• Computational Structural Engineering
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• v.10 no.1
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• pp.213-223
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• 1997

In the analysis of the behavior of a complex structure, it requires much time and cost to analyze its behavior by using shell elements at the early design concept. For the purpose of the decrease of time and cost, many researches have been performed with the intention to analyze its behavior through replacing a shell model by a simple beam model. In the present study, a method is proposed for determining a bending spring stiffness which means the flexibility for applying into the joints of the simple beam model. Geometrically nonlinear analysis is performed through the application of the determined flexibility into joints of the simple beam model. The nonlinear behavior of thin-walled tube shell structure can be described within a little error through the simple beam model with flexible joints.