CYPE 3D

Grids

A grid is a framework made up of lines parallel to the global X and Y axes. These lines divide the model spatially into elevations, which serve as a reference for entering structural elements and for defining elevation views.

After clicking on the "Grid" option, a window opens where the lines that make up the grid can be defined manually or generated automatically.

Entering gridlines manually

In the "Lines in X direction" and "Lines in Y direction" tables, you can manually "Add", "Copy", and "Delete" gridlines.

By clicking "Add", you can enter the data for a "New line", specifying its "Coordinate" relative to the origin, a "Label" to identify the line, and the "Label position" at either the "Origin" or the "End" of the line.

This process can be repeated to define the remaining gridlines.

The program also provides an option to "Adjust the elements of the model by changing the position of the gridlines". This means that if you modify the coordinates of the gridlines in this panel, any structural elements associated with those lines will automatically update their position.

Generating gridlines

Gridlines can also be generated automatically. To do this, click the "Generate gridlines" button.

In this case, for both the "Lines in X direction" and the "Lines in Y direction", you define the "Number of lines", the "Line spacing", the "Initial label", and the "Position of the label".

Then, click "Accept". The program will delete any previously defined gridlines, if they exist, and insert the new ones into the tables.

You are free to modify the data of the generated gridlines.

Finally, in the "Grid" window, click "Accept" to return to the main interface.

From this point on, nodes, bars, and other structural elements can be entered along the reference lines generated by the grid. Elements contained within the planes defined by the gridlines will be associated with them.

Levels

Levels are horizontal planes parallel to the global XY plane, located at a specific elevation, and serve as a base for inserting structural elements and defining level-based views. Dividing a structure into levels is characteristic of building models.

After clicking on the "Levels" option, a window opens where levels can be defined manually or generated automatically.

Manually inserting levels

The tools at the top of the levels list allow you to "Add" and "Delete" levels manually. To "Add" a level, click on the first option. Then, enter the "Reference" and the "Absolute level" relative to the global coordinate origin, which can be either positive or negative.

When more levels are added, the program automatically sorts them in the table by elevation.

Generating levels

Levels can also be "Generated" automatically using the button on the right side of the top toolbar in the levels list.

To do this, enter a "Prefix" for the level references, the "Number of levels" to generate, the "Initial level" from which they are generated, and the "Spacing" between each level.

After clicking "Accept", the program will delete any previously defined levels and replace them with the automatically generated ones.

To finish, click "Accept".

Assigning elements to levels

The program assigns model elements to the different levels automatically—both existing elements and those inserted from this point onwards.

To check the level of a shell, open the "Geometry" tab and select the "Information" option from the "Shell" group. Then, hover the pointer over the elements.

If an element is located at a level's elevation, it is assigned to that level. Elements positioned between two levels (such as columns) are assigned to the lower level.

Selecting levels in columns

Defining levels is useful in models that include "Column" and "Beam" type elements.

When inserting columns, at least two levels must be defined in advance. To select them, open the "Geometry" tab and select "Column" within the "Bar" group. Then, in the "Levels" section of the pop-up window, choose the "Final level" and the "Initial level" of the column from the dropdown menus. Additionally, specify the section of the column for each interval defined between levels.

On the other hand, defining levels is not required to insert beams, but doing so can make the task easier.

Adding dimensions

The first option, "Add", allows you to modify the model’s dimensions by inserting dimensions between geometric elements.

You must enter the "Distance between lines" that will apply when the dimension is inserted, and specify whether a "Generic dimension" will be used in any direction in space, or if you wish to "Dimension X", "Dimension Y", or "Dimension Z".

After selecting the desired option, use the left mouse button to select two reference lines, two bars, or two nodes between which the dimension will be inserted.Alternatively, you can left-click on an existing dimension displayed in the model to assign it a new value.

In any case, the model geometry will adjust after the dimension is inserted.

References

The "References" option opens a dialogue box where you can tell the program whether to "Display the grid" (inserted using the "Grid" option in the same menu) and manage the visibility of "Reference lines" by checking or unchecking the corresponding boxes.

Within the reference lines section, you can choose to display "Only those with a node", or only lines that are "Parallel to X", "Parallel to Y", or "Parallel to Z".

If the "Draw with colour depending on direction" checkbox is enabled, the program will display the reference lines using a different colour for each of the three spatial directions.

Click "Accept" to apply the changes to the model.

Visibility

The "Visibility" option allows you to select a group of nodes and either show or hide the reference lines of the planes that contain them.

To do this, in the "Show/Hide planes" dialogue box that appears after clicking the option, first choose whether to "Show" or "Hide" the lines by selecting the corresponding option, then click "Accept".

Next, select the group of nodes where the setting should be applied by left-clicking on them one by one, or by marking a selection area.

Finally, confirm the operation by right-clicking.

Process to hide or show reference lines in planes

Group

The "Group" option is used to group parallel planes, ensuring that the elements they contain, as well as their positions, remain exactly the same across all planes in the group.

After selecting the option, you choose whether to group "Planes parallel to YZ", "Planes parallel to XZ" or "Planes parallel to XY".

The program allows you to select the planes one by one using the left mouse button. After selecting them, right-click and respond to the prompt in the dialogue box that appears to complete the operation.

A reference number will now be visible next to each plane in the model. This number is common to each group of planes and is used to identify them.

Any changes made to a plane within a group, such as inserting a node or a bar contained within it, will be reflected in the other grouped planes.

Ungroup

You can "Ungroup" planes using the following menu option.

Similarly, choose whether to ungroup "Planes parallel to YZ", "Planes parallel to XZ" or "Planes parallel to XY", then click "OK".

Now, select the planes you want to remove from the group using the left mouse button. Finally, right-click and respond to the prompt in the dialogue box to complete the operation.

Numerical or coordinate input of nodes

Nodes can also be inserted by typing in their coordinates directly.

To do this, after selecting the option, press the numeric keypad on your computer. A "Calculator" will appear on the screen to enter the X, Y, and Z coordinate data.

Generating nodes at crossbar cut-off points

When entering two cross bars, you can keep the "Generate nodes at intersection points" option activated in the "Bars" group so that the program automatically generates a node defined as an inner link at the point of contact of the bars.

