Building Structures

ENCAD offers a range of software modules for the analysis and design of building structures.

WinFRAM is our core 2D/3D framework analysis suite which provides engineers with spreadsheet style data preparation, augmented by special time-saving routines for the replication of pattern data and by ASCII file and DXF file input. Structures modelled include single span beams, multi-span beams, roof-trusses, portal frames, multi-storey frames, floor slabs and complex 3D skeletal frameworks.

WinFRAM includes sophisticated graphical data preparation and editing options which can be used instead of or in conjunction with the spreadsheet data input. One of these options allows the user to Click on a 3D space framework member and align its local axes graphically to set the beta angle - this can be far easier than the sometimes complex calculations to calculate the correct angle.

WinKWIK is an optional front-end module which provides the fastest possible way of modelling a wide range of structures of recognisable regular form (beams, trusses, portals, multi-storey frames, multi-span slabs and bridge decks etc). WinKWIK creates WinFRAM models automatically from minimal data input. Wind loading is generated automatically.

Other modules used in building design:-

• WinFELA plate finite element analysis (used for floor slabs, ground slabs, shear walls etc)
• WinVIBE for vibration calculations
• WinSTEEL for steelwork design

Bridge Structures

ENCAD software for the analysis and design of bridge decks is second-to-none. Our success in this field has been achieved with two programs, WinFELA and WinHILO.

WinFELA, our combined frame and finite element analysis suite, is used for grillage models of bridge decks either as 2D models or as 3D space frame models, for plate finite element slab models either as 2D or 3D models and for 3D box girder models. Options which make this module attractive to bridge engineers include accurate modelling of shear deformation in beams, mesh generation, support settlements, pre-stress load modelling and our special grillage and Wood-Armer post-processors. The Maxima Scan post-processor option provides for efficient examination of the many loadcases which are part of bridge deck design.

But the key module is certainly our unique WinHILO bridge deck load generator which provides the user with a range of influence surface options including our Effects Calculator, Critical Chainage Analyser, Adverse Pattern Generator and Bulk Adverse Pattern Generator. Just point to a position within the model and let WinHILO automatically create the most adverse load pattern and effect value at that position! Truly a time-saver.

Other programs used by bridge engineers:-

• WinKWIK for shorthand creation of basic model geometry
• WinVIBE for vibration calculations

Steelwork Design

WinSTEEL provides software for the design and checking of skeletal steel frameworks to the rquirements of British Standard BS5950.

This program takes analysis results from WinFRAM or WinFELA and performs detailed calculations to asess the peformance of the members used in the analysis model.

The kernal of the process is a proper determination of the strength of each member in various modes of buckling failure, allowing for restraint from other connected structure such as purlins and sheeting rails.

Interactive and automatic design modes are provided together with a re-analysis option to allow for a redistribution of internal loads which will result when member sections in hyperstatic (redundant) models are revised.

Other programs used by steelwork designers:-

• WinFRAM for framework analysis
• WinKWIK for rapid creation of models
• WinVIBE for vibration calculations

Lattice Towers

Lattice mast and towers to support communications aerials are a specilised structural form which benefits from an automated model generation algorithm.

Our WinMAST program provides a means of effectively instantaneous assessment of such structures. Tower geometry is defined using a small number of key dimensions and member section groups. Wind loading on the tower is then computed automatically and added to loading from the antenae, ancilliaries and selfweight. Checks for free standing towers are then completed instantly using special ENCAD developed formulae.

WinMAST will build a complete 3D model from the given dimensions and member groups. This model can then be submitted for a rigorous WinFRAM frame analysis and detailed WinSTEEL steelwork check if required as a supplement to the formulae analysis.

Other programs sometimes used by lattice mast designers:-

• WinVIBE for vibration calculations

Vibrations

Some structures can exhibit unacceptable vibration behaviour. Vibrations can be caused by motion of installed equipment, by movement of people and vehicles, by wind loading and vortex shedding, by ground movement etc.

Central to evaluating dynamic behaviour of structures is an accurate assessment of the fundamental modes and frequencies of vibration. The WinVIBE vibrations analysis module provides for this. Models built either by WinFRAM or WinFELA are imported into WinVIBE, mass adjustments are made and vibration modes are then calculated.