A quick estimate of the strength of uniaxially tied framed structures

A quick direct limit analysis method to estimate the strength of structures consisting of beam and cable-type members is proposed. The method is based on the kinematic theorem of plasticity and uses equilibrium arguments only. The influence of tension members is accounted for separately, using a shortest path finding technique between the two ends of each such member. The same technique also handles the effect of the indeterminacy for the rest of the structure and the equilibrium with the applied loads. The efficiency of the method is shown through its application to three different structures of increased complexity.