Sofistik Tutorial
Sofistik Tutorial
Sofistik Tutorial
© SOFiSTiK AG 2006
SSD · SOFiSTiK Structural Desktop
This manual is protected by copyright laws. No part of it may be translated, copied or repro-
duced, in any form or by any means, without written permission from SOFiSTiK AG.
SOFiSTiK reserves the right to modify or to release new editions of this manual.
The manual and the program have been thoroughly checked for errors. However, SOFiSTiK
does not claim that either one is completely error free. Errors and omissions are corrected as
soon as they are detected.
The user of the program is solely responsible for the applications. We strongly encourage the
user to test the correctness of all calculations at least by random sampling.
SSD · SOFiSTiK Structural Desktop
Contents
1 Preface ...................................................................................................................... 1
2 Basics SSD ............................................................................................................... 2
2.1 Overview................................................................................................................... 2
2.2 User interface SSD ................................................................................................... 3
2.3 Basic Workflow ......................................................................................................... 4
2.3.1 Groups........................................................................................................................ 4
2.3.2 Tasks..........................................................................................................................5
2.3.2.1 Task Tree ................................................................................................................. 6
2.3.2.2 Table Area ................................................................................................................ 6
2.3.2.3 Work Area................................................................................................................. 7
2.3.3 Template files <name>.SOFiSTiX .............................................................................. 7
2.3.3.1 Adding User- defined Template directories .............................................................. 7
2.3.3.2 User Defined Template Files .................................................................................... 8
2.3.3.3 Usage of Template Files <name>.SOFiSTiX............................................................ 9
2.4 Structure and Function Mode ................................................................................. 10
2.4.1 Computation status .................................................................................................. 10
2.4.2 SOFiSTiK Options .................................................................................................... 11
2.4.2.1 Language Settings.................................................................................................. 11
2.4.2.2 Project defaults ....................................................................................................... 11
2.4.2.3 Process the environment variables in the file SOFiSTiK.DEF ................................ 13
2.4.3 Files..........................................................................................................................15
3 Basics of SOFiPLUS(-X) ........................................................................................ 16
3.1 Basic Input.............................................................................................................. 16
3.1.1 Structural Elements .................................................................................................. 16
3.1.2 Finite Elements......................................................................................................... 18
4 Example Flat Slab................................................................................................... 19
4.1 Problem .................................................................................................................. 20
4.2 Step 1: Starting SSD .............................................................................................. 21
4.3 Step 2: Materials and Cross Sections..................................................................... 22
4.4 Step 3: Graphical Input........................................................................................... 23
4.5 Step 4: Analysis and Combinations ........................................................................ 29
4.6 Step 5: Design ........................................................................................................ 33
4.6.1 Design Parameters................................................................................................... 33
4.6.2 Design in ULS .......................................................................................................... 36
4.6.3 Design in SLS........................................................................................................... 38
4.7 Documentation ....................................................................................................... 39
4.8 Discussion of results............................................................................................... 41
4.8.1 Structural Analysis.................................................................................................... 41
4.8.2 Punching Design ...................................................................................................... 42
4.8.2.1 Punching inner column, node 12 ............................................................................ 43
4.8.2.2 Punching check at wall corner, node 3 ................................................................... 44
4.8.3 Serviceability ............................................................................................................ 46
5 Example Steel Design ............................................................................................ 49
Contents i
SSD · SOFiSTiK Structural Desktop
Contents ii
SSD · SOFiSTiK Structural Desktop
1 Preface
Dear SOFiSTiK Customer,
With the FEA Version 23 and the SOFiSTiK Structural Desktop (SSD), you have the latest
development. The SOFiSTiK Structural desktop (SSD) represents a uniform user interface
for the entire range of SOFiSTiK-Software. The SSD module controls Pre-processing, Proc-
essing and Post processing.
This Tutorial provides you with a short overview and by means of simple examples a fast en-
try to the SSD.
In the chapter Basic Workflow we introduce the SSD’s new user interface and explain the
fundamental functionality of the individual areas.
The following chapters execute several examples with the SSD. All essential steps are de-
scribed descriptively so they can simply be reproduced by you. We chose standard examples
from literature so that you can compare the results directly.
In the last chapter the essential functions of the SSD are arranged and expounded.
We now wish you much success with the execution of the software.
Preface 1
SSD · SOFiSTiK Structural Desktop
2 Basics SSD
2.1 Overview
In order to understand the operation of the SOFiSTiK programs, the basic program structure
is represented subsequently. It is imperative, that all data is stored in a central data base
(SOFiSTiK Database CDB).
The SOFiSTiK software has a modular structure. The SOFiSTiK Structural Desktop (SSD)
controls the communication between all of the individual application programs.
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SSD · SOFiSTiK Structural Desktop
2.3.1 Groups
The computational groups are organized in a tree-structure. This structure can be changed
by the user at any time, as the individual tasks can be dragged to the desired place with the
mouse. The user can remove or insert additional groups at any time with associated tasks.
Example of a possible group-structure of the SSD:
System
- System and load
Linear Analysis
- Calculation and Superposition
Design Area Elements
- Design ULS and SLS
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SSD · SOFiSTiK Structural Desktop
2.3.2 Tasks
The tasks available are accessed via the right-click-menu in the task tree. They can be in-
serted at any place within the tree. When you select the command “insert task” with the right
mouse-button, the following dialog with all available tasks appears.
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SSD · SOFiSTiK Structural Desktop
In the task tree the options are accessed via the right-click-menu which automatically adjusts
itself to show only those available.
Right click menu in the task tree
The right click menu will provide
relevant functions for the selected
task.
Examples:
Process Æ Dialog
Edit Æ Text-Input (<name>.DAT)
Reports Æ Result viewer
(name.PLB)
Possible format:
- Text - Format
- EXCEL- Format
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SSD · SOFiSTiK Structural Desktop
The work area displays the ANIMATOR visualisation of the system by default. The work area
changes to WinPS during processing to show calculation status and the TEDDY for further
text input prior to analysis. The graphical input with SOFiPLUS(-X) operates within its own
separate window, making the best possible use of dual monitors.
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Any file <name>.SOFiSTiK can be stored into the desired Template-Directory as Template
<name>.SOFiSTiX.
All current project settings can be saved as Templates Including the arrangement
and sequence of the tasks. The materials and cross sections are dependent on
the chosen design code. A fixed design code cannot be changed within the pro-
ject. File Æ Save As Template
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SSD · SOFiSTiK Structural Desktop
Root directory:
„General“
Subdirectory:
„Concrete“
„Steel“
The desired file <name>.SOFiSTiX is selected and stored under a new data file name with
the button “Save As…” into a project directory.
The new file contains all tasks of the Template. In addition, the data (for example cross-
sections, geometry... etc.) from the Template are transferred into the new file. The data is
then immediately ready for calculation.
With "Templates without Design Code”, the design code can be altered. The mate-
rials and cross sections must be checked and amended.
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SSD · SOFiSTiK Structural Desktop
There is a difference between the dialog box language and the input/output language. The
dialog box language is stored within the REGISTRY of the local computer. The SSD must be
started again so that this alteration is activated. The input/output language is stored within
the file SOFiSTiK.DEF.
With the option Project Defaults, the user can assign default attributes of new projects. In
addition, the user can define if graphical or text is the default input. These attitudes are
stored in the Registry.
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The SOFiSTiK dialog supports numerous parameters, which are defined as environment
variables (in the Environment, in the SOFiSTiK.DEF or in the local <name>.DAT). General
defaults are preferably stored in the file SOFiSTiK.DEF. In the following example, the input of
a modified company heading takes place in the results listing with the variable
SOFiSTiK_NAME.
⇒ SOFiSTiK Æ Options Æ Edit File “sofistik.def“ Æ Select SOFiSTiK-DEF file with
a tick Æ Edit Button
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SSD · SOFiSTiK Structural Desktop
The principle hierarchy of the definition files SOFiSTiK.DEF is shown in Picture 13. The dif-
ferent files SOFiSTiK.DEF are checked in succession one after the other. Highest priority has
the setting, which is stored in the SOFiSTiK.DEF file in the project directory. The path of the
SOFiSTiK variable is checked off afterwards. If no SOFiSTiK variable is defined in the Envi-
ronment, the SOFiSTiK directory is used as default.
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SSD · SOFiSTiK Structural Desktop
2.4.3 Files
The basic files are arranged in the following table:
Name.SOFiSTiK Central XLM- file where all information is saved.
Name.DAT Control file, ASCII format
Name.PLB For each task the result is saved in a file task.PLB. This file can be
shown and/or printed out individually. Also it can be assigned to
the total result using the command "all results".
Name.CDB Central data base
Name.DWG Using graphical input all information about system and loading is
saved in this drawing.
Name.SOFiSTiX Template- file in XLM- format: File in Template- directory.
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3 Basics of SOFiPLUS(-X)
The important differences are described below. For further information please
see the SOFiPLUS(-X) HELP file.
