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002087
2020-12-02

FAQ 004849 | How to model a cable net structure in using the RF-FORM-FINDING add-on module?

Question:
How to model a cable net structure in using the RF-FORM-FINDING add-on module?

Answer:
Because a net requires multiple cable segments to be modeled in a grid-type pattern, the cables are not one continuous member. This is not ideal for the RF-FORM-FINDING module as the cable prestress properties such as sag, target length, or force are best applied to a single cable segment. The program cannot easily apply these settings to a cable that is broken down into multiple segments along its length.

The best option to model the net in RFEM is to instead use a surface element. The material and stiffness properties of the surface are the equivalent properties to that of the net provided by the manufacturer. RF-FORM-FINDING can then be applied to the surface element such as a prestress force or stress.