FEM-Design 3D Structure Module
In Brief
FEM-Design 3D Structure solves many construction problems containing mixtures of shell elements, slabs, walls, bars, beams and columns in arbitrary positions and loaded in any direction. Statical, dynamic, global stability, seismic analysis, concrete and/or steel design calculations can be run for the whole 3D-model.
The model geometry can be easily created in 3D with the help of several assistant tools such as axis and storey-systems, region operations, user-defined views and user-coordinate-systems. As before the user can also import DWG/DXF drawing files, 3D architectural or structural models and IFC model-based files.
The calculation results can be shown graphically as graphs, contour lines, colour palettes in 3D for the whole structure, in 2D by storeys (by slabs) or by vertical planes (by walls), or as arbitrarily placed sections by structural elements. Interesting numerical values can be shown in all images either by an automatic search and presentation for absolute values or local maximum and minimum values. In addition, the user can point with the mouse anywhere on the image to get a numeric result. To set the required views in 3D easily, dynamic zoom, pan and rotation commands are built into the program via powerful OpenGL technology.
As a special feature, solid definition and solid operation (union, subtract, intersection etc.) tools can be used to create arbitrary shapes and positions of shell elements.
Enhanced edge and line-line connection tools allow connections between structural region objects with different displacement components (rigid, free, hinged or arbitrary connection stiffness) to be defined. For example, precast concrete elements can be easily modelled using shell elements.
Modelling and steel checking of variable bar cross-sections
Within the 3D Structure module, steel bars, beams and columns can also be analysed as shell elements, offering an accurate way of checking them for buckling (steel utilization). The "shell element" technology also allows the modelling of variable bar cross-sections, holes and stiffeners in webs, and sections built of different steel materials (non-homogenic steel sections).
Special load definitions
Several types of load can be defined in 3D structure, including (forces, moments, support displacement, stress and temperature loads). The program offers additional built-in features for loads: predefined load intensity values according to codes, fast algorithms to define surface loads, including varying intensity and automatic distribution of surface load onto bars (automatic conversion to line loads).
FEM-Design allows seamless transfer between the different design modules. For example, a slab-system of a multi-storey building (defined in 3D Structure module) and its supports can be analysed in the Plate module for more detailed concrete design such as cracked-section analysis and column punching, etc. Load-bearing walls of a large 3D structure can also be designed in the Wall module. FEM-Design is also able to connect with other structural and architectural programs via the model-based IFC connection.
