User

Guide
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 Software License

Software License
Structural Toolkit®
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 Software License

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 Software License

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 Revisions

First edition (Analysis by Structural Toolkit V1, Structural Toolkit V5) October 2015

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Copyright © 2002-2020 Anthony Furr Software

 Contents

Introduction ..............................................................................................................................................8
Versions ...............................................................................................................................................8
Lite Version ......................................................................................................................................8
Standard Version ..............................................................................................................................9
Analysis of Structures ........................................................................................................................... 10
Introduction ....................................................................................................................................... 10
Matrix Stiffness Solution ................................................................................................................... 11
First-Order Linear Analysis ................................................................................................................ 12
Second-Order Geometrically non-linear Analysis .............................................................................. 13
Direct Iterative Method ................................................................................................................. 15
Pure Incremental Method ............................................................................................................. 16
Pure Incremental Iterative Method ............................................................................................... 16
Geometric Stiffness Method ........................................................................................................ 17
Other Methods ............................................................................................................................. 17
References ............................................................................................................................................ 18
General Concepts .................................................................................................................................. 19
Object Naming .................................................................................................................................. 19
Object Creation ................................................................................................................................. 20
Global Axis Coordinate System ......................................................................................................... 21
Local Axis Coordinate System (Local Member Axis) ........................................................................ 22
Degrees of Freedom ......................................................................................................................... 23
Objects .............................................................................................................................................. 23
Nodes ................................................................................................................................................ 24
Members ........................................................................................................................................... 24
Member Result Points ...................................................................................................................... 25
Restraints .......................................................................................................................................... 26
Materials ........................................................................................................................................... 27
Sections ............................................................................................................................................ 28
Loads ................................................................................................................................................. 29
Load Cases ........................................................................................................................................ 30
Load Case Combinations .................................................................................................................. 31
Variables ............................................................................................................................................ 32
Importing ........................................................................................................................................... 34
Exporting ........................................................................................................................................... 34
Undo and Redo ................................................................................................................................. 34
Options .............................................................................................................................................. 35
Document Window ........................................................................................................................... 36
Moving around the viewer ................................................................................................................ 37
Snap Function ................................................................................................................................... 39
Scales ................................................................................................................................................ 39
Viewing Geometry and Load Objects ............................................................................................... 39
Grouping Geometry Objects ............................................................................................................. 40
Selections .......................................................................................................................................... 41
Shortcuts ........................................................................................................................................... 42
Command Line .................................................................................................................................. 42
Color mode ........................................................................................................................................ 43
Object Information ............................................................................................................................ 44
Analysis Ribbon ..................................................................................................................................... 45
Ribbon Menus ................................................................................................................................... 45
Tool Palettes ..................................................................................................................................... 46
Analysis Examples ................................................................................................................................. 48
Accessing the Examples ................................................................................................................... 48
Examples ........................................................................................................................................... 48
Creating a New Model .......................................................................................................................... 51
A New Document ............................................................................................................................. 51
Creating Nodes and Members .......................................................................................................... 51
Creating Custom Restraints .............................................................................................................. 52

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 Assigning Restraints to Nodes .......................................................................................................... 52
Creating Materials ............................................................................................................................. 52
Creating Sections .............................................................................................................................. 53
Assigning a Section to Members ...................................................................................................... 53
Defining Primary Load Cases ............................................................................................................ 53
Defining Load Case Combinations .................................................................................................... 53
Defining Loads .................................................................................................................................. 54
Modifying a Structure ............................................................................................................................ 55
Modifying Nodes ............................................................................................................................... 55
Modifying Members.......................................................................................................................... 55
Splitting Members............................................................................................................................. 55
Joining Members .............................................................................................................................. 55
Swapping Member Ends .................................................................................................................. 55
Moving, Copying, Rotating and Mirroring Members (and Nodes) .................................................... 55
Modifying Loads ................................................................................................................................ 56
Modifying Materials, Sections and Variables .................................................................................... 56
Analysis ................................................................................................................................................. 57
First-Order Linear Analysis ................................................................................................................ 57
Second-Order Geometrically Non-Linear Analysis ............................................................................ 58
Viewing Results ..................................................................................................................................... 59
Results Diagrams .............................................................................................................................. 59
Viewing results Load Cases and Combinations ................................................................................ 60
Querying a Node or Intermediate Member Result ........................................................................... 60
Printing Diagrams and Reports .............................................................................................................. 62
Printing and Previewing a Diagram ................................................................................................... 62
Capturing a Diagram.......................................................................................................................... 63
Generating an Analysis Report .......................................................................................................... 64
Geometry Options ........................................................................................................................ 64
Results Options ............................................................................................................................ 65
Options ......................................................................................................................................... 65
Load cases to Show ..................................................................................................................... 65
Printing and Previewing an Analysis Report ..................................................................................... 65
Frequently Asked Questions ................................................................................................................. 68
Technical Support .................................................................................................................................. 69

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 Introduction

Introduction
Analysis by Structural Toolkit is software for the analysis of framed structures under applied loading.

