiffness formulations. From the kassimali matrix analysis book, the matrix
stiffness relations for beams vary from those for the plane trusses, however the
overall format of the method of analysis remains the same and that some, if not many,
of the analysis steps from the plane trusses can be directly applied for beams.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

This study seeks to account the potential use of the language Codeblocks C++
for the beam matrix analysis. The program is intended to promote the language within
the generally accepted levels of design considerations, formulations and assumptions.

1.3 Objective of the Study

The main objective of this study:
a.

To test and evaluate the matrix analysis program in terms of the acquired

joint loads,
b. To evaluate the reaction vectors,
c. To test and evaluate the member stiffness relations, member fixed-end
forces and moments due to loads.
1.4 Significance of the Study
The program is intended to promote and to develop a computer program that
can be modified with relative ease for the analysis of beams, and also to lessen the
burdens of manual calculation of matrix analysis of beams.

1.5 Scope and Limitation of the Study**

The study is limited to the use of Codeblocks C++ language for the beam
matrix analysis. The beam must have at least 6 members. The results must pertain the
following:

EI/L3, k (local member stiffness matrix),

S (structure stiffness matrix),

Qf (fixed-end forces),

P (joint loads),

Pf (structure fixed-joint load),

d (displacement),

Q (total forces),

R (reaction vectors), and;

Checking for the equilibrium of the beam.

6 membered beam,

There are two cases considered, as to where the concentrated load is

located,

Chapter 3
METHODOLOGY

3.1 Program Inputs

Using Codeblocks C++ program, the following are the inputs for the study:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Modulus of Elasticity, E
Moment of Inertia, I
The total length of the beam.
Entering each length of every elements/members of the beam.
Asking if there are any concentrated load in every elements/members of the beam.

Note: The units used for this program is in SI units only.

3.2 Program Process
1. Upon entering the total length of the beam, this program automatically has fixed-end
at both ends of the beam.
2. The program then ask if how many elements/members we wish to divide in the beam
into and length of each element.
3. The program will then calculate the local stiffness matrix on every elements/members
and assembles the structure stiffness matrix S. The number of rows and columns of S
must be equal to the number of degrees of freedom (NDOF) of the beam.
4. Also, it will calculate the fixed-joint vector Pf where the number of rows must also be
equal to NDOF.
5. The program will then ask if there are any concentrated or uniform loads on every
elements/members. The program will then evaluate the fixed-end force vector Qf,
using the formulas found in Appendix (Figure 3.1).

6. If the beam is subjected to joint loads, NDOF x 1 joint load vector P will be formed.
7. Determining the joint displacements, d. Substituting P, Pf, and S into the structure
stiffness relations, P-Pf = Sd, and the program will then solve the resulting system of
simultaneous equations for the unknown joint displacement d.
8. Solving for the member end forces Q, with the given formula, Q = ku + Qf, obtain
member end displacements u from the joint displacements d, using the member code
numbers.
9. The support reactions will then be solved using the member end forces.
10. The program will then check the simultaneous equations by using the equations of
equilibrium if the results have been solved correctly.
3.3 Program Outputs
1. Number of degrees of freedom (NDOF)
2. Number of restraints (NR)
3. In every elements/members, each of it will show the local stiffness matrix (k).
4. The structure stiffness matrix (S)
5. The joint load vector (P)
6. Fixed joint vector (Pf)
7. Fixed-end force vector (Qf)
8. Displacement (d)
9. Member end displacement (u)
10. Member end forces (Q)
11. Support Reactions (R)
12. Checking of the results

Figure 3.1 Fixed-End Moments