Finite Element Method for Analysis of Off-Center Connected Continuous Beams

The study of the structural elements goes through the premise of their centric support and centric connection. In reality, it is common to see elements with different cross-sections connected by offset axes, for example to align some of their edges, or those that are supported with off-center supports. Such inter-element eccentricities and off-center supports leads to a change in the stress-strain state from the traditional ones known from the available literature and university textbooks. In previous publications with participation of the author, exact nonlinear and approximate analytic solutions of similar problems for beams under various loading, support and connection conditions have already been published. The finite element method provides an approximate approach for computer analysis. In this paper, results obtained through a computer program created in the MATLAB, based on a finite element accounting for eccentricity in connection and off-centering of support, are demonstrated. The results shows values in the diagrams of internal forces differing by up to 15-30% compared to the classical theory of centric connection and centric supporting.