Load Path Change
Definition
An alteration during design or construction that modifies which structural elements carry which loads. Unrecognised load path changes are among the most dangerous errors in structural engineering.
- Occurs during
- Design or construction
- Effect
- Alters which structural elements carry which loads
- Risk level
- Among the most dangerous unrecognised structural errors
Common questions
How does a load path change happen during construction rather than design?+
Field modifications such as removed bracing, altered connections, or substituted members shift how load is distributed away from what the original design calculations assumed.
Why are unrecognised load path changes especially dangerous?+
The structure can appear adequate on paper under the original design while actually routing loads through undersized or unintended elements, so the deficiency stays hidden until failure occurs.
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