Pin Jointed Frame Structures

Abstract

In the previous programme we studied the conditions necessary for the equilibrium of structures as whole bodies under the action of external forces. We can now begin to learn how structures react to those external forces, and how to calculate the values of the internal forces that develop within a structure as a consequence of the loads upon it. This programme will introduce you to frame structures and instruct you in methods of analysing such frameworks in order to determine the forces in the members. The term frame structure is applied to a number of different forms of construction. Thus the rigid assembly of columns and beams forming the skeleton of a large building may be described as a reinforced concrete frame. A lightweight pin jointed roof truss may be described as a frame structure. Our studies will however be confined to a specific type of frame structure as specified below, and it is plane frames complying with the following definition that we shall be considering in this programme.