Physics-based Computational Methods For Nonlinear Framed Structures And Plates/shells

This book is an updated, accessible approach to nonlinear structural analysis, focusing on the physical interpretation of nonlinear behaviors in framed structures. Unlike its predecessor, which was mathematically oriented, this revised edition simplifies the analysis by using the universally valid "rigid body rule," emphasizing physical understanding over intricate mathematical formulations. Covering key structural forms — plane and space trusses, plane and space frames — the book addresses nonlinearities that occur in structures due to large deformations under loads. By employing the finite element method (FEM), specifically the stiffness-based formulation, the work offers practical insights into nonlinear behaviors, including buckling, geometric stiffness, and the unique 3D rotational behavior of moments. Throughout, clear examples and closed-form solutions enhance understanding, and guidance on path-tracing methods addresses challenges like postbuckling and critical points. This book is ideal for researchers, practicing engineers, and students aiming for a practical, physically grounded perspective on nonlinear structural analysis, particularly for complex framed structures where traditional FEM approaches fall short.

Dr Yeong-Bin Yang received his PhD from Cornell University in 1984. He is a member of Chinese Academy of Engineering and European Academy of Sciences and Arts, and foreign member of Austrian Academy of Sciences. Currently, he is Honorary Dean of School of Civil Engineering, Chongqing University, China and Professor Emeritus of National Taiwan University (NTU), and Editor-in-Chief of the International Journal of Structural Stability and Dynamics (IJSSD). Dr Yang was President of National Yunlin University of Science and Technology (YunTech), Taiwan, President of the Asian-Pacific Association of Computational Mechanics (APACM), and Chairman of the East Asia-Pacific Conference on Structural Engineering and Construction (EASEC). He was also President of the Association of Computational Mechanics Taiwan (ACMT), the Institute of Engineering Education Taiwan (IEET), and the Chinese Institute of Civil and Hydraulic Engineering. Dr Yang received a number of Awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Medal, American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Greater China Section (2023); Zienkiewicz Medal, Asian Pacific Association for Computational Mechanics (APACM) (2022); Li-Guo-Hao Bridge Innovation Medal, Tongji University, China (2022); Nishino Medal, EASEC (2016); Tsuboi Award, International Association for Shell and Spatial Structures (IASS) (2008); Munro Prize, Engineering Structures (2003); Outstanding Scientist, Nobel Laureate Dr Y T Lee's Foundation (1998); and Distinguished Research Award, National Science Council, Taiwan (1988–1998); amongst others.

Der-Shen (Ted) Yang is a researcher and educator with a PhD in Structural Engineering from the University of Queensland, Australia where he pioneered methods for analyzing structural dynamics under moving loads. His academic journey includes a Master's degree from Cornell University, USA and substantial research and teaching roles at Monash University, Australia where he has integrated structural health monitoring, signal processing, and machine learning in his interdisciplinary work. His research has led to widely cited publications on topics like vehicle-bridge interaction and infrastructure health monitoring, earning recognition through Australia's "Global Talent" program. With a unique combination of academic and industry experience — beginning as a structural engineer at China Construction Design International — he is committed to bridging research and practical applications. In 2025, he will join Tongji University as an associate professor.

Dr Shyh-Rong Kuo received his PhD from National Taiwan University in 1991. He is currently Dean of the College of Engineering at National Taiwan Ocean University (NTOU), and was Chairman of the Department of River and Marine Engineering at NTOU. Globally, he was most reputed for his works on stability of curved beams, out-of-plane buckling or torsional buckling of structural frames, three-dimensional formulation of nonlinear beam elements, and various structural vibration problems.