ANALYSIS OF ORTHOTROPIC PLATES AND GRIDS BY GENERALISED MATRIX PROGRESSION METHOD

Abstract

The present work applies the Generalised Matrix Progression for two dimensional equations to the orthotropic plates and grids. Distribution Matrices have been derived for three different cases of orthotropy. For a check the isotropic plates have also been treated independently, as well as a particular case of orthotropic plates. The theory of orthotropic plates has been applied to the bridge-grid works. A system of one dimensional differential equations have been obtained from the general two dimensional equation, satisfying the clamped and free boundary conditions in one direction. A method of solution of these equations has been indicated, using ordinary matrix progression method'in one dimension. This work constitutes the basic approach towards developing distribution coefficients for load distribution in cantilever and continuous bridge deck slab systems.