Basics of SOFiPLUS(-X) 16
SSD · SOFiSTiK Structural Desktop
The basic idea with the structural elements is to create a wire frame of the structure. For this
all AutoCAD commands can be used. After finishing the wire frame model the automatic
mesh generation will create a finite element system and an input data file <name>.DAT
which can be modified using TEDDY.
Important is the possibility to define “Free Nodes”, which are independent from mesh and
structure. You also may define loads connected to structural elements.
The analysis will be started directly out of SOFiPLUS or with WinPS.
A mixture of Finite Elements and Structural Elements is possible under special conditions.
We recommend avoiding any mixture if at all possible.
The Post processing can be done with the normal programs like WinGRAF, DBPRIN and
DBView. For the documentation use the URSULA result browser.
Structure Area
- Defined by Structure Points and Structure Lines
- Plane and curved areas are available
- = geometric area in SOFiMSHB (GAR)
Structural Line
- Area boundary
- Defined by ≥2 Structure Points
- Geometric restraint for SOFiMSHB
- Definition of linear support conditions
- Definition of linear coupling
- Beam, Truss or Cable element
- Pile Element
- Form: straight line, arch, spline
- = geometric line in SOFiMSHB (GLN)
Structure Point
- Geometric restraint for SOFiMSHB
- Part of Structure Line
- Single Support condition
- Column including dimensions for punching design
- Spring
- = geometric point in SOFiMSHB (GPT)
Basics of SOFiPLUS(-X) 17
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Basics of SOFiPLUS(-X) 18
SSD · SOFiSTiK Structural Desktop
4.1 Problem
A concrete and punching design according to German code DIN 1045-1 for the slab shown in
Picture 16 is required.
Materials: concrete C 30/37
reinforcement BST 500
Loads:
Dead loads (G)
Self weight slab 0,24 · 25 = 6,00 kN/m² (automatic calculation)
Dead load 1,50 + 0,50 = 2,00 kN/m²
The following example shows the basic workflow right from the beginning of a project with
the definition of geometry and loads, then analysis and design with the final documentation of
results.
With selection of “Graphical Pre-processing” additional input is necessary. The default set-
tings are usually OK. Important is the input of the system size. Confirming the input with OK,
the program starts a central database exp1-flatslab.cdb.
Changing the design code after saving the project is not possible.
As described in chapter 2.3.2.1 the task tree is placed on the left side. With this tree you can
access all groups and tasks within the project.
The next step is to define materials and cross sections.
_line First of all start the drawing of the outline of the slab by using the Auto-
CAD command ‘line’.. The coordinate origin is located at the top left
corner of the slab. Start drawing the outline from the point (0,0) and con-
tinue with the following dimensions and directions. .
11,850 horizontal to the right ,
22.050 vertical down ,
6.825 horizontal to the left,
2.725 vertical up,
5.025 horizontal to the left ,
19.325 vertical up,
Finish the command with ESC
SOF_PM_STEDGE Create structural lines from this outline by opening the command “Struc-
tural Line” and select the option “select entity” from the right click menu.
Use a selection rectangle starting at the bottom right and moving to the
top left side. Confirm the selection by pressing Return.
SOF_PM_STPOINT Now start the definition of the columns using the command “Structure
Point”. The structure points we are going to define now are also the col-
umn supports and will be used for punching checks.
Every column has a diameter of 45 cm. For the support conditions select
the tab ‘bottom columns’ and apply both the rotational and vertical
springs. The spring stiffness is calculated automatically from the cross
section, the floor height and the material information provided. The rota-
tional spring stiffness has to be changed to 257000 kNm/rad as written
in reference [1] and [2].
The columns are simple to create by using the cursor in the drawing
screen. For each column the following coordinates have to be used.
(0.225/0.225) (5.025/0.225) (6.825/0.225) (11.625/0.225)
(0.225/7.425) (5.025/7.425) (6.825/7.425) (11.625/7.425)
(0.225/14.625) (5.025/14.625) (6.825/14.625) (11.625/14.625)
(6.825/21.825) (11.625/21.825)
We recommend defining every load area as a structural area. The program auto-
matically creates loadcases for every area.
SOF_PM_STEDGE To define structural areas easily, additional structural lines are neces-
sary. Therefore, create new structural lines between the columns and
between column and slab outline until the slab is partitioned as shown in
Picture 20.
SOF_PM_STAREA After defining the additional structural lines the structural areas can then
be defined. The slab thickness is 0.24 m.
There are four methods to define a structure area. The simplest way is
to click into the drawing screen. Please use “select point in area” from
the right click menu and click inside the first area.
Opening Please add an opening. First we recommend drawing the opening out-
line using normal AutoCAD Lines. Then start the command “Opening”
and chose “PICK point within opening” After clicking inside the opening
the definition is finished.
