Statics: Horizontal Movements of Structures Induced by Vertical Loads

An asymmetric frame

    
(a)                                                                                                                 (b)
Fig. 12-9: An asymmetric frame subjected to an asymmetric load

Figure 12-9 shows a simple asymmetric plastic frame unloaded (a) and carrying a concentrated load positioned close to the right hand column. The horizontal member deflects vertically and it can be observed that the loaded frame moves to the left. Again the movement is to the left for the load placed to the right of the centre line of the frame.