Time History Function Definition

Form: Define Time History Functions

Use the Define menu > Functions > Time History command to access the Define Time History Functions form and add, modify, or delete a time history function from a text file, using program "templates," or based on user specified parameters.  

A time history function may be (a) a list of time and function values or (b) a list of function values that are assumed to occur at equal spaced intervals. The function values in a time history function may be (a) ground acceleration values or (b) multipliers for specified load cases (force or displacement).

1. Click the Define menu > Functions > Time History command to access the Define Time History Functions form.

2. Use the Functions display area, the drop-down list, and the buttons as appropriate to add, modify, or delete a time history function. The Functions display area lists all of the time history functions currently defined in the model file.

• • Add a Time History Function Definition.  Choose the type of function from the "Choose Function Type to Add" drop-down list. The click the Add New Function button. Use the hyperlinks below to access a function-specific Help topic.

  • 1. • From File

       • User Function

       • Sine Function

       • Cosine Function

       • Ramp Function

       • Sawtooth Function

       • Triangular Function

       • User Periodic Function

• • Modify/Show a Time History Function Definition

  • • Highlight the name of the function to be modified/shown in the list of function names in the Functions area of the Define Time History Functions form.

    • Click the Modify/Show Function button. The form used to define the function will appear. Use the form to make any changes or modifications. The hyperlinks provided above provide access to topics specific to each type of form.

  • Delete Function Time History Function Definition

  • • Highlight the name of the function to be deleted in the list of function names in the Functions area of the Define Time History Functions form.

    • Click the Delete Function button.