Useful Tools for Fast Generation of Structures
Cross-Section and Material Libraries Including Favorites
Extensive cross‑section and material libraries facilitate the modeling of plate and beam structures. These databases can be filtered and expanded with user-defined entries. It is possible to import and analyze special cross‑sections from SHAPE‑THIN and SHAPE‑MASSIVE.
Combined and Hybrid Cross-Sections
You can define built-up timber cross-sections, for example, channel, T, I, and box girders. Single elements are connected by rigid or semi‑rigid connections. Furthermore, hybrid cross-sections are available. In this case, a submenu provides an option to assign different materials to the individual cross‑section parts.
Working with Layers
There are various tools such as the object snap, user‑defined input grids, and guidelines, that facilitate the graphical input of structural data. DXF files can be imported as line models or used as a layer in the background in order to use specific snap points.
Useful Generating Tools
Generating tools to enter parametric models such as frames, halls, trusses, spiral stairways, arcs, or roofs. In addition, many generators allow for the creation of load cases and loading resulting from weight, snow, and wind.
Optional Parametric Input
In order to work with recurring structural systems efficiently, RFEM provides the parameterized input, which can be combined with a parameterizable guideline method. Models can be created using particular parameters and adjusted to a new situation by modifying the parameters.
Simple Selection According to Specific Categories
Various buttons allow you to directly change the perspective and work plane. By zooming, rotating, and shifting the structure you can quickly adjust the appropriate view. Partial views represent specific structural parts clearly. Inactive objects can be displayed transparently in the background. By selecting structural elements according to special criteria, it is possible to group objects in a simple way.
Easy Model Input
Structures are entered as 1D, 2D, or 3D models. Member types such as beams, trusses, or tension members facilitate the definition of member properties. For modeling surfaces, RFEM provides For example, the types Standard, Orthotropic, Glass, Laminate, Rigid, Membrane, and so on, are available.
Furthermore, RFEM can select among the material models Isotropic Linear Elastic, Isotropic Plastic 1D/2D/3D, Isotropic Nonlinear Elastic 1D/2D/3D, Orthotropic Elastic 2D/3D, Orthotropic Plastic 2D/3D (Tsai-Wu 2D/3D), and Isotropic Thermal -elastic, Isotropic Masonry 2D, and Isotropic Damage 2D/3D.
Member and Support Nonlinearities
It is possible to specify nonlinearities of member end releases (yielding, tearing, slippage, and so on) and supports (including friction). There are special dialog boxes available for determining the spring stiffnesses of columns and walls based on the geometry specifications.
Variable Member and Surface Properties
Members can be arranged eccentrically, supported by elastic foundations, or defined as rigid links. Member sets facilitate the load application on several members.
In RFEM, you can also define eccentricities of surfaces. Here, it is possible to transform nodal and linear loads into surface loads. You can divide surfaces into surface components and members into surfaces.
Generation of Wind and Snow Loads According to Eurocode
There are load generators available for beam structures, creating snow loads according to ASCE/SEI 7-10. The load cases are generated depending on the roof shape. Another generator creates coating loads (ice). You can save recurring load combinations as templates.
Optional Automatic Renumbering of Objects
The numbering of structural objects such as nodes and members can be adjusted subsequently. It is possible to renumber the objects automatically in accordance with the selected priorities (directions of axes).
Simple Model Check
Members can be extended or divided graphically. The model check quickly detects input errors such as identical nodes or duplicate members and eliminates them. When entering structural data, you can automatically connect intersecting members. The measure function allows you to determine lengths and angles of members and surfaces (only RFEM).
Various Load Types
There are various load types available for member and surface loads (force, moment, temperature, precamber, and so on). Member loads can be assigned to members, member sets, and member lists. In the case of imperfections, inclination and precamber can be determined according to Eurocode or the American standard ANSI/AISC 360.
Optional Regeneration of Model
It is possible to edit a model in the active rendering. The 'Regenerate Model' function may help you to correct slight deviations of node coordinates.