If kept deactivated, the bars will be unlinked in the model and a node will not be generated at the intersection point.

Creating elements

The "Element" option allows a group of aligned bars between two selected nodes to be defined as a single continuous element.

After clicking on the option, the initial node of the first bar and the final node of the last bar forming the element are selected using the left mouse button.

The programme displays a dialogue box to confirm the operation. After clicking "Yes", an element is created between the selected nodes.

Bars forming a single element are drawn with a thick line in the model to differentiate them from independent bars.

Defining column properties

The "Column" option allows you to introduce a new column. When this option is selected, a pop-up window ("Properties – New column") appears, where its characteristics are defined.

Here, the "Reference" of the column and its "Rotation angle" in plan are entered. In the diagram on the right, the positioning of the section relative to the insertion line can be adjusted by clicking the centre, edge, or corner markers.

Next, under the "Levels" section, select the "Top level" and "Bottom level" of the column from the dropdown menus.

In the lower table, the section of the column is specified for each of the "Intervals" defined between levels.

To do this, click in the cells of the right-hand column. A window will open where the "Type of section" can be modified.By holding down the Ctrl key, you can select multiple intervals at once by clicking on them one by one. If you press the Shift key, you can select a range of intervals by clicking the final and initial interval. This way, the same section can be applied to all selected intervals.

Reinforced concrete columns

For "Reinforced concrete" columns, the next step is to specify the "Type".

Rectangular concrete columns

If the column is "Rectangular", enter its "X dimension" and "Y dimension", following the directions of the local coordinate axes of the element.

Circular concrete columns

If the column is "Circular", its "Diameter" is defined.

Steel columns

For "Steel" columns, you must perform both the "Material selection" and the "Section series" from the options available in the program. These are very similar to those used when inserting generic rolled or cold-formed steel bars.

Composite section columns

For "Composite section" columns, first select the "Type".

Concrete columns with embedded sections

For a "Rectangular column with encased section", enter the total section’s "Dimension X" and "Dimension Y", then define the "Section series" and select the "Section" of the embedded element.

Similarly, for a "Circular column with encased section", specify the "Diameter", and again select the appropriate "Section series" and "Section", as in the previous case.

Concrete-filled steel box and tube sections

It is also possible to insert a "Rolled steel plate rectangular box section, filled with concrete".

In this case, under the "Reinforcement" section, tick the box "With reinforcement" if the column includes reinforcement. Then, under "Steel cover", define the "Section series" and select the "Section" that forms the outer tube or box.

You can also tick the "With encased steel section" box. Again, indicate the "Section series" and select the "Section" of the element embedded in the concrete.

Other available options include introducing a "Rectangular hollow section", "Square hollow section", or "Cold-formed circular hollow section, filled with concrete", all of which are used in a similar manner.Once the section type has been defined, click "Accept". Then, repeat the process for the remaining intervals.

Inserting the column in the model

Finally, select a point with the left mouse button to place the column in the model.

The program will position the column vertically at the selected point, adjusting the height of the elements so they reach the specified levels.

An element is created between each pair of levels along the height of the column.

Inserting columns via the "Bar" option

You can also insert a column using the "Bar" option from the "Bars" group. Then, click the central edit button and, under the "Type of structural element" section, select "Column".

In this case, after clicking "Accept", when inserting the points that define the start and end nodes in the model, ensure that the geometry of the element is completely vertical.

Defining the properties of the beam

In the window that appears when clicking on the "Properties – New beam" option, the diagram on the right allows adjustment of the section position relative to the input line by clicking on the centre, edge, or corner markers.

If beams have already been inserted in the model, the program allows selecting one of the "Sections used" from the table at the bottom.

If this is the first beam being inserted, or if a new section is to be "Described", click the central button.

In the pop-up window, the programme allows you to specify the "Family" and "Type" of beam to be inserted, along with its dimensions and characteristics.

The available beam families are described below.

Inserting the beam in the model

A beam is defined by its start and end nodes, so two points must be selected using the left mouse button. By clicking again with the left button, you can continue inserting more beams.

To finish, right-click. At that moment, the program will create a continuous beam from all inserted elements, if possible.

A beam cannot be completely vertical. Moreover, the angle between its local XZ plane and the vertical plane it lies in must be zero. That is, no rotation about the longitudinal axis of the beam can be inserted.

A beam does not need to belong to a level, but if a level is defined, the beam will be assigned to the nearest lower level.

Inserting beams using the "Bar" option

Beams can also be inserted using the "Bar" option from the "Bars" group. Then, click the central edit button and in the "Type of structural element" section, select "Beam".

After clicking "Accept", the points that define the beam geometry are inserted as described above.

Managing section series

The section selection is carried out in the program using the drop-down menus "Section series" and "Section", which appear in certain sections of the "Describe" window, accessible both when entering a new section and when editing the section of an existing section.

A section series must be selected in the first drop-down menu, followed by a specific section from that series in the second drop-down menu.

Series can be created and edited using the buttons to the right of the first drop-down menu:

• To create a series, use the "New" option.

• If any existing section series is selected, you can make modifications to it using the "Edit selected type" button.

• Further to the right, the "Edit item list" option provides access to the "Section series" list.

Series of sections list

This table allows for the management, import, and export of created series.

Series of sections

To create a section series, use the "New" option from either the "Describe" window or the section series list.

In the window that appears, enter a "Reference" and a "Description" for the series.

In the lower table, sections can be "Added", "Edited", "Copied", and "Deleted" from the series using the corresponding tools.

On the right, there are also utilities to "Import" and "Export" series to files on disk.

Importing predefined series of sections

On the right-hand side of the section series list and in the editing window for a specific section series, there is an option to perform the "Import of predefined section series" taken from various handbooks and standards.

After selecting the desired predefined series and clicking "Accept", the selected series will be added to the section series list, or the sections from the chosen predefined series will be imported into the section list of the series currently being edited.

Importing section series from manufacturer catalogues

Also on the right-hand side of the section series list and in the editing window for a specific section series, it is possible to "Import manufacturer catalogues" via connection with Open BIM Database.

