An Almost Exact Graphic Version of Cholesky's Method for Improving the Manual Analysis of Spatial Porticoes

This study proposes a new version of Cholesky's classic procedure for solving the linear equation systems derived from the analysis of building structures in terms of first order theory. With this modification the numerical method is turned into a graphic method more suitable for manual use. When drafting instruments are used the results obtained are exact. Nevertheless, it is observed that if the method is applied without using drafting instruments the results are still highly accurate, since the perimeter of the surface on which the lines are drawn reduces the possibility of error. Based on this research, the possibility emerges of calculating certain hyperstatie structures commonly found in buildings graphically and almost exactly. Possible lines of research are also pointed to for developing further graphic methods that can analyse other types of structure directly and with the same level of accuracy. (C) 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.