Belastningspunkt

Belastningspunkt, often translated as load point, is the location at which an external force is applied to a body, structure, or system. It can be a discrete point load, a line load, or a distributed load that is approximated by several load points. The characteristics of the load—magnitude, direction, duration, and distribution—determine how the object responds, including reactions at supports, internal forces, and resulting deformations.

In structural analysis, the belastningspunkt defines the boundary conditions for calculating reactions, bending moments, shear forces, and axial forces. Moving the loading point changes moment arms and stress distribution, which can affect safety and performance. In finite element models, loads are applied at nodes or surfaces corresponding to the belastningspunkt, and dynamic or time-varying loads may require transient analysis or repeated loading scenarios.

In biomechanics and ergonomics, belastningspunkt refers to contact points where forces transfer between the body and environment, such as foot-ground contact, hand grips, or seating surfaces. Identifying these points is important for assessing joint loads, posture, injury risk, and comfort. Experimental methods like force plates and motion capture are used to locate belastningspunkter during activities and to validate models of human movement.

Practically, engineers document belastningspunkter in design specifications and perform analyses to ensure adequate safety factors, durability, and reliability. Design considerations include minimizing load concentration, distributing stress through appropriate geometry, and verifying models with experimental data or validated simulations.