Load

Icon

Description

A Load parameter can contain Node Loads, Beam Loads, 2D Element Loads, Grid Loads, and Gravity Loads,

GSA provides a number of different ways to apply loads to a model.

The simplest option is use the Create Node Load component to create nodal loading where forces are applied directly to nodes. This is not recommended for 2D and 3D elements.

The next level of loading applies loads to the elements, either use the Create Beam Load component, or Create Face Load component. In the solver these use shape functions to give loading on the nodes compatible with the elements to which the load is applied.

Grid loading is a different type of loading which is applied to a Grid Plane Surface. An algorithm then distributes this loading from the grid surface to the surrounding elements. This can be useful for models where floor slabs are not modelled explicitly.

Gravity is the final load type create with the Create Gravity Load component. This is different from the other load types as it is specified as an acceleration (in g). This is normally used to model the dead weight of the structure by specifying a gravity load of −1 × g in the z direction.

Properties

Icon	Type	Name	Description
	Load Case	Load Case	GSA Load Case parameter
	Text	Name	Load name
	Generic	Definition	Node, Element or Member list that load is applied to or Grid point / polygon definition
	Integer	Axis	Axis Property (0 : Global // -1 : Local
	Text	Direction	Load direction
	Boolean	Projected	Projected
	Unit Number	Load Value or Factor X	Value at Start, Point 1 or Factor X
	Unit Number	Load Value or Factor Y	Value at End, Point 2 or Factor Y
	Unit Number	Load Value or Factor Z	Value at Point 3 or Factor Z
	Unit Number	Load Value	Value at Point 4
	Grid Plane Surface	Grid Plane Surface	GSA Grid Plane Surface parameter

Note: the above properties can be retrieved using the Load Properties component