The software integrates powerful 3D graphic visualisation and a modern, intuitive interface simplifying
the input and modification of structural models and the interpretation of results.

Modern Interface

Powerful 3D Graphic Visualisation

Versions
A Lite (limited) version and a Standard version is available.

Lite Version

The Lite Version is available to users of the Structural Toolkit Live software with a current
subscription. This version is disabled if the software subscription lapses.

With the Lite Version users are able to:

• Create up to 4 nodes in 2 dimensions (input in the X and Y axes)

• Apply simple restraints (fixed and pinned)
• Apply simple member releases (fixed and pinned)
• Apply node and member loads
• Analyse using first-order linear
• Print diagrams and reports

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 Introduction

The Lite Version is suitable for the analysis of simple 2D beam and frame problems not susceptible to
second-order effects.

Standard Version

The Standard Version is available to users of the Structural Toolkit software as an additional purchase.
This version remains operational if the subscription lapses.

Updates to the software require a valid subscription to both the Structural Toolkit and Analysis by
Structural Toolkit software.

With the Standard Version users are able to:

• Create up to 500 nodes in 3 dimensions (may be limited by memory)

• Apply simple and complex restraints (fixed and pinned; support rotations; springs and support
displacements)
• Apply simple member releases (fixed and pinned)
• Create tension and compression-only members
• Apply node and member loads
• Analyse using first-order linear and a number of second-order methods
• Use Display Groups
• Access the Shape Builder
• Use Result Points
• Print diagrams and reports

The Standard Version allows analysis of more complex 2D and 3D frame problems including those
susceptible to second-order effects.

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 Analysis of Structures

Analysis of Structures

Introduction
The purpose of structural analysis is to simulate the effect of loading on a structure so that a designer
can limit material stresses and displacements to accepted limits.

The analysis model is generally a simplification of the real structure, often utilising a number of
idealised characteristics such as perfect pins and fixities, straight members, constant connection
stiffness and linear material behavior.

Analysis frame simplification

The structural model may be thought of as an assemblage of members, generally of uniform cross
section and material properties. Members are connected to nodes in 2D or 3D space by a defined
release condition in each of the 6 degrees of freedom (3 translations along X, Y and Z axes and 3
rotations about the X, Y and Z axes); the member release may vary between fully released (hinged or
pinned) and fully restrained (fixed or rigid).

A number of nodes require restraint from movement in defined degrees of freedom (directions and
rotations) to ensure stability of the loaded structure. These nodes are often referred to as supports.
Restraints may be assigned a prescribed displacement to simulate support settlement or rotation; or a
displacement-loading relationship (spring) to simulate elastic support conditions or rotational
resistances; be fixed or released in each of the 6 degrees of freedom; and be oriented in a different
manner to the structures axes system. Nodes may have relationships defined to other nodes, known
as master-slave relationships, such that movement and loading is related to each other.

External loads may be applied directly onto the nodes; or onto members at discreet locations; or as
uniformly distributed or variable distributed loading over the entire or partial length of the member.
Loads may also be induced by the effect of temperature or lack-of-fit. Loads are typically grouped and
applied with factored combinations for limit state design.

Without the use of computers, for even simple structures, various techniques are required to arrive at
the reactions, moments and deflections. These techniques are generally impractical to anything other
than simple solutions, and the use of computer methods has made possible the efficient solving of
these sometimes very complex problems.

The Matrix Stiffness Method (also known as the Direct Stiffness Method or Displacement Method) is
a well-documented method with ties mathematically back to 1858 and the development of matrices.

Analysis of Structures

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The first reference to the Direct Stiffness Method, however, was not until 1959 when M.J. Turner,
head of Structural Dynamics Unit at Boeing, presented his first paper on the Direct Stiffness Method.

The Matrix Stiffness Method describes the assembling and solution of the simultaneous equations
that arise as a result of a defined structural geometry and applied loading. The solution yields node
forces and displacements and in a subsequent step, reactions, member end forces and
displacements can be calculated from the individual member stiffness matrices. Given the calculated
member end forces and displacements, standard elastic behavior described in classic texts are then
used to determine intermediate member results. These techniques are valid for small displacements
only.

Matrix Stiffness Solution

The solution is often presented in the form:

{p} = [Ks].{u}

Where:
{p} = Vector of nodal forces being 6 x the number of nodes in dimension
[Ks] = Global stiffness matrix (sparse square matrix)
{u} = Vector of Nodal displacements

Step 1

The coordinate transformation for each member is calculated relating the member local axis system
to the global axis system.

Nodal forces, including those as a result of member internal loads (sometimes referred to as clamp
forces) are calculated matrix related to its length, section and
material.

Member end clamp forces and the member stiffness matrices are modified to account for any
specified member releases in a process sometimes referred to as static condensation.

Step 2

The global stiffness matrix [Ks] and nodal force vector {p} are assembled and modified for any
specified restraint conditions.

Step 3

The displacement vector {u} is solved using a matrix solution method. Member instabilities may be
detected and corrected automatically where the leading diagonals are zero.