SOF_PM_EDGE_M Finally the wall supports (A’/1-2 and 2/a-A’) have to be defined. Select
the command “structural line” and modify the wall as shown below. The
support width of 0.3 m is important for the following punching design.
Before starting the automatic mesh generation we recommend checking the actions and
loads.
To start the loadcase manager use the button . After the dialog is open you will see the
tab loadcases. There are 10 loadcases listed in the table. The 1st loadcase is the dead load.
The program is able to calculate automatically the self weight of the construction. To do so
the factor in the row SW has to be changed to 1.0 for LC 1.
Change now to the tab actions. There are two actions defined, total dead load and variable
load., which is correct for this problem. Beside the action name the correct safety and combi-
nation values according to German code DIN 1045-1 are listed.
SOF_glfmod Click on the button to start the loadcase manager
Listing of loadcases
Listing of actions
After these checks the system definition is finished and a system export into the central da-
The next step is to do the linear analysis for every single loadcase and calculate the relevant
combinations.
SOFiPLUS is able to import any drawing with DWG or DXF format. Therefore archi-
tectural drawings can be used for the system generation
Group selection is important. By default all groups will be selected for a calculation. Dese-
lected groups are not considered during the calculation. This facility can be used to simulate
temporary support conditions during construction. The first loadcases are calculated with the
temporary supports. In the last loadcase, deselect the group containing the temporary sup-
ports for them to be ignored.
In the case where groups of elements are active and passive for different loadcases
it is necessary to define multiple “Linear Analysis” tasks.
It is very important to check the loads because loads on deselected elements will
cause an error message during the calculation.
Control Parameters are not necessary. The register “Text Output” is responsible for the out-
put and documentation. The output volume is variable for the different output chapters. Also
the default output is sufficient in most cases.
Besides the text output a graphical output is also available. There are default settings for
standard graphics. To add these graphics to the output just select or deselect the entries
from the tree structure.
Important to note is the ease with which a user defined view can be created. Select the view
option “User defined” and click into the view window and move the system inside the 3D-
orbit.
The import of additional graphic files created with WINGRAF is also possible. Select the op-
tion “Use additional graphics” and start browsing . The other way is to start WINGRAF
with the button. The graphics you define inside WINGRAF will be transferred to the SSD.
Confirm all settings with the OK button.
In the bottom left-hand corner you will find the preselected option “Calculate imme-
diately”. Confirming with OK button will automatically start the calculation.
With the ‘Calculate immediately’ selected,a new program is opened within the SSD main
window. On the left-hand side, there is a tree structure, which shows all tasks. Only the two
program blocks SEPP and WING are active for this calculation, which is shown by the signs
.
Always use the task “Select Superpositioning” after the task “Define Superposition-
ing” to make sure all superpositions are available and can be processed by the
program.
The text and graphical output can be selected as shown before. In addition, the option “Cal-
culate immediately” works in the same way.
In most cases, two-layer orthogonal reinforcement is suitable for the design. In this dialog,
the main direction and the distances between centreline of reinforcement bars and concrete
surfaces can be edited. If reinforcement has to be changed for selected groups, create a
new line in the Design parameter list using the button NEW.
Then select the relevant groups from the selection list. For example, select groups 1 to 3 and
define a two layer non orthogonal reinforcement with an angle of 45°. The settings for the
other groups will remain the same as shown in Picture 30.
This example is only to show the input procedure and will not be used in the follow-
ing calculation. Therefore please delete this input with the button DELETE.
The definitions made here will be used in all following design tasks.
The superposition results are loadcases with different identifiers. As shown in Picture 31
there are the single loadcases (LC 1 – LC 10) and loadcases 21xx from the ultimate design
combination. The program automatically selects all the loadcases for results from the ulti-
mate design combination. The column Am indicates loadcases with results for area ele-
ments, the column Aa indicates loadcases with additional results for area elements and the
column Be indicates loadcases with results for beam elements. In this example, we don’t
have any beam elements, so the column is clear, which is correct.
For the shear and punching design go to the “Shear Reinforcement” tab. The program will in-
crease automatically the bending reinforcement to pass the shear and punching checks. You
may define a maximum percentage as an upper limitation for the bending reinforcement be-
fore shear links are required. There is a control over the shear reinforcement design both in-
side and outside the punching area. No increase of reinforcement is allowed in this example.
Using the Beams tab you may define the necessary design settings for beam elements. If
there are no beams in the system, as in this example, no input is required.
There are various control parameters which can be set depending on the design codes. For
further information we refer you to the national codes and the technical literature.
As with all other tasks, the text and graphical output can be selected.
