To add a nodal load
- Type a Label for the Nodal Load.
It is suggested that you label your nodal loads in such a way that it is evident to which nodal load case it pertains and in which direction it acts, but not to give the nodal load the same label as the nodal load cases.
- Enter the magnitude of the force for the X, Y and Z directions in the Force/Moment box. Similarly, enter magnitude of the moment in X, Y and Z directions. All loads are input in the global coordinate system except only a downward force is considered positive in the Z direction as indicated in the figure to the right.
- Click Add or hit Enter to include the load in the list box.
Tip: Use the arrows that appear on
the screen to double check the direction of the load assignments. When a dot
appears instead of an arrow, this indicates an out-of-plane load. Remember that
a positive force in the Z direction indicates the force is downward (in negative
global Z direction). Also note that the single-headed arrow indicates a force
and a double-headed arrow represents a moment rotating around global axis (i.e.,
using the right-hand rule, the thumb points in the direction of the
double-headed arrow and the fingers are in the direction of moment).