Analysis of large complex frames on a small computer

Abstract The stiffness matrix method is combined with an iteration technique to analyze frames in which the members are nonprismatic and have shapes which are complex for purposes of analysis, or cannot be expressed analytically. The complex nonprismatic members are approximated by a combination of prismatic and tapered segments, and the matrix method is used to compute their characteristics as well as the fixed end moments and shears required in the iteration process. The proposed method of analysis is suitable for analyzing large complex frames on a small digital computer. The analysis includes gravity loads as well as lateral loads that may result from wind, blast or earthquake.