Question 3.

Solution
This is a frame with 3 elements and 4 nodes. Being a frame, the stiffness matrix for each
element will be a 6x6 matrix incorporating both the rod and beam stiffness component. Below,
I will generate the local stiffness matrix for each element.
The typicl stiifness Matrix for frame element is thus:

For Element 1
Given :

psi;

I=65

Since element 2 and element 3 have same stiffness matrix, i would write it together next.
However,note that the nodes for element 2 are different from the nodes for element 3, hence
I have used i and j to indicate their nodal positions in the global matrix where i is the near
node and j is the far node.

compute the displacement and rotation at nodes 1 and 2, I would focus on only those node
(thus omitting nodes 3 and 4). I can do this because the nodes 3 and 4 are fixed support
hence all rotation and displacement at those node are zero. Thus my stiffness matrix for
2 only from

Next, from the diagram, i would summarize boundary conditions and prescribed forces;

We are also given a distribuuted load of 500 lb/ft. We would get equivalent point loads and
moment that would represent the distributed loads. The signs may be +ve or -ve depending
on the direction
Thus:

Setting up the direct stiffness equation i.e

K.U=F

On evaluating the simultaneous equation, the displacement and rations are: