Flexibility-based linear dynamic analysis of complex structures with curved-3D members

A flexibility-based formulation of a new mass matrix for the dynamic analysis of spatial frames consisting of curved elements with variable cross-sections is presented. The main characteristic of such formulations is the exact equilibrium of forces at any interior point, with no additional hypotheses about the distribution of displacements, strains or stresses. Accordingly, the derived element mass matrix takes into account the exact stiffness and mass distribution throughout each element.

In validation tests, results obtained with this method are compared with those obtained by other numerical or analytical formulations, showing the accuracy of the proposed method. The comparison of experimental results for a multispan arch bridge subjected to a dynamic load with those achieved by means of the proposed method are finally included to illustrate its efficiency in the treatment of complex structures. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.