The calculation starts immediately if the ‘Calculate immediately’ check box is ticked. Please
deactivate the option “Calculate immediately” and after checking all input, close the input with
OK. Now you will see the sign in the task tree. This means, that the task has a new input
and is still open for calculation. (see also Picture 10)
Before starting the calculation you may wish to check the CADINP input data, created auto-
matically.
Every task automatically creates a CADINP input file, which is part of the complete
input file <name>.dat. To check this input file use the text editor TEDDY. To open
the input file click on the task inside the task tree and use the right mouse click
– EDIT. Now the TEDDY will be opened.
The functionality available within TEDDY is very powerful and all can be access within the
SSD. Additional text input can be entered to amend or extend that which has been created
with the dialog input. There are numerous possibilities, which are not discussed here. For
further information please look in the handbook SOFiSTiK_1.pdf.
Before going on with the “Design in SLS” the calculation “Design in ULS” has to be
finished because reinforcement areas are necessary for SLS input.
Also note, that changes within the dialogs will change the CADINP input file.
4.7 Documentation
The documentation is divided into several URSULA reports. After every calculation a task
creates it’s own URSULA report. For the final documentation go to the button and select
“all reports”. URSULA will open automatically and displays the complete report.
All chapters are printed in a tree structure on the left-hand side of the URSULA screen. Nor-
mally every chapter is activated except the “Control of input” chapters. To activate or deacti-
vate every chapter just click on the chapter title within the tree.
There is an easy way to add a complete list of contents, by using the top menu Insert – Insert
List of Contents.
As shown in Table 1 the results compare very closely with the reference example. The only
difference is the signs, which is caused by the different coordinate systems used in literature
and SOFiSTiK SSD.
In addition to the extended output a short table “Conclusions” is also printed in the output.
Important are the additional hints written below this listing. As you can see, the Column at
node 12 will be treated as an edge column because of the adjacent opening Therefore, node
12 is marked with Typ E = edge column.
Literature SOFiSTiK
Effective height [cm] 20 21
Diameter critical perimeter dkrit [m] 1,05 1,08
Reduction due to opening δ [-] 0,8819 0,89
Critical perimeter ukrit [m] 2,91 3,016
factor β 1,29 1,20
Shear force ved [kN/m] 227 209,7
shear capacity without reinforcement vRd,ct [kN/m] 190,0 166,3
Shear reinforcement 1. perimeter [cm²]
distance 0,5d=10,5 cm up to 0,5d+sw/2=18,4 cm 10,40 10.71
The results compare very well. The slight difference is caused by different effective heights,
different bending reinforcement and different factor β which takes into account the opening.
Reducing the critical perimeter near inner columns by up to 80%, the factor β is
considered with 1,20 instead of 1,05 (DIN 1045-1, picture 44). The column will be
treated as type E = edge column.
The punching design on wall corners must be treated in a special way. In [1] and [2] the de-
sign cut is located at a distance of 1,5 dslab from the wall face and for a length of
1,5 · dslab in the wall direction. The punching check failed with only 9% over the critical shear
force. In addition to that, a shear design outside the punching area has a great amount of
shear capacity. The conclusion now is that the shear capacity of the wall corner is sufficient.
The relevant shear force is integrated from the boundary reactions over a length 2 · 2.0 · dwall.
The wall corner itself is idealized by an auxiliary column of 2 · wall width x wall width. The
wall width for punching was defined to 30 cm, remember the definition of structural lines in
SOFiPLUS(-X).
The complete perimeter without consideration of the opening is
u tot = 2 ⋅ (a + b ) + 2 ⋅ 1,5 ⋅ d ⋅ π = 2 ⋅ (60 + 30 ) + 2 ⋅ 1,5 ⋅ 21 ⋅ π = 377,91cm
The critical design cut according to DIN 1045-1 is shown in Picture 36. The angle between
beginning and end of the cut is about 126°. The program determines the effective design cut
automatically, by developing individual sectors around the column blockouts or wall supports.
If for a sector area plate elements are used with 100%, the sector is considered as effective
for punching. Currently 36 sectors are arranged with 10 degrees per sector. Therefore the
angle is rounded up to 130°. The ratio 130° to 360° equals the reduction factor β=u=36%.
WINGRAF draws a segment with the correct length of the critical design cut. The radius is
calculated out of the critical perimeter idealized as a circle.
Picture 36: Comparison design cut to DIN 1045-1 and SOFiSTiK analysis
According to DIN 1045-1 equation 107 it is necessary to check the maximum shear capacity,
which is carried out by the program. Should the bending reinforcement be too small, the main
reinforcement will be increased up to the user’s specified limit. You will find this additional in-
formation in the text output.