Step 4

The member end forces are calculated using the relationship:

{pi} = [Kii] * {ui} + [Kij] * {uj}

{pj} = [Kji] * {ui} + [Kjj] * {uj}

Where:
i = Node offset at end 1 of the member
j = Node offset at end 2 of the member

Support reactions are also summed for nodes with restraints.

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 Analysis of Structures

An equilibrium check confirms the success of the analysis.

Step 5

Intermediate results are calculated at specified points along the member using elastic beam flexure
formula, corrected for any geometric non-linearity.

Step 6

Tension and compression only members are removed and the cycle repeated.

If second-order is used, node locations are updated and the cycle repeated until convergence occurs.

Step 7

Results are drawn, and reported within the model viewport.

Many references are available describing the processes and it is recommended that at least general
familiarisation with this technique is a prerequisite to using such software.

First-Order Linear Analysis

In linear analysis, the deformed geometry of the structure is considered to have negligible effect on
the equilibrium of the structure.

Elementary elastic theory describes force-displacement relationships in the un-deformed

configuration. Even though the forces and displacements are calculated they are ignored in the
equations of equilibrium.

Following first-order linear analysis, summation of the applied external loads and reactions about any
point in space using the original geometry should yield static equilibrium (ΣF=0 and ΣM=0) providing
the analysis process was successful (it may not be successful if the structure is unstable).

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 Analysis of Structures

Second-Order Geometrically non-linear Analysis

With second-order analysis, the deformed geometry including both node movements and member
displacements are considered to have an effect on equilibrium. The relationship between applied load
and displacement is non-linear.

Non-Linear Relationship

Summing the applied external loads and reactions about any point in space using the updated node
geometry may not yield static equilibrium. This is known as the P-Δ effect or the effect of joint
displacement. Iteration, or load-path tracing, must be undertaken in order to arrive at a geometry that
is in equilibrium.

The effect of axial loads on laterally deflected members also needs to be considered. This is known
as the P-δ effect.

The above effects describe geometric non-linearity. Note that materials properties are considered
elastic, and the connections stiffness constant, throughout the loading, therefore material non-
linearity is not considered (at least within Structural Toolkit Analysis).

P-Δ effects (or joint displacement effects) may be considered by updating the node geometry in
subsequent analysis iterations and testing for convergence after each step by a predetermined
method.

P-δ effect (or axial-member out-of-straightness effects) may be considered in various ways including
the introduction of sufficient additional intermediate nodes; or using a supplementary member
matrices constructed using member stability functions that consider the previous iterations axial load
thereby altering the elastic stiffness matrix (sometimes referred to as a geometric stiffness matrix).

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 Analysis of Structures

Second-Oder Effects (P-δ and P-Δ effects)

Although there are many published methods describing ways to consider the effect of geometric non-
linearity (mostly in general mathematical terms), there does not appear to be agreement on a
definitive approach. As a result there are (often large) variations between results of second-order
analysis between software packages (and even within).

Some of the commonly described methods include:

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 Analysis of Structures

Direct Iterative Method

With the Direct Iterative Method (or Direct Iteration Method), the initial geometry is used to calculate
the initial stiffness matrix and using a single load application the displacements calculated. The node
geometry is updated from the initial geometry and used to formulate a new trial stiffness matrix from
which displacements are calculated. Iteration continues until the displacements calculated from
subsequent iterations are very close at which time the stiffness matrix is said to have converged.

This method relies on a reasonable estimate of the deflected member shape (if axial-member out-of-
straightness effects are dominant) by using a sufficient number of inserted nodes within members.
Providing nodes at key displacement points within the structure is essential so that node
displacement convergence can be achieved.

It is suggested from texts that this method is not attractive for large displacement problems due to
the load-deflection relationship being path dependent ie. non-linear along the path of loading.

Direct Iterative Method

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 Analysis of Structures

Pure Incremental Method

With the Pure Incremental Method (also known as Linear Incremental Method) the load is subdivided
into a number of equal portions. The load portion is applied to the initial geometry and stiffness
matrix and forces and displacements calculated. Subsequent applications of the load portion use the
stiffness matrix derived from the displaced geometry of the previous step. The results for each step
are combined to arrive at a total result.

This method is known to drift away from the solution.

Like the Direct Iterative Method, this method relies on a reasonable estimate of the deflected
member shape and similar considerations of additional nodes are required.

Pure Incremental Method

Pure Incremental Iterative Method

With the Pure Incremental Iterative Method, the load is subdivided as in the Pure Incremental
Method; however, the stiffness matrix calculated at the end of each step is iterated using the same
process as the Direct Iterative Method.

The Pure Incremental Iterative method is more likely to converge than the Direct Iterative Method.

Like the Direct Iterative Method, this method relies on a reasonable estimate of the deflected
member shape and similar considerations of additional nodes are required.

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 Analysis of Structures

Geometric Stiffness Method

The Geometric Stiffness Method uses the initial stiffness matrix and in a subsequent iteration,
application of a supplementary Geometric Stiffness Matrix formulated on the basis of stability
functions which take into account the axial loading on the members and the resulting reduction (or
increase) in member stiffness.

On the basis of experimentation carried out for the development of this software, this method may
not be as reliable as the other methods that include additional nodes to consider member out-of-
straightness.

