Effects of dead loads on the static analysis of plates

The collapse of structures due to snow loads on roofs occurs frequently for steel structures and rarely for reinforced concrete structures. Since the most significant difference between these structures is related to their ability to handle dead loads, dead loads are believed to play an important part in the collapse of structures by snow loads. As such, the effect of dead loads on displacements and stress couples produced by live loads is presented for plates with different edge conditions. The governing equation of plates that takes into account the effect of dead loads is formulated by means of Hamilton\'s principle. The existence and effect of dead loads are proven by numerical calculations based on the Galerkin method. In addition, a closed-form solution for simply supported plates is proposed by solving, in approximate terms, the governing equation that includes the effect of dead loads, and this solution is then examined. The effect of dead loads on static live loads can be explained explicitly by means of this closed-form solution. A method that reflects the effects of dead loads on live loads is presented as an example. The present study investigates an additional factor in lightweight roof structural elements, which should be considered due to their recent development.