4.8.3 Serviceability
The results of the serviceability check are also printed in the URSULA output. The output is
organized in several chapters. The reinforcement from the ultimate limit state design is saved
in a reinforcement loadcase, which will be used now. Next is a list of loadcases which will be
used for the design.
Maximum of reinforcement-distributions
The reinforcement maximum was build out of the numbers of reinforcement-
distributions:
1
and stored as new reinforcement-distribution 2 .
Material (DIN1045-1)
Mat f-ck f-cr f-yk f-tk Param. f-ctm N minQ type
[MPa] [MPa] [MPa] [MPa] [MPa] [-] [-]
1 30.0 25.5 2.896 6.3 0.20 mainly static
2 500.0 525.0
A robustness minimum reinforcement has not been requested [MREI] and
has to be checked separately.
A minimum reinforcement has not been requested [MREI] and
has to be checked separately.
Material-safety-factors:
Mat concr SC1 SC2 steel SS1 SS2
1 1.50 1.50
2 1.15 1.15
3
Material (DIN1045-1)
The serviceability limit state control parameters are very important to check. The report
shows the used design code and the maximum allowed crack width.
After this basic information the design output is listed. For example the element 10001
passed the crack check for loadcase 1701. The output GRZD means that the maximum bar
diameter is smaller than allowed according to DIN 1045-1, Table 20.
A complete listing for every element and every node is part of the output.
At the end of the report a reinforcement index is provided. The index is the sum of reinforce-
ment required for every element. It does not include the additional reinforcement required, for
example, lap lengths.
The reinforcement index is the sum of the calculated reinforcement required from
the finite elements in the system and does not include additional reinforcement
such as lap lengths.
5.1 Problem
A portal frame construction from reference [3] chapter 13.4.2 will be analysed using 2nd Order
Theory. In addition to the nodal loads a displacement is applied for the vertical members.
Cross section:
vertical member IPE 360
horizontal member IPE 360
Material:
S 235
Load:
vertical load Fd = 490 KN
horizontal load Hd = 30 kN
without self weight
Using this example the numeric input of the system and loads will be demonstrated. The pos-
sibility of generating non-linear load combinations for 2nd Order Theory calculation and steel
design also will be shown.
As shown before the target is to do the analysis for a plane frame, using the German steel
code DIN 18800. The program will choose the module STAR2 for this analysis.
For system and load definition the Graphical Pre-processing will be used. Confirm all input
with OK. Now the main SSD desktop will open.
In case you want to know more about the numeric input please go to chapter 5.5.
As you see above a new task “GUI for Model Creation (SOFiPLUS(-X))” was added.
First you have to define materials and cross sections. When choosing the German code DIN
18800 a material S 235 is automatically defined. To modify the material just open the task
with a double click.
Different cross section types are available and are displayed in the dialog. Please select the
type “Rolled Steel”, confirm with the OK button and the dialog Profiles will open. Please se-
lect a profile and confirm the selection with OK.
The cross sections defined before are pre-selected for the new beam elements. For plane
frame systems only centric beams can be used. To add beam hinges just use the options
within this dialog. In this example no hinges are necessary.
After defining the beam attributes please click into the SOFiPLUS drawing window to activate
it. After that start defining the first beam with the input of the starting point (0,0), RETURN
and the end point (0,-4). The next beam elements are very easy to define. Just define the
direction with the mouse and insert the beam length 5 m horizontal and again 4 m vertical
downwards. End the input with ESC and this completes the finite element input.
Next step is to define the support
conditions. For this select the
To define the loads start the Loadcase Manger with the command . First it is necessary
to define the actions after which you can define the loadcases. In this example, we use the
action “total dead load” and the action “wind”. Based on these actions we need three
loadcases, LC 1 dead load, LC 2 Wind and LC 3 Imperfection.
The loads will be defined as nodal loads. For the input choose the command “modify node”
and select first the upper left-hand node. In LC 1 create a vertical load 490/1.35 = 362.963
kN and in LC 2 define an horizontal load 30/1.50 = 20 kN.
The loads printied in Picture 38 are design loads. The input must be done with
characteristic loads. Therefore the values must be divided by the safety factors of
the relevant actions.
Use the Button NEW to creat new loads. The input of every load will be done in the dialog on
the left-hand side.
For calculations with 2nd Order Theory it is necessary to create a displacement loadcase.
Based on the German design code DIN 18800 an initial sway of ϕ0=1/235 but no initial bow is
necessary. For the input select the command “modify beam element” and select first the
left-hand frame column. Again use the button NEW and create a new beam load for LC 3.
