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2021-09-03

FAQ 005076 |  How do I apply wind load on members of open structures?

Question:
How do I apply wind load on members of open structures?

Answer:
1. Define a plane that will be used to apply the wind load.  You can do so by creating 4 corner nodes around your structure (Image 1).

2. Go to Tools - Generate Loads - From Area Loads on Members via Planes

Define the direction, magnitude, and Select Empty, On Members Only (Image 2).  Select the corner nodes that were previously created.

3. Select Settings for load generation to adjust the tolerance type.  Select Absolute via distance and input a value that will capture the entire width/length of the structure (Image 3). Click Ok twice to exit.

4. Right click on the area load and select Display Separately (Image 4).  The area load is now displayed as member loads (Image 5).  Note: The applied load is based on the member orientation.