Explicit Stiffness of Tapered and Monosymmetric i Beam-Columns

Abstract

A formulation for finite element analysis of tapered and monosymmetric I shaped beam-columns is presented. This is a general way to analyze these types of complex elements. Based upon the formulation, member stiffness matrix is obtained explicitly. The element considered has seven nodal degrees of freedom. In addition, the related stability matrix is found. Numerical studies of the aforementioned members show the validity and accuracy of the formulation in comparison to the other ones.