Select the load type imperfection and input the start load value 0.00 mm and the end load
value 4000/1.35 = 17.00 mm. De-select the option U.D.L.
Go again through the same prodcedure for the right-hand frame column. In this case the start
load value is –17.00 mm and the end load value is 0.00 mm. Confirm the settings every time
with OK.
The work is supported by our online help, which can be started by the button . The help
function will guide you through every line of input command .
- The complete calculation is done using a main input data file <name>.dat. The
text editor TEDDY has to be used for working on this file.
- The input language CADINP is the basis of TEDDY
- The complete input file contains several program blocks. Every block starts with
the command PROG NAME and ends with the command END.
- The basic input is a list of commands.
- Every command line contains several Literals. These literals are shown in the
SSD status bar.
- Command names and literals are shown in different colours from the normal in-
put values.
- For further explanations please see the SOFiSTiK handbook.
Within the TEDDY you have to generate the static system, by defining nodes, supports and
beams. The positive x-direction faces to the right-hand side the positive y-direction faces
downwards. The system contains 4 nodes and 3 beam elements.
The literal DIV divides the beam element in equal parts, which is important for the analysis
results. After creating these commands, start the calculation to generate the system and
save it to the central database ,<name>.cdb. To start the calculation use the button . The
system will be displayed in the ANIMATOR if the calculation completes without error. Please
change the program using the bottom register bsp2-stahlbau.cdb. The system generation
is finished.
To deal with our problem we only need the actions G…dead load and W…wind load. For
calculations with 2nd Order Theory it is necessary to create a displacement loadcase. There-
fore we need to define an action I…Imperfection.
Based on the design code DIN 18800 an initial sway of ϕ0=1/235 but no initial bow is neces-
sary. The correct input data is shown below.
Defining the imperfection loadcase LC 5, initial sway, we will use the command BEAM and
the literals TYPE UZS and REF S. Please note the CADINP input language is able to use ar-
ithmetical expressions.
Every loadcase must be assigned to one specific action. This will be done by the lit-
eral TYPE inside the command LF.
The imperfection loadcase is assigned to the action G. Please note that the load-
case factor must set to 1.00 for the combination loadcase.
Since the loads from the problem description include safety factors, the necessary character-
istic loads are defined simply by dividing the load value by the relevant safety factor.
After finishing the input you can run a linear analysis for the single loadcases. We recom-
mend doing this every time to check the system and loads. Before starting the analysis the
loadcases must be saved in the central database by starting the calculation using the button
.
Starting the linear analysis is similar to chapter 4.5.
In case you use several loadcases of variable actions the total factor of every
loadcase is multiplied automatically by gamma*0.9.
There is no further input necessary in the Control Parameters tab. If the option “Calculate
immediately” is selected, the calculations starts immediately after confirming the input with
the OK button.
The selection of text and graphical output is identical to all other tasks.
A nonlinear calculation always starts with a linear analysis. Both results will be
printed in the output documentation.
You may choose the elements by group or by element number. An interactive graphical se-
lection is also possible which can be started with the button. To select the necessary de-
sign calculations go to the Design tab.
There are different design methods available including the limit values b/t.
When using a simple stress analysis, it is also possible to get dimension suggestions auto-
matically by the program.
The selection of text and graphical output is identical to all other tasks.
If several design methods are required simply add a new task “Design Steel Con-
struction”.
Literature SOFiSTiK
Normal force N beam 3 [kN] -521,67 -522,0
Bending moment My beam 3. node 3 [kNm] -78,93 -79,86
Maximum stress el-el |σ| [kN/cm²] 16,6 16,02
Table 3: Appraisal results Literature and SOFiSTiK calculation
Selected elements
Materials
Load combinations
Stresses in Elements
Reviewed materials
Maximum degree of
utilization
6 SSD Functionality
System
Bore profile (see chapter 6.2)
Work Laws for Springs (see chapter 6.3
Text Interface for Model Creation (see chapter 5.4)
Text Interface for Loads (see chapter 5.5.2)
Linear Analysis
Linear Analysis (see chapter 4.5)
Define Superpositioning (see separate Tutorial MAXIMA)
Select Superpositioning (see chapter 4.5)
Non-linear Analysis
Non-linear Analysis in ULS (see chapter 6.7)
Non-linear Analysis in ULS (see chapter 6.8)
Loadcase Combination Manager (see chapter 5.6)
nd
2 Order Theory (see chapter 5.7)
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Additional Modules
Beam Bridge (see separate Tutorial Bridge design)
Eigenvalues (see chapter 6.9)
Earthquake (see separate Tutorial Earthquake)
Half space Calculation (see separate Tutorial Half Space)
Text Editor (TEDDY) (see chapter 5.5.2)
Interactive Graphic (see separate Tutorial WINGRAF)
WALLS-X (see separate Tutorial WALLS-X)
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In Picture 57 the basic input for a bore profile is shown. In addition to that, the axial bedding,
the transverse bedding and the moment bedding have to be defined. The input follows the
same principle in all three cases. The input may contain several soil layers, which are de-
fined by the input of depths from the top of the pile. To create a new depth, select the button
NEW. Default distance is 1 m. The different modulus values may be defined for each depth
separately. On the right-hand side a graphic displays the actual input. For further information
please look at the handbook AQUA.
