Formex graphics in structural analysis.

Computer Aided structural analysis processes are highly dependent on the use of computer graphics. The objective of this work is to evolve techniques that allow structural analysts, designers and architects to work with computer graphics in a convenient manner. The formex approach of data generation is explained through a number of examples. This approach enables data to be generated very conveniently for the purposes of structural analysis. Also, introduced are the main features of an interactive programming language which acts as a vehicle to implement the concepts of formex algebra. An attempt to investigate the possibility of using the concepts of formex graphics in postprocessing stages of structural analysis is presented. This enables output of structural analysis programs to be graphically displayed so that plots of structural configurations can be shown in both their deformed and undeformed shapes. It is also shown that it is possible to employ the concepts of formex graphics in order to produce axial force, shear force, bending moment and torque diagrams in a manner that they can be visualized conveniently