After downloading the catalogues, in the next window, select the series to be imported from each manufacturer. On clicking "Accept", the selected series will be added to the section series list, or the sections from the selected series will be imported into the section list of the series currently being edited.

Section dimensions and properties

In the "Series of sections" window, when adding a "Section", a pop-up window appears.

In the central part of this window, the "Dimensions" of the section can be specified, such as the depth and the thicknesses of the web and flange.

On the right, the "Properties" of the section can be overridden by activating the following checkboxes:

• Area
• Bending inertia Iyy
• Bending inertia Izz
• ZyyPlastic modulus 
• Zzz Plastic modulus
• Torsional inertia
• Warping constant

If left deactivated, the program will calculate these properties based on the defined dimensions.

In the "Describe" window, after selecting a series and a section, the "Selected section properties" can be viewed using the button to the right of the second drop-down menu.

Spacing between sections

In this section, you enter the "Initial spacing" and "Final spacing" between the sections. These values refer to the gap or separation distance between the closest faces of the sections at the start and end of the bar.

Batten plates

When specifying a connection using clips, the type of clip to be used, the cross-sectional area of each clip and the spacing between clips, as well as the material, must be specified:

• Type of plate
  Allows you to choose from the following options to define the cross-section of the batten plate:
  • Generic plate
    In this case, the program will calculate the entire geometry of the flange.
  • Plate series
    In this case, the program allows you to select any of the rectangular rolled steel section series previously defined in the project (under "Rolled steel sections", "Plate") in order to position a specific bracket.

• With given spacing (optional)
  • If this option is enabled, the user specifies the distance between joints (or the centre-to-centre distance between batten plates). Depending on this distance and the selected design standard, the program will treat the section as a simple section, a composite section, or as separate bars if the maximum distance for it to be considered a composite section is exceeded.
  • If this option is not selected, the program will calculate and assign the maximum distance between joints so that the structure can be treated as a composite section. This maximum distance depends on the selected design standard.

In the last drop-down menu, you must select the type of steel for the batten section.

Accessing the definition of special aluminium sections

Special aluminium sections are entered and edited using the "Section" option, available in the "Bars" group of the top toolbar, within the "Geometry" tab (on the "Structure" sheet).

Then, individual bars are selected using the left mouse button or by drawing a selection window. Right-clicking opens the "Describe" window.

This window can also be accessed when entering a new bar by clicking the edit button in the "Properties – New bar"window.

Here, the following options are selected:

• In the "Type of structural element" section, a "Generic" element is defined
• Then, in the "Material selection" section, "Special aluminium sections" is selected

Special aluminium sections library

After selecting the indicated options, the program displays the "Additional data" of the section in the lower part of the "Describe" window. By default, the "Special aluminium sections" dropdown will be empty. On the right, you’ll find tools to "Create", "Delete", "Copy", and "Edit" sections.

From "Library management", you can "Import from library", "Export" to use in another project, "Edit the library", or define an "Initial import" for all projects.

Clicking on "Create", "Copy", or "Edit" opens the special aluminium section editor.

When a specific special aluminium section is defined and selected, the viewer at the bottom displays the drawn section, showing total width and height, the location of principal (U, V) and central (Y, Z) axes, the centre of gravity (G), and the shear centre (S). A table on the right shows the main characteristics of the section.

Entering straight segments

From the "New" button, one or more straight segments can be added. The program allows specifying a "Thickness" in the units defined in the project, activating and entering the "Local buckling coefficient", and indicating whether it is a "Stiffening element".

After clicking "Accept", left-click in the viewer to place the segments. Multiple segments can be entered by clicking in several points.

Additionally, the pop-up panel provides options to "Delete last entered point" and "Delete all entered points".

When finished, right-click to end the input.

Entering curved segments

To enter a curved segment, click on the "New (Curved)" option. In this case, the "Thickness" and "Corner radius" must be defined.

Then, two points are entered in the viewer to define the curved segment.

The program draws a polyline of successive straight segments approximating the curve using the given radius.

When drawing a curved element, a warning will appear if it cannot be considered "slightly curved", due to not meeting the geometric ratio shown in the warning.

The validity of the automatic local buckling susceptibility analysis depends on whether the element can be considered "slightly curved".

If you do not wish to use the automatically assigned local buckling coefficient, you can modify it as needed by enabling the "Local buckling coefficient" checkbox at the bottom of the warning.

Entering flat elements reinforced with stiffeners

The next option, "New (Stiffener)", allows you to enter a flat element reinforced with stiffeners.

First, the "Thickness" is defined.

Then, specify the "Type of reinforced flat element" and the "Type of simple stiffening" associated:

• If a "Flat external element with end flange or bulb" is defined, the stiffener can be standard, trapezoidal bulb, circular bulb, or generic.
• If a "Flat internal element with a central longitudinal stiffener" or a "Flat internal element with two equally spaced longitudinal stiffeners" is defined, the stiffener can be standard, trapezoidal, or generic.

En la parte inferior se escriben los pIn the lower part, parameters defining the stiffener geometry are entered. For a "Generic stiffener", the "Moment of inertia with respect to axis s" is defined.

After clicking "Accept", left-click two points to place the segment.

A flat element with one or two stiffeners will be generated automatically, depending on the selected options.

Special aluminium section editing tools

The remaining options in the top bar allow you to modify the entered geometry:

• With "Edit", you can click on a segment and modify its properties.
• Using "Move", click the left mouse button on a node or segment to change its position.
• To "Delete" segments, after selecting the relevant option, use the left mouse button to select segments individually or define a selection area, then right-click to delete them.
• You can also enter a "New" node. In this case, indicate whether it is a "Longitudinal weld" or not, then click a point on a segment to add it.
• If you want to modify a node’s characteristics, after selecting "Edit", left-click the node to select it.
• With the next option, you can "Move" nodes by left-clicking and defining their final position.
• Using "Delete", nodes can be selected individually or by area, then deleted with a right-click. In this case, associated segments will also be removed.

