Nonlinear Static Analysis
Linear static analysis assumes that the relationship between loads and the induced response is linear. For example, if you double the magnitude of loads, the response (displacements, strains, stresses, reaction forces, etc.), will also double.
All real structures behave nonlinearily in one way or another at some level of loading. In some cases, linear analysis may be adequate. In many other cases, the linear solution can produce erroneous results because the assumptions upon which it is based are violated. Nonlinearity can be caused by the material behavior, large displacements, and contact conditions.
You can use a nonlinear study to solve a linear problem. The results can be slightly different due to different procedures.
In the nonlinear static analysis, dynamic effects like inertial and damping forces are not considered. Processing a nonlinear study differs from processing a static study in the following ways:
Study Properties
Material
Loads and Restraints
Solution
Results
Contact Problems
In this section, you will learn about the following topics: