Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

Chapter Three – Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

3. The Concept of Influence Lines:
In designing a structure, loads acting on that structure must be established before
the stress analysis can be made. For a static structure two kinds of loads are
important, dead load and live load. The former is constant throughout the structure
life, while the latter may vary in position on the structure. In designing any specific
part of the structure attention should be paid to the placement of the live load that
will cause maximum live stresses for that part.
It is not necessary that a structure is subjected to a single set of loads all of the
time. For example, the single-lane bridge deck shown in Fig. (3.1) may be
subjected to one set of a loading at one time, Fig. (3.1-a), and the same structure
may be subjected to another set of loading at a different time, Fig. (3.1-b). It
depends on the number, position and weight of vehicles moving on the bridge.

Fig. (3.1) - Loading Condition on a Bridge Deck at Different Times

The variation of load on a structure results in variation in the response of the
structure. Thus, multiple sets of loading require multiple sets of analysis in order to
obtain the critical response parameters.
Influence lines offer a quick and easy way of performing multiple analyses for a
single structure. Response parameters such as shear forces or bending moment at a
point or reaction at a support for several load sets can be easily computed using
influence lines.
An influence line is a diagram which presents the variation of a certain response
parameter, such as a reaction of a support, shear force or bending moment at a
point, due to the variation of the position of a unit concentrated load along the
length of the structural member.
For the beam shown in Fig (3.2), consider a unit downward concentrated load is
moving from point A to point B. Assume that load to be a wheel of unit weight

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 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

moving along the length of the beam. The magnitude of the vertical support
reaction at A, RA, will change depending on the location of this unit load. The
influence line for RA, (Fig. 3.2-b), show the value of RA for different locations of
the moving unit load. From the ordinate of the influence line at C, it is found that
RA = 0.5 when the unit load reaches point C.

(a)

(b)

(c)

Fig. (3.2) - Influence Line of RA for Beam AB

3.1. Construction of Influence Lines using Equilibrium Methods:
The most basic method of obtaining the influence line for a specific response
parameter is to solve the static equilibrium equations for various locations of the
unit load. The general procedure for constructing an influence line is as follows:
1) Define the positive direction of the response parameter under consideration
through a free body diagram of the whole system, sign convention.
For Flexure Members, Beams and Frames:
N
Axial Force, N (+) Tension, +ve

V
Shear Force, V (+) Clockwise, +ve

M Compression on top,
(+)
+ve

Bending (+) (+) Compression

B C E
Moment, M 1 outside, +ve
(+) 1 1
0 0 (+) 0(+) For internal
A m m m members: the right
D F
1
1 1 side, +ve
0
0 0
m
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 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

For Axial Members, Trusses:

Axial Force, N Tension, +ve

2) Consider a generic location for the unit load, at distance x, then solve for the
equilibrium of the whole system to obtain the response parameter for that
location of the unit load with respect to x. by substituting the values of x along
the structure, the influence line for that parameter is obtained.

Example 3-1
Draw the influence line for the vertical reaction at A and B of beam AB shown in
Fig. (3.3).

A B
10 m

Fig. (3.3)
Solution:

I.L. for RA and RB:

Ex: 3-1
Assume a unit load (UL=1) is moving
along beam AB and is located at distance x
from support A, 0<x<10.
M A =0 + 10 m
1  ( x ) − RB  (10 ) = 0 10 m
1
x
RB = 0
10 I.L. RA
F y =0 + ( )
x 1
RA − 1 + RB = 0  RA − 1 + =0
10 0
x I.L. RB
RA = 1 −
10
By substituting the values of x from 0 to 10
the influence line for either RA or RB can
be obtained.

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 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

Example 3-2
Draw the influence line for the shear and moment at point C located 2 m from
support A of beam AB shown in Fig. (3.4).

A B
C
2m 8m
10 m

Fig. (3.4)
Solution:
1) I.L. for VC:
Ex: 3-2
Assume a unit load (UL=1) is moving x 1 (kN)
1.6
along beam AB. Divide the beam into two A B
parts, from 0 to 2 and from 2 to 10. C
RA RB
2m 8m
Assume the unit load is located at distance
10 m
0<x<2, and solve for Vc.
+ 0.8
Then assume that the unit load is located at
I.L. VC
distance 2<x<10 and solve for Vc.
- 0.2
for 0<x<2: +1.6
F y ( )
=0 +
RA − 1 − VC = 0
I.L. MC
 x 
 1 −  − 1 − VC = 0
 10 
x 0<x<2
VC = −
10 M (kN)
UL=1
@ x = 0  VC = 0 2 < xx < 1.6
10
@ x = 2  VC = −0.2
M
A Mc
RA C
for 2<x<10: Vc
2m
F y ( )
=0 +
RB − 1 + VC = 0 2 < x < 10
x M UL=1 kN
VC = 1 −
10 2 < x <x 10 M
M B
@ x = 2  VC = 0.8 Mc M
C
@ x = 10  VC = 0 VC
8m RB
M

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 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

2) I.L. for MC:

for 0<x<2: for 2<x<10:

 MC = 0 +
M C = 0+
M C + 1 (2 − x ) − RA  2 = 0 M C + 1 ( x − 2) − RB  8 = 0
2x
M C = 2 RA − 2 + x = 2 − −2+ x  8 
10 M C = 8 RB − x + 2 = x − 1  + 2
 10 
M C = 0.8 x
M C = 2 − 0.2 x
@ x = 0  MC = 0
@ x = 2  M C = 1.6
@ x = 2  M C = 1.6
@ x = 10  M C = 0

3.2. Important Steps to be Followed to Construct Influence Lines:

1) The structure may be divided into pieces, the ends of each piece is either a
free end or an internal hinge, as shown in Fig. (3.5).

1 2 1 2 3 4 1 2 3
(a) (b) (c)

Fig. (3.5)

2) To draw the influence lines for the reactions at supports, the moment at the
fixed end or the shear force at an internal hinge the structure must be divided
into two pieces, as shown in Fig. (3.5-a).
3) To draw the influence lines for the moment and shear at any other point on
the structure which must be divided into three pieces according to the
position wanted, as shown in Fig. (3.5-c).
4) The supports are assumed to be fixed points where the IL for them should be
equal to zero.
5) If the IL for two points were known then the line for that parameter can be
drawn, a line can be drawn using two points or a point and a slope.
6) The structure part cannot be broken or bended, but it can be tended.
7) The internal hinge is able to move if the adjoining part allowed that
movement.

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 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

3.3. Construction of Influence Lines for Beams using a Simple Fast

Procedure:
There is a fast procedure to draw the influence lines for beams, as shown below:
3.3.1. Influence Lines for Reactions at Supports:
Lift the support, upward, one unit and keep the other supports fixed with zero
values, as shown in Fig. (3.6).
A B
10 10
m1 m

0 I.L. RA
1
I.L. RB
0

Fig. (3.6)
3.3.2. Influence Lines for Shear at Supports:
The influence line for the shear at supports is drawn depending whether the shear
calculated is on the left or right side of the support, as follows:

3.3.2.1. Influence Lines for Shear at left side of Support, , VL:

The support will be fixed at zero value and the left side will be pulled down for one
unit, keeping in mind that the portion before and after the support should be
parallel, having the same slope, as shown in Fig. (3.7-a).
A B C D A B C D

I.L. VC-L I.L. VC-R

(a) (b)
Fig. (3.7)

3.3.2.2. Influence Lines for Shear at right side of Support, , VR:

The support will be fixed at zero value and the right side will be lifted upward for
one unit, keeping in mind that the portion before and after the support should be
parallel, having the same slope, as shown in Fig. (3.7-b).

3.3.3. Influence Lines for Shear at Any Point within the Beam:
The influence line for the shear at any point is drawn as follows: Lift the right part
of the cut member, upward, with an amount equal to (length of right cut/length of
beam); then pull down the left part of the cut member, downward, with an amount
Q-L (2022-2023) Ch.3-6
 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

equal to (length of left cut/length of beam); keeping the distance between the two
points of cut equal to one unit, the two points of shear at a cut are separated with
one unit, as shown in Fig. (3.8).

A B C D
a b
L
b/L
1 I.L. VB
a/L

Fig. (3.8)
a. If the right side of the shear cut is fixed then the left side will be pulled down
for one unit.
b. If the left side of the shear cut is fixed then the right side will be lifted
upward for one unit.
3.3.4. Influence Lines for Bending Moment at Any Point within the Beam:
The influence line for the bending moment at any point is drawn as follows: Lift
the point upward, with an amount equal to (a×b/L), where a is the length of the left
portion, b is the length of the right portion and L is the total length of the beam, as
shown in Fig. (3.9).

A B C D
a b
L
ab/L
I.L. MB

Fig. (3.9)
a. If the right side of the moment cut is fixed then the left side will be pulled
down with 45o, as shown in Fig. (3.10-a).
b. If the left side of the moment cut is fixed then the right side will be pulled
down with 45o, as shown in Fig. (3.10-b).
c. At any unfixed point, the two points of moment stick together and are lifted
upwards with an amount equal to (a×b/L).
B C D E D B C D E D
A A

45o I.L. MC 45o I.L. MD

(a) (b)
Fig. (3.10)
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 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

3.3.5. Influence Lines for the Bending Moment at Supports:

The influence line for the moment at supports is drawn as follows:
The support will be fixed at zero value and the unfixed side of the structure, either
the left or the right, will be pulled down with 45o, as shown in Fig. (3.11).

A B C D

I.L. MC 45o

Fig. (3.11)

Ex: 3-3
For the beam shown, draw the I.L. for following:
1) The reactions at A and C.
2) The shear at C, F, G, I, J, K and L.
3) The bending moment at A, C, F, I, J, K and L

B I C J D E K F L G H
A

3m 1m 1m1m1m 4m 1m1m 2m 1m 2m

Solution:

Ex: 3-3 B I C J D E K F L G H
+1 A

3m 1m 1m1m1m 4m 1m1m 2m 1m 2m
+1 +1

I.L. RA

-1
+2
+1

I.L. RC

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 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

Ex: 3-3 B I C J D E K F L G H
A

3m 1m 1m1m1m 4m 1m1m 2m 1m 2m

I.L. VC-L

-1 -1

+1 +1

I.L. VC-R

I.L. VF-L

-1 -1

+2/3 +1

I.L. VF-R

-2/3

+2/3
I.L. VG-L

-1 -2/3

+1 +1

I.L. VG-R

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 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

Ex: 3-3 J D
B I C E K F L G H
A

3m 1m 1m1m1m 4m 1m1m 2m 1m 2m

+1/2
I.L. VI
-1/2
-1

+1 +1

I.L. VJ

I.L. VK

-1 -1

+2/3
+1/3
I.L. VL

-2/3 -2/3
+3

I.L. MA
45o

-3

I.L. MC
45o

-2

I.L. MF
45o

-2

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 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

Ex: 3-3 J D
B I C E K F L G H
A

3m 1m 1m1m1m 4m 1m1m 2m 1m 2m

+1/2
I.L. MI

-1

45o
I.L. MJ

-1

45o
I.L. MK

-1

+2/3
45o
I.L. ML
-2/3
-4/3

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 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

Ex: 3-3 B I C J D E K F L G H
A

3m 1m 1m1m1m 4m 1m1m 2m 1m 2m

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 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

3.4. Calculating the Maximum Effect due to Concentrated or Uniformly

Distributed Loads:
To calculate the maximum effect of any parameter due to either a concentrated
load or a uniformly distributed load, follow the following procedures:
3.4.1. Due to a Concentrated Load:
After drawing the influence line for the parameter desired, the value of the
concentrated load must be multiplied by the maximum value of the influence line.
If the positive maximum effect is required then the load would be multiplied by the
maximum positive value, the same thing is for the maximum negative effect.
3.4.2. Due to a Uniformly Distributed Load:
The uniformly distributed loads are either dead or live loads.
3.4.2.1. Due to a Dead Uniformly Distributed Load, wDL:
Multiply the value of load, (wDL) by the algebraic sum for the values of area of
influence line drawing, under that load, for both positive and negative areas.
3.4.2.2. Due to a Live Uniformly Distributed Load, wLL, covering any Length:
Calculate the positive and negative areas of the influence line, under that load,
separately; if the maximum positive effect is desired then multiply the value of the
load by the positive area; the same is followed if the maximum negative effect is
desired.
3.4.2.3. Due to a Live Uniformly Distributed Load, wLL, with Specific length:
There are two situations for this kind of loading:
1) The shape of the influence line, including the maximum value, may be a
rectangle or a right-angle triangle; the uniformly distributed load must be
located on the area at the location of maximum value, as shown in Fig. (3.12).
A A
w w A1 =0.5(y1+y2) A
w
y1 A y2 A2 y
A I.L. 1 I.L. A2 = Ay
L1 L2

The maximum value of the parameter due to the live load would be equal to
the dashed area multiplied by w.

Fig. (3.12)
2) The shape of the influence line, including the maximum value, may be a
scalene triangle; the uniformly distributed load must be located on the area so
that the length A will produce the same value on the influence line drawing, y,
as shown in Fig. (3.13).

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 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

(x) (A-x)
x=Aa/L
w y c y
I.L. y = c (1 – A / L)
A
a b Dashed Area = Ac (1 - A / 2 L)
L
The maximum value of the parameter due to the live load would
be equal to the dashed area multiplied by w.
Fig. (3.13)
Ex: 3-4, (1998-1999)
The beam shown in Fig. (3.14) is on three supports but has one internal hinge, the
beam has also an overhang. Draw the influence line (I.L.) for the bending moment
at section (x-x), when a unit load transverse (or moves on) this beam, the self-
weight of the beam is estimated to be (18 kN/m) of length, a uniform live load of
22 (kN/m) of length can occupy any length and region of the beam. Find the
maximum bending moment at section (x-x), (both max. (+ve) and max. (–ve)).
Solution:

Ex: 3-4 x
y1
x
y 6m 6m 4m 8m 3m
3 10 10 10 10 10
m 6*6/12=3 m m m m
A1 A3 6m
A1 y1 10
6 m A3 y3
I.L. Mx-x
* 6
y2 A2
6/ m
A
ab 66 1 y2 3 y3 y2 10
y1 = = =
23 =  y2 = 2 2 =  y 3 = 0m.75
l 12 = 4 6 3 8
3 Fig. (3.14)

(M x − x )+ ve = w DL ( A1 + A2 + A3 ) + w LL ( A1 + A3 )
(M x − x )+ ve = 18  1 (12) (3) + 1 (12) (− 2) + 1 (3)  3   + 22 1 (12) (3) + 1 (3)  3  
2 2 2  4  2 2  4 

(M x − x )+ ve = 18  18 − 12 + 9  + 22  18 + 9  = 128.25 + 420.75 = 549 kN .m

 8  8
(M x − x )− ve = w DL ( A1 + A2 + A3 ) + w LL ( A2 )
(M x − x )− ve = 18  1 (12 ) (3 ) + 1 (12 ) (− 2 ) + 1 (3 )  3   + 22 1 (12 ) (− 2 )
2 2 2  4  2 

(M x − x )− ve = 18 (18 + (− 12 ) + 1.125 ) + 22 1 (12 ) (− 2 ) = 18 (7.125 ) + 22(− 12 ) = 128.25 − 264 = 137.75 kN .m
2 

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 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

3.5. Influence Lines for Girders with Stringer and Floor-Beam Systems:
In bridge construction, where a long-span girder is used, the live loads are not
applied directly to the main girder, but they are transmitted from the stringer (slab)
to the girder by a floor beam system as the one shown in Fig. (3.15, a and b).
Stringer (Slab)
Floor Beam

Girder

(b)
(a)
Fig. (3.15)
3.5.1. Influence Lines for the Upper Segment of Girders-Stringer-Floor Beam
Systems:
Consider the system shown in Fig (3.16) which consists of five panels each of (6 m)
long. To draw the influence lines for the upper segment, the same past rules for
beams are applied as shown in the following example:
Ex: 3-5:
Draw the IL for R2, VH, V3, M3, Vx, Mx on the upper beam.
Hinge 3m Gap Stringer (Slab)
Floor Beam H x M
M M M
M M M
x
Girder 0 1 2 3 M 4 5
E
M M M M M M M
A D M
M B C M
m M
6 6m 3 m
3 m
6 m
3m 3m
M 12 m

Solution:
Hinge 3m Gap
Ex: 3-5 H x
M M M
M M
x
0 1 2 3 M 4 5
E
M M M M M M
A D M
M B C M
m M
6 6m 3 m
3 m
6 m
3m 3m
M 12 m
+1

I.L. R2-Top

I.L. VH
-1

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 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

Hinge 3m Gap
Ex: 3-5 H x
M M M
M M
x
0 1 2 3 M 4 5
E
M M M M M M
A D M
M B C M
m M
6 6m 3 m
3 m
6 m
3m 3m
M 12 m

I.L. V3-L-Top

-1 -1

+1/2 +1
I.L. V3-R-Top
-1/2

I.L. M3-Top 45o

-3

+1/2 +1/2
I.L. Vx
-1/2 -1/2
+3/2

I.L. Mx

-3/2 -3/2

3.5.2. Influence Lines for the Lower Segment of Girders-Stringer-Floor Beam

Systems:
Ex: 3-6-a:
For the same structure of Ex: 3-5, draw the IL for RB and V2-3-Bottom.
To construct the influence lines for those two parameters in the lower beam, the
following steps should be followed:
1) Draw the required influence line for the lower beam only, the girder,
following the previous rules, regardless of anything above it. (Drawn in
dotted lines), (the Premier Drawing, PD).
2) On that plot, transfer the effect of the connection point between the upper and
lower segments of the system (Floor Beam) and find their coordinates by
proportions.

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 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

3) Transfer the effect of the upper segments (Slab) based on the supporting points
from the previous step (Floor Beam), connecting the selected points with
regards of the shape of the upper segments (Slab), (the Final Drawing, FD).

Ex: 3-6-a Hinge

H 3m Gap Stringer (Slab)
M x M
M M M
M
x
y
Girder 0 1 2 3 M 4 5
M Floor Beam E
M M M3 m M M M M
A M y D M M
M B M C M
M
6m 6m 3m 3m 6m M3 m 3 m
12 m

+9/7 +1

I.L. RB-Bottom, PD
-1/7
+9/7

I.L. RB-Bottom, FD
+4/7 -5/28 -1/7
+2/7
I.L. V2-3-Bottom, PD
-3/7 -1/7
+4/7
+2/7
I.L. V2-3-Bottom, FD
-2/7 -5/28 -1/7

Ex: 3-6-b: (Do it as homework-HW-1/Sheet-3)

For the same structure of Ex:5, draw the IL for Rc-Bottom and My-y-Bottom.

Ex: 3-7:
For the structure shown below, draw the IL for RB, VB-L, VB-R and MB, then find
the maximum bending moment at point B due to a concentrated load of 90 kN and
a uniformly distributed live load of 15 kN/m and a uniformly distributed dead load
of 10 kN/m.
Ex: 3-7 Gap Hinge
M M
1 2 3
M M M
A Hinge B C
2 m M2 m 2 m 2m M4 M
m
H2
m 2 mM2 m
2m i
n
g
Q-L (2022-2023) e Ch.3-17
M
 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

Ex: 3-7 Gap Hinge

M M
1 2 3
M M M
A Hinge B C
2 m M2 m 2 m 2m M4 M
m m 2 mM2 m
H2
2m i
y2= +5/3
n
y1= +1/3 1 m
g
m M
I.L. RB e
M
z1= +10/3
m

x
M
I.L. RB
z1= -2/3
m

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 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

3.6. Influence Lines for Trusses:

The general procedure to draw the influence lines for trusses is by using the
equilibrium method; but first, the idea to solve the problem must be found, the
axial forces of the truss member required, either by the section method or the joint
method, then the following procedure is followed:
1) If the solution is by the section method:
Select two points before the section and two after it then calculate the force in the
member for each point; based on these results the IL for that member is drawn.
Note:
In the section method if the solution includes summation of moments around a
point that lies over, under, left or right the section, then three point will be
satisfying to draw the IL, one point before the section, one after the section and the
point of section.
2) If the solution is by the joint method:
The joint must be on the line of loads. Assume that the joint is loaded with a UL
then find the force in the member required, and then the joint is assumed to be
unloaded, and the force in the member required is found, after that the IL can be
drawn.
Ex: (3-8):
Draw the influence for the force in members (BI), (HI), (BH) and (EK) for the
truss shown in figure below, where the UL moves from (F) to (L).
Ex: 3-8 A B 1 C D E
M M M M M
4m
1 M
F G H 1 I J K L
M M 6 @ 3 mM= 18 mM
M M M
M
Solution:
1) For the force in member (BI)
The idea to solve for the force in member (BI) must be found; sec (1-1) and
∑Fy=0. Then select 4 points to apply the UL, two before the section, (G) and
(H), and two after the section, (I) and (K). The load would be applied on the
joints of the lower cord of the truss.
A B C D E
M M FBC FBC M M
M
M M FBI
FBI M
M FHI FHI
F G H M I J K L
RMG- M
M M M M RMG- M
Y
H Sec H
(1-1)
M Y
M M M
Q-L (2022-2023) M Ch.3-19
H H
H
M M
M
 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

1) UL @ (G): 2) UL @ (H):
From the whole truss: From the whole truss:
M =0 R K G− y = 1 kN 
M K = 0  RG − y =
3
kN 
F = 0  R
y K−y =0
4
1
From sec (1-1)   Fy = 0  FBI = 0 F y = 0  RK − y =
4
kN 

−5
From sec (1-1)   Fy = 0  FBI = kN (C )
16

3) UL @ (I): 4) UL @ (K):
From the whole truss: From the whole truss:

M K = 0  RG − y =
1
kN  M =0 R K G− y =0
2
F = 0  R
y K−y = 1 kN 
1
F y = 0  RK − y = kN 
2
From sec (1-1)
F y = 0  FBI = 0
From sec (1-1)   Fy = 0  FBI = kN (T )
5
8

2) For the force in member (HI)

The idea to solve for the force in member (HI) must be found; sec (1-1) and
∑MB=0. Since the point of moment is close to the section, then select 3 points
to apply the UL, one before the section, (G), one after the section, (K) and one
near the section say (H).

1) UL @ (G): 2) UL @ (K):
From the whole truss: From the whole truss:
M =0 R K G− y = 1 kN  M =0 R K G− y =0

F = 0  R
y K−y =0 F = 0  R
y K−y = 1 kN 
From sec (1-1)   M B = 0  FHI = 0 From sec (1-1)   M B = 0  FHI = 0

3) UL @ (H):
From the whole truss:
3
M K = 0  RG − y =
4
kN 

1
F y = 0  RK − y =
4
kN 

kN (T )
9
From sec (1-1)   M B = 0  FHI =
16

Q-L (2022-2023) Ch.3-20

 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

3) For the force in member (BH)

The idea to solve for the force in member (BH) must be found; Since (BH) is a
zero member of the truss, and the joint causing this lies on the line of moving
loads then the solution will be by the joint method, joint (H).
FHB= 1 kN (T) FHB= 0
M M
1
FHG M FHI FHG FHI
M H M M H M
H M
U. L. @ joint (H)
H U.HL. not M
@ joint H
(H)
M M M M M M
H H
1) UL @ joint (H): M 2) UL notM @ joint (H):
F y = 0  FHB = 1 kN (T ) F y = 0  FHB = 0

4) For the force in member (EK):

The idea to solve for the force in member (EK) must be found; the solution is
by the joint method, joint (K), but since this joint is supported by support (K)
then the reaction at support (K) will affect the value of the force in member
KE. Therefore, the I. L. for the reaction at support (K) must be found first, and
then calculate (FKE) based on (RK-Y):

1) UL @ joint (K): 2) UL not @ joint (K):

RK −Y = 1 kN  RK −Y = ? kN

F y= 0  RK −Y + FKE − 1 = 0  FKE = 0 F = 0  RK −Y + FKE = 0  FKE = − RK −Y

y
FKE= 0 FKE= -RK-Y
M 1 M
U. L. @ joint (K) FKJ M FKL U. L. not @ joint (K) FKJ FKL
M M K M M M K M
H H M
RK-Y=1H H H M
R K-Y H
=?
M M M M M M MM
H H
M M
UL K UL F G H I J L
F F
RK-Y +1 RK-Y -1/4 0 +1/4 +1/2 +3/4 +5/4
FKE 0 FKE +1/4 0 -1/4 -1/2 -3/4 -5/4

Q-L (2022-2023) Ch.3-21

 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

Ex: 3-8 A B 1 C D E
M M M M M

4m
M
1
F G H 1 I J K L
M M M M
6 @ 3 m = 18 m M M M
M

+5/8
+5/16 M
I. L. F M BI
M
-5/16 -5/16
M M

+9/16
M
I. L. FHI
M
-3/16
-9/16
M
M

+1
M

I. L. FHB
M

+5/4
+1
+3/4 M
+1/4 +1/2 M
M
M M
I. L. RK-Y
M -1/4
M

+1/4
I. L. FKE M
M
-1/4
-1/2
M -3/4
M
M -5/4
M

Q-L (2022-2023) Ch.3-22

 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

Ex: (3-9), Final (1997-1998)

Draw the influence for members a and b in the truss shown in figure below.
Ex: 3-9 J I 1 H G F
b
M a
M 4m
M
1 A
B 1 C D E
3m 3m 3m 3m
M M M
4 @ 3 m = 12 m M
M
To solve this problem think about an idea for solution.
For member a:
If the joint method is used, joint D is analyzed to find GD, then  Fy = 0 for joint
G, the force in member (a) can be determined.
1) UL @ D
F y = 0  GD = +1 GD G
a 4
From joint G 1.0 9
  M GD
 4 =0
 y =  +
((4) + (9) )
F 0 1 a D
 2 2 
 
a = −2.46 kN
2) UL not @ D GD G
F y = 0  GD = 0 a 9
4
From joint G GD
D
 
= 0  a =0
4
F y

 ((4) + (9) )
2 2 

a = 0 kN
For member b:
To solve member b the section n method is used, section (1-1) then  M A = 0 , the
force in member (b) can be determined.
Since point (A) does not lie above, under, left or right sec (1-1), therefore 4 point
are necessary for the solution, two before the section, A and B and two after the
section, C and E.
J I b b H G F
M M
AH AH
a
M
AF a
MAF
A BC BC
B C D E
Sec (1-1)
M

Q-L (2022-2023) Ch.3-23

 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

Ex: 3-9 J I H G F
b
M a
M 4m
1) UL @ A
M
M A = 0  b = 0 kN A
B C D E
2) UL @ B
4 @ 3 m = 12 m
M A = 0  b = −0.75 kN M
3) UL @ C I.L. Fa

M A = 0  b = 0 kN -2.46
4) UL @ E I.L. Fb M

M A = 0  b = 0 kN -0.75
M

Q-L (2022-2023) Ch.3-24

 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

3.7. Influence Lines for Trusses with Stringer and Floor-Beam Systems:
If the girder in the system was replaced by a truss, the UL will move on the
stringer and the loads are transformed to the truss through the connecting points
between the stringer and the truss.

Notes:
1) If the stringer was regular then the truss will be drawn without the stringer,
because the supports will be the same joints for the truss, but if the stringer was
irregular, it should be drawn with the truss to show the points of connection
between them.

2) If the demand was to draw the IL of a parameter within the upper segment of
the system (the stringer and the floor-beam), the simple fast procedure could be
applied, but for the lower segment of the system (Truss), then the traditional
method will be used.
Ex: (3-10)
Draw the influence for members DB of the structure shown in figure below, where
the UL moves across the stringer from H to I.

2 m 1 m1 m 2 m 1 m1 m 2 m Ex: 3-10
M M M M M M M
1
H I
D E F G
4m
M
A C
B
3m 3m
M M
Solution:
First of all, find an idea for the solution of the truss member, DB.
1) Analyze joint F,  F y = 0 , find AF.
2) Sec (1-1), F y = 0 , find DB.
Then select the points to apply the UL, one before the section, D, and three after
the section, E, F and G, the load would be applied on the upper joints of the truss.
1) UL @ D:
1.0 Ex: 3-10
From joint F:
F
D E F G
y = 0  AF = 0
4m
From sec (1-1) M
F y = 0  DB = 0 A
B
C
RA 3m 3m
Q-L (2022-2023) M M Ch.3-25
 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

2) UL @ E:
From whole truss: 1.0 Ex: 3-10
2
M C = 0  RA =
3
D E F G
4m
From joint F: M
F
A C
y = 0  AF = 0
B
RA 3m 3m
From sec (1-1)
M M
5
F y = 0  DB =
6
1.0 Ex: 3-10
D E F G
3) UL @ G: 4m
From whole truss: M
A C
 M C = 0  RA = 0 RA
B
3m 3m
From joint F: M M
F y = 0  AF = 0
From sec (1-1)
F y = 0  DB = 0

4) UL @ F: Ex: 3-10 1.0 1.0

From whole truss: EF FG
D E F G F
1
M C = 0  RA =
3
4m AF
DE
M D
From joint F: A C
B DB
 Fy = 0  AF = − 2 RA 3m 3m AF
M M A AB
From sec (1-1)
RA Sec (1-1)

5
F y = 0  DB = −
6 Ex: 3-10
H I
D E F G
5 5 5
y1 + +
6= 6 6y =5
1
3 2 3 A C
+5/6B
5 5 5 M
y2 + +
6= 6 6y =5 +5/3
3 2
2
3 M -5/6
y1 M
I.L. DB m
y3 y2 5 10 y2 y3
= , y2 =  y3 = m m -10/9
2 3 3 9 -5/3 M
M

Q-L (2022-2023) Ch.3-26

 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

Ex: (3-11)
Draw the influence for the floor beam reaction at (u3) and the force in members (a)
for the structure shown in figure below, where the UL moves across the stringer
from (u0) to (u4).
Gap Ex: 3-11
2m Hinge 2m
1
M M
u0 u1 1 u2 E u3 u4

a 3m
M M
A 1 B
4 @ 4 m = 16 m
M
Solution:
1) For the reaction at (u3)
To draw the IL for the reaction at (u3), the simple fast method may be used. Lift up
the support at (u3) one unit and connect the supporting points with regard to the
shape of the upper beam.
Gap Ex: 3-11
2m Hinge 2m
1
M M
u0 u1 1 u2 E u3 u4

a 3m
M M
A 1 B
+3/2
M +1
E M
I.L. (u3) E

-3/2
M
E
2) For member (a)
First, find an idea for the solution of the truss member, (a):
From section (1-1),  Fy = 0 , find (a).
Then select the points to apply the UL, two before the section, (u 0) and (u1), and
two after the section, (u2) and (u4), the load would be applied on the upper joints of
the truss.
1) UL @ (u0): 1.0
From the whole truss: u0 u1 1 u2 u3 u4

 M = 0  A = 1.0
B y
a
F = 0 B = 0
y y
A M
1
B

Q-L (2022-2023) Ex: 3-11 Ch.3-27

 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

From sec (1-1)

F y = 0 a = 0

2) UL @ (u1):
1.0
From the whole truss: u0 u1 1 u2 u3 u4
3
M B = 0  Ay =
4 a
A M B
1
 Fy = 0  B y = 4 1
Ex: 3-11
From sec (1-1)
 3 1 5
F y = 0  a  + = 0  a = −
 5 4 12

