Linear

A linear time series makes the load factor grow in proportion to time:

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

🔧 Grasshopper component

Linear Time SeriesAlpaca4d ▸ 04_Time Series

Inputs

LinearFactorNumber1.0The slope $c_{\text{factor}}$ multiplying time.

Negative values ramp downwards.

Outputs

TimeSeriesTimeSeriesLinear series, for a Load Pattern.

GraphNumberlistThe values, for plotting — a straight line through the origin.

📈 When to use it

Use it when

• You want a ramp from zero to a target over a given number of steps — the normal choice for a pushover or any load-controlled non-linear static run.
• A sudden application of load would stop a non-linear analysis from converging.

Do not use it when

• The load is simply on → Constant.
• The load follows a recorded signal → Path.

Note

In a load-controlled static analysis the pseudo-time advances by the Integrator's Lambda at each step, so after n steps of LoadControl with Lambda = 1 a linear series with LinearFactor = 1 has reached a factor of n. Pair the two deliberately.

🔗 Relation to OpenSees

timeSeries Linear $tag -factor $cFactor