In RFEM and RSTAB, you can add a comment to model objects in the graphic. When inserting a comment, the origin of the current work plane automatically jumps temporarily to the same plane in which the comment is placed. This prevents comments from being accidentally placed very far from the object.
In RFEM 5 and RSTAB 8, you can add visual objects to the model in order to make a convincing impression on your client when presenting the structural model. These objects allow both laypersons and engineers to better understand the dimensions of the system.
The same structures are often needed in several projects, such as the purlin with columns and braces in this example. The dimensions can be changed directly in RFEM or RSTAB by shifting the nodes.
Before creating a structural model, every user gives thought to the boundary parameters of the system and how best to represent the model. Special attention should be paid to the orientation of the global coordinate system. In engineering, the global Z‑axis is usually oriented downwards (in the direction of the dead load), while it tends to be upwards in architecture. These differences can often lead to complications during modeling; for example, when you replace global models or DXF layers.
Parameterized entries provide the engineer with an efficiency-increasing tool. This allows entering structural and loading data so that they depend on certain variables. These variables (for example, length, width, live load, and so on) are called parameters.
In RFEM 5 and RSTAB 8, it is useful to parameterize frequently occurring components with variable dimensions. In the Block Manager, you then can specify new dimensions and import them in a new or existing file.
Inserting holes in surfaces is very easy due to the large selection of tools. In order to insert holes or drilling in solids, it is necessary to keep in mind that an opening at the beginning and the end of a continuous hole must be created, as well as a surface that separates the hole from the solids.
In RFEM and RSTAB, you can check the plausibility of entries before you start the calculation. This is done using "Tools" → "Check Plausibility ..." or the corresponding button in the toolbar. There are three different types of checks available.
If you want to import a block with previously saved loads into an existing model, the load cases are not integrated into the existing load cases, but are added to the existing ones.
In addition to the standard functions, the input tables of the main program have block functions. With these functions, you can edit the data in the selected rows and columns of the table in one step.
In order to reduce the number of pages in a printout report or to obtain shorter and clearer result tables, you can use filters for the printout report tables using individual detailed settings.
The network-capable Project Manager controls the projects of all Dlubal Software applications in one central location. A table displays the important information for each model and corresponding file. Now, you can set dimension and weight units in the program options.
The RFEM/RSTAB printout report includes a text block function. This feature allows you to create user‑defined text blocks with formatting and heading and add them to the printout report.
The RF-/STEEL EC3 add‑on module performs a detailed cross‑section classification on each design before the design is carried out. Thus, the susceptibility to local buckling of all cross-section parts is evaluated. The defined cross-section class has an effect on the resistance and rotational capacity determination.
The RF-FORM-FINDING add-on module determines equilibrium shapes of membrane and cable elements in RFEM. In this calculation process, the program searches for such geometric position where the surface stress/prestress of membranes and cables is in equilibrium with natural and geometric boundary conditions. This process is called form-finding (hereinafter referred to as FF). The FF calculation can be activated in RFEM globally in the "General Data" of a model, "Options" tab. After selecting the corresponding option, a new load case or a calculation process called RF-FORM-FINDING is created in RFEM. An additional FF parameter is available for defining surface stress and prestress when entering cables and membranes. By activating the FF option, the program always starts the form-finding process before the pure structural calculation of internal forces, deformation, eigenvalues, etc., and generates a corresponding prestressed model for further analysis.