In this page you will find links to instructional videos on using the GS-USA Frame© Program for structural analysis and structural optimization. At the bottom of the page are zip files that contain GS-USA models of the example problems from the textbook.
Videos on Structural Analysis via the GS-USA Frame© Program
Overview of the GS-USA Frame© Program: Learn how to install the program, look for user manuals and GS-USA Frame© models for all the examples in the textbook, and get an overview of the program features.
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How to Create a Report: Learn how to create a report that has the results from the analysis of a GS-USA Frame© model, using Microsoft Word©.
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Analysis of a Simply-Supported Beam: Learn how to build beam models using Example 7.4.1.
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Analysis of a Planar Frame: Learn how to (a) build frame models using a modified version of Example 7.4.2, and (b) use the units conversion feature in the SlideTray© program.
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Analysis of a Planar Frame with Element Loads: Learn how to (a) edit a previously built model, (b) build frame models with element loads, and (c) understand local coordinate system using Example 7.4.2.
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Analysis of a Planar Truss: Learn how to (a) specify a circular hollow cross-section, (b) use material properties from the material database, and (c) use them in a truss model using Example 7.4.3.
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Multiple Load Cases and Self-Weight: Learn how to define parameters, create multiple load cases and include self-weight in the analysis.
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Creating and Using a Command File: Learn how to create a command file, edit the file using a text editor and add additional data to the existing model.
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Using Graphical Cues: Using the graphical features to check and debug a model.
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Advanced Features – Part 1: Building models with skew supports.
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Coming soon …..
Advanced Features – Part 2: Thermal loading and support settlements.
Advanced Features – Part 3: Using basic and derived load cases.
Modal Analysis: Learn how to build and carry out modal analysis.
Buckling Analysis. Learn how to build and carry out buckling analysis.
Using the Cable Element: Learn how to build a model with cable elements.
Videos on Structural Optimization via the GS-USA Frame© Program
Read this document first as well as Chapter 8 of the textbook.
Structural Design Using the GS-USA Frame Program: Learn the basic terminology, how to describe a structural optimization problem, and the program capabilities.
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Sizing Optimization for Trusses: Learn how to design trusses by carrying out sizing optimization – finding the optimal cross-sectional dimensions of the members while minimizing an objective function subject to performance constraints. Procedure is the same for sizing optimization of beams and frames.
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Sizing and Shape Optimization for Trusses: Learn how to design trusses by carrying out sizing and shape optimization – finding the optimal cross-sectional dimensions of the members and location of the nodes, while minimizing an objective function subject to performance constraints. Procedure is the same for sizing optimization of beams and frames.
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Short Span Bridge Design: Learn how to use the program for design of a short span bridge.
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GS-USA Frame© Program Model Files for Examples from the Textbook
Click and download the files. Then using an unzipping program, e.g. WinZip, etc., unzip each file. The zip files are organized by chapters. There are three files associated with each model – the GS-USA model (.usa), the results file that is a text file (.out), and a command file (.txt) to regenerate the model or after editing, a modified model, e.g. E2-5-2.usa, E2-5-2.out, and E2-5-2.txt. Both the results file and command file can be viewed and edited in a text editor, e.g. Notepad.
Chapter 2 Files: Click here
Chapter 3 Files: Click here
Chapter 4 Files: Click here
Chapter 5 Files: Click here
Chapter 6 Files: Click here
Chapter 7 Files: Click here
Chapter 8 Files: Click here
Advanced Features Files: These models show (a) how to use the cable element, (b) how to carry out modal analysis, and (c) how to carry out buckling analysis. Click here