Other Methods

Second-order elastic analysis is very complex mathematically, and there are many algorithms
discussed in texts for the iteration including application of Newton-Raphson, and modified Newton-
Raphson methods and force recovery.

In the search for a universal approach to second-order the author of the software communicated with
the author of a book on the subject of geometrically non-linear structures. The search concluded
when a response to some questions returned lt to argue for
an exact answer. I feel that for the most part you need to be happy with what you are doing and the

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 Analysis of Structures

References
[1] Structural Analysis, Third Edition
R.C. Coates, M.G. Coutie, F.K. King
Van Nostrand Reinhold (Int.), 1988

[2] Formulas for Stress and Strain, Fifth Edition

Raymond J. Roark, Warren C. Young
International Student Edition
McGraw-Hill International Book Company, 1975

[3] Structural Analysis, A Unified Classical and Matrix Approach, Sixth Edition
A. Ghali, A.M. Neville, T.G. Brown
Spon Text, 2009

[4] Non-Linear Static and Cyclic Analysis of Steel Frames with Semi-Rigid Connections
[Link] and P.P.T. Chui
Elsevier, 2000

[5] Matrix Structural Analysis, Second Edition

William McGuire, Ruchard H. Gallagher, Ronal D. Ziemian
John Wiley & Sons Inc., 2000

[6] Introduction to Finite Element Methods (ASEN 5007) Fall 2012

Department of Aerospace Engineering Sciences
University of Colorado at Boulder

[7] Analysis of Geometrically Non-Linear Structures, Second Edition

Robert Levy, William R. Spillers
Kluwer Academic Publishers, 2003

[8] Solution Techniques for Nonlinear equilibrium Equations

Morteza A.M. Torkamani, Mustafa Sonmez, 2008

[9] Automated Second-Order Elastic Analysis for Steel Space Frames

Michael D Folse, Barton H. Harris

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 General Concepts

General Concepts

Object Naming
Analysis by Structural Toolkit uses real naming of objects including nodes, members, restraints,
sections, materials, loads and variables.

Traditionally, analysis software defines nodes and members by an assigned integer number. ie.
member 7 is defined as joining node 3 and node 17 . Furthermore, restraints are typically set
for each node requiring restraint, or support.

Using real naming can provide more meaning ie. defined as joining n
n .

Defining restraints by name then assigning to nodes, has the benefit that a change of definition will
apply throughout the structural model without the necessity to individually select and modifying the
restraint code for each restrained node.

Named Objects

Similarly, named load definitions can also be used throughout the structural model and a change to
the definition will apply throughout. An example of this is a floor frame supporting a number of
equally spaced floor beams of the same secondary span. If the secondary beams span changes, a
simple load redefinition replaces all occurrences in the model. Using variables can add even greater
flexibility (see Variables).

Objects must have a unique name ie. the same name cannot be used for a node and, say a member.
There are also certain characters not permitted (including " [ ] ; | / \ and those not allowed in file paths
and filenames) and a few special reserved names .

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 General Concepts

Object Creation
Editors are available for the creation and editing of nodes, members, restraints, sections, materials,
loads and variables and behave in a similar manner.

At the top of the editor dialog there is a drop-down containing the currently defined objects of the
type being edited ie. nodes or members. If no objects have been
created then only item will be visible.

Undefined object drop-

down coloured red Create button

Table View
Editor Create a default named object

Rename object button

Defined object drop-
down coloured green Remove object button

Find object button

Editor Editing an existing object

If the currently displayed object has been defined, then the drop-down background colour will be
green. If undefined, the background colour is red.

To change the current object being edited, select the item from the drop-down. The properties will be
filled into the associated editing boxes. Changing their values automatically updates their properties in
real-time.

To create a new object, either:

• Press the button when the item is visible to create an object with the next
available default name of that item type.
• Type a unique name into the drop-down (the item name will change from the defined green
colour to a red colour) then press the button after updating the item values.

By selecting a similar item first before creating the new item, you can re-use any defined properties.

To remove, or delete an object, select the object from the drop-down, and press the button.

To rename an object, select the object from the drop-down, and press the button. As discussed in
the Object Naming section, the new name must be unique.

The Table View can be made visible by pressing the button at the top of the Editor dialog. The
table view will expand to the right side of the editor dialog. Press the button again to hide the Table
View.

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 General Concepts

Global Axis Coordinate System

The global axis coordinate system uses the Right-Hand-Rule:

• X axis positive to the right (thumb)

• Y axis positive up (Typically used for 2 dimension structures with z = 0) (pointer
finger)
• Z axis positive towards the user (required for 3 dimensional structures) (middle
finger)

Geometry Right-Hand-Rule

The X-Y plane is the default view when looking at the screen (the plane between thumb and pointer
finger).

The X-Z plane can be thought of as the ground plane, although this does not necessary have to be
used this way (the plane between thumb and middle finger).

A sign convention for moments is defined using the Right-Hand-Thumb-Rule (or Screw or Grip rule).
A positive moment is defined as a force occurring in a clockwise direction when looking down the
axis (the curl direction of the fingers indicates the positive moment direction with the thumb
indicating the positive axis direction).

