The analysis of dense flat grids on computer poses problems of computer storage and time and this may lead to an unacceptable cost for the analysis. The purpose of this paper is to present an approximate method of analysing dense flat grids using the concept of structural factoring. This concept provides a method for reducing a dense flat grid to a grid of lower density, thereby reducing the degrees of freedom of the structure. A relationship is established between the forces and displacements in the dense flat grid, and those in the reduced one. The resultant saving in computer resources is considerable with the loss of accuracy lying within a range acceptable for design purposes.
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References
1.
AnekweC. M., Reduction method of analysis for space structures, PhD Thesis, University of Surrey, 1984.
2.
LUSAS Users Manual, Finite Element Ltd, London, 1980.
