Self Weight

Enter the self-weight of elements included in the model as applied loads, or modify or delete previously entered self-weight.

midas Gen uses the volume and density of each element to automatically calculate the self-weight included in the analysis model.

The calculated self-weight can be applied in the GCS X, Y and Z-directions in the static analysis.

In addition, "Structure Type" determines if the mass effect due to the self-weight is to be considered in the dynamic analysis or in the calculation of the equivalent static seismic load.

The methods for considering the self-weight for different element types are as follows :

- Truss, tension-only, compression-only and beam elements

The self-weight of a truss, tension-only, compression-only or prismatic beam element is calculated by the cross sectional area and the density entered in "Section" and "Material", multiplied by the element length uniformly distributed over the entire length of the element.

For a beam element defined as a SRC section (Steel and Reinforced Concrete Composite Section), (refer to the "SRC" tab in Section) the weight is considered by separately calculating concrete and steel weights.

If a beam element is defined as Tapered Section (refer to the "Tapered" tab in "Section"), it is assumed that the self-weight varies linearly from one end to the opposite end.

When a panel zone offset distance is defined by "Panel Zone Effects", the self-weight of a beam element classified as a column member is accounted for by the full length between the two nodes. The self-weight of a beam element classified as a girder member (horizontal members connected to columns) is reflected by the full length between the two nodes less the panel zone offset distances at the two ends.

If an end offset distance is introduced in a prismatic beam element by "Beam End Offsets", it is assumed that the self-weight is uniformly distributed over the entire length between both nodes, irrespective of the offset.

In the case of a tapered section, it is assumed that the average self-weight is also uniformly distributed over the panel zone offset distances.

- Plane stress, plate, wall, plane strain and axisymmetric elements

The self-weight of a plane stress, plate, plane strain or axisymmetric element is entered at the connection nodes as concentrated loads obtained by multiplying the element's cross sectional area, thickness and density, considering the area ratio.

The thickness data entered in "Thickness" (in-plane thickness in the case of plate elements) are used for plane stress, plate and wall elements. The unit width (1.0) and unit angle (1.0 radian) are used for plane strain and axisymmetric elements respectively.

- Solid elements

The self-weight of a solid element is entered at each connection node as concentrated loads obtained by multiplying the volume by the density considering the volume ratio.

From the Main Menu select Load > Self Weight.

Select Static Loads > Self Weight in the Menu tab of the Tree Menu.

Load Case Name

Assign the load case name. Click to the right to enter, additional load cases and modify or delete existing load cases.

Load Group Name

Select the desire Load Group that will include the entered Self Weight load data. Select "Defualt", if a Group assignment is unnecessary. Click to the right to add, modify or delete Load Groups.

To enter or add new self-weight cases

Enter the following items and click :

Self-Weight Factor

X: Self-weight factor in the GCS X-direction

Y: Self-weight factor in the GCS Y-direction

Z: Self-weight factor in the GCS Z-direction

Note 1

If the entered in-plane and out-of-plane thicknesses are different, in-plane thickness is used for calculating the Self weight. However, when in-plane thickness is ?? out-of-plane thickness will be used.

Note 2

For Self weight of Stiffened Plate, the program uses greater of the in-plane thicknesses ?yz section and xz section. However, when in-plane thickness is ?? the greater of out-of-plane thicknesses will be used.

To modify previously entered self-weight cases

Select the relevant case from the self-weight list at the bottom of the dialog box, modify the entry field at the top and click .

To delete previously entered self-weight cases

Select the relevant load case from the self-weight list at the bottom of the dialog box and click .