FAQ
Is it possible to review, in a graphical or tabular form, how is auto lateral load being applied?
Could you provide simple example with sketches of how the auto lateral wind load is applied for exposure from diaphragms and for exposure from area objects?
Can wind loads be applied to a specific frame member only?
Yes, this is possible. First define a load pattern of type Wind and specify that this is an auto lateral load pattern, such as ASCE 7-05. Then click the "Modify Lateral Load Pattern..." and select "Exposure from Frame and Area Objects > Include Frame Objects". Define wind direction angle and other parameters. Finally, use the "Assign > Frame Loads > Open Structure Wind Parameters" menu command to specify which frame objects should be loaded by the auto lateral wind load.
How can I apply auto lateral wind load to 3D frame structure?
Extended Question: I am modeling a 3D frame, module on an Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO), and would like to apply wind loading according to BS standard. The procedure requires the definition of [diaphragms], but would not this affect the analysis? I used the wave wind form but this is limited to API code.
Answer:
You have the following two options:
- You could define dummy diaphragms, each of which would be assigned to just one point object. This point object becomes the location where the wind load is applied. You can specify the tributary area on the [Wind Exposure Width Data] form.
- Alternatively, you could use dummy area objects to apply the wind loads using exposure from area objects. This can be specified on the BS 6399-95 Wind Load Pattern form.