Direct Methods

To determine the carrying capacity of a structure or a structural element susceptible to operate beyond the elastic limit is an important task in many situations of both mechanical and civil engineering. The so-called “direct methods” play an increasing role due to the fact that they allow rapid access to the request information in mathematically constructive manners. They embrace Limit Analysis, the most developed approach now widely used, and Shakedown Analysis, a powerful extension to the variable repeated loads potentially more economical than step-by-step inelastic analysis.

Learn how to implement BCU methods for fast direct stability assessments of electric power systems
Electric power providers around the world rely on stability analysis programs to help ensure uninterrupted service to their customers. These programs are typically based on step-by-step numerical integrations of power system stability models to simulate system dynamic behaviors. Unfortunately, this offline practice is inadequate to deal with current operating environments. For years, direct methods have held the promise of providing real-time stability assessments; however, these methods have presented several challenges and limitations.