Abstract
The processes of data generation and organization present a real challenge in large scale engineering and architectural analysis and design problems. The main theme of the thesis is to evolve concepts and techniques that would overcome the present day problems of data preparation in engineering structural analysis. 'Formices' and 'plenices' are the two key concepts in the approach. These concepts are used to describe various features of a structural form in algebraic expressions that are easily understood and manipulated. For a structure considered as a system of finite number of elements, the topological properties, namely, the interconnection pattern of the elements, general pattern of the joints, position of the loads and constraints are all formulated through the concept of formices; and the geometric particulars, material properties, intensity of the loads and other aspects of the system are expressed in terms of plenices. The nature of plenices, also, provides a means for classification and organization of various pieces of data in a desired manner. An application of these concepts is exemplified in terms of skeletal structures.