In this lecture, we'll cover the following:

• How to integrate a previously generated finite element mesh with OpenSeesPy.
• How to define materials, sections, nodes, and shell elements from mesh data.
• How to apply boundary conditions representing slab supports, openings, and columns.
• How to compute and apply self-weight loading using equivalent nodal forces.
• How to run the OpenSeesPy analysis and prepare results for post-processing.

In this lecture, we take the mesh developed earlier and use it to build a complete OpenSeesPy finite element model of a slab. We initialise the model, define material properties and an elastic membrane plate section, and then systematically convert mesh data into OpenSeesPy nodes and quadrilateral shell elements. Along the way, we introduce small implementation details—such as mapping node tags to indices to streamline data handling when interfacing between the mesh and the analysis model.

We then focus on applying realistic boundary conditions by restraining nodes associated with slab openings, columns and the slab perimeter. After this, we compute self-weight loading by evaluating equivalent nodal forces for each element using previously developed functions and Gauss quadrature. Finally, we assemble and run the analysis, confirming that the model executes successfully and produces results ready for extraction in the next lecture.

Next up

Next, we will extract and visualise the OpenSeesPy results, establishing a deflection benchmark for comparison with our custom solver.