Auxiliary tools in the viewer

During the segment input process, you can use "Snaps", activated in the left panel, along with other tools in the viewer's left column.

With "Show information texts" activated, moving the pointer over segments and defining nodes displays information about them.

Using the mouse wheel in the viewer allows zooming. Pressing and dragging the wheel or middle mouse button pans the image.

The tools in the top right corner of the viewer also allow these actions and are common across other program viewers.

Special aluminium section data

On the right panel, the program automatically displays analysed data for the entered "Section", such as the number of "Nodes", "Segments", and "Cells", along with "Area" and "Perimeter".

Below this, you’ll find the "Legend". The program shows the principal axes U and V and the central axes Y and Z of the section.

It also shows the "Centre of gravity" G and the "Shear centre" S.

At the bottom, various calculated values related to the principal and central axes of the section are listed, including moments of inertia, elastic moduli, and plastic moduli.

Finally, by clicking "Accept", you exit the section editor and return to the "Describe" window.

Clicking "Accept" again applies the defined section to the selected group of bars.

Accessing the definition of generic sections

Generic sections are carried out using the "Section" option, available in the "Bars" group of the top toolbar, under the "Geometry" tab (within the "Structure" pane).

After selecting the bars, right-clicking opens the "Describe" window.

This window can also be accessed when introducing a new bar by clicking the edit button in the "Properties – New bar" window.

Here, the following options are selected:

• In the "Type of structural element" section, select "Generic".
• Then, in the "Material selection" section, choose "Generic section".

Defining the geometry, mechanical characteristics, and material of the generic section

In the lower panel, "Additional data", the characteristics of the section are specified.

First, define the "Geometry" of the section envelope by specifying:

• the "Left width"
• the "Right width"
• the "Bottom depth"
• and the "Top depth"

These dimensions are referenced to the local coordinate centre, as shown in the diagram at the bottom.

Next, enter the "Mechanical characteristics" of the section. In the cross-section, it is assumed that the principal inertia axes coincide with the local Y and Z axes. Here, input:

• the total "Area" of the section (A)
• the "Shear area" in both directions (Avy, Avz)
• the "Bending inertia" in both directions (Iyy, Izz)
• and the "Torsional inertia" (It)

Finally, the "Material" data can be specified by entering:

• the "Modulus of elasticity"
• the "Poisson’s ratio"
• the "Coefficient of thermal expansion"
• and the "Unit weight"

When clicking "Accept", the program will apply the defined section to the selected set of bars.

Accessing the definition of ties

Ties are defined either when inserting a new bar (using the "New" option) or by editing an existing bar via the "Section" option.

Both options are available in the "Bars" group on the top toolbar, under the "Geometry" tab (within the "Structure" tab).

In the "Describe" window, in the upper "Type of structural element" section, select "Tie".

Selecting the tie section

Next, carry out the "Section selection" from the categories offered by the program:

• Symmetrical angle
• Angle
• Plate
• Round bar
• Square bar

Subsequently, the drop-down menus allow you to select the "Series of sections" and the "Section" within that series.

As with "Generic" sections, you can create and edit a series of sections using the buttons located to the right.

Analysing ties

At the bottom of the "Describe" window, a help text related to "Analysis of bracing in CYPE 3D" is displayed. It explains the methodology used by the program to analyse these elements and outlines their limitations.

Placing ties in the model

After configuring the tie section in the "Describe" window, click "Accept" to insert it into the workspace.

The tie is defined by its start and end nodes. To insert it into the model, select two points with the left mouse button. To confirm the insertion of the tie, click the right mouse button.

Ties must form part of a braced panel arranged in the shape of a Saint Andrew’s cross.

This panel must be framed at its edges by four bars located in the same plane and forming a rectangle, meaning all four internal angles must be right angles.

It is also possible to define the perimeter of a braced panel using only three bars if the end of two of them is stiffened by an "External fixity", such as in a portal frame formed by two vertical bars connected by a horizontal beam.

The two diagonals of a braced panel must be made of the same material and have the same cross-section. Additionally, the cross-sectional area of the ties must be less than 20% of the area of the other elements forming the perimeter of the panel.

Finally, it is advisable to ensure that when inserting ties within the same panel, the "Generate nodes at intersection points" option from the "Bars" group in the "Geometry" tab remains deactivated, as the elements must remain independent of each other.

Material

This option allows you to select the material for a group of bars.

After selecting the bars, right-click.

In the pop-up window, you can choose to keep the "Material selected in the general data options" or "Select material for the bar" specifically from the options available in the dropdown menu.

By clicking "Accept", the selected material is applied to the bars.

Layout

After clicking on the "Layout" option, bars are selected individually with the left mouse button or by drawing a selection area.

Then, right-click. In the window that appears, the layout of the bar’s cross-section can be defined in relation to the line entered in the model.

In the first section, "Analysis", you can specify whether to "Consider eccentricities in the analysis" by ticking the corresponding checkbox. If this option is not enabled, the bar will be considered centred in the design model.

Next, the "Rotation angle" of the section is defined. It can be "0" degrees, "90" degrees, or a "Rotation angle" defined by the user with any value.

In the viewer on the right-hand side, the "Position" of the cross-section is shown relative to the local Y and Z coordinate axes, displayed in green and blue, respectively.

The reference point is marked with a red cross and is positioned at the centre of the section by default. You can click on the crosses located at the edges or corners of the section to modify the position of the reference point.On the left, under the section "Displacements in local axes", the displacement values of the section's reference point are entered relative to the coordinate system defined by the local axes of the element.

• If "Same at both ends" is selected, the displacement value can be entered for the local "Y" or "Z" axes. Doing so will display the position change of the section relative to the local coordinate axes in the viewer on the right.

• If "Different at either end" is selected, displacement values must be entered for both the "Start" and "End" of the member. In this case, the cross-section of the member is shown at both points in the right-hand viewer.

Next, under the section "Displacements in global axes", the "X", "Y", and "Z" coordinates of the ends of the element are specified in relation to its definition nodes within the global coordinate system.

Again, displacements can be "Same at both ends" or "Different at either end".

For more information about bar positioning and the sign conventions for global and local displacements, you can click on the corresponding button in the title bar of this window to consult the help provided by the program.

