Elastic Analysis of 3D Frames using MATLAB Software

Abstract

People looking for software to solve linear elastic problems in structures face myriad challenges. The graphical user interface of the available software – such as ETABs – has a steep learning curve. If someone wants quick results – e.g., about deflections in a linear elastic structure – the procedure is laborious and time consuming. While it is imperative to have a firm grasp on these structural softwares, sometimes a tool that does just one job but does it faster and in a simpler and more direct way is what is needed. After consulting with various students, it was ascertained that the initial learning curve of the existing structural softwares deterred many of them from even getting started. This is exactly where our software comes in and fills the gap. Quicker linear elastic structure analysis and in a way that is user friendly to even an undergrad student. The quickness of the MATLAB based software depends on the way it is coded. Smart and efficient coding is the core of our project. Further, the friendliness of the GUI was determined by various experiments involving many trial runs – which were conducted with the help of our fellow batchmates. The final aim of our project was to provide a pathway for students who want to develop a similar software. The steps of creating the code, the GUI, and the content used is provided in this thesis. It was imperative to our initial goals to have a project which contributed to the expansion of knowledge for anyone who wants to delve into programming as it is related to civil engineering. The mechanics of the code, the appearance of the GUI and the trials performed, they are all listed here in detail to help people interested in learning how to create a similar software.