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Using the button MODIFY you can only edit the force value of a point. To modify
both the displacement and force value create a new point
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As in all design tasks, first select the design loadcase. The selection can be either manual or
automatic. The next step is to select the reinforcement distribution. There are variable distri-
butions available. For further information see the AQB handbook, command REIN.
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The reinforcement distribution from the accidental design will be saved in a sepa-
rate loadcase number 11. The reinforcement results will not overwrite the rein-
forcement from the ULS or SLS design.
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This calculation is useful to check the loading capacity of members where insufficient rein-
forcement is provided. For this calculation, a work law will be used. The different pre-defined
work laws can be selected in the register “Stress-strain-curves”. The ultimate limit state with
safety factors is pre-selected.
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6.9 Eigenvalues
Eigenvalues are simply calculated by the named task. Just add the number of sought Eigen-
values and the first storage loadcase number and start the calculation. The results will be
saved in storage loadcases starting with the first number from the input dialog.
The storage loadcase number has to be different from any other loadcase num-
ber. In situation where a loadcase 2001 already exists, the new storage loadcase
2001 from the Eigenvalue calculation will overwrite the other results.
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7 Installation
7.2 Contents CD
The following directories are on the CD
/exmaples
different application examples.
/freeware
Special Tools, for example, for problem analysis.
/hardlock
Hardlock driver and handbooks for hardlocks provided by Aladdin.
/sofiplus
Installation SOFiPLUS 16.4
Installation SOFiPLUS-X 16.4 (including AutoCAD 2006 OEM)
/statik/win23
Installation Finite Element Analysis (FEA) program version 23.
/tutorials
some Tutorials, for further wishes please contact us.
/welcome
Auto run starts the welcome window as guidance for further installation. Start “wel-
come.exe” if the auto run function is deactivated.
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7.3 Installation
Please insert the CD in the CD-ROM and auto run starts the following window.
The CD contains the programs FEA Version 23, SOFiPLUS 16.4 and SOFiPLUS-X 16.4.
Please note, administrator rights are necessary for correct installation. Also close
all applications and go through the following steps carefully.
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We recommend installing the program in the main directory SOFiSTiK. All FEA programs
will be installed in SOFiSTiK/SOFiSTiK.23 and SOFiPLUS in SOFiSTiK/SOFiPLUS/16.4 .
Before starting the installation copy the authorisation file (name.nam) on your ma-
chine to somewhere safe.
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After selecting the authorisation file all licensed features will be installed automatically.
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Before starting the installation all settings are displayed for checking. If everything is correct,
go to the button NEXT and start the installation.
For updates we have a program called SONAR, which will guide you through all
necessary update procedures. This program will be installed in the directory
SOFiSTiK/SONAR. For further information please see the SONAR handbook.
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7.6 Support
New features for SOFiPLUS(-X) 16.4 and also a quick start manual for SOFiSTiK Structural
Desktop will be found on the CD.
We also have a SOFiSTiK Forum you may use. Going to our website www.sofistik.com you
will find a link to this Forum. The Forum is for communication and information for all our cus-
tomers. We also post news, tips and tricks.
You will reach our Hotline Services via phone under +49-(0)700-76347845 (12.4 ct/Minute)
(daily 9-12h and 14-17h, on Fridays 14-16h) or via E-mail an [email protected].
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8 Literature
[1] Betonkalender 2006, Teil II, Kapitel 7.1.6 Durchstanzen bei Flachdecken mit
Randüberständen, S. 181-187
[2] Beutel R.; Hegger J., Lingemann J.; Stahlbetonflachdecke nach DIN 1045-1, Beton-
und Stahlbetonbau 99 (2004), Heft 9, S. 754 – 760
[3] Hünersen G.; Fritsche E.; Stahlbau in Beispielen Berechnungspraxis nach DIN 18800
Teil 1 bis Teil 3, 4. Auflage Werner Verlag 1998
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