2D Stress Field Visualizer
Visualize stress distribution in a 2D plate under various loading conditions
About this Simulator
This interactive simulator visualizes how stress distributes through a 2D rectangular plate when subjected to external forces. The color gradient represents stress intensity - from blue (low stress) to red (high stress). Use the controls to adjust force magnitude, direction, and material properties.
Physics & Formulas
Von Mises Stress:
$$\sigma_{vm} = \sqrt{\sigma_x^2 - \sigma_x \sigma_y + \sigma_y^2 + 3\tau_{xy}^2}$$
Principal Stresses:
$$\sigma_{1,2} = \frac{\sigma_x + \sigma_y}{2} \pm \sqrt{\left(\frac{\sigma_x - \sigma_y}{2}\right)^2 + \tau_{xy}^2}$$
How to Use
- Adjust the Force slider to change the applied load magnitude
- Change the Angle to rotate the force direction (0° = horizontal right)
- Modify Elastic Modulus to simulate different materials (Steel ~200 GPa, Aluminum ~70 GPa)
- Toggle Show Grid to see the mesh structure
- Enable Show Stress Vectors to visualize principal stress directions
- Click Animate to see stress propagation over time
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the colors represent?
Colors indicate stress intensity using a thermal gradient: blue (low stress), green (moderate), yellow (elevated), red (high stress). The exact values depend on your force and material settings.
Why does stress concentrate at certain points?
Stress concentration occurs near geometric features like corners, holes, or where loads are applied. This is a fundamental principle in structural mechanics - stress flows like water around obstacles.
How accurate is this simulation?
This is a simplified 2D visualization for educational purposes. Real FEA software uses much finer meshes and accounts for 3D effects, material nonlinearity, and boundary conditions.
What material does the default setting represent?
The default Elastic Modulus of 200 GPa corresponds to structural steel. Aluminum is around 70 GPa, Titanium is ~110 GPa, and Nickel alloys are ~200-220 GPa.