After modifying the bar layout in the workspace, the line entered in the model is shown as a continuous line (1), while the actual position of the bar's section axis is represented as a dashed or dash-dot line (2).

Move end

The "move end" option allows you to change the position of one of the nodes at the ends of a bar. 

To do this, click on the node and then on its new position.

This operation does not delete the node at the original end of the bar, which can still be used to continue working on the model.

Invert the direction of the 'x' axis

The "invert the 'x' axis" option allows you to invert the direction of the local X axis of the bars, thereby swapping the start and end of each bar. The local X axis is shown in red on each bar in the model when you hover over them.

After selecting the option, select the bars and right-click.

If fixity coefficients or loads have been defined, the program will automatically adjust their data so they are not affected by the inversion of the axis direction.

Grouping elements

To create a group of elements, click on the "Group" option, select two or more elements with the left mouse button, then right-click.

After confirming the operation in the dialogue box that appears, the program will group the elements.

Each group of elements has an associated reference for identification. This reference is displayed as text in the model, positioned above the bars.

Additionally, when hovering the mouse pointer over the elements, the program indicates the "Group" to which they belong in the information box.

Ungrouping elements

Use the "Ungroup" option to perform the reverse operation.

After selecting the sections you wish to ungroup, right-click on them.

The selected sections will no longer form part of the group, and from that point on, their description will be independent.

Information

The "Information" option displays an information list of the selected bars.

To select the bars, click on them one by one with the left mouse button or define a capture area. Then, confirm with the right mouse button.

The program will display a list on screen showing the information for the bars. Each table in the list indicates the reference of each bar, its "Section" and "Material". On the left-hand side, the section and layout of the section are shown.

On the right-hand side, you will see the reference of the "Nodes" ("Start" and "End"), the "Length" of the bar, the "Rotation angle", the "Theoretical weight", the "Buckling" parameters, and the "Deflection group" it belongs to, as well as the "Fixity coefficients" in both planes.

Using the corresponding options at the top right, you can "Share", "Export" in various formats, or "Print" the information.

The options available in this menu are as follows:

• Create continuous column
• Edit floor slab depth
• Edit reference
• Number

Each of these functions is described below.

Create continuous column

The "Create continuous column" option allows you to describe a group of aligned elements between two nodes as a single column.

Select the starting node of the first element with the left mouse button, then select the final node of the last element to be included in the column.

Edit floor slab depth

This option allows you to edit the slab depth at a node of a column, in case a depth different from the one automatically determined by the program is required. The slab depth defines the clear height of the column between two levels.

Nodes are selected with the left mouse button or by drawing a selection area, then the selection is confirmed with the right mouse button.

In the window that appears, you can specify whether the slab depth is "Determined by the program" or set it manually, in which case you must enter the value in the corresponding field. Then, click "Accept".

Edit reference

To edit a column's reference, select the corresponding option and then click on the column. After entering the new "Reference", click "Accept".

Number

This option allows you to "Number" all the columns in the project consecutively.

After clicking the option, the program displays a message: "Columns are numbered in the direction from the smallest to the greatest Y coordinate. For those having the same Y coordinate, from the smallest to the greatest X coordinate."

All of this is based on an "Initial reference", which must be entered. Then, click "Accept".

The options available in this menu are as follows:

• Create continuous beam
• Edit nodes
• Edit adjacent floor slabs
• Edit beam references
• Edit continuous beam references
• Beam deflection limit
• Edit beam environment

Each of these features is detailed below.

Create continuous beam

This option allows you to create a continuous beam. The beams that form the new continuous beam are selected using the left mouse button, then the right button is clicked.

The selected beams must be connected so that the end node of one beam is the start node of the next. In addition, all beams must be of the same material class, and the local XZ plane of each beam must lie in a vertical plane.

Edit nodes

The "Edit nodes" option allows you to edit the geometry of a node in a continuous beam, in case you want to use a geometry different from the one automatically determined by the program.

Nodes are selected with the left mouse button or by drawing a selection area, then the selection is confirmed with the right mouse button.

In the window that appears, you can keep the "Type of node defined by the program" or "Assign a type for this beam", indicating whether it is a "Column", "Short column", "Support on beam" or "Cantilever".

For each of these cases, parameters that define the node are specified in the lower section, such as "Width of the node towards the left" and "Width of the node towards the right".

The node geometry affects the clear span of the beams as shown in the beam reinforcement editor, and therefore the length of the reinforcement bars.

Then, click "Accept".

Edit adjacent floor slabs

This option allows you to edit the floor slabs adjacent to the beams. This way, you can define the depth of flat beams, as well as specify the slabs shown in the beam detailing drawing. It is also considered in the fire resistance check for steel beams.

Beams are selected with the left mouse button or by drawing a selection area, then confirmed with the right mouse button.

In the window that appears, there are several options:

• First, an "Unconnected beam" can be defined.

• If "Level slabs" is selected, you can input the "Slab depth to the left" and "to the right", as well as define the "Type", either "Generic" or "One-way", including the "Height" and the "Width of the reduced hollow block".

• In the case of "Slabs with step", in addition to the "Depth", the "Step height" and its "Position", "To the left" or "To the right", are indicated.

• You can also define a "Meeting of inclined slabs" by inputting the "Slab depth", the "Inclination angle to the left" and "to the right".

• For an "Eaves meeting of sloped roof", in addition to the "Position of the slab", define the "Depth of the external face of the beam", the "Depth of the horizontal floor slab", the "Depth of the sloped slab", and the "Angle with respect to the horizontal plane of the sloped slab".

Once the adjacent slabs are defined, click "Accept".

Edit beam references

To edit the reference of a beam, select this option and then click on the beam. Once activated, type in the desired "Reference" and then click "Accept".

Edit continuous beam references

This option allows you to edit the references of continuous beams. Similarly, click on the continuous beam, activate and type in the desired "Reference", and then click "Accept".

Beam deflection limit

This option allows you to specify whether the deflection limit for the selected beam is defined according to the "General project data" or from "Data defined in the library", which can be configured specifically.

