Title: Exploring Structural Behavior of 2-D Truss Frame: A Combined Approach of Finite Element Analysis, Hand Calculations, and Ansys Software
Abstract:
This coursework investigates the structural behaviour of a 2-D truss frame using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software, specifically Ansys. T...
, ABSTRACT
This coursework explores finite element analysis (FEA) software, specifically Ansys, to analyse a truss frame under a
concentrated force. This coursework aimed to demonstrate the application of computer-based engineering tools and
evaluate their capabilities and limitations. The analytical model incorporated static equilibrium equations and a joint
analysis method, with hand calculations revealing support reactions and forces. Additionally, numerical models with
MATLAB code and FEA software were employed to showcase displacement, nodal forces, and stress in truss elements.
Results from MATLAB and Ansys aligned closely, affirming the reliability of FEA in digital prototyping.
INTRODUCTION
How a product will behave or react to forces, vibration, heat, fluid movement, and other physical influences in the actual
world is analysed using the method of Finite Element Analysis (FEA). FEA is a computer-based method which ultimately
helps in complex calculations and reduces the number of experiments and prototypes during the design phase, resulting
in improvements to the product and avoiding additional costs. One advantage of this process is that, before creating a
prototype, any CAD model, regardless of shape or form, may be examined for stress and deflections. To put it another way,
FEA is digital prototyping. For instance, by analysing the product using FEA, stress, strain, and deflections could be
obtained, and using that, engineers can predict where it will likely fail and make the changes, reducing the prototypes and
experiments and keeping the product safe (What Is FEA?, n.d.).
Aim and Objective
1. Performing hand calculations to find reaction forces and forces experienced by the elements of the truss structure
supported by MATLAB.
2. To learn and utilise Ansys (FEA software) to create the truss structure.
3. Analyse the structure created using Ansys and collect the data to complete the Numerical model.
4. Compare the obtained results from analytical and numerical models.
Problem Description
Figure 1 shows that the 2-D truss structure will be investigated.
Here, all 5 elements comprise the same material and properties.
The problem is creating the structure utilising the given data in
Ansys and calculating the support reactions and forces
experienced by the elements along with hand calculations.
Given data for the truss structure-
Table 1 – Truss Structure Properties
Figure 1 – 2-D Truss Frame (Not drawn to scale)
Formulation -
1. Stiffness matrix, F = K*U
Where F = Element nodal force vector, K = Stiffness Matrix, U = Element nodal displacement vector, and A = Cross-
sectional Area (m2)
Hypothesis – In investigating structural analysis, the hypothesis suggests combining Finite Element Analysis (FEA), hand
calculations, and MATLAB in engineering assessments provides a cost-effective and insightful approach. This integration is
anticipated to improve accuracy for various structures, striking a balance between computational efficiency and precision.
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