Design of complex structures – an overview

DESIGN OF COMPLEX STRUCTURES – AN OVERVIEW

Complex structures have complex geometry and are subjected to a combination of loads, viz., axial, bending, shear and twisting loads. Few typical examples for complex structures are shown in Fig. 9.

The stress induced in a structure depends on the geometry and type of loading. As long as the geometry and loading of structures are simpler, simpler analytical equations (similar to what is presented in previous sections) can be used to determine the stress and deflection.

However, in order to predict the stress and deflection of complex structures, numerical techniques like Finite Element Method (FEM) need to be used. Structural designers need to ensure that the stress developed in structures is always less than the strength of the material for safety