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1.9: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

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    Chapter 9

    Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

    9.1 Introduction

    Structures such as bridges and overhead cranes must be designed to resist moving loads as well as their own weight. Since structures are designed for the critical loads that may occur in them, influence lines are used to obtain the position on a structure where a moving load will cause the largest stress. Influence lines can be defined as a graph whose ordinates show the variation of the magnitude of a certain response function of a structure as a unit load traverses across the structure. Response functions of a structure may include axial forces in members, support reactions, bending moments, shear forces, and deflection at specific points in the structure.

    It is very important to emphasize the need for students to fully grasp the afore-stated definition, since most of the confusion and difficulty encountered when drawing influence lines stems from a lack of understanding of the difference between this topic and the bending moment and shearing force topics detailed in chapter four. A shearing force or bending moment diagram shows the magnitude of the shearing force or bending moments at different points of the structure due to the static or stationary loads that are acting on the structure, while the influence lines for certain functions of a structure at a specified point of the structure show the magnitude of that function at the specified point when a unit moving load traverses across the structure. The influence lines of determinate structures can be obtained by the static equilibrium method or by the kinematic or Muller-Breslau method. Influence lines by the static equilibrium method are referred to as quantitative influence lines, as they require some calculations, while those by kinematic method are known as the qualitative influence lines, as the method enables the analyzer to obtain the correct shape of the influence lines without any quantitative efforts. In the subsequent sections, students will consider how to construct the influence lines for beams and trusses using these two methods.

    9.2 Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Beams by Static Equilibrium Method

    To grasp the basic concept of influence lines, consider the simple beam shown in Figure 9.1a. Statics help to determine the magnitude of the reactions at supports A and B, and the shearing force and bending moment at a section n, as a unit load of arbitrary unit, moves from right to left.

    fig9-1a.jpg
    Fig. 9.1a. Simple beam.

    9.2.1 Beam Reactions

    Taking the moment about B as the unit load moves a distance x from the right-hand end suggests the following:

    eq9-1.jpg

    Setting P = 1 suggests the following:

    eq9-2.jpg

    Equation 9.2 is the expression for the computation of the influence line for the left-end reaction of a simply supported beam. The influence line for RA can be represented graphically by putting some values of x into the equation. Since the equation is linear, two points should be enough.

    When x = 0, RA = 0

    When x = L, RA = 1

    The graphical representation of the influence line for RA is shown in Figure 9.1b, and the ordinate of the diagram corresponding to any value of x gives the magnitude of RA at that point.

    fig9-1b.jpg
    Fig. 9.1b. Influence line for RA.

    Similarly, the expression for the influence line for the reaction RB is found by taking the moment about A.

    eq9-3.jpg

    Setting P = 1 into equation 9.3 suggests the following:

    eq9-4.jpg

    Equation 9.4 is the expression for the computation of the influence line for the right-end reaction of a simply supported beam. Substituting some values for x into the equation helps to construct the influence line diagram for RB.

    When x = 0, RB = 1

    When x = L, RB = 0

    The graphical representation of the influence line for RB is shown in Figure 9.1c.

    fig9-1c.jpg
    Fig. 9.1c. Influence line for RB.

    9.2.2 Shearing Force at Section n

    When the unit load is on the right side of the section, the shear force at the section can be computed considering the transverse forces on the left side of the section, as follows:

    f0240-01.jpg

    When the unit load is on the left side of the section, it is easier to compute the shear force in the section by considering the forces on the right side of section, as follows:

    f0240-02.jpg
    Figure 9.1d.
    fig9-1d.jpg
    Fig. 9.1d. Influence line for shear at section n.

    9.2.3 Bending Moment at a Section n

    When the unit load is on the right side of the section, the bending moment at the section can be computed as follows:

    f0241-01.jpg

    When the unit load is on the left side of section, the bending moment at the section can be computed as follows:

    f0241-02.jpg
    Figure 9.1e.
    fig9-1e.jpg
    Fig. 9.1e. Influence line for moment at section n.

    9.3 Construction of Influence Lines

    In practice, influence lines are mostly constructed, and the values of the functions are determined by geometry. The procedure for the construction of influence lines for simple beams, compound beams, and trusses will be outlined below and followed by a solved example to clarify the problem. For each case, one example will be solved immediately after the outline.

    9.3.1 Simple Beams Supported at Their Ends

    The procedures for the construction of the influence lines (I.L.) for some functions of a beam supported at both ends are as follows:

    9.3.1.1 Influence Line for Left End Support Reaction, RA (Fig. 9.2)

    (a)At the position of the left end support (point A), along the y-axis, plot a value +1 (point A′).

