CE-271 Advanced Structural Analysis

The inherent strength and stiffness possessed by solids which allows stable forms to exist is their structure. Some structures arise spontaneously in nature others are engineered by humans. The objective of this course is to provide the conceptual framework that enables a rational understanding of structural forms and the analytical and computational tools necessary to analyze linear and nonlinear structural systems subject to static loading.

References:

Structural Analysis 5th Edition. A. Ghali, A.M. Neville and T.G. Brown
Structural Analysis 8th Edition. R.C. Hibbeler
Finite Elements for Structural Analysis. W. Weaver Jr. and P. Johnston
Matrix Analysis. R.A. Horn and C.R. Johnson

Instructor:

Dr. Eric M. Hernandez
Office: 217 Votey Hall
E-mail: eric.hernandez@uvm.edu

Objectives:

1. Develop an intuitive understanding of the behavior of structures
2. Develop an expertise in the use modern computational methods for modeling and analyzing complex structural systems subject to static and dynamic loading
3. Provide exposure to the use of software for structural analysis

Topics:

• Review of mathematical, computational and structural mechanics prerequisites (with emphasis on the use MATLAB
  i. Matrix algebra
  ii. Strain energy
  iii.Virtual work theorem
  
• Classical methods of structural analysis for three-dimensional statically indeterminate structures
  i. Flexibility method
  ii.Stiffness method
  
• Structural analysis using the finite element method (with emphasis on application within commercial computer software) i. Formulation of the finite element method in structural mechanics
  ii. Trusses
  iii. Beam / Frames
  iv. Plates/Shells/Membranes
  v. Solids
  

Nonlinear behavior of structures

• i. Geometric and material non-linearity
• ii. Plastic analysis of frames – Collapse analysis

Computer Usage:

MATLAB, SAP2000

Grading:

Assignments 40%
Projects 30%
Exams 30%

UVM POLICIES – Read Carefully

Student Learning Accommodations:

In keeping with University policy, any student with a documented disability interested in utilizing accommodations should contact ACCESS, the office of Disability Services on campus. ACCESS works with students to create reasonable and appropriate accommodations via an accommodation letter to their professors as early as possible each semester. Contact ACCESS: A170 Living/Learning Center; 802-656-7753; access@uvm.edu; www.uvm.edu/access UVM’s policy on disability certification and student support: Learn More

Religious Holidays:

Students have the right to practice the religion of their choice. If you need to miss class to observe a religious holiday, please submit the dates of your absence to me in writing by the end of the second full week of classes. You will be permitted to make up work within a mutually agreed-upon time.

Academic Integrity:

The policy addresses plagiarism, fabrication, collusion, and cheating. Learn More

Grade Appeals:

If you would like to contest a grade, please follow the procedures outlined in this policy: Learn More

Grading:

For information on grading and GPA calculation, go to Learn More and click on Policies for an A-Z listing.

Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities:

Learn More

FERPA Rights Disclosure:

The purpose of this policy is to communicate the rights of students regarding access to, and privacy of their student educational records as provided for in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974. Learn More

Final exam policy:

The University final exam policy outlines expectations during final exams and explains timing and process of examination period. Learn More