Simcenter 3D Solutions Linear Statics – Overhead Crane Analysis - Part 3 - Apply Loads and Boundary condition

This tutorial shows how to perform a linear static analysis using 2D shell elements on a simple overhead crane in Simcenter 3D.
The aim is to introduce the user to important basic concepts and the analysis methodology within Simcenter 3D.
Before starting this tutorial, it is worthwhile reading the Simcenter 3D Basics article that explains the various files types used in Simcenter 3D and broadly outlines the analysis methodology.

This tutorial is divided into 4 parts as follows:
1. Geometry Preparation
2. Mesh
3. Apply Loads and Boundary condition
4. Solve and Postprocess

Part - 3 - Apply Loads and Boundary condition

Step - 20 - Create the Gravity Load:

Double click the Overhead_Crane_Analysis_sim part in the Simulation File View pane using the left mouse button or select the relevant tab
Select Gravity from the Load Type drop-down menu in the Loads and Conditions group of the Home tab tool ribbon
Set Acceleration to 9810mm/s2
Set Specify Vector to -ZC
Click OK

Step - 21 - Create the Crane Load


Select Force from the Load Type drop-down menu in the Loads and Conditions group of the Home tab tool ribbon
Select the sections of the bottom flange of the I-Beam indicated in the adjacent image
Set Type to Magnitude and Direction
Set Force to 14715N
Set Specify Vector to –ZC
In the Distribution section of the menu, set Method to Geometric distribution
Click OK

Step - 22 - Constrain the Legs of the Overhead Crane

Select Fixed Constraint from the Constraint Type drop-down menu in the Loads and Conditions group of the Home tab tool ribbon
Select the edges at the bottom of the A-Frames (16 in total). This constraint correspond to a scenario where the legs of the overhead crane are securely bolted to the floor
Click OK

Your model is now ready to solve!
Please follow Overhead Crane Analysis - Part 4 - Solve and Postprocess to analyze the overhead crane.