The Components add-on extends RFEM with the option of integrating structural components and connections into the model based on predefined or user-defined component series, and then designing them directly. Components can be used, for example, to model joints, hinges, or other structural elements whose ultimate limit state and stiffness are described by stored parameters.
Components are managed via component series that contain all the information necessary for modeling and design. This includes, among other things:
- Geometric and mechanical properties of the components
- Parameters for describing different design variants
- Assignment types for placement in the model
- Design parameters and ultimate limit states
- Scripts for automated design checks
When inserting a component, the model adjustments defined for the respective component series are automatically made in the RFEM model. Depending on the component type, hinges can be created, member cross-sections or materials adjusted, or other model-related properties changed. This allows the structural behavior to be realistically considered in the model according to the selected component.
In addition to the component series provided in the Dlubal Center, user-defined components can also be created and integrated into the calculation. The design checks are performed directly with the internal forces of the RFEM model, and the results are clearly displayed in the result tables.
These and other features support you in the modeling and design of components and are described in the following chapters.