New Developments and Applications of the Generalised Beam Theory for Metal Structures: Plasticity, Vibration and Software

Abstract

This post-doctoral research project involves the development of formulations and numerical implementations (beam finite elements) based on Generalised Beam Theory (GBT), intended to analyse the structural behaviour of frames and trusses formed by open and/or tubular cross-section thin-walled metal members. The objective is to develop new formulations/implementations that are able to perform first-order (linear), buckling (i.e., equilibrium bifurcation), vibration and post-buckling (non-linear geometric analysis with geometric imperfections) analyses, in the elastic and/or elastic-plastic domains. The developed finite elements will be applied to investigate the local, distortional and global behaviours of plane and space frames and trusses acted by arbitrary loadings, with various joint configurations and bracing systems. In order to contribute to the dissemination of the use of GBT, a user-friendly computer code will be developed and made available online as freeware. This software will perform (i) first-order elastic-plastic analysis and (ii) buckling, post-buckling and vibration elastic analyses of frames and trusses. Most GBT-based results will be validated through the comparison with values yielded by rigorous shell finite element analyses and/or experimental results available in the literature. Finally, taking advantage of the GBT modal nature, one aims to propose and/or contribute to the development of new rules, procedures and design methodologies leading to a better understanding of the structural behaviour of frames/trusses and, therefore, allowing engineers to design these structures in a more effective and rational manner.