Computer-aided analysis and design of continuous steel beams.

A computer program was developed that constitutes the integration of a continuous beam analysis program and the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) beam design program with interactive computer graphics to provide a complete system for the interactive analysis and design of steel beams. Using matrix analysis, the moment, shear and displacements are calculated and given as outputs. The results of the matrix analysis are used together with the AISC codes to determine or verify member sizes. The user of the program has the option to choose shapes and allowable stresses given by the AISC and utilizes an iterative process in determining member sections. The program also has a redesign capability, which is used if the preliminary section is not adequate. It checks its adequacy with respect to the allowable moment, shear and deflection. The moment, shear and deflection diagrams are also shown. The use of interactive computer graphics displays aids the engineer in interpreting the large bulk of data needed for input and produced by the analysis and design algorithms