Frame Analysis Node Release Example

[MarkESmith]

Could someone please explain the circumstances where 'Release' is applied to a beam (node?) when using the Frame Analysis tool.

Thanks

MES

[henderh]

Hi Mark,

  If the frame is to be analyzed as a truss (i.e. members are pinned together instead of being regarded as fixed to each other) you can add releases to the rotational DOFs specifying 'uplift - none'.

  The members with the uplift none rotational releases will be analyzed as two-force members, where they cannot hold a moment load (unless you apply gravity, then there will be bending moment loads within the beam).

 I hope this helps...

Thanks, -Hugh