3) UL @ (u2): 1.0
u0 u1 1 u2 u3 u4
From the whole truss:
1
M B = 0  Ay =
2 A
a
M B
1 1
 Fy = 0  B y = 2 Ex: 3-11
From sec (1-1)
 3 1 5
F y = 0  a  − = 0  a = +
 5 2 6

4) UL @ (u4): 1.0
From the whole truss: u0 u1 1 u2 u3 u4
 M = 0  B = 1.0
A y
a
F = 0 A = 0
y y A M B
1
From sec (1-1) Ex: 3-11
F y = 0 a = 0
Then apply these values with dotted lines as shown in the premier drawing, PD,
below.
Transfer the effect of the upper segments (Slab) based on the supporting points
from (Floor Beam), connecting the selected points with regards of the shape of the
upper segments (Slab), as shown in the Final Drawing, FD, below.

Q-L (2022-2023) Ch.3-28

 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

.
Gap Ex: 3-11

2m Hinge 2m
1
M M
u0 u1 1 u2 E u3 u4

a 3m
M M
A 1 B
4 @ 4 m = 16 m
M
5 +5/6
y1 6 25 M
=  y1 = E
10 8 24 I.L. (a), PD

-5/12 +5/6
y2 5
= 4  y2 = − M M
6 8 E y1
I.L. (a), FD E y3
M
5 E y2
-5/12 m
y3 6 5
=  y3 = M e
4 8 12 E

Q-L (2022-2023) Ch.3-29

 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

3.8. Moving Loads:

If a maximum effect of a parameter is required due to a movement of a group of
loads, first of all the influence line of that parameter should be constructed, then
the group of loads should be placed on the maximum point of the IL, each at a
time, and the parameter should be calculated due to this position. The maximum
result is considered the maximum effect required.
Ex: (3-12)
Find the maximum upward and downward reaction of support (A) due to the
moving loads shown if they move from left to right.
Solution:

Ex: (3-12) kN kN kN
Gap Hinge
20M 30M 10M M
M
0 m 00 m
2 2
M M
A B
Hinge
2m 2m M4 m 4m 2m 2m 2m
M M M M M M M

1
1
1
I.L. RA-V-AB

-1
2
1.5
1
0.5
I.L. RA-V

-1 -1

2 -2
1.5
1
0.5 1
-1
I.L. RA-V

-1 -1

-2

Q-L (2022-2023) Ch.3-30

 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

Ex: (3-12) kN kN kN
Gap Hinge
20M 30M 10M M
M
0 m 00 m
2 2
M M
A B
Hinge
2m 2m M4 m 4m 2m 2m 2m
M M M 2 M M M M
1.5
1
0.5 1

I.L. RA-V
kN kN kN
20M 30M 10M
0 00
-1 -1
RA−− ML −10 = (10  2 ) + (30  1.5 ) + (20  1) = 85 kN -2

kN kN kN
20M 30M 10M
0 00
RA− − ML − 30 = (10  0 ) + (30  2 ) + (20  1.5 ) = 90 kN  RA− max −  − ML = 90 kN

kN kN kN
20M 30M 10M
0 00
RA− − ML − 30 = (10  −1) + (30  0 ) + (20  2 ) = 30 kN

kN kN kN
20M 30M 10M
0 00
RA− − ML −10 = (10  −2 ) + (30  −1) + (20  0 ) = −50 kN

kN kN kN
20M 30M 10M
0 00
RA− max − − ML = 90 kN  RA− − ML − 30 = (10  −1) + (30  −2 ) + (20  −1) = −90 kN

kN kN kN
20M 30M 10M
0 00
RA− − ML − 20 = (10  0 ) + (30  −1) + (20  −2 ) = −70 kN

Q-L (2022-2023) Ch.3-31

 Theory of Structures-1 CH-3: Influence Lines for Statically Determinate Structures

Ex: (3-13) (Do it as homework, HW-2/Sheet-3)

If the self-weight of the girder in the previous example is estimated to be (20
kN/m) of length, and a uniform live load of 10 (kN/m) of length, that can occupy
any length and region of the girder. Find the maximum vertical reaction at support
(A) due to the moving loads shown as well as the dead and live loads applied,
(upward and downward).
HW-2 kN kN kN
Gap Hinge
20M 30M 10M M
M
0 00
2m 2m
M M
wD = 20 kN/m A B
Hinge
2m 2 m M4 m 4m 2m 2m 2m
wL = 10 kN/m
M M M 2 M M M M
1.5
1
0.5 1
A1 A2
I.L. RA-V
A3

-1 -1
-2

Q-L (2022-2023) Ch.3-32