Lateral restraint forces in Z-section roof systems using the component stiffness method

The component stiffness method is a method to predict lateral restraint forces in roof systems supported by Z-sections. The method approximates a bay of Z-sections as a single degree of freedom system and uses a stiffness formulation to determine the contribution of the different components in the system to the resistance of lateral movement. The forces generated by the roof system requiring restraint are derived from mechanics.