homogeneous system of equilibrium equations. It indicates the possibility of self-stress (stress in the absence of an external load) that may be induced by mechanical or thermal action. Mathematically, this requires a stiffness matrix to have full rank. A statically indeterminate structure can only be analyzed by including further information like material properties and deflections. Numerically, this can be achieved by using methods like matrix structural analyses and finite element analyses. Practically, a structure is called 'statically overdetermined' when it comprises more mechanical constraints like walls, columns or bolts than absolutely necessary for stability. See also Christian Otto Mohr Flexibility method Moment distribution method Overconstrained mechanism Structural engineering Kinematic determinacy References External links Beam calculation online (Statically indeterminate) Statics Structural analysis