Classification of Structures

All structural forms used for load transfer from one point to another are 3-dimensional in nature. In principle one could model them as 3-dimensional elastic structure and obtain solutions (response of structures to loads) by solving the associated partial differential equations. In due course of time, you will appreciate the difficulty associated with the 3-dimensional analysis. Also, in many of the structures, one or two dimensions are smaller than other dimensions. This geometrical feature can be exploited from the analysis point of view. The dimensional reduction will greatly reduce the complexity of associated governing equations from 3 to 2 or even to one dimension.This simplification will yield results of reasonable and acceptable accuracy. Most commonly used structural forms for load transfer are: beams, plane truss, space truss, plane frame, space frame, arches, cables, plates and shells. Each one of these structural arrangement supports load in a specific way.

BEAMS

Beams are the simplest structural elements that are used extensively to support loads. They may be straight or curved ones. Usually, the loads are assumed to act on the beam in a plane containing the axis of symmetry of the cross section and the beam axis. The beams may be supported on two or more supports. The beams may be curved in. Beams carry loads by deflecting in the same plane and it does not twist. It is possible for the beam to have no axis of symmetry. In such cases, one needs to consider unsymmetrical bending of beams. In general, the internal stresses at any cross section of the beam are: bending moment, shear force and axial force.

PLANE TRUSSES

Plane Trusses are commonly used in Railway bridges, at railway stations, and factories. Plane trusses are made of short thin members interconnected at hinges into triangulated patterns. For the purpose of analysis statically equivalent loads are applied at joints. From the above definition of truss, it is clear that the members are subjected to only axial forces and they are constant along their length. Also, the truss can have only hinged and roller supports. In field, usually joints are constructed as rigid by welding. However, analyses were carried out as though they were pinned. This is justified as the bending moments introduced due to joint rigidity in trusses are negligible. Truss joint could move either horizontally or vertically or combination of them.