Multiple Configuration Analysis Via Mixed Method

Recent study in the field of optimum design of frame and truss-type structures has shown that changes in geometry can have a pronounced effect on weight reduction. This technical note presents a simple approximate reanalysis technique for variable configuration. The technique is based on the mixed method of analysis in which the fundamental unknowns consist of both member forces and joint displacements. To test and evaluate this technique, a large number of space truss problems were solved, and the results for a typical problem are presented. The examples demonstrated the high accuracy of the predictions of the proposed reanalysis technique.