In this lecture, we'll cover the following:

• Plotting previously computed displacement fields using a heat map visualisation.
• Implementing interactive plotting of bending moments $(M_x, M_y, M_{xy})$ with widgets.
• Visualising transverse shear forces $(Q_x, Q_y)$ with optional middle-strip masking.
• Using masking and widgets to focus on specific regions and interpret peak values

In this lecture, we complete the post-processing stage of our finite element model by visualising key results. We begin by addressing a previously omitted step: plotting the displacement field using a heat map. We then move on to plotting bending moments, implementing an interactive function that allows us to switch between different moment components while dynamically displaying peak values.

We also extend the visualisation approach to transverse shear forces, introducing a masking technique that isolates a central strip of the slab. This allows us to better interpret shear distributions by focusing on relevant regions, with widget controls enabling real-time adjustments. Throughout, we confirm that the plotted results align with expectations and previously validated models, setting the stage for a more detailed comparison of different modelling approaches in the next lecture.

Next up

With results now available from all three models, the next lecture presents a qualitative comparison to assess how well they agree.