Computer Modeling of Building Structures

Catalog description

Theory and application of structural analysis using the direct stiffness method. Modeling assumptions, validation, interpretation of computer output. A E 530 Computer Modeling of Building Structures (3) This course addresses the theory and application of structural analysis using the direct stiffness method with matrix formulation, applying computer programs to the analysis of two- and three-dimensional structures. Topics include validation and interpretation of results from computer analyses, as well as practical analysis techniques and the design of building structures to satisfy building code requirements.The course is designed to provide students with the ability to create computer models representative of actual building response and in line with prevalent modeling techniques implemented using commercial structural analysis software. Primary objectives include developing an understanding of the process used by computers to solve structural systems, with emphasis on the use of computer models in the analysis and design process to satisfy building code requirements.This is a mandatory course for students in the structural option within the integrated undergraduate-graduate degree program in architectural engineering (B AE/M AE), and it is a valuable course for all structural engineering graduate students.Students must have completed an undergraduate course in structural analysis of determinate and indeterminate systems. Since some homework problems require proportioning structural members to resist combined loading conditions, the course prerequisites include introductory courses on the design of steel and concrete members. Also required is the knowledge of elementary matrix algebra and exposure to advanced programming of electronic spreadsheets.This course involves significant instruction in the AE Department computer laboratory, which is equipped with several commercial structural analysis software programs capable of handling large structural models.