Reference Point

The reference point is the point where axial loads on a section are assumed to apply. By default this is the centroid, meaning that an axial loads produces no bending. However in some situations it is better to assume loads are applied with an eccentricity. One way to achieve this is to apply an offset to the section.

Definition

Basic Definition

The basic reference point definition allows the reference point on the section – the point at which axial loads are assumed to apply to be moved from the centroid. This means that axial loads will introduce bending into the section.

Offset

The basic reference point definition can then be further adjusted by applying an offset specified in terms of a vector.