Fictitious beam
The introduction of a fictitious beam allows for the determination and visualization of internal forces in cases where a structural element (such as a tunnel lining, retaining structure beam, foundation slab, etc.) is modeled using 2D elements. The definition and use of a fictitious beam are identical to those of a standard beam. Introducing a fictitious beam into the calculation does not affect the overall stiffness of the structure. The fictitious beam should be placed along the theoretical centerline of the corresponding structural element (which is modeled with 2D elements). It is not possible to assign self-weight or contacts to the fictitious beam.
