Stiffness Method

The direct stiffness method, also known as the matrix stiffness

method, is particularly suited for computer-automated analysis of
complex structures.

It is a matrix method that makes use of the members' stiffness

relations for computing member forces and displacements in
structures.

The direct stiffness method could also be used in a general

displacement based finite element method applied to more
complicated domains.
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 Stiffness Method
In the direct stiffness method, the stiffness properties of each element
forming the structure are calculated and then compiled into a single
matrix which governs the behaviour of the entire idealized structure.

The structure’s unknown displacements and forces can then be

determined by inverting the matrix.

The direct stiffness method forms the basis for most commercial
structural analysis software.

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 Stiffness Method
Axially loaded element (Pin Jointed Element in 1D)
Consider a simple pin jointed member subject to loads F1 and F2
F1 F2

δ1 δ2

The force/displacement relationships for this element are:

Considering equilibrium:
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 Stiffness Method
These two equations can be expanded and written as:

In matrix form this is:

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 Stiffness Method
Axially loaded element (Pin Jointed Element in 2D)
Consider a simple pin jointed member subject
to loads F1 and F2

The simple pin jointed member has now two

displacement on each joint:

on node 1: U1 Horizontal V1 Vertical

on node 2: U2 Horizontal V2 Vertical

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 Stiffness Method
We can use a ‘transformation matrix’ that transforms the element from local to
global coordinates.

Rather than a single displacement at each end we then have two displacements,
horizontal (u) and vertical (v). (2D)

Where θ is the inclination of the member

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 Stiffness Method
Beam Element (Bending & Shear)
Method: for a beam, there are 2 possible displacements at each end, a shear
displacement and a rotation.

These forces and displacements can be used to generate a ‘beam’ stiffness matrix.

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 Stiffness Method
This stiffness matrix applies to ANY beam i.e. any member carrying bending and
shear force but NO AXIAL force.

If required, a transformation matrix can be incorporated into the stiffness matrix to

allow for any orientation of beam.

In practice, if a beam is inclined, it will probably also have an axial force in it, so
the transformation is very rarely used.

If the element carries axial force, the GENERAL stiffness matrix must be used.

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 Stiffness Method
General Element (Axial, Shear
& Bending)

Method: generate each element

stiffness matrix 6x6

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 Stiffness Method
Generate ‘transformed’ element matrix to allow for different element orientation.

Force vector = Stiffness

matrix * displacement vector

Stiffness matrix in global

coordinate

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 Stiffness Method
Irrespective of which stiffness matrix is used, the Stiffness Method is the same.

Each of the stiffness matrices are combined to create one global stiffness matrix K
for the complete structure.

We then have the following equation: P = Kδ where:

P = applied loads (known)
K = Global Stiffness matrix (known)
δ = unknown displacements

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 Stiffness Method
The global stiffness matrix is formed by simply adding all the individual element
stiffnesses together.

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 Stiffness Method
The only additional step is to insert supports or ‘boundary conditions’ before
solution.

In the case shown, displacement at nodes 1 and 4 (vertical and horizontal) = 0.

At this stage we have the Stiffness Matrix K, for the structure, including supports.

Reminder:
P = K δ where:
P = applied loads (known)
K = Global Stiffness matrix (known)
δ = unknown displacements
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 Stiffness Method
If we invert K we get:

δ = K-1P

Hence, we have solved for ALL the unknown displacements in the

structure.

Knowing these, the unknown member forces (shear, axial and

moment) can be calculated.

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