Theory of Finite Element Analysis MECH 5130

Truss Planar
Presented by : German Oswaldo Hohl Lopez
B. Create a finite element model of the planar truss for analysis in ABAQUS.
Given parameters: Young’s module E= 2.9E7 psi and Poisson’s ratio = 0.3
First, obtain the point coordinates from given cantilever truss structure. This is done using the
global coordinates system. Origin is set at lowest point, in the form (X1,Y1).
Table 1. Point Coordinates

Point X Y
1 0 3
2 2 3
3 4 3
4 6 3
5 2 2
6 4 1
7 6 0

The cantilever model is presented below, Forces are applied at point A and B. Sign convention
stablishes that negative forces point downward.

Figure 1. Finite element model for planar truss. ABAQUS/CAE

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C. Complete the finite element analysis of the truss and find the support reactions and
member forces.
Table 2. Summarized the results obtained.
See abaqus.rpt screen capture attached in APPENDIX A.
Table 2. Forces and Reactions
F_CG 2.2 KN
F_CF 0.9 KN
Rex 9.9 KN
Rdy 8.6 KN
Rdx 9.9 KN

D. Postprocess the data to get a graphic of the deformed truss.

After postprocessing the data, plots are obtained for the Undeformed truss and the deformed
truss. Two concentrated forces are applied at point A and B, where the deformation is clearly
identified.

Figure 2. Overlaid undeformed/deformed truss. ABAQUS/CAE

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E. Brief Discussion addressing how the reactions and member forces from part A compare to
the finite element values found in part C.
Results obtained from both methods are quite similar. Although the difference in the reaction
in pin D is 43%. One of the reason comes from the fact that classical analytical theory does not
consider the shear deformation and bending deflection. Because when comparing the length of
the beam with the cross-sectional area (6 m long and 1 cm diameter), the deformation is not
negligible.

Calculation for conversion from member stress to member force.

Stress values obtained from S11 are to be multiplied by cross sectional area A = 0.122 in² (A =
πr², r = 0.196 in). Thus, obtaining Force in pound force units (1 lbf = 4.448 N).

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APPENDIX A.

Screen capture of the reaction forces and member stresses queried directly in the postprocessor.

Force CG

Forcer CF

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Reaction Forces (Abaqus.rpt)