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The solve() method performs the structural analysis by assembling the global stiffness matrix, applying loads, and solving for displacements and reactions.

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Method Signature

results = model.solve(load_pattern_name=None)

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Parameters

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load_pattern_name
list[str] | None
default:"None"
List of load pattern names to analyze. If None, all active load patterns in the model will be analyzed.Examples:
  • None - Analyzes all active load patterns
  • ['Dead Load'] - Analyzes only the ‘Dead Load’ pattern
  • ['Dead Load', 'Live Load'] - Analyzes both specified patterns

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Returns

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results
Dict[str, Results]
Dictionary mapping load pattern names to their corresponding Results objects. Each Results object contains displacements, reactions, and internal forces for that load pattern.

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Raises

  • ValueError - If no load patterns are defined in the model

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Analysis Process

When you call solve(), milcapy performs the following steps:
  1. Assembly - Constructs the global stiffness matrix from all elements
  2. Load Application - Applies all loads from the specified load patterns
  3. Boundary Conditions - Applies restraints and supports
  4. Solution - Solves the system of equations: K·u = F
  5. Post-processing - Calculates reactions, internal forces, and detailed member results

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Example Usage

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Solve All Load Patterns

import milcapy as milca

model = milca.SystemMilcaModel()

# ... define geometry, materials, sections, elements ...

# Create load patterns
model.add_load_pattern('Dead Load')
model.add_load_pattern('Live Load')

# Add loads
model.add_point_load(node_id=2, load_pattern_name='Dead Load', fy=-100)
model.add_point_load(node_id=2, load_pattern_name='Live Load', fy=-50)

# Solve all load patterns
results_dict = model.solve()

# Access results for each pattern
dead_results = results_dict['Dead Load']
live_results = results_dict['Live Load']

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Solve Specific Load Patterns

# Only solve dead load
results_dict = model.solve(load_pattern_name=['Dead Load'])

# Solve multiple specific patterns
results_dict = model.solve(load_pattern_name=['Dead Load', 'Live Load'])

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Get Results for a Specific Pattern

# Solve all patterns
model.solve()

# Get results for a specific pattern
dead_results = model.get_results('Dead Load')

# Get displacements
displacements = dead_results.get_model_displacements()

# Get reactions
reactions = dead_results.get_model_reactions()

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Working with Results

After solving, you can access results in multiple ways: 
# Method 1: From solve() return value
results_dict = model.solve()
dead_results = results_dict['Dead Load']

# Method 2: Using get_results()
model.solve()
dead_results = model.get_results('Dead Load')

# Method 3: Direct access to model.results
model.solve()
dead_results = model.results['Dead Load']

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Performance Tips

  • For large models with many load patterns, solve only the patterns you need by specifying them explicitly
  • Set unused load patterns to INACTIVE state before solving
  • Use get_results() to access previously computed results without re-solving

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See Also

  • Results API - Detailed documentation on accessing and using results
  • Load Patterns - Creating and managing load patterns
  • Loads - Applying different types of loads

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