16 Analysis of Rigid

carry-over moment, and the ratio of the carry-over moment to the moment
producing the rotation at the opposite end is called the carry-over factor, r.
The carry-over factor equals 1/2 for members with constant moment of
inertia. For members having variable moment of inertia, the value of r
may be computed from coefficients given in Charts II
and III. The carry
over moments are determined from the value of r.
The procedure in the first cycle involved the release, rotation and re-
locking of each joint successively; and the rotation induced carry-over
moments at the re-locked joints. The carry-over moments were not
included in the balancing and distribution of moments in the first cycle,
and the difference between carry-over moments must now be distributed.
For this purpose, one or several additional cycles of distribution may be
required. Generally, the amount of unbalanced moment decreases so
rapidly at each successive cycle that only a few cycles are needed to render
the unbalanced moments negligible.
The final moment at b or c is the algebraic sum of the fixed end moment,
the distributed moments, and the carry-over moments. This is apparent
because the fixed end moments were created by the external forces in the
frame with artificially restrained joints, and the distributed and carry
over moments were induced by the gradual elimination of the restraint.
If a and d are fixed supports, then there is no rotation and therefore
no distribution of moments at these joints, and the final moments are
equal to the algebraic sum of the fixed end moment and the carry-over
moments.
If a and d are hinged supports, but considered alternately locked and
released during the analysis, then the unbalanced moment is to be elimi
nated by the distributed moment in each cycle at these joints, since the
moment after each cycle must equal zero.
The fundamental theory of moment distribution has now been pre
sented. It has been seen that the first step required by the designer is to
select the coefficients for fixed end moments, the stiffness coefficients and
the carry-over factors. The subsequent steps require only the simplest
arithmetical work. This method of analysis is singularly time-saving and
requires just two special prerequisites: (1) A clear conception of the physi
cal significance of the various steps in the analysis, and (2) a sound work
ing knowledge of the arithmetic involved and of the procedure of recording
the calculations.
Close adherence to sign convention is important in the distribution of
moments. The rule has been adopted in Problem 2 that a moment at a
joint is positive when it tends to rotate the joint in the clockwise direction. *
As a direct result of this sign convention, all distributed moments at a
joint have signs opposite to that of the unbalanced moment they counter
act, and the carry-over moment has the same sign as the moment from
which it is derived.

♦Somedesigners prefer to define positive moments as moments creating .tensionin the inside of the frame.
Any sign convention is acceptable provided it is carried through consistently.