Non-linear Model (Supports, Releases, Compatible Nodes)

This option lets you define the non-linear behavior of supports, releases, and compatible nodes. It can be used for all structure types. You find option by clicking the Non-linear tabs in the dialog for defining supports, releases, and compatible nodes.

You can define the non-linear force (moment) - displacement (rotation) relationship for selected directions (degrees of freedom). These relationships are determined for individual directions independently (there are no interactions). The option can be used for:

• Releases on bar elements - the reference for mutual displacements and (internal) forces are the local directions of a given bar.
• Supports - the reference for displacements and forces are global or local directions (if such directions are defined for a given support node).
• Compatibility models - The reference for displacements (mutual displacements for both nodes connected by a given compatibility model) and forces are global or local directions (if such directions are defined for a node of a given compatibility model).

The top of the dialog has the diagram of the defined non-linear model. The shortcut menu displays, when you position the cursor inside the diagram. The following options are available:

• Diagram Parameters
• Screen Capture
• Copy - Copies the function diagram to the clipboard.

Note: The point with the (0,0) coordinates should be the center point of the diagram.

The Non-linear Model Definition dialog consists of two tabs:

• Functions
• Parameters.