Geometry Right-Hand-Thumb Rule

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 General Concepts

Local Axis Coordinate System (Local Member Axis)

A member has its own local axis coordinate system known as the local member axis.

Member Local Axis

The local member axis uses the Right-Hand-Rule:

• X axis positive from end 1 (or node 1) pointing towards end 2 (or node 2)
• Y axis determined from a specified alpha rotation relative to the default calculated
member orientation and following the Right-Hand Thumb Rule for sign convention
• Z axis 90 degrees anticlockwise from the Y axis rotating around the X axis

The member Y axis is orientated, by default, in the positive global Y axis

direction. There are two exceptions; straight up and straight down the global Y axis.

When the member local X axis points up the global Y axis and the member alpha is 0, the local Y
points to the left (down the global negative X axis).

When the member local X axis points down the global Y axis and the member alpha is 0, the local Y
points to the right (down the global positive X axis).

Given the above, under very small node coordinate changes, it is possible that the local Y and Z axis
can rotate (or flip). This becomes an important behavior to understand when applying local member
loads, and defining geometry that is not entirely in the X-Y plane. Updating the node geometry during
second-order analysis can easily result in unexpected member flips and rotations for vertical
members.

To compensate for this behavior Analysis by Structural Toolkit determines an initial vector defining the
un-deformed member Y axis direction. During second-order analysis the member alpha is adjusted
following each iteration and associated geometry change (as required) to ensure a consistent member
geometry.

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 General Concepts

Degrees of Freedom
Two dimensional structures have 3 degrees of freedom (abbreviated dof):

• Translation along the X and Y axes

• Rotation about the Z axis (@Z)

Three dimensional structures have 6 degrees of freedom:

• Translation along the X, Y and Z axes

• Rotation about the X, Y and Z axes (@X, @Y, @Z)

Objects

Restraint releases

Member local axis

Node

Restraint

Member
Member releases

Restraint and Member Releases

Node releases, or Restraints are defined by a release, fixity (or something in between) in each of the 6
degrees of freedom.

Member End Releases are defined at each end of the member at the connecting node by a release,
fixity (or something in between) in each of the 6 degrees of freedom.

Analysis by Structural Toolkit uses all 6 degrees of freedom in the analysis; however, the 3 degrees of
freedom associated with using the Z axis can be automatically removed for structures deemed to
require 2D analysis only.

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Nodes
Nodes are defined by an X, Y and Z coordinate in space, and generally exist to connect members to.

Restraints can be applied to the nodes (refer Restraints) to transfer the resulting node forces to the
restraint in defined degrees of freedom. A restrained node is often referred to as a support.

Nodes can have loads applied to them in the global coordinate system, or in the attached member
local axis system if applied at the ends of the member.

The node editor is accessed by double-clicking on a node, or selecting the [Nodes] button in the
[Geometry] ribbon bar.

Members
A member is a straight element of uniform section and material property, defined by a connection
between a start node at end 1 and end node at end 2, and orientated within the global coordinate
system by an alpha rotation (see local member axis).

The member transfers forces applied internally to the connected node each end in the 6 degrees of
freedom.

The ability of the member to transfer forces to the connected node in each of the 6 degrees of
freedom may be modified by defining member end releases (see degrees of freedom). This may be
defined as fixed, released, or partially released (spring).

Partial member releases are considered in a number of texts for the modeling of semi-rigid
connections by direct modification of the matrix stiffness process. The derivation is generally
incomplete for other than simple loading conditions, and the stiffness of the spring based on various
numerical models. Analysis by Structural Toolkit models partial member releases by inserted a small
flexible member (spring) at the end defined to have a spring. Using spring member releases is
experimental and recommended only if conversant with the background and modeling theories.

Excessive member releases may result in structure instability. Analysis by Structural Toolkit is able to
detect and attempt correction of the members perceived as causing the instability. Warnings should
be corrected to avoid reliance on automatic corrections, as the resulting structure may not be that
which is intended.

Members can be defined as compression or tension only. After the analysis iteration, members are
checked for a valid axial loading condition and removed as required, followed by repeating the analysis
cycle. An example of a tension only member is in a rod roof bracing system where very small axial
compressions result in member buckling. A compression only member could be used to model a
restraint incapable of resisting uplift. An understanding of the process is required as removal of
members may affect the stability of nodes, which are otherwise stable when the member is present.
A number of analysis examples use compression and tension only members.

Members can have loads applied to them in either the global coordinate system, or the member local
axis coordinate system. Point loads and distributed loads (uniform, partial or partial variable) can also
be applied.

Members may also be subject to temperature change or lack-of-fit.

The member editor is accessed by double-clicking on a Member, or selecting the [Members] button in
the [Geometry] ribbon bar.

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Member Result Points

Member Result Points can be added to the member to produce a result at that point without
introducing additional nodes and members into the structural model. A useful application of control
points may be mid-span, or quarter span values, face of column, or underside of haunch. A number of
analysis examples use control points.

