In this lecture, we'll cover the following:

• Introduction to OpenSeesPy as a Python-based finite element analysis library
• Installing and setting up OpenSeesPy and the OpsVis visualisation tool
• Defining material properties and shell sections for a plate model
• Generating nodes and element connectivity for a meshed slab
• Building the OpenSeesPy model: nodes, elements, and shell MITC4 formulation
• Applying boundary conditions and ensuring model stability
• Applying self-weight loading through nodal forces
• Running a static analysis and understanding solver configuration options

In this lecture, we begin building a finite element model using OpenSeesPy, introducing it as a powerful but somewhat under-documented library widely used in research. We walk through installing dependencies and highlight the role of OpsVis in verifying that the model has been constructed correctly. We then recreate a slab model by defining material properties, generating a mesh, and explicitly creating nodes and shell elements within OpenSeesPy, paying close attention to tagging and element formulation, particularly the MITC4 shell element suitable for both thick and thin plates.

Loads are applied as equivalent nodal forces derived from self-weight. Finally, we configure and execute a static analysis, introducing key OpenSeesPy commands for solvers, constraints, numbering, and load application. By the end, we have a complete and functioning OpenSeesPy model ready for result extraction and comparison with our custom implementation.

Next up

With the OpenSeesPy model built and analysed, the next lecture focuses on extracting displacements and reaction forces.