The computer analysis of space frames with offset members

The problems involved in the analysis of three dimensional frames having offset prismatic members are investigated. The sources of offset considered are the rigid gusset plate effects and misalignment of members from specified joint positions. The secondary effects due to axial forces are also considered in the analysis. The displacement method of structural analysis is used with an iterative procedure to take into account the secondary effects. The complete stiffness matrix has been derived. The computer program developed, based on this analysis, is also explained. From the example of steel frame folded plate it is seen that the difference in maximum axial forces and bending moments due to the offset members are about 20%. It appears that the method, developed herein, for analysing space frames having offset members, offers a very direct and versatile approach to the problem of analysing structures having misaligned members.