The Member Result Points editor is accessed from the member editor. Alternatively, select a
member then use the right mouse-button to show the context-menu, and select Result Points under
the Member Selection item.

Member Result Point

Member Result Points

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Restraints
Restraints may be assigned to nodes to transfer forces in all or a defined number of degrees of
freedom. The node is restrained when one or more degrees of freedom are specified to be
something other than released. A restrained node is often referred to as a support.

Restraints are defined by a name and can be applied to multiple nodes. By redefining a restraint, all
the nodes that use this restraint will automatically be updated.

Example of some predefined restraint types are:

• Pinned (X, Y, and Z restrained, @X, @Y and @X released)

• RollerX (Y and Z restrained, X released to slide, @X, @Y and @X released)
• Fixed (X, Y, and Z restrained, @X, @Y and @X restrained)

A restraint is orientated in the same system as the global coordinate axis system by default. It is
possible, however, to define the local restraint axis by rotating one or more of the 3 axes.

Restraints may also be assigned a load-displacement relationship (spring) or prescribed displacement.

As Analysis by Structural Toolkit uses all 6 degrees of freedom, 2D restraints must be defined
considering the degrees of freedom associated with the Z axis. ie. rotation about the X and Y axis and
translation about the Z axis. Even though the resulting forces and displacements may be 0, the
solution to the stiffness matrix requires these unused degrees of freedom to be defined to maintain
stability.

Analysis by Structural Toolkit can automatically adjust restraints deemed to require 2D analysis only.

The restraint editor is accessed by double-clicking on a restraint, or selecting the [Restraints] button in
the [Geometry] ribbon bar.

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 General Concepts

Materials
The properties required to define an elastic material are:

• Elasticity (E) Flexural stiffness

• Torsional modulus (G) Torsional stiffness
• Density Self-weight calculation
• Thermal Coefficient Temperature elongation

Materials are considered elastic ie. non-linear material behavior is not considered.

Poisson ratio (ν) is not used directly within the analysis, however, the relationship between E, G and ν
can be used to define the G based on E and ν ie. G = E/(2*(1+ν))

The material yield strength (Fy) is used to render the indicative stress colors when using the 3D
deflection diagram (note that steel members have a yield strength depending on the material
thickness and a generalized value is used).

The material editor is accessed by selecting the [Sections] button in the [Geometry] ribbon bar.

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 General Concepts

Sections
The properties required to define a section are:

• Area (A) Axial and shear stiffness

• Second moment of area (Iz, Iy) Flexural stiffness (local Z and Y axis)
• Torsional stiffness (J) Torsional stiffness

The First moment of Area (Zx, Zy) can be used in conjunction with the material yield (Fy) to render the
indicative stress colors when using the 3D deflection diagram.

A section has a shape definition to allow visualization of the section in the model viewport.

A section has a material attribute defining the assigned material.

Predefined sections can be selected from a library (predefined for timber and steel members), using
standard shapes or provided as values.

Section by shape calculation

If values are selected as the method to assign section properties, the shape is available for the
drawing.

The section editor is accessed by selecting the [Sections] button in the [Geometry] ribbon bar.

Section Shape Rendering

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 General Concepts

Loads
Loads are defined by name then applied to a node (or nodes) and/or a member (or members) in the
form of point loads or distributed loads (uniform, partial or partial variable).

Node loads are defined by the global axis coordinate system.

Member loads are optionally defined by the local axis coordinate system. A node load defined by the

member.

The load editor is accessed by double-clicking on a load, or selecting the [Loads] button in the [Loads]
ribbon bar.

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 General Concepts

Load Cases
Load cases are used to group loads together.

Gravity can be applied to individual cases and is defined as a constant for the entire analysis model. If
a load case has gravity applied, the name within the load case drop-
to the end to clearly identify this.

Load case LC1 with gravity loading applied

Loads can be assigned a load type which is used to determine the default load case factors when
creating load case combinations.

The load case editor is accessed by selecting the [Case:] button to the left of the load cases drop-
down on the [Loads] ribbon bar.

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 General Concepts

Load Case Combinations

Load case combinations group a set of load case-factor pairs describing a combination load case.

Standards prescribe required combinations for limit state and serviceability design.

Example:
1.2 * DL + 1.5 * LL = dead load cases (which may have gravity set on) multiplied by 1.2 times plus
the live load case multiplied by 1.5 times.

The combination load case editor is accessed by selecting the [Comb:] button to the left of the
combination cases drop-down on the [Loads].

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 General Concepts

Variables
Variables can be defined and used throughout the software in many of the value input boxes.

A number of predefined examples available from the drop-down use variables.

Some examples of the use of variables include:

• Defining ridge coordinate by using a , and using the built-in tan

and rtd (radians to degrees) functions
• Defining the posi 2*spacing ,
3*spacing
• /2

The formula as input is shown in the edit box. To consolidate the formula to a value, precede the
ie. =1+2 will convert to 3.

The variable editor is accessed by selecting the [Variables] button on the [Settings] ribbon bar.

