1- Why Sta4CAD gives unexpected results?
You can download the Sta4CAD data input & modelling reccomendations from here.
2- Does Sta4CAD applies 3D analysis?
STA4-CAD runs 3D static and modal analysis. Every joint has 6 DOF in 3D space. The hexagon example examined below requires a 3D analysis and cannot be solved with frame approach. Also the modal analysis is run in 3D space, the twisting modes are calculated. Buildings higher than 5 storey must be analysed with a 3D analysis because the axial deformations of the columns cannot be neglected on these systems.
Sta4CAD also performs 3D analysis on mat foundation and FEA analysis modules, to see the verification tests, click here.
3- When must be used polygonal columns instead of panel members in STA4-CAD?
If the contour of a polygonal column is smaller than 5m, it is better to use polygonal columns in order to obtain more accurate results because these elements are modelled as a frame element in static analysis. But if the member is longer than 5m in story plan, the frame approach won't be sufficient, the member must be modelled as panel members in order to use shell elements in static analysis.
4- In which axis must the beams are defined?
In STA4-CAD, the axes defined by the user is only geometrical axes, the program searches and finds the static axes automatically. The results won't change if the definition of geometrical exes changed.
5- Why do the beam load changes after the analysis?
Sta4CAD applies load filter to avoid adding the same load twice. The loads on the slabs are excluded from the lads o beams automatically. This option can be disabled from the options menu.
30 years in the software engineering.
STA Steel
STA4-CAD