There is a new release (version 4.05) available of our 3D framework program XFrame3d.
See release notes to see all new features and improvements.
The most important improvements:
1. Views
Optional an unlimited number of views can be made. The camera position and all display settings will be stored per view. All views are also saved in the project file (input file) so that they can be displayed and / or included in the output report again when the project is reopened. You can of course rename all views. In the output selection you can select the views to be included in the output. All 3d view image of Geometry / Loads and Results are automatically placed in the right place. When generating output all selected 3d view images are also saved as a png-file in the map where the project file is stored.
2. Beam-to-column joints according to EN 1993-1-8 fully integrated
The rotational stiffness influences the force distribution.
In XFrame3d all Eurocode design checks are based on a geometrically non-linear global analysis. The force distribution is determined iteratively. In this new release it is possible to enter your beam-column moment connections directly. The rotational stiffness of all connections per iteration step are determined. Based on the occurring moment in the beam connection, a rotational stiffness or spring stiffness is determined with the rotational stiffness diagram of the designed connection (see figure below) which is then used in the next iteration step. The iteration stops when there are no more changes in the distribution of forces.
In XFrame3d, a load-dependent rotational rigidity is therefore considered for all moment connections. This of course gives the most accurate result and leads to an economically optimal design.
The steel structure can now be a lot cheaper.
By already considering a flexible connection instead of a completely rigid connection in the design of the main supporting structure, the connection can become much cheaper and a correct analysis is made. With XFrame3d, the main engineer quickly and easily makes an economic design of the main supporting structure including the beam-column moment connections. This also saves the costs of the detailing engineer.