Uniformly distributed load

A uniformly distributed load (UDL) is a type of force applied evenly across the entire length of a structure, such as a beam or bridge. Think of it like a steady weight spread out evenly, similar to how snow might settle uniformly on a flat roof or how a weight of water presses evenly against the sides of a dam. This consistent distribution allows engineers to calculate how the structure will bend or support the load, ensuring safe and effective design. UDLs are common in real-world applications, representing loads that are spread out rather than concentrated at a single point.