    (b)Draw a line joining point A′ and the zero ordinate at point B. Point B is at the position of support B.

    (c)The triangle AAB is the influence line for the left-end support reaction. The idea here is that when the unit load moves across the beam, its maximum effect on the left-end reaction will be when it is directly lying on the left end support. As the load moves away from the left end support, its influence on the left end reaction will continue to diminish until it gets to the least value of zero, when it is lying directly on the right end support.

    fig9-2.jpg
    Fig. 9.2. Influence line for RA.

    9.3.1.2 Influence Line for Right End Support Reaction RB (Fig. 9.3)

    (a)At the right end support (point B), plot an ordinate of value +1 (point B′).

    (b)Draw a line joining point B′ and point A.

    (c)The triangle ABB is the influence line for the right end support reaction. The explanation for the influence line for the right end support reaction is similar to that given for the left end support reaction. The maximum effect of the unit load occurs when it is lying directly on the right support. As the load moves away from the right end support, its influence on the support reaction decreases until it is zero, when the load is directly lying on the left support.

    fig9-3.jpg
    Fig. 9.3. Influence line for RB.

    9.3.1.3 Influence Line for Shearing Force at Section n

    (a)At the left end support (point A), plot an ordinate equal +1 (point A′), as shown in Figure 9.4b.

    (b)Draw a line joining point A′ and the zero ordinate at point B.

    (c)At the right end support (point B), plot an ordinate equal –1 (point B′).

    (d)Draw a line joining B′ and the zero ordinate at point A.

    (e)Drop a vertical line from the section under consideration to cut lines AB and AB′at points N′and N″, respectively.

    (f)The diagram ABNN″ is the influence line of the shear force at the section n.

    (g)Use a similar triangle to determine the ordinates n-N’ and n-N,” as follows:

    f0243-01.jpg

    fig9-4.jpg
    Fig. 9.4. Influence line for shear (b) and moment (c) at secton m.

    9.3.1.4 Influence Line for Bending Moment at Section n

    (a)At the left end support (point A), plot an ordinate of a value equal to the distance from the left end support to the section n. For example, the distance a in Figure 9.4c (denoted as point Y in Figure 9.4c).

    (b)Draw a line joining point Y and the zero ordinate at point B at the right end support.

    (c)Draw a vertical line passing through section n and intersecting the line AZ at point Q.

    (d)Draw a straight line AQ connecting A and Q.

    (e)The triangle AQB is the influence line for the moment at section n. Alternatively, ignore steps (b), and (c) and (d) and go to step (f).

    (f)At the right end support (point B), plot an ordinate equal +b. For example, the distance from the right end support to the section n (denoted as point Z).

    (g)Draw a line joining Z and the zero ordinate at A (position of the left end support).

    (h)At the left end support (point A), plot an ordinate equal +a. For example, the distance from the left end support to the section n (denoted point Y).

    (i)Draw a line joining Y and the zero ordinate at B (position of the right end support).

    (j)Lines AZ and BY intersect at Q.

    (k)The triangle AQB is the influence line for the moment at section n. If accurately drawn, with the right sense of proportionality, the intersection Q should lie directly on a vertical line passing through the section n.

    (l)The value of the ordinate nQ can be obtained using a similar triangle, as follows:

    f0244-01.jpg

    Example 9.1

    For the double overhanging beam shown in Figure 9.5a, construct the influence lines for the support reactions at B and C and the shearing force and the bending moment at section n.

    fig9-5.jpg
    Fig. 9.5. Double overhanging beam.

    f0245-01.jpg

    Solution

    I.L. for By.

    Step 1. At the position of support B (point B), plot an ordinate +1.

    Step 2. Draw a straight line connecting the plotted point (+1) to the zero ordinate at the position of support C.

    Step 3. Continue the straight line in step 2 until the end of the overhangs at both ends of the beam. The influence line for By is shown in Figure 9.5b.

    Step 4. Determine the ordinates of the influence line at the overhanging ends using a similar triangle, as follows:

    Ordinate at A:

    f0246-01.jpg

    Ordinate at D:

    f0246-02.jpg

    I.L. for Cy.

    Step 1. At the position of support C (point C), plot an ordinate +1.

    Step 2. Draw a straight line connecting the plotted point (+1) to the zero ordinate at the position of support B.

    Step 3. Continue the straight line in step 2 until the end of the overhangs at both ends of the beam. The influence line for By is shown in Figure 9.5c.

