OpenSees Examples -- Introductory Examples

The objective of Example 1a and Example 1b is to give an overview of input-file format in OpenSees using simple scripts. These scripts do not take advantage of the Tcl scripting capabilities shown in the later examples. However, they do provide starting a place where the input file is similar to that of more familiar Finite-Element Analysis software. Subsequent examples should be used as the basis for user input files.

Example 1 is a 2D elastic cantilever column, Example 1b is a 2D elastic portal frame. Each example has two independent input files, one for each type of analysis:

a. Static Pushover

b. Dynamic Earthquake Ground Motion

Each example script does the following:

A. Build the model

1. model dimensions and degrees-of-freedom
2. nodal coordinates
3. nodal constraints -- boundary conditions
4. nodal masses
5. elements and element connectivity
6. recorders for output

B. Define & apply gravity load

1. nodal or element load
2. static-analysis parameters (tolerances & load increments)
3. analyze
4. hold gravity loads constant
5. reset time to zero

C. Define and apply lateral load

1. load pattern (nodal loads for static analysis, support ground motion for earthquake)
2. lateral-analysis parameters (tolerances & displacement/time increments)
3. damping for dynamic analysis
4. analyze

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