In the latter case, a set of "Deflection limits in beams" must be created with the available options for the different materials shown ("Concrete", "Rolled steel", "Cold-formed steel", and "Timber").

The following deflection limits can be specified:

• Instantaneous, by type of simple load case (Dead load, Live load)
• Instantaneous, by type of load combination (Characteristic, Frequent, Quasi-permanent)
• Long term, by type of load combination (Characteristic, Frequent, Quasi-permanent) (for "Concrete")
• Long term active, by type of load combination (Characteristic, Frequent, Quasi-permanent)

The assistant on the right allows you to import the design conditions from the concrete standard selected in the "General data" tab under "Project".

Edit beam environment

This option allows you to specify whether the "Environment defined in general data" is used for the selected beam or if you want to configure it specifically by choosing "Define environment for the element".

In the second case, depending on the selected code, it may be necessary to define the "Environment aggressiveness" or the "Environment class" and the "Designation" from the available ones, which will determine or allow input of the "Maximum crack width", as indicated in the "Cracking" section.

New

The "New" option allows you to insert a new shell into the model.

When you click this option, a message first appears explaining how the program treats finite element shells and their characteristics. You can check "Do not show this message again" if desired.

Then, the "New" window opens, allowing you to define the shell's characteristics.

Defining the shell section and material

At the top of the "New" window, the "Shell Section" data is shown, including its "Thickness" in the selected measurement units.

You can activate and enter a "Subgrade modulus in the local Z axis". This setting lets the program consider the elastic support of the shell along the axis perpendicular to its plane. This is useful for simulating scenarios like shells resting on soil.

Next, the "Material" of the shell is defined. Available options include:

• Concrete
• Rolled steel
• Cold-formed steel
• Extruded aluminum
• Generic, isotropic
• Generic, orthotropic

If one of the first materials is chosen, an option appears on the right to either "Material selected in the general data options" or "Select the material of the shell" directly from a dropdown list.

Generic isotropic material shells

If "Generic, isotropic" is selected, you must directly specify the "Modulus of Elasticity", "Poisson’s ratio", "Coefficient of thermal expansion" and the "Unit weight".

Generic orthotropic material shells

If "Generic, orthotropic" is selected, you must specify the "Elastic modulus" in both X and Y directions (Ex, Ey), "Poisson’s ratio (nu, xy)", the "Shear modulus" in the XY, XZ, and YZ planes, the "Thermal expansion coefficient" in X and Y and the "Unit weight".

This option is useful for analysing structures made of cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels.

To assist the user, a button on the right provides access to a "Assistant for entering properties of CLT panels".

This tool helps input data as specified by a CLT panel manufacturer in their European Technical Assessment (ETA) document.

Inserting the shell into the model

After clicking "Accept" in the "New" window, you define the polyline points that outline the shell in the work area using the left mouse button.

As with inserting bars, you can use object snaps and template snaps, among other options.

During the input process, you can "Erase the last entered point", or "Erase all entered points", using the controls provided in the dedicated input box.

Once all perimeter points are selected, right-click to finish.

After inserting the first shell, you can continue drawing more shells in the model, or right-click to return to the definition panel. When clicking "Cancel" or closing the panel, you exit the option.

The shell will be connected to the rest of the structure if its edges are in contact with its edges, or if there are nodes or bars within its geometry.

Delete

The "Delete" option allows you to delete a group of shells.

To do so, select the shells you wish to delete using the left mouse button or a selection window, then right-click.

Section

The "Describe section" option allows you to edit the geometry of a group of shells.

Select the shells with the left mouse button or by drawing a selection window, then right-click.

In the pop-up window, you can modify the "Thickness" of the shell using the selected units and specify the "Subgrade modulus in the local Z axis", if desired.

Click "Accept" to apply the changes.

Material

The "Material" option allows you to edit the material of a group of shells.

Select the shells with the left mouse button and right-click to confirm. In the window that appears, choose the material you wish to assign.

Then click "Accept".

Disposition

Using the "Disposition" option, you can adjust the location of shells relative to their reference plane.

Select the shells with the left mouse button, then right-click.

In the "Position" section of the pop-up window, click on one of the crosses in the viewer to position the shell in relation to its reference plane.

At the bottom, you can add a "Displacement from the central plane" by entering its value.

Move

The "Move" option lets you move the nodes along the perimeter of a shell to a new position.

After selecting the option, first select the shell to move using the left mouse button. Then, select the nodes of the shell you want to move using the left mouse button again. Confirm the selection by right-clicking.

Now, use the left mouse button to define two points that determine the direction and distance of the movement.

Join

The "Join" option allows you to merge multiple shells that share a common edge and lie on the same plane. Select the shells with the left mouse button or by drawing a selection area, then right-click.

If grouped planes have been defined, the programme will also join the corresponding shells in those planes.

Divide

The "Divide" option lets you divide shells. After selecting the option, use the left mouse button to select two points that define the cutting segment. The shells will be completely divided, even if the segment only partially intersects them.

If grouped planes have been defined, the program will also divide the corresponding shells in those planes.

Invert z-axis

To reverse the direction of the local Z-axis of shells, select the "Invert z-axis" option and then a group of shells using the left mouse button.

Clicking the right button will reverse the direction of the local Z axis of the selected sheets.

Define x-axis

The "Define x-axis" option lets you change the direction of the local X-axis of a shell.

To do this, with the left mouse button, select the edge of the shell that you want to use to define the local X-axis direction, then right-click to confirm.

Local axes

The "Local axes" option allows you to edit the direction of the local axes of a group of shells.

After selecting the shells and right-clicking, a window will open where you can enter the "Angle" between the local axes and the orientation defined by the edge that sets the X-axis direction.

The options available in this menu are as follows:

• Plans
• Nodes and bars
• Tetrahedral meshes

Each of these features is described below.

Generating planes

The first option in the "Generate" menu, "Planes", allows you to generate planes parallel to a selected plane.

To do this, in a 3D view, left-click to select two reference lines contained within the plane you wish to copy.

Only planes perpendicular to a global reference axis can be generated.

