General

Figure 1.5 Difference between FE nodal loading and real loading

25 kN

50 kN

10 kN/m real loading

25 kN FE-nodal forces

100 kN
50 kN

15 m

15 m

displacement

displacement

75 kN
50 kN

shear force

FEM
analytical results
integration point

75 kN

10 kN/m

50 kN

real loading

35m
Finite Element model

25 kN

=0

25 kN FE-nodal forces

member forces = deflection = 0

Furthermore, loads on xed nodes are mostly neglected in the design and hence in the
results. The total support force is only the sum of the loads on the unrestrained nodes.
This has to be considered when support forces from FE analyses are used for the loading
of other members. Loads on columns and walls, which may be fully restrained in the
numerical model, are neglected by some structural software.
The nodal forces result from the chosen element with respect to its shape functions and
not from engineering experience. Figure 1.6 shows the nodal forces for a four-noded
and an eight-noded plate element under constant vertical loading. For the four-noded
element, the load is distributed equally to the nodes, whereas the eight-noded element
shows uplifting forces at the edge nodes.
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