Abstract: Analysis of curved beam is a vital part of structural analysis as curved beams have found many applications in civil, mechanical and aerospace engineering. This Dissertation developed a computer aided analysis of a “curved beam-element” using Stiffness matrix method. A Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet program was developed and used to analyze the curved beam element. The main assumption is that the curve is made up of finite straight lines therefore stiffness matrix method of analysis is suitable to analyze the curved beam. Abaqus software was used to validate the results obtained from the Excel spreadsheet and the % difference were calculated. The % difference obtained were within acceptable limit so MS Excel program developed can be used to analyze beams. Almost everyone’s business or personal computer has Excel installed, which makes it a trustworthy way to transfer information and easy access. For every computer literate that can use the MS Excel Spreadsheet even if you do not know how to use Abaqus, Ansys, FEM or other engineering software which are not always available on all computers, can use the MS Excel spreadsheet to analyze curved beams. The straight beam approximation method is a reliable method to calculate curved beam elements of different section.
Keywords: curved, beam, analysis, Ms excel, stiffness matrix.
Title: ANALYSIS OF CURVED BEAMS
Author: Akpo-ezoukumo Excel Douglas
International Journal of Civil and Structural Engineering Research
ISSN 2348-7607 (Online)
Research Publish Journals
