Indeterminate

Definition

Indeterminate, often short for statically indeterminate, refers to a structural condition where the internal forces or reactions cannot be determined by using only the equations of static equilibrium.

Purpose

Understanding indeterminate structures is crucial for accurate structural analysis and design, ensuring that buildings and other constructions can withstand loads and stresses safely.

Examples of Use

• Analyzing multi-span beams in bridges where more supports are present than necessary for static equilibrium.
• Designing complex frameworks and trusses that require advanced methods to determine internal forces.
• Assessing the stability of structures with redundant supports or constraints.

Related Terms

• Statically Determinate: Structures where internal forces and reactions can be found using static equilibrium equations.
• Redundancy: Additional supports or members in a structure that provide stability and load distribution.
• Structural Analysis: The assessment of forces, moments, and reactions within a structure.

Notes

Specialized techniques such as the moment distribution method, finite element analysis, or computer simulations are often required to analyze indeterminate structures.