Analyzing in 3D

• Published in: Civil engineering (New York, N.Y. 1983) Vol. 59; no. 3; pp. 52 - 54
• Main Author: Kadar, I
• Format: Magazine Article
• Language: English
• Published: 01.03.1989
• ISSN: 0885-7024

This paper discusses some of the advantages of three-dimensional structural analysis software for engineers. Many of the graphic systems currently on the market allow engineers to review input data and create models interactively from the elements shown on the screen. Users can see the results of static or dynamic analysis as deflected shapes, colored stress contour lines, or color-shaded deformed displays. A structural engineer can use linear static analysis programs to perform most tasks. Simple three-dimensional analysis can be used to do the approximate analysis required for checking design calculations, analyzing existing structures, and evaluating damaged ones. Complex analysis can be accomplished by advanced preprocessors and data generations and can be scaled down to verify and apply loads, run the stiffness matrix, and to calculate displacements, stresses, and force for predicting structural behavior.