Constant

A constant time series holds the load factor fixed for the whole analysis:

$$\lambda (t)=c_{\text{factor}}$$

🔧 Grasshopper component

Constant Time SeriesAlpaca4d ▸ 04_Time Series

Inputs

LoadFactorNumber1.0The constant factor $c_{\text{factor}}$.

Every load in the pattern is multiplied by it at every step.

Outputs

TimeSeriesTimeSeriesConstant series, for a Load Pattern.

GraphNumberlistThe values, for plotting — a flat line at $c_{\text{factor}}$.

This is the default series: a PlainPattern with nothing on its TimeSeries input uses a constant series with a factor of 1.

📈 When to use it

Use it when

• Loads are on for the whole analysis — dead load, permanent equipment, superimposed finishes.
• You are running a plain static analysis and the time is only a pseudo-time.
• You want a fixed scale on a base excitation.

Do not use it when

• The load needs to ramp → Linear.
• The load follows a recorded signal → Path or Read Time Series.
• The load is periodic → Trigonometric.

🔗 Relation to OpenSees

timeSeries Constant $tag -factor $cFactor