Question:
Can I optimize all cross-sections in my model quickly using internal forces?
Answer:
No optimization can be derived solely from the internal forces: Whether a cross-section is sufficient or not can only be determined by a calculation according to the respective standard (using the add-on modules).
The cross-section design and/or stability analysis and/or SLS design may require a modification of the cross-section. In addition, a cross-section modification also changes the stiffness of the entire structure or has an effect on adjacent components (for statically indeterminate systems). Therefore, a fully automatic cross-section optimization cannot be solved by the program.
It is not possible to set the cross-section of an element to be changed in such a way that the adjacent structural components are not overstressed or an overall optimized structure is found. It is only possible to optimize the component that is currently subjected to design. To do this, see the online manual of RF‑/STEEL EC3 (which shows the member design).
In the case of surface components, only the surface thickness can be automatically optimized from the stress analysis.