Calculating 3D Trusses with FEM
The finite element method (FEM) is used for calculations on three-dimensional trusses.
Unlike rigid body calculations, the trusses here can also be statically indeterminate.
Bar forces, support reactions, and the displacement state are calculated.
The user can save their entered model data locally.
To the Results
The results section calculates the displacement state of the truss and displays the truss in its deformed state.
For graphical representation, all displacements are uniformly enlarged so that they can be seen.
The truss members are color-coded as tension members (blue), compression members (red), and zero force members (white).
Clicking on a member in the results display shows the corresponding axial force.
Clicking on a node in the results display shows the corresponding displacements.
3D - Zero-Structure Members
In 3-dimensional trusses, there are also zero force members that can be identified without calculation.
The following list may not be exhaustive, but it includes the most obvious cases.
- Unloaded corner with exactly 3 members - all 3 are zero force members.
- Corner with exactly 3 members, load/support reaction in the plane of 2 of these members, the third is a zero force member.
- Corner with exactly 3 members. Load/support reaction perpendicular to the plane spanned by 2 members.
Both are zero force members.
- Unloaded node with exactly 4 members, 2 of which are aligned in the same direction.
If the other two are not aligned in the same direction, they are zero force members.
- Unloaded node with several members, all but one of which lie in the same plane. This one is a zero force member.
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