Loads & Support
Line Loads
Apply concentrated line loads to the model.
A line load applies a concentrated load at a single point on the model. Because the analysis is two-dimensional, the load is specified per unit length out-of-plane (a line of load running into the page).
Magnitude
| Parameter | Unit | Default | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Magnitude | kN/m | 100 | Concentrated load per metre of out-of-plane length, applied at the load point. |
Orientation
The Orientation option sets the direction in which the load acts:
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Normal to Boundary | Perpendicular to the boundary at the load point. |
| Vertical | Straight down. |
| Horizontal | Horizontal. |
| Angle from Horizontal | At the specified Angle measured from horizontal. |
| Angle to Boundary | At the specified Angle measured from the boundary normal. |
| Parameter | Unit | Default | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Angle | degrees | 0 | Direction angle. Enabled only for the two angle-based orientations. |
| Flip Angle 180 Degrees | — | off | Reverses the load direction by 180°. |
Placement
A line load is placed at a single point.
- Open Loading → Line Load.
- Enter the magnitude.
- Choose the orientation, and an angle if required.
- Click Add Line Load and pick the point where the load acts.
The load contributes force to the slice whose base or boundary spans the load point, resolved into horizontal and vertical components according to the orientation.
Note Line loads require an external (model) boundary to attach to. The Add Line Load button is disabled until the model has an external boundary defined.