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 General Concepts

All the functionality for creating and analysing a frame is located on the [Analysis] ribbon tab including
the [Geometry], [Loads], [Analysis], [Results], [Show] and [Settings] ribbon bars. The [Document]
ribbon tab is used to access the [Print] and [Preview] functions.

The ribbon can be hidden using the Ctrl-F1 key combination or using the up/down arrow in the top
right corner.

Analysis Ribbon Tab

A number of Tool Palettes associated with a Frame document are accessible on the [Project Tree]
dock. The [Show] palette controls visibility of elements relating to the geometry and loads. The
[Results] palette controls visibility of the results diagrams and becomes visible after the analysis has
been completed. The [Console] displays the analysis process as well as results when querying at
specific locations.

The visibility of primary load cases load are controlled by using the drop-down on the [Loads] ribbon
bar. The currently displayed results for a primary or combination load cases (and created envelopes)
are controlled by using the drop-down on the [Results] ribbon bar. Results envelopes can be created
from within the results drop-down.

The current second-order iteration (linear, or final second-order) can be selected from the Iteration
dropdown below the results drop-down.

Many object selection operations are accessed using the right mouse button click showing a context
sensitive menu.

Context Menu

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 General Concepts

Importing
Microstran Arc files can be imported into Analysis by Structural Toolkit

Exporting
Exporting of structural models is currently not supported.

Undo and Redo

An Undo/Redo feature is available during the editing session enabling the back tracking of certain
changes to the frame including geometry and load changes.

Undo button Redo button

Screenshot 8 - Undo and Redo

The Undo button will Undo the last action performed.

The Redo button appears once the Undo has been used and will re-perform the last action that the
Undo was used with.

Once the document is closed, the Undo and Redo actions are cleared.

Before performing complex operations such as mirroring, rotating or copying you may find it useful to
create a copy of the Frame from the [Project Tree].

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 General Concepts

Options
Various program options are available specific to Analysis Documents, Viewer and the Analysis
process by pressing the [Options] button on the [Settings] ribbon bar.

General

Shows the licensed features; and options when creating a new Frame document.

Viewer

Allows customisation of the graphics engine (particular to speed up display of complex and large 3D
structures), controls label sizes, diagram color mode and the default grid view.

Analysis

Allows customisation of the analysis process including the default number of intermediate member
result points (this can be customised individually for each member using the member editor); and
warnings for when frame deflections exceed a predefined limit.

Advanced Analysis

Allows inclusion of shear affects in the formation of the stiffness matrix; and customisation of
second-order options.

Corrections control whether corrections are calculated and applied during the analysis process. This
is relevant particularly during large deflections and second-order analysis, when the force-
displacement relationship of a member becomes non-linear. Corrections adjust the results as a linear
function of the position along the member considering the calculated member end forces and
displacements. If corrections are large, a warning is given indicating a problem with the analysis such
as stability.

Load and Result Diagrams

Allows customisation of the font sizes for the diagrams.

Units

Allows selection of the units used (metric and imperial) and customisation of the number of decimal
places displayed for loads, dimension and results diagrams.

Units and decimal places can be changed at any time without having to re-analyse and are updated
immediately on closing the Options dialog.

Print

Allows customisation of the default print options; and setting of the capture resolution.

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 General Concepts

Document Window
The document window has two tabs, a [Model] tab which shows the model viewport in which the 3D
structure model is displayed; and a [Report] tab which shows the output of the analysis report. These
tabs are visible at the bottom of the Frame document window.

Model and Report Tabs

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 General Concepts

Moving around the viewer

The current view of the model (camera direction and location) can be changed by panning, rotating,
zooming, or changing the view position.

Show Ribbon Bar

Pan

Pan by holding down the Control key and the left mouse button while moving the mouse (or use the
[Pan] button in the [Show] ribbon bar).

Zoom

Zoom in and out by using the Mouse wheel. If the zoom is not operating, ensure the viewport is
active by clicking the mouse at an empty position of the model viewport.

Rotation

Change the view angle by holding down the Shift and Control keys together while moving the mouse
pointer with the left mouse button (or use the [Rotate] button in the [Show] ribbon bar)

As you rotate the view, the nearest viewpoint is displayed in the [Show] ribbon bar ie. front, back etc.
Press the button to view orthogonally from that direction.

Extents

To show the complete model in the direction you are currently viewing, press the [Extents] button on
the [Show] ribbon bar or use the shortcut key of Ctrl + e.

Defined Views

Using the drop-down, predefined views can be selected ie. left, right, bottom, top, back and front.

Pressing the button will change to the direction named on the button, and zoom to show the full
model extents.

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 General Concepts

As you rotate the view, the nearest viewpoint is displayed in the toolbar i.e. front, back, etc. Press the
button to view orthogonally from that direction.

Shortcuts Side
Ctrl + Numpad 5 Front
Ctrl + Numpad 0 Back
Ctrl + Left Arrow Left
Ctrl + Right Arrow Right
Ctrl + Down Arrow Bottom
Ctrl + Up Arrow Top

Using the [Perspective] menu button, the viewport can be toggled to view in perspective or isometric
viewing modes.

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 General Concepts

Snap Function
Using snap will restrict the mouse movements to a predefined grid.

