To add a notional loads

To add a notional load to your model, use the following procedure.

In order to use notional loads, you must use the repeat primary load cases method for load combinations. This is set on the Analysis model tab of the Options dialog.

A notional load is a fictitious lateral load applied in a structural analysis as a means to account for the destabilizing effects of gravity loads that are not otherwise accounted for in design provisions. Notional loads are applied at each framing level and specified in terms of the gravity loads applied at that level.

On the Model ribbon tab, select the Load Combination tool in the Loads group.

The Add Load Combination dialog opens.
Type a unique Name and (optional) Description for this load combination.
Select the Type of combination method to use.
- Linear – A pure algebraic load combination in which the results of all constituent cases will be algebraically added.
  Ex.: $f_{1} \times L_{1} + f_{2} \times L_{2} + f_{3} \times L_{3}$
- SRSS – The square root of the sum of the squares method of combination.
  Ex. $f_{1} \times L_{1} + f_{S R S S} \times \sqrt{f_{2} L_{2}^{2} + f_{3} L_{3}^{2}}$
- ABS – Algebraic combination of absolute values.
  Ex.: $f_{1} \times | L_{1} | + f_{2} \times | L_{2} | + f_{3} \times | L_{3} |$
For SRSS combinations, type an SRSS Factor.
(Optional) Check the option to Include load groups to add these to load cases. A Load group factors control is added.
To filter the types of load (i.e., dead, live, etc.) included in the load combination:
1. Click in the Load case filter field.
2. Check the box for each load type to include.
To specify the notional load factors used for each load case:
1. Click in the Factors field.
2. Type the notional load Factor to use as a multiplier for the load case.
3. Select the horizontal Direction in which the notional load acts.
If you have selected to include load groups, then repeat step 7 for load group factors.
Click OK.

You can view and edit notional load combinations by selecting the Manage notional loads tool in the Reference group on the Spreadsheet ribbon tab.