A Comparative Study of Python Tool with Software for Beams Under Various Loading Conditions

Abstract

Structural analysis is an essential component of civil engineering, guaranteeing that structures resist external stresses while preserving safety and functionality. This work investigates the creation of a generalized Python-based methodology for structural analysis, providing a more efficient and automated solution. This study aims to compare the analysis results of beams with different loading conditions from Python and finite element software. The Python libraries such as Matplotlib, NumPy, and plainsections are used for structural analysis. The program is designed to generate shear forces and bending moment diagrams for each beam type with different loading conditions. The results obtained from the Python code are compared and validated against the results from SAP2000 and STAAD Pro software. The findings indicate a high degree of correlation between Python-based computations and software-based solutions, demonstrating the potential of Python in structural engineering. This study highlights the potential of Python as a powerful tool for structural analysis, particularly in automating repetitive tasks and reducing the time required for preprocessing and analysis. The Python tool is capable of handling different load types and can be easily extended to analyze more complex structural elements.