Parameters of a non-linear support

Parameters of a nonlinear support can be divided into two groups:

Stiffness	This basic stiffness is used for the initial linear calculation.
Function	The function defines non-linear behaviour of the support. This function is taken into account during the non-linear calculation.

Non-linear function manager

Non-linear function that specifies the behaviour of a non-linear support can be defined in a standard SCIA Engineer database manager.

The function itself consists of a positive and negative branch. The function must always pass the zero point, i.e. the zero displacement must correspond to zero force. Any "switchbacks" in the diagram are not allowed. This means that e.g. the positive branch may rise or keep a constant force value but it is not possible to let the force go down with increasing displacement.

In addition to the function itself, there is a special parameter for the positive and negative axis. Possible values of this parameter are

Rigid	If ON, the support is considered infinitely rigid once the limit displacement (the last input displacement value defined in the diagram) is reached.
Free	If ON, the support is considered free once the limit displacement (the last input displacement value defined in the diagram) is reached.
Flexible	If ON, the stiffness of the support is considered constant once the limit displacement (the last input displacement value defined in the diagram) is reached. The force value specified for the last input displacement is used.