Calculating membrane and cable structures is no longer a problem when using the Dlubal structural analysis software. Use RFEM 5 for form-finding, as well as for the structural analysis and determination of cutting patterns. The calculation is performed according to the large deformation analysis. When determining the cutting patterns, RFEM also considers the user‑defined intersection lines and compensation dimensions.

RFEM RF-FORM-FINDING Add-on Module | Form-Finding of Membrane and Cable Structures

RF-FORM-FINDING Add-on Module for RFEM 5

The RF-FORM-FINDING add-on module searches for the shape of member and surface models subjected to tension or compression. The shape is calculated by the equilibrium between the surface stress (prestress and additional load like self-weight, pressure, and so on) and natural or geometric boundary conditions.

The new prestressed shape is then used as the initial state for the structural analysis. The RF-CUTTING-PATTERN add-on module allows you to determine cutting patterns for membrane structures.

RF-CUTTING-PATTERN Add-on Module for RFEM | Cutting Patterns of Tensile Membrane Structures

RF-CUTTING-PATTERN Add-on Module for RFEM 5

The RF-CUTTING-PATTERN add-on module calculates and organizes cutting patterns for membrane structures. Boundary conditions of the cutting patterns on curved geometry are determined by boundary lines and independent planar cutting lines or geodesic cutting lines. The flattening process is performed according to the minimum energy theory.

For each cutting pattern, it is possible to apply the compensation in the warp and weft directions. You can define a specific compensation value for each boundary line as well as overlaps for the manufacturing process.

RF-MAT-NL Add-on Module for RFEM | Consideration of Nonlinear Material Laws

RF-MAT NL Add-on Module for RFEM 5

The RF-MAT NL add-on module allows you to consider nonlinear material behavior in RFEM 5.

There is an option to couple surfaces with the stiffness types "Membrane" and "Membrane Orthotropic" with the material models "Isotropic Nonlinear Elastic 2D/3D" and "Isotropic Plastic 2D/3D" (requires the RF-MAT-NL add-on module). This functionality enables simulation of the nonlinear strain behavior of ETFE foils, for example.