    Step 4. Determine the ordinates of the influence line at the overhanging ends using a similar triangle, as follows:

    Ordinate at D:

    f0246-03.jpg

    Ordinate at A:

    f0246-04.jpg

    I.L. for shear Vn.

    Step 1. At the position of support B (point B), plot an ordinate +1.

    Step 2. Draw a straight line connecting the plotted point (+1) to the zero ordinate at the position of support C. Continue the straight line at C until the end of the overhang at end D.

    Step 3. At the position of support C (point C), plot an ordinate –1.

    Step 4. Draw a straight line connecting the plotted point (–1) to the zero ordinate at the position of support B. Continue the straight line at B until the end of the overhang at end A.

    Step 5. Draw a vertical passing through the section whose shear is required to intersect the lines in step 2 and step 3.

    Step 6. Connect the intersections to obtain the influence line, as shown in Figure 9.5d.

    Step 7. Determine the ordinates of the influence lines at other points by using similar triangles, as previously demonstrated.

    I.L. for Moment Mn.

    Step 1. At point B, plot the ordinate equal +2 m.

    Step 2. Draw a straight line connecting the plotted ordinate in step 1 to the zero ordinate in support C.

    Step 3. At point C, plot the ordinate equal +2 m.

    Step 4. Draw a straight line connecting the plotted ordinate in step 3 to the zero ordinate at support B.

    Step 5. Continue the straight lines from the intersection of the lines drawn in steps 2 and 4 through the supports to the overhanging ends, as shown in Figure 9.5e.

    Step 6. Determine the values of the influence lines at other points using similar triangles, as previously demonstrated.

    Example 9.2

    For the beam with one end overhanging support B, as shown in Figure 9.6, construct the influence lines for the bending moment at support B, the shear force at support B, the support reactions at B and C, and the shearing force and the bending moment at a section “k.”

    fig9-6.jpg
    Fig. 9.6. Beam with one overhanging support.

    f0248-01.jpg

    Solution

    The influence lines in example 9.2 for the desired functions were constructed based on the procedure described in the previous section and example.

    9.3.2 Compound Beams

    To correctly draw the influence line for any function in a compound beam, a good understanding of the interaction of the members of the beam is necessary, as was discussed in chapter 3, section 3.3. The student should recall from the previous section that a compound beam is made up of the primary structure and the complimentary structure. The two facts stated below must always be remembered, since the extent of the spread of the influence line of compound beams depends on them. Remembering these facts will also serve as a temporary check to ascertain the correctness of the drawn influence line.

    The moving unit load will have an effect on the functions of the primary structure when it is located at any point, not only on the primary structure but also on the complimentary structure, since the latter constitutes a loading on the former.

    The moving unit load will have effect only on the functions of the complimentary structure when it is located within the complimentary structure; it will not have an effect on any function of the complimentary structure when it is at any point on the primary structure.

    The afore-stated facts will be demonstrated in the following examples.

    Example 9.3

    For the compound beam shown in Figure 9.7, construct the influence lines and indicate the critical ordinates for the support reactions at A, B, and D, the bending moment at B, and the shear at hinge C.

    fig9-7.jpg

    f0249-01.jpg
    Fig. 9.7. Compound beam.

    Solution

    Prior to the construction of the influence lines for desired functions, it is necessary to first observe the extent of the influence lines through the schematic diagram of member-interaction, as shown in Figure 9.7b.

    I.L. for Ay. The reaction Ay is a function in the primary structure, so the unit load will have influence on this function when it is located at any point on the beam, as was previously stated in section 9.3.2. With this understanding, construct the influence line of Ay, as follows:

    Step 1. At point A, plot an ordinate +1.

    Step 2. Draw a straight line connecting the plotted ordinate in step 1 to the zero ordinate in support B and continue this line until the end of the overhanging end of the primary structure, as shown in the interaction diagram.

    Step 3. Draw a straight line connecting the ordinate at the end of the overhang to the zero ordinate at support D. The influence line is as shown in Figure 9.7c.

    Step 4. Use a similar triangle to compute the ordinates of the influence line

    I.L. for By. The influence line for this reaction will cover the entire length of the beam because it is a support reaction in the primary structure. With this knowledge, construct the influence line for By, as follows:

    Step 1: At point B, plot an ordinate +1.

    Step 2. Draw a straight line connecting the plotted ordinate in step 1 to the zero ordinate in support A. Continue the line in support B until the end of the overhanging end of the primary structure, as shown in the interaction diagram.

    Step 3. Draw a straight line connecting the ordinate at the overhanging end to the zero ordinate at support D. The influence line for By is shown in Figure 9.7d.

