Structural Analysis: Load Cases and Fundamental Systems

This lecture discusses the analysis of structural systems under different load cases. The instructor begins by changing the load case to examine the effects of support settlement. The deformation caused by this settlement is analyzed, and the instructor emphasizes the importance of linking the rest of the structure to the points affected by the deformation. The fundamental system is defined, which remains independent of the load case, whether it involves support displacement, temperature changes, or external forces. The instructor explains how to calculate the internal moments and the significance of the fundamental system in simplifying calculations. The lecture also covers the calculation of moments under external loads and the relationship between displacement and internal moments. The instructor highlights the ease of calculations when the fundamental system is well-defined. The session concludes with a preview of upcoming topics, including the analysis of multiple unknowns in structural systems, encouraging students to engage with exercises related to the material covered.