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KB 001680 | Why 3D Models in Structural Design?
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First Steps with RFEM
Description
Structures are naturally three-dimensional. However, because in the past, it was not possible to easily perform calculations on three-dimensional models, the structures were simplified and broken down into planar subsystems. With the increasing performance of computers and related software, it is often possible to do without these simplifications.
Digital trends, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) or new options for creating realistic visualized models, reinforce this trend. But do 3D models really have an advantage or are we just following a trend? The following presents some arguments for working in 3D models.
Keywords
Dlubal Knowledge Base 3D Model 2D model BIM Building Information Modeling Analysis model Structural model Dlubal KB Knowledge Base Technical Contribution
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Models to Download
Knowledge Base Articles

Why 3D Models in Structural Design?
Digital trends, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) or new options for creating realistic visualized models, are based on 3D models. But do 3D models really have an advantage or are we just following a trend? The following presents some arguments for working in 3D models.
Screenshots
RFEM/RSTAB add-on module RF-/TOWER effective lengths | Determination of effective lengths of lattice towers
RFEM add-on module RF-CONCRETE NL | Nonlinear reinforced concrete calculation for the serviceability limit state
RFEM/RSTAB add-on module RF-MOVE/RSMOVE | Load case generation for members from moving load positions
RFEM/RSTAB add-on module RF-/TIMBER AWC | Design of members made of timber according to ANSI/AWC NDS-2015 (US standard)
RFEM/RSTAB add-on module RF-/JOINTS Timber-Timber to Timber | Design of direct timber connections according to Eurocode 5
RFEM/RSTAB add-on module RF-/JOINTS Steel-Column Base | Hinged and restrained column bases according to EC 3
RFEM/RSTAB add-on module RF-/STEEL BS | Design of steel members according to BS 5950 or BS EN 1993-1-1
Product Features Articles

New
Depending on stiffness, mass, and damping, structures react differently to wind action.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is it possible to design bidirectional ribbed plates, unidirectional ribbed plates, or hollow core slabs in RFEM?
- I get the message that my material does not meet the requirements of the current standard. How can I correct this?
- Can I download a trial version of RWIND Simulation?
- Is it possible to keep the results from RWIND Simulation when deleting the FE mesh if I only adjust materials or support conditions?
- How do I enter the temperature difference for a T -beam defined as a rib?
- Can I consider a reduction of the stiffness according to the German regulation NCI NA.5.9 in TIMBER Pro?
- Why is the strength always reduced by the kmod value of 0.6 during the calculation in the RF‑LAMINATE add‑on module, although I have load combinations with variable loads?
- Why is there no stability analysis displayed in the results despite the activation of the stability analysis in RF‑/STEEL EC3?
- Is it possible to set user-defined values when viewing solid stress results?
- How is the entry of the turbulence intensity related to the profile of the turbulence intensity in the RWIND Simulation program?
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