    Step 4. Use a similar triangle to determine the values of the ordinate of the influence line.

    I.L. for Dy. The reaction Dy is a function in the complimentary structure and will be influenced when the unit load lies at any point along the complimentary structure. It will not be influenced when the unit load transverses the primary structure, as was stated in section 9.3.2. Thus, the extent of the influence line will be the length of the complimentary structure. Knowing this, draw the influence line for Dy.

    Step 1. At point D, plot the ordinate +1.

    Step 2. Draw a straight line connecting the plotted ordinate in step 1 to the zero ordinate at hinge C. The influence line for Dy is as shown in Figure 9.7e.

    The influence lines for the moment at B and the shear C are shown in Figure 9.7f and Figure 9.7g, respectively.

    Example 9.4

    For the compound beam shown in Figure 9.8a, construct the influence lines and indicate the critical ordinates for the support reactions at F and G, the shear force and bending moment at D, and the moment at F.

    fig9-8a.jpg

    fig9-8.jpg
    Fig. 9.8. Compound beam.

    Solution

    Shown in Figure 9.8c through Figure 9.8g are the influence lines for the desired functions. The schematic diagram of the member interaction shown in Figure 9.8b immeasurably aids the initial perception of the range of the influence line of each function. Construction of the influence lines follows the description outlined in the previous sections.

    9.3.3 Influence Lines for Girders Supporting Floor Systems

    Thus far, the examples and text have only considered cases where the moving unit load is applied directly to the structure. But, in practice, this may not always be the case. For instance, sometimes loads from building floors or bridge decks are transmitted through secondary beams, such as stringers and cross beams to girders supporting the building or bridge floor system, as shown in Figure 9.9. Columns, piers, or abutments in turn support the girders.

    fig9-9.jpg
    Fig. 9.9. Transfer of load to girder by system of stringers and floor beams.

    As shown in Figure 9.9, the vehicular load from the bridge deck is transferred to the girder at points 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, referred to as panel points, where the floor beams are in contact with the girder. The segment between two successive contact points is known as a panel. For an illustration of the construction of influence lines in a case of indirect application of loads, the floor beams and the girder of Figure 9.9 are separated from the entire system, as shown in Figure 9.10. Assume the length of each panel equals 4m. Construct the influence lines for the moment at point 4 and for the moment and shear at a section n at the midpoint of 3 and 4 (a point lying within panel 3-4). The influence line for the moment at point 4 is shown in Figure 9.10b; notice that the construction of the influence line for moment at this point is exactly like the cases considered in previous sections, where the moving load is applied directly to the beam. When the unit load moves to the right of 4 and to the left of 3, the influence line for the moment for any section within panel 3-4 will be constant, as shown in Figure 9.10c. The construction of the influence line for the shear of any section within the panel 3-4 is obtained in the same manner as when the unit load is directly applied to the girder, with the exception that a diagonal line is drawn to connect the points where a vertical line drawn from the points intersect with the construction line.

    fig9-10.jpg
    Fig. 9.10. Influence lines in a case of indirect application of loads.

    Example 9.5

    Draw the influence lines for the moment at C and the shear in panel BC of the floor girder shown in Figure 9.11.

    fig9-11a.jpg
    Fig. 9.11a. Floor girder.

    Solution

    Influence line for MC. To obtain the values of the influence line of MC, successively locate a load of 1 kN at panel points A, B, C, D, and E. To determine the moment, use the equation of statics. The values of MC at the respective panel points are presented in Table 9.1. When the unit load is located at B, as shown in Figure 9.11b, the value of MC is determined as follows:

    fig9-11b.jpg
    Fig. 9.11b. Unit load at B.

    First, determine the support reactions in the beam using the equation of static equilibrium.

    f0254-01.jpg

    Then, using the computed reaction, determine MC, as follows:

    Mc = 0.25(12) = 3 kN – m

    Table 9.1. The values of MC at the respective panel points.

    tab9-1.jpg

    fig9-11c.jpg
    Fig. 9.11c. Influence line for MC.

    Influence line for VBC. To obtain the values of the influence line of MVBC, a load of 1 kN is successively located at panel points A, B, C, D, and E. To determine the shear force, use the equation of statics. The values of VC at the respective panel points are presented in Table 9.2.

    Table 9.2. The values of VC at the respective panel points.

    tab9-2.jpg

    fig9-11d.jpg
    Fig. 9.11d. Influence line for VBC.

