Loads in a nonlinear analysis can vary over the duration of the analysis. This is controlled by load curves. Most loads are assigned to a load curve. Multiple loads can follow the same load curve, and in most cases, individual loads can be assigned to different load curves. See the list below.
Also, some element types can be used to create loads. Truss elements and beam elements have preloads which are not assigned to a load curve. Actuator elements can be used to control the distance between two nodes; the actuator elements in each part can be assigned to different load curves.
Load curves can be created using two methods. First, the Load Curve Editor can be accessed directly from the load dialog. Second, the Load Curves tab in the Analysis Parameters dialog can be used.
Click the link to the load that you need more information about.
Loads |
Load Curve |
Add an initial load to beam elements to create preload and pre-stress. |
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Entire model follows the centrifugal load assigned to one load curve. |
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Different distributed loads can be assigned to different load curves. |
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Different forces can be assigned to different load curves. |
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Entire model follows gravity assigned to one load curve. |
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Pressure on different surfaces can be assigned to different load curves. |
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Velocities are not assigned to a load curve. |
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Masses are not assigned to a load curve. |
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Different moments can be assigned to different load curves. |
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Different displacements can be assigned to different load curves. |
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Pressure on different surfaces can be assigned to different load curves. |
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Not exactly a load, but a marker to a node in the model which affects other loads. |
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Load curve based on type of load applied. |
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All temperatures follow one load curve. |
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Pressure on different surfaces can be assigned to different load curves. |
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All voltages follow one load curve. |
Constraints are constant throughout the analysis. Naturally, the impact planes and surface-to-surface contact affect the model only when the parts are in contact. Otherwise, the input values are constant throughout the entire analysis.