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FEA is a consolidated method that divides the structure into a mesh of small finite elements. It gives the possibility to perform the static analysis of the finite elements directly using the model created with 3Muri Project, allowing designers to use an approach that defines the behavior of the structure from a specific point of view, in order to examine the individual critical issues and at the same time maintain an overall vision of the significant elements of the structure. These characteristics make it the most powerful tool for creating irregular shapes such as the facades of monumental buildings.
Interpretation of the legislation
In recent years, we have seen notable progress in seismic calculations thanks to the advancement of numerical approaches. This development was fueled by scientific research and the growing computing power of modern PCs. However, there is one aspect that has not followed this evolution: the static calculation procedures have remained surprisingly unchanged. Examining the current regulations, we realize that the approaches have remained substantially the same in the Italian 1987 Ministerial Decree. It is legitimate to ask what limits are implicit in such dated procedures and whether it is possible to perform more sophisticated calculations, while remaining in line with the current regulations. The regulations allow the use of proven approaches, paving the way for FEA finite element calculations that fully exploit the computational power of modern PCs. This allows the user to obtain more precise and reliable results.
Technical details of the new FEA Analysis environment
All the elements inserted in the 3Muri structure model are transformed into 1D (beams and pillars) or 2D (wall panels and reinforced concrete partitions) finished elements. The floors are considered as an element for distributing the load on beams, panels and partitions and have no influence in terms of stiffness.
Static verification module in reinforced concrete
The beam and pillar elements, traditionally considered secondary to the masonry, require particular attention for an accurate structural verification. Their evaluation depends on two main factors:
- Significant presence of elements: A greater presence of these elements reduces the likelihood that they can be examined independently.
- Connection to the structural complex: The presence of false beams or pillars on other beams or pillars, important framed structures, present multi-hyperstatic calculation schemes.
Connection to the structural complex: The presence of false beams or pillars on other beams or pillars, important framed structures, present multi-hyperstatic calculation schemes.
Key features of the module include:
- Frame verification: It is possible to perform static verification of existing elements and the design and verification of new frame elements using the FEA analysis calculation results for accurate verification. The verified items are indicated with colors (red or green) to show the verification result. Verifiable elements include reinforced concrete (RC) beams, columns and footings.
- Modification and Export: The designed and verified reinforced concrete elements can be modified directly in the FEA environment. Reinforcements can be exported to the structure environment to conduct non-linear pushover verifications. For these analyses, the reinforcements are fundamental, but not always known regardless, without first carrying out a static design.
Steel Static verification module
The beam and pillar elements, traditionally considered secondary to the masonry, require particular attention for an accurate structural verification. Their evaluation depends on two main factors:
- Significant presence of elements: A greater presence of these elements reduces the probability that they can be examined independently.
- Connection to the rest of the structure: The presence of false beams or pillars on other beams or pillars, important framed structures, present multi-hyperstatic calculation schemes.
When these factors become relevant, a global verification approach is prefera-ble to a local one. Our FEA environment therefore included static verification of all linear elements to provide more complete and precise structural evalua-tions, integrating all elements into a global analysis of the structure.
Key features of the module include:
- Frame verification: Static verification of frame elements can be performed us-ing the FEA analysis calculation results for accurate verification. The verified elements are indicated with colors (red or green) to show the outcome of the verification. Verifiable elements include steel beams and columns.