    9.3.4 Influence Lines for Trusses

    The procedure for the construction of influence lines for truss members is similar to that of a girder supporting a floor system considered in section 9.3.3. Loads can be transmitted to truss members via the top or bottom panel nodes. In Figure 9.12 the load is transmitted to members through the top panel nodes. As the live loads move across the truss, they are transferred to the top panel nodes by cross beams and stringers. The influence lines for axial forces in truss members can be constructed by connecting the influence line ordinates at the panel nodes with straight lines.

    fig9-12.jpg
    Fig. 9.12. Load transfered by system of stringers and cross beams.

    To illustrate the procedure for the construction of influence lines for trusses, consider the following examples.

    Example 9.6

    Draw the influence lines for the reactions Ay, Fy, and for axial forces in members CD, HG, and CG as a unit load moves across the top of the truss, as shown in Figure 9.13.

    fig9-13.jpg
    Fig. 9.13. Truss.

    Solution

    The drawing of the influence lines for trusses is similar to that of a beam. The first step towards drawing the influence lines for the axial forces in the stated members is to pass an imaginary section through the members, as shown in Figure 9.13b, and to apply equilibrium to the part on either side of the section. The step-by-step procedure for drawing the influence line for each of the members is stated below.

    Influence line for the axial force in member CD. When the unit load is situated at any point to the right of D, considering the equilibrium of the left segment AH (Fig. 9.13c), it suggests the following:

    f0258-01.jpg
    Figure 9.13e.

    When the unit load is situated at any point to the left of C, considering the equilibrium of the right segment GF (Fig. 9.13d), it suggests the following:

    f0258-02.jpg
    Figure 9.13f.

    The influence line of the axial force in member CD constructed from the influence lines for the reactions Ay and Fy is shown in Figure 9.13g.

    Influence line for member HG. When the unit load is situated at any point to the right of D, considering the equilibrium of the left segment AH (Fig. 9.13c), it suggests the following:

    f0258-03.jpg

    The obtained expression of FHG in terms of Ay implies that the influence line for FHG in the portion DE is identical to that of Ay within the corresponding segment.

    When the unit load is situated at any point to the left of C, considering the equilibrium of the right segment GF (Fig. 9.13d), it suggests the following:

    f0258-04.jpg

    The obtained expression of FHG in terms of Fy is indicative of the fact that the influence line for FHG in the portion AH can be determined by multiplying the corresponding portion of the influence line for the reaction Fy by 2.

    The influence line of the axial force in member HG constructed from the influence line for the reactions Ay and Fy is also shown in Figure 9.13h.

    Influence line for the axial force in member CG. When the unit load is situated at any point to the right of D, considering the equilibrium of the left segment AH (Fig. 9.13C), it suggests the following:

    f0259-01.jpg

    The obtained expression of FCG, with reference to Ay, implies that the influence line for FCG in the portion DE can be determined by multiplying the corresponding portion of the influence line for the reaction Ay by 1.41.

    When the unit load is situated at any point to the left of C, considering the equilibrium of the right segment GF (Fig. 9.13d), it suggests the following:

    f0259-02.jpg

    The obtained expression of FCG in terms of Fy is indicative of the fact that the influence line for FCG in the portion AH can be determined by multiplying the corresponding portion of the influence line for the reaction Fy by – 1.41.

    The influence line of the axial force in member CG constructed from the influence line for the reactions Ay and Fy is shown in Figure 9.13i.

    Example 9.7

    Draw the influence lines for the force in member CH as a unit load moves across the top of the truss, as shown in Figure 9.14a.

    fig9-14.jpg
    Fig. 9.14. Truss.

    Solution

    To obtain the expression for the influence line for the axial force in member CH, first pass an imaginary section that cuts through this member, as shown in Figure 9.14a.

    When the unit load is situated at any point to the right of G, considering the equilibrium of the left segment AH (Fig. 9.14 C), it suggests the following:

    f0260-01.jpg

    The obtained expression of FCH in terms of Ay indicates that the influence line for FCH in the portion AH can be determined by multiplying the corresponding portion of the influence line for the reaction Ay by – 1.

    When the unit load is located at any point to the left of H, considering the equilibrium of the right segment GF (Fig. 9.14d), it suggests the following:

    f0261-01.jpg

    The obtained expression of FCH in terms of Fy implies that the influence line for FCH in the portion GF is identical to that of Fy within the corresponding segment.

    The influence line of CG is shown in Figure 9.14g.

    9.4 Uses of Influence Lines

    9.4.1 Uses of Influence Lines to Determine Response Functions of Structures Subjected to Concentrated Loads

    The magnitude of a response function of a structure due to concentrated loads can be determined as the summation of the product of the respective loads and the corresponding ordinates of the influence line for that response function. Example 9.5 and example 9.6 illustrate such cases.

