Modeling

• Quick-start with typical geometries
• Create any plate geometry by sketching boundaries
• Import from CAD for complex and detailed boundaries
• Work with column-lines to organize and modify structures
• Create plates with various thicknesses
• Define line stiffeners (e.g. beams) with various shapes and material properties
• Define point supports (e.g. columns)
• Define line supports (e.g. walls)
• Easily refine finite element mesh
• Create new model objects by copying existing items

Loading

• Model objects can be loaded in multiple service load cases (e.g. Dead, Live, etc.)
• Automatic building code load combinations are available
• Includes IBC, ASCE, and NBC Load Combinations
• Customizable building code combinations (see Load Case Manager)
• Create custom load combinations in any project
• Apply point loads, line/distributed loads, and area load pressures to the structure
• Copy and paste loads to objects
• Copy and scale loads to other load cases

Analysis

• FEA model is constructed automatically by the software
• Automated "background" analysis is fast
• Plate elements use a "thick-plate" formulation for accurate shear results
• Advanced error-checking and reporting
• Export FEA model to VisualAnalysis to better understand model details or to perform a more sophisticated analysis

Reporting

• Quick Full Report includes graphics and all details, with options
• Custom reporting to include just the information you need
• Print Preview mode while working with reports
• Paste any graphics into your report
• Customizable page margins, fonts, colors
• Use your own company logo in report page headers
• Print to any printer including PDF
• Export to text clipboard or save to other formats like .xlsx

General

• 3D Graphics
• Simple, standard Windows interface for easy navigation
• Unlimited Undo & Redo commands
• Work in any unit system, perform math on input, use custom unit 'styles'
• Program is self-documenting with tooltips on commands and input parameters
• Numerous preference settings for better defaults
• Free training videos provided for learning efficiency
• Free technical support email with fast, friendly turnaround

Limitations

• Does not perform member design or check design specifications
• Does not produce structural drawings
• Cannot model a system of disconnected plates.

Be a Squeaky Wheel

If you need a new feature, please let us know. We are always looking for ways to improve products in ways that you desire. See Technical Support.