IES VisualAnalysis User's Guide
Loading Topics
After a model has been created for the structure, the next step is to apply loads to the system. A structure can experience loads from many sources: self weight, external loads (live load, snow load, wind load, earthquake load, etc.), temperature changes, settlements, etc. While VisualAnalysis does not automatically generate the required loads, it does provide tools to make load application easy.
By default, the self-weight of the model (weight of members and plates) is automatically included in the Dead Load Service Case. Any Service Load Case with can include the self-weight of the structure by setting the Service Case in the ribbon and clicking the command. The self-weight can be applied in the vertical axis (defined in the tab) or applied in any direction and scaled as needed. If self-weight is included in more than one load case, careful attention to load combinations needs to be taken to ensure that the self-weight is not being duplicated. Self-weight is automatically factored in the load combinations.