    Example 9.8

    A simple beam is subjected to three concentrated loads, as shown in Figure 9.15a. Determine the magnitudes of the reactions and the shear force and bending moment at the midpoint of the beam using influence lines.

    fig9-15.jpg
    Fig. 9.15. Simple beam.

    Solution

    First, draw the influence line for the support reactions and for the shearing force and the bending moment at the midpoint of the beam (see Fig. 9.15b, Fig. 9.15c, Fig. 9.15d, and Fig. 9.15e). Once the influence lines for the functions are drawn, compute the magnitude of the response functions, as follows:

    Magnitude of the support reactions using the influence line diagrams in Figure 9.15b and Figure 9.15c.

    f0262-01.jpg

    f0263-01.jpg
    Figure 9.15d.
    f0263-02.jpg
    Figure 9.15e.

    f0263-03.jpg

    Example 9.9

    A compound beam is subjected to three concentrated loads, as shown in Figure 9.16a. Using influence lines, determine the magnitudes of the shear and the moment at A and the support reaction at D.

    fig9-16.jpg
    Fig. 9.16. Compound beam.

    Solution

    First, draw the influence line for the shear force VA, bending moment MA, and reaction Cy. The influence lines for these functions are shown in Figure 9.16b, Figure 9.16c, and Figure 9.16d. Then, compute the magnitude of these response functions, as follows:

    The magnitude of the shear at section n using the influence line diagram in Figure 9.16b.

    f0264-01.jpg
    Figure 9.16c.
    f0264-02.jpg
    Figure 9.16d.

    f0264-03.jpg

    9.4.2 Uses of Influence Lines to Determine Response Functions of Structures Subjected to Distributed Loads

    The magnitude of a response function of a structure subjected to distributed loads can be determined as the product of the intensity of the distributed load and the area of the influence line. Consider a beam subjected to a uniform load ωx, as shown in Figure 9.17a. First, convert the uniform load to an equivalent concentrated load. The equivalent elementary concentrated load for a distributed load acting on a differential length dx is as follows:

    eq9-5.jpg

    The magnitude of the response function (rf) due to the elementary concentrated load acting on the structure can be expressed as follows:

    eq9-6.jpg

    where

    y = the ordinate of the influence line at the point of application of the load dP.

    fig9-17.jpg
    Fig. 9.17. Beam subjected to uniform load.

    The total response function (RF) due to the distributed load acting at the segment BC of the beam is obtained by integration, as follows:

    eq9-7.jpg
    Fig. 9.17b).

    Example 9.10

    Using influence lines, determine the shear force and the bending moment at the midpoint of the loaded simple beam, as shown in Figure 9.18a.

    fig9-18.jpg
    Fig. 9.18. Loaded simple beam.

    Solution

    First, draw the influence line for the shear force and bending moment at the midspan of the beam. The influence lines for these functions are shown in Figure 9.18b and Figure 9.18c. Then, compute the magnitude of these response functions, as follows:

    From the influence line diagram, as shown in Figure 9.18b, the magnitude of the shear at B is as follows:

    f0266-01.jpg
    Figure 9.18c, is as follows:

    f0266-02.jpg

    Example 9.11

    A compound beam is subjected to a combined loading, as shown in Figure 9.19a. Using influence lines, determine the magnitudes of the reactions at supports A, B, and C.

    fig9-19.jpg
    Fig. 9.19. Compound beam subjected to combined loading.

    Solution

    The magnitude of the support reaction Ay, using the influence line diagram in Figure 9.19b.

    f0267-01.jpg
    Figure 9.19c.
    f0267-02.jpg
    Figure 9.19d.

    f0267-03.jpg

    9.4.3 Use of Influence Lines to Determine the Maximum Effect at a Point Due to Moving Concentrated Loads

    In the analysis and design of structures, such as bridges and cranes subjected to moving loads, it is often desirable to find the position of the moving load(s) that will produce a maximum influence at a point. For some structures, this can be determined by mere inspection, while for most others it may require a trial-and-error process using influence lines. Examples 9.12 and 9.13 illustrate the trial-and-error process involved when using influence lines to compute the magnitude of certain functions of a beam subjected to a series of concentrated moving loads.

    Example 9.12

    Using influence lines, determine the shear force and bending moment at the midpoint k of a beam shown in Figure 9.20a. The beam is subjected to a series of moving concentrated loads, which are shown in Figure 9.20b.

    fig9-20.jpg
    Fig. 9.20. Beam.

