Running an Analysis

Steps

1. Verify all inputs are complete (geometry, standards, assets)
2. Click the Analyze button in the workspace header
3. TowerPlot automatically:
   • Builds the FEM model (nodes, elements, boundary conditions)
   • Computes EPA and wind forces per section and direction
   • Assembles load combinations
   • Step 1 — /runAnalysis: Solves the FEM system K × u = F for nodal displacements u
   • Step 2 — /runDesign: Runs AISC 360-16 capacity checks on all members
4. Results appear in the 3D viewer and bottom panel tabs

Typical solve time: 5–15 seconds depending on tower size.

What Gets Calculated

Step	Description
Mesh generation	Tower geometry → nodes and elements
Load calculation	EPA, wind pressure, dead loads per section
Load combinations	TIA-222-H combinations for all wind directions
FEM solve	Direct stiffness method → displacements and forces
Capacity checks	AISC 360-16 unity ratios for all members

After Analysis

Results are immediately available in:

• 3D Viewer — switch between Model, Axial Force, Unity Check, and Deformed Shape views
• Bottom Panel — EPA tables, BOM, element forces, reactions

You can modify the tower (change profiles, add antennas, etc.) and re-run analysis at any time. Previous results are replaced with the new analysis.