Next, in the "Plane generation" window, enter the "Number of planes to generate" and the "Separation between planes", and decide whether you want to "Group generated planes".

After clicking "Accept", the program generates the specified planes and copies the data entered into the original drawing, including nodes, bars, shells and loads.

Generating nodes and bars

The next option in the "Generate" menu, "Nodes and bars", allows you to generate nodes and bars by specifying the generation segments and the number of divisions per segment.

This generation can be linear if only one segment is selected, planar if two are selected, or spatial if three are selected.

Generating nodes on a segment

To generate a linear series of nodes along a segment, first left-click on the start node and the end node of the segment you wish to divide into equal parts.

Next, right-click. The "Generate nodes on a segment" window will open, where you should enter the "Number of segment divisions".

After clicking "Accept", vertices are created at the segment's division points.

Generating a two-dimensional node mesh

To create a flat or two-dimensional drawing, after selecting the "Nodes and bars" option again, left-click on the start node and the end node of the first segment.

Next, to select the second segment, left-click on its end point. The segments do not need to be perpendicular to one another.

The program will number the segments as they are selected.

Right-clicking opens the "Generate a two-dimensional node mesh" window, which contains the following options:

• If desired, you can "Generate nodes only" by ticking the first box. This way, no beams are generated.
• The "Number of segment divisions" is shown below.
• It is also possible to "Group parallel bars" for each segment. This option automatically groups the bars generated parallel to the main segment, in exactly the same way as the "Group" option in the "Bar" menu.
• With the "Create an element between aligned bars" option, the bars forming the divisions within each segment will form a single part, in the same way as the "Part" option in the "Bars" group would.

After clicking "Accept", a mesh of nodes is generated at the points where the segments meet. If specified, beams are also generated to connect these nodes.

Generating a three-dimensional mesh

Finally, the generation can be spatial. In this case, after selecting the "Nodes and bars" option, you must select three segments using the left mouse button.

First, left-click to select the start and end points of the first segment. Next, to select the second and third segments, simply left-click on their end points.

After right-clicking, the "Generation of a three dimensional node mesh" window appears. The options are identical to those described for generating 2D meshes. In this case, the divisions of the three segments are specified.

Clicking "Accept" results in a spatial mesh of nodes and bars connecting the division points of the specified segments.

Generation of tetrahedral meshes

The "Tetrahedron mesh" option in the "Generate" menu allows you to generate a spatial tetrahedral mesh.

To do this, define two segments that form one of the mesh planes. Both segments share the same starting point. Click the left mouse button to select the start and end points of the first segment, and then the end point of the second segment.

This opens the "Generate a tetrahedron mesh" window, which contains the following options:

• Firstly, the "Number of divisions" is specified for each of the two segments, along with the "Distance between planes", which corresponds to the edge length of the generated tetrahedral mesh.
• There are then a number of options available for grouping the generated bars:
  • Turning on "Group bars in the bottom plane" groups the bars contained within the plane formed by the two selected segments.
  • The second checkbox, "Group bars on the top plane", allows you to group the bars contained in the plane parallel to the previous one.
  • The last option allows you to "Group bars in between planes", i.e. the diagonal edges that make up the tetrahedral mesh.

After clicking "Accept", the program generates the tetrahedral mesh of nodes and bars.

The order in which the segments are selected determines the orientation of the tetrahedral mesh edge (upwards or downwards relative to the plane formed by the two segments).

Move elements

The "Move elements" option allows you to move a selection of elements to a new position in the workspace:

1. After clicking on the option, select the elements to be moved one by one using the left mouse button, or highlight a selection area.
2. Then, click the right button to confirm your selection.
3. Next, use the left mouse button to click on two points that define the start and end of the movement.

Copy elements

The "Copy elements" option allows you to copy a selection of elements to a new location:

1. After clicking on the option, select the items to be copied one by one using the left mouse button, or highlight a selection area.
2. Then, click the right button to confirm your selection.
3. Next, left-click to select two points that define the start and end points of the copied elements’ movement.

Rotate elements in the xy plane

The "Rotate elements in the xy plane" option allows you to rotate a selection of elements around the global Z-axis:

1. After clicking on the option, use the left mouse button to select the items you wish to rotate.
2. Click the right mouse button to confirm your selection.
3. Next, left-click on the rotation point.
4. Next, using the left mouse button again, select two points that define the sides of the rotation angle.
5. Finally, the "Rotation angle" value displayed by the program must be confirmed by clicking on the green tick.

Rotate elements about an axis defined by two points

The "Rotate elements about an axis defined by two points" option allows you to rotate a selection of elements around any axis defined by the user:

1. After clicking on the option, select the items to be rotated using the left mouse button.
2. Click the right mouse button to confirm your selection.
3. Now, use the left mouse button to select the two points that define the axis of rotation.
4. Finally, enter the "Rotation angle" around the specified axis and click on the green tick to confirm the operation.

Rotate elements in the xy plane given three points

The "Rotate elements in the xy plane given three points" command is used to rotate a selection of elements around the global Z-axis, relative to the origin specified by the user and by an angle defined by any three points:

1. After clicking on the option, select the items to be rotated using the left mouse button.
2. Click the right button to confirm your selection.
3. Next, left-click to select the rotation point.
4. Next, click on any three points with the left mouse button to define the magnitude of the rotation, thereby defining the vertex and the two sides of the axis of rotation.
5. Finally, confirm the "Rotation angle" by clicking on the green tick.

Element symmetry in the xy plane

The "Element symmetry in the xy plane" option allows you to create a mirror image of a selection of elements with respect to the plane defined by a user-defined vector and the global Z-axis:

1. After clicking on the option, use the left mouse button to select the elements you wish to copy symmetrically.
2. Click the right mouse button to confirm your selection.
3. Next, use the left mouse button to select the two points that define the centre of symmetry and the direction of the vector in the global XY plane.

If the operation is performed in a 2D view, the symmetry is applied with respect to the line defined by the vector:

1. To do this, select the items using the left mouse button and then right-click.
2. Next, click the left mouse button to select two points that form the axis of symmetry.

