MDX Software - FAQ #7<BR><BR>

What sign convention is being used? I cannot seem to correlate signs on loading effects with the x-y coordinates used in the geometry table of the system analysis output.<BR>
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<UL>
In the interest of common usage, and because this program is design
    centric instead of analysis centric, we do not strictly adhere to the
    right hand rule when tabulating output.  The right hand rule, for
    example, would have the top of a member in compression for positive
    moment at the left, but in tension for positive moment at the right.

    Instead, in our output a positive moment places the top in compression
    at both ends, according to common usage.  Positive deflection is
    downward, again conforming to common usage.

    This intuitive approach presents some problems for interpreting the
    sense of rotations.  Our best recommendation at this time is to
    examine the sense of deflections in the immediate vicinity of a
    support node, and deduce the sense of rotations from those
    deflections.
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