Node Loads

Apply concentrated forces and moments at nodes.

Types of Node Loads

  • Forces (Fx, Fy, Fz): Concentrated forces in global directions
  • Moments (Mx, My, Mz): Concentrated moments about global axes

Adding Node Loads

Method 1: Context Menu

  1. Select one or more nodes
  2. Right-click to open context menu
  3. Select "Add Node Load"
  4. Enter force/moment values

Method 2: Loads Dialog

  1. Open the Loads dialog
  2. Click "Add Node Load"
  3. Select the target node(s)
  4. Enter values and click Apply

Sign Convention

Positive directions follow the global coordinate system:

  • +Fx: Force in +X direction (right)
  • +Fy: Force in +Y direction (up)
  • +Fz: Force in +Z direction (out of screen)
  • +Mx, My, Mz: Right-hand rule about respective axes

Editing Node Loads

Click on a load to select it, then:

  • Edit values in the Properties panel
  • Press Delete to remove the load
  • Change the load case assignment

Load Visualization

Node loads are displayed as arrows:

  • Arrow direction indicates force direction
  • Arrow length is proportional to magnitude
  • Color matches the load case