LOADFE

Define and calculate a global point load optionally on a structural element or on a structural node of an element

Optionally, the load position can freely be defined by means of eccentricities.

The eccentricities in vertical and transversal direction are defined relative to the local coordinate system of the cross section of the particular cross section at begin and end of the loaded elements and are related to the respective load reference points. The connection of these defined points of the cross section at begin and end defines the “load line”.

The definition of the eccentricity in longitudinal direction is related to that load line.

The load is always applied to all elements or to all nodes at the begin or end of the elements of the structural members assigned by assemblies (see option lnode).

Arguments

Fx

Magnitude of the load in global x-direction [force]

Fy

Magnitude of the load in global y-direction [force]

Fz

Magnitude of the load in global z-direction [force]

pos

Definition of the load reference point

If this input is missing, the structural node is taken per default.

An arbitrary defined reference point can be referenced by inputting its name.

The center of gravity of the cross section area of the loaded elements can be used by inputting COG.

ex

Eccentricity of the load in longitudinal direction [length]

Eccentricity in the direction of the load line from the start point of the load line (load reference point of the cross section at begin)

Important note: The position of the start and endpoint of the load line is determined in consideration of the possibly defined eccentricities ey and ez. In case they are zero, the load line results directly from the defined load reference points.

ey

Eccentricity of the load reference point in vertical direction [length]

Eccentricity in local y-direction of the coordinate system of the cross section from the initially defined load reference point

ez

Eccentricity of the load reference point in transversal direction [length]

Eccentricity in local z-direction of the coordinate system of the cross section from the initially defined load reference point

Inode

Option to determine the load application by inputting the values: 0 (or empty), 1, 2

• 0 or empty: The load is directly applied to the elements
• 1: The load is applied to the start node
• 2: The load is applied to the end node

EXAMPLES:

Example 1: Global, vertical point load on the start node of an element

Example 2: Global, vertical point load on the end node of an element

Example 3: Global, vertical point load with an eccentricity in longitudinal direction related to the load line between the nodes

Example 3: Global, vertical point load with an eccentricity in transversal direction related to the center of gravity