Finite element analysis of masonry plate for bridge bearing

[lunera]

I am trying to find the load distribution of the masonry plate of a spherical bronze bearing.

I used the 'solid model-block' template to create a solid model of the 36"x36"x3" masonry plate. I changed the restraints along the bottom of the plate to rollers and applied a vertical 'surface pressure load' to a portion of the solid elements along the top of the plate. I've been able to run the model without any errors.

However, I am confused about my results, and I'm not sure which numbers I should be looking at: Element Joint Forces - Solids, Element Stresses - Solids, or Joint reactions? I'm not sure what the difference is between the 'element joint forces - solids' and the 'joint reactions' if I only select the joints and solid elements along the bottom of the plate for the results.

How do I find my resulting bearing pressure along the bottom of the plate?

 

[ishvaaag]

Likely through the reactions. Anyway if you post your model we may try to produce the result you want.