Lesson 3: Analysis of Statically Determinate Rigid Frames

Rigid Frame is that type of structure in which the members are joined together by rigid joints
e.g. welded joints. In structural engineering, a rigid frame is the load-resisting skeleton constructed
with straight or curved members interconnected by mostly rigid connections, which resist movements
induced at the joints of members. Its members can take bending moment, shear, and axial loads.

I. Analyses:

1. The joints are rigidly connected.

A joint that is capable of transmitting the full extent of force at the end of the member
to the other members framing into the joint. A rigid connection is a connection between
two structural members which prevents one from rotating with respect to the other.

2. The members are rigid.

Rigidity is the property of a structure that it does not bend or flex under an applied force.

Shear and Moment Diagrams of different types of Loading

Type Figure V - Diagram M - Diagram

1. Concentrated
Loads

2. Uniformly
Distributed
Loads

3. Non – Uniformly
Distributed
Loads/ Varying
Loads
For second degree and third degree curves:
Increasing (+)

Decreasing (+)

Increasing (-)

Decreasing (-)

Point of Load change (PL)

It is found at the shear diagram. The point within two supports where the shear changes from (+)
to (-) or vice versa.
Point of Inflection (PI)
It is found at the Moment Diagram. The point within the two supports where the moment changes
from (+) to (-) or vice versa.

Sample Problems:
1. Analyze the rigid frame shown in the figure (refer to the Jam board) by drawing the FBD of
each joint and members, shear and moment diagrams of each member, shear and moment
diagrams of the whole figure.

2. Analyze completely the rigid frame shown in the figure 9refer to the Jam board). Joint B is
fixed connected.