In this lecture, we'll cover the following:

• Extracting nodal coordinates, displacements, and reactions from the model.
• Organising and reshaping results to map onto a 2D grid for visualisation.
• Identifying and locating the maximum displacement in the slab.
• Verifying vertical force equilibrium by comparing loads and reactions.
• Visualising reaction forces and interpreting differences between modelling approaches.

In this lecture, we focus on extracting and processing analysis results from our finite element model. We loop through each node to collect its coordinates, displacement, and reaction, and then reorganise this data so it can be mapped onto a structured 2D grid. By sorting and reshaping the displacement data, we prepare it for visualisation across the slab, and we also identify the maximum displacement and its location, confirming that it aligns with expectations and prior results.

We then verify the physical correctness of the model by checking vertical force equilibrium, ensuring that the sum of reactions matches the applied loads. Finally, we visualise the reaction forces using custom plotting tools and examine their distribution, including notable corner effects. We compare these results with those from our previous modelling approaches, noting that consistency in overall behaviour builds confidence in the model.

Next up

Next, we will extract bending moments and shear forces from the PyNite model, completing the dataset needed for a full comparison.