    Solution

    Maximum shear Vk from Figure 9.20c.

    f0268-01.jpg

    f0269-01.jpg

    f0269-02.jpg

    Maximum positive shear = 7.8 k

    Maximum negative shear = 9.3 k

    Maximum moment Mk from Figure 9.20d.

    f0269-03.jpg

    f0269-04.jpg

    Example 9.13

    A compound beam shown in Figure 9.21a is subjected to a series of moving concentrated loads, which are shown in Figure 9.21b. Using influence lines, determine the magnitudes of the reactions at supports A, B, and C and the bending moment at section n.

    fig9-21.jpg
    Fig. 9.21. Compound beam.

    Solution

    f0270-01.jpg

    9.4.4 Uses of Influence Lines to Determine Absolute Maximum Response Function at Any Point Along the Structure

    The preceding sections explain the use of influence lines for the determination of the maximum response function that may occur at specific points of a structure. This section will explain the determination of the absolute maximum value of a response function that may occur at any point along the entire structure due to concentrated loads exerted by moving loads.

    The absolute maximum shear force for a cantilever beam will occur at a point next to the fixed end, while that for a simply supported beam will occur close to one of its reactions. The absolute maximum moment for a cantilever beam will also occur close to the fixed end, while that for simply supported beam is not readily known and, thus, will require some analysis. To locate the position where the absolute maximum moment occurs in a simply supported beam, consider a beam subjected to three moving concentrated loads P1, P2, and P3, as shown in Figure 9.22.

    Although it is certain from statics that the absolute maximum moment will occur under one of the concentrated loads, the specific load under which it will occur must be identified, and its location along the beam must be known. The concentrated load under which the absolute maximum moment will occur may be determined by inspection or by trial-and-error process, but the location of this load should be established analytically. Assume that the concentrated load under which the absolute maximum moment will occur is P3, and the distance of P3 from the centerline of the beam is x. To obtain an expression for x, first determine the resultant PR of the concentrated loads, acting at a distance x′ from the load P3.

    To determine the right reaction of the beam, take the moment about support A, as follows:

    fig9-22.jpg
    Fig. 9.22. Beam subjected to three moving concentrated loads.

    To determine the right reaction of the beam, take the moment about support A, as follows:

    eq9-8.jpg

    Thus, the bending moment under M3 is as follows:

    eq9-9.jpg

    The distance x for which M3 is maximum can be determined by differentiating equation 9.9 with respect to x and equating it to zero, as follows:

    f0272-01.jpg

    Therefore,

    eq9-10.jpg

    Equation 9.10 concludes that the absolute maximum moment in a simply supported beam occurs under one of the concentrated loads when the load under which the moment occurs and the resultant of the system of loads are equidistant from the center of the beam.

    Example 9.14

    Determine the absolute maximum bending moment in a 16 m-long simply supported girder bridge subjected to a moving truck loading, as shown in Figure 9.23.

    fig9-23.jpg
    Fig. 9.23. Simply supported girder beam.

    Solution

    Using statics, first determine the value and the position of the resultant of the moving loads.

    Resultant load.

    f0273-01.jpg

    Position of the resultant load. To determine the position of the resultant load, take the moment about point n, which is directly below the 20 kN load, as follows:

    f0273-02.jpg

    fig9-24.jpg
    Fig. 9.24. Resultant and load equidistant from centerline of the beam.

    If the absolute maximum moment is assumed to occur under the 50 kN load, the positioning of the resultant and this load equidistant from the centerline of the beam is as shown in Figure 9.24. Before computing the absolute maximum moment, first determine the reaction By using statics.

    f0273-03.jpg

    The absolute maximum moment under the 50 kN load is as follows:

    M50 = (92.2)(9.22) – (90)(3.78) = 509.88 kN. m

    fig9-25.jpg
    Fig. 9.25. Resultant and load equidistant from centerline of the beam.

    If the absolute maximum moment is assumed to occur under the 90 kN load, the positioning of the resultant and this load equidistant from the centerline of the beam will be as shown in Figure 9.25.

    Before computing the absolute maximum moment, first determine the reaction By using statics.

    f0274-01.jpg

    The absolute maximum moment under the 90 kN load is as follows:

    f0274-02.jpg

    From the two possible cases considered in the solution, it is evident that the absolute maximum moment occurs under the 50 kN force.

    Chapter Summary

    Influence lines for statically determinate structures: The effect of a moving load on the magnitude of certain functions of a structure, such as support reactions, deflection, and shear force and moment, at a section of the structure vary with the position of the moving load. Influence lines are used to study the maximum effect of a moving load on these functions for design purposes. The influence lines for determinate structures can be obtained by the static equilibrium method or by the kinematic or Muller-Breslau method. The influence lines by the former method can be determined quantitatively, while those for the latter method can be obtained qualitatively, as have been demonstrated in this chapter. Several example problems are solved showing how to construct the influence lines for beams and trusses using the afore-stated methods.

    Practice Problems

    9.1 Draw the influence line for the shear force and moment at a section n at the midspan of the simply supported beam shown in Figure P9.1.

    figp9-1.jpg
    Fig. P9.1. Simply supported beam.

    9.2 Draw the influence lines for the reaction at A and B and the shear and the bending moment at point C of the beam with overhanging ends, as shown in Figure P9.2.

    figp9-2.jpg
    Fig. P9.2. Beam with overhang.

    9.3 Draw the influence line for the reactions at the support of the cantilever beam shown in Figure P9.3.

    figp9-3.jpg
    Fig. P9.3. Cantilever beam.

    9.4 Draw the influence line for the support reactions at B and D and shear and bending moments at section n of the beam shown in Figure 9.4.

    figp9-4.jpg
    Fig. P9.4. Beam

    9.5 Draw the influence lines for support reactions at C and D and at point B of the compound beam shown in Figure P9.5.

    figp9-5.jpg
    Fig. P9.5. Compound beam.

    9.6 Draw the influence lines for the shear force and moment at sections ns and k of the compound beam shown in Figure P9.6.

    figp9-6.jpg
    Fig. P9.6. Compound beam.

    9.7 Determine the absolute maximum bending moment in a 65 ft-long simply supported girder bridge subjected to a moving truck loading, as shown in Figure P9.7.

    figp9-7.jpg
    Fig. P9.7. Simply supported girder bridge.

    9.8 Determine the absolute maximum bending moment in a 12 m-long simply supported girder bridge subjected to a moving truck loading, as shown in Figure P9.8.

    figp9-8.jpg
    Fig. P9.8. Simply supported girder bridge.

    9.9 Determine the absolute maximum bending moment in a 40 ft-long simply supported girder bridge subjected to a moving truck loading, as shown in Figure P9.9.

    figp9-9.jpg
    Fig. P9.9. Simply supported girder bridge.

    9.10 Determine the absolute maximum bending moment in a 14 m-long simply supported girder bridge subjected to a moving truck loading, as shown in Figure P9.10.

    figp9-10.jpg
    Fig. P9.10. Simply supported girder bridge.

    9.11 Draw the influence lines for the moment at B and the shear force in panel CD of the floor girder shown in Figure P9.11.

    figp9-11.jpg
    Fig. P9.11. Floor girder.

    9.12 Draw the influence lines for the moment at C and the shear force in panel BC of the floor girder shown in Figure P9.12.

    figp9-12.jpg
    Fig. P9.12. Floor girder.

    9.13 Draw the influence lines for the moment at B and the shear in panel CD of the floor girder shown in Figure P9.13.

    figp9-13.jpg
    Fig. P9.13. Floor girder.

    9.14 Draw the influence lines for the moment at D and the shear force in panel DE of the floor girder shown in Figure P9.14.

    figp9-14.jpg
    Fig. P9.14. Floor girder.

    9.15 Draw the influence lines for the moment at D and the shear force in panel AB of the floor girder shown in Figure P9.15.

    figp9-15.jpg
    Fig. P9.15. Floor girder.

    9.16 Draw the influence lines for the forces in members CD, CF, and GF as a unit load moves across the top of the truss, as shown in Figure P9.16.

    figp9-16.jpg
    Fig. P9.16. Truss.

    9.17 Draw the influence lines for the forces in members DE, NE, and NM as a unit live load is transmitted to the top chords of the truss, as shown in Figure P9.17.

    figp9-17.jpg
    Fig. P9.17. Truss.

    9.18 Draw the influence lines for the forces in members DE, DH, IH, and HG as a unit live load is transmitted to the bottom chords of the truss, as shown in Figure P9.18.

    figp9-18.jpg
    Fig. P9.18. Truss.

    9.19 Draw the influence lines for the forces in members BC, BF, FE, and ED as a unit load moves across the bottom chords of the truss, as shown in Figure P9.19.

    figp9-19.jpg
    Fig. P9.19. Truss.

    This page titled 1.9: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures is shared under a CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Felix Udoeyo via source content that was edited to the style and standards of the LibreTexts platform; a detailed edit history is available upon request.