Element symmetry with respect to a plane

The "Element symmetry with respect to a plane" option allows you to create a mirror image of a selection of elements about a plane defined by three points:

1. After clicking on the option, use the left mouse button to select the elements to be mirrored.
2. Click the right button to confirm your selection.
3. Next, left-click on the three points that define the symmetry plane.

As in the previous case, if this operation is performed in a 2D view, the symmetry is applied about a line defined by two points.

Search

The "Search" option allows you to search for elements of the selected "Element type" ("Nodes", "Bars", "Parts", "Deflection groups" or"Connections") by entering their "Reference".

If you wish to search for items by entering the full text of the reference, tick the "Only whole word" box. If you untick it, you can search by entering just part of the text.

The program will highlight in red any elements whose reference matches the text entered and will frame them with magenta lines in the model view.

Assign reference

The program automatically generates element references based on the options selected in the "Numbering" section of the "Project" tab. To edit element references at a later stage and assign them the references of your choice, use the "Assign reference" option in the "Tools" section of the "Geometry" tab.

When you click on this option, you must first select the "Element type" from the drop-down menu (whether "Nodes", "Bars", "Parts", "Arrow groups" or "Beams") and specify whether the assignment will be single or multiple:

• Single
  Allows you to assign the reference to a single element. To do this, after selecting the element, enter the desired "Reference" in the pop-up dialogue box.
• Multiple
  Allows you to assign a reference number to a selection of elements. To do this, after selecting the elements, enter a "Starting reference". The program will assign a sequential reference number to each element in the selection, starting from the starting reference.

If repeated references are defined, a warning will appear when printing reports or drawings, as well as when "Show issues" is selected.

Check for nearby nodes

When importing, defining or editing the model, there may be instances where nodes are created too close together, at a distance of less than 1 millimetre.

Before performing the analysis (when using the "Analysis" option on the "Analysis" tab), the program checks that there are no nearby nodes. The program will report this situation with an error message and will also display the relevant issues.

'Repair' option

The "Repair" option allows you to repair the model when there are nodes that are too close together. When you click on this option, the program will analyse the model’s geometry and attempt to correct it, if necessary.

Entity selection

Once you have selected and loaded the file, the "Entity selection" window appears.

The table on the left shows each "Layer" in the drawing and its "Colour". The viewer on the right allows you to view the elements contained in the file.

In the first column of the table, tick the relevant boxes to select the layers in the file that contain the elements you wish to import. When you do so, the elements assigned to each layer change colour in the viewer so that they can be easily identified.

You should check the "Import polygons as load panels" box if you wish to import the polygons contained in that layer as panels, and uncheck it if you wish to import them as sheets.

Then click "Accept".

The program will read the lines in the drawing and convert them into beam-type elements, and will read and convert the polygons into slab-type elements, depending on the defined settings. If any elements cannot be imported, this will be indicated by a warning message.

During import, labels are created with the same name and colour as the existing layers in the .dxf or .dwg file. To manage these, use the "Labels" panel on the left-hand side. Imported elements are assigned to the same layer to which they were assigned in the .dxf or .dwg file.

Once the import is complete, you will need to define the sections of the elements and the external connections, and enter the loads and any other information required to complete the model.

Layout of the elements imported into the model

If the project is empty at the time of import, the program will import the elements into the position specified in the file.

If the project contains any elements at the time of import, the program allows you to specify a reference point for inserting the geometry of the imported structure.

In this case, after clicking "Accept" in the "Entity selection" dialogue box, the program offers two options:

• The first option is "Import at the position defined in the DXF or DWG file".

• The second option allows you to "Select the reference point for the import". If you tick this option, after clicking "Accept" you can left-click to specify the position of the import reference point in space.

Text file format

The program can import nodes, beams and shells from text files (with the .txt extension) in the following format:

• At the start of the text file, write the word NODES or JOINTS to define the nodes. On the next line, enter the node number, a space, the letter X, the = symbol, and the numerical value of the X-coordinate. Leave a space, then repeat the process for the node’s Y and Z coordinates. Each node is defined on a separate line.

• Next, the beams are defined by first typing the word BEAMS or FRAMES. Then, a beam is defined on each line by typing the beam number, a space, the starting node number, another space, and the ending node number.

• The shells are defined later, with the sequence titled using the word SHELLS. Similarly, each shell is defined on a separate line by entering the shell number, a space, and the node numbers that constitute the shell’s vertices, separated by spaces.

• Finally, the load panels are defined by typing the word PANELS. Each load panel is then defined on a separate line by typing the panel number, a space, and the node numbers that make up the panel, separated by spaces.

An example is shown on the right. You can download the corresponding .txt file via this link.

JOINTS
1 X=0 Y=0 Z=0
2 X=0 Y=0 Z=3
3 X=5 Y=0 Z=5
4 X=10 Y=0 Z=0
5 X=10 Y=0 Z=3
6 X=0 Y=3 Z=0
7 X=0 Y=3 Z=3
8 X=5 Y=3 Z=5
9 X=10 Y=3 Z=0
10 X=10 Y=3 Z=3

FRAMES
1 1 2
2 2 3
3 3 5
4 4 5
5 6 7
6 7 8
7 8 10
8 9 10

SHELLS
1 2 3 8 7
2 3 5 10 8

PANELS
1 2 3 8 7
2 3 5 10 8

Importing the text file

When you click on the option, the "Import geometry" window opens.

Here, if you have a file in the specified format, click the relevant button to the right of the "File name" field at the top to locate it on your hard drive.

The help text under the "Additional data" section specifies the format the text file must follow and also includes an example.

Once you have selected and opened the file, click "Accept".

The program indicates whether the "Reading finished correctly" and asks "Do you wish to import read data".

If you select "Yes", the program will import the elements into the model.

From this point onwards, the cross-sections of the beams and slabs, the loads, and the external and internal connections must be defined in order to complete the project.

Layout of the elements imported into the model

If the text file is imported into a project that is not empty, the program will allow you to choose the position of the imported elements:

• If you select "Import to the position specified in the file", the program will load the data at the coordinates entered in the file.

• If "Select reference point for import" is displayed, you must select that point by clicking on it with the left mouse button directly in the model view.