The snap function is located in the [Show] ribbon bar, and also on the [Show] palette. The [Snap]
button highlights when active. Click on the [Snap] button to turn the function on/off.

Double clicking on the [Snap] button shows a dialog which allows changing of the snap interval. This
can also be edited on the [Show] palette.

The default Snap is 0.100m.

Snapping to 0.10m increments (member draw)

Scales
A default scale is calculated for loads and result diagrams; however, there will be occasions where
the scale will need changing to make diagrams fit appropriately.

Press the [Scales] button on the [Show] ribbon bar to show the Scales dialog. Each diagram can be
individually scaled to suit.

Note that for displacement diagrams, only translations are scaled. Rotational displacement is fixed at
a scale of one.

Viewing Geometry and Load Objects

Nodes, members, restraints, local member axis, section shape, and loads are all visual objects and
can be seen within the model viewport.

Using the [Viewer] palette on the [Project Tree] dock, various model attributes can be turned off and
on.

The currently displayed loads forming a primary load case are controlled by the drop-down on the
[Loads] ribbon bar.

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 General Concepts

Load display selection

The visibility of primary load cases load are controlled by using the drop-down on the [Loads] ribbon
bar.

Grouping Geometry Objects

Geometry objects can be assigned to a group for display filtering.

Select the objects for the group and use the right mouse-button to show the context-menu, and add
using the right click-context menu, and select [Add] from Selection under the Group item, or use the
Group management button on the [Viewer] palette.

Groups can be managed by pressing the [Group] button on the [Show] ribbon tab.

Grouped Items

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 General Concepts

Selections
Nodes, members, restraints and loads can be selected using the mouse select operation, or
unselected by holding down the Shift key during the select operation.

Clicking on an object with the mouse pointer in the model viewport will select it. Selected items are
highlighted.

To unselect an item, hold down the Shift key while clicking on the object with the mouse pointer.

Multiple items can be selected at the same time (or unselected with the Shift key held down) using a
crossing window by first picking the lower right, then upper left corner. The highlighting window will
be dashed with light blue fill. Any objects within, or crossing the window will be selected.

Crossing Window Selection

Multiple items can also be selected at the same time (or unselected with the Shift key held down)
using an enclosed window by first picking the upper left, then lower right corner. The highlighting
window will be solid with light red fill. Only objects within the window will be selected.

Enclosed Window Selection

Editing operations for the selection can be accessed by using the right mouse-button to show the
context-menu.

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 General Concepts

The objects that are able to be selected may be limited by the currently active editor. For example,
when using the restraint editor, you can select only restraints or nodes.

Shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts can be used for various operations such as toggling visibility of results diagrams,
showing the model extents, or analysing.

Shortcuts Side
F6 Moment Z
Shift + F6 Moment Y
F7 Shear Y
Shift + F7 Shear Z
F8 Axial X
Shift + F8 Torsion X
F9 Deflection
Shift+F9 3D deflections
Ctrl + e Extents
F5 Analyse

For a full list, press the [Shortcuts] button on the [Settings] ribbon bar

Command Line
A command line window is available at the bottom of the Document Window.

Type

From the command line it is possible to access a number of unique operations including:

• named objects (shows as a dashed line, press the ESC key to remove find lines)
• ie. query
• T
• Clamps, Global Stiffness Matrices [Kg] and Force
vector {Fg}

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 General Concepts

Color mode
Three diagram colour modes are available:

• By Load Case The colour of each load case is different (but the same for each diagram
type)
• By Type The colour of each diagram type is different (but the same for each load
case)
• Black & White Black & White (Optimised for printing

By Load Case Mode

By Type Mode

Black and White Mode

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 General Concepts

Object Information
Basic information on nodes, members and restraints can be obtained by hovering over them in the
model viewport while holding down the <Shift> key.

Screenshot 14 Node Query

Screenshot 15 - Member Query

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 Analysis Ribbon and Palette

Analysis Ribbon

Ribbon Menus
All the functionality for creating and analysing a frame is located on the [Analysis] ribbon tab including
the [Geometry], [Loads], [Analysis], [Results], [Show] and [Settings] ribbon bars.

The [Document] ribbon tab is used to access the [Print] and [Preview] functions.

Screenshot 2 - Analysis Ribbon Tab

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 Quick Start

Tool Palettes
A number of Tool Palettes associated with the analysis are shown on the [Project Tree] dock on the
left side of the window by default.

Screenshot 3 Viewer and Object palettes

The [Viewer] palette controls visibility of elements relating to the geometry and loads, and results
diagrams once a successful analysis has been completed.

The [Object] palette shows properties associated with the selected entity which may be a node,
restraint, member or load.

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 Quick Start

Screenshot 4 Section and Console palettes

The [Section] palette displays the section associated with the selected object. This will not be visible
if a member with assigned section is not selected.

The [Console] palette displays the analysis process as well as results when querying at specific
locations.

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 Analysis Examples

Analysis Examples

Accessing the Examples

A variety of examples have been prepared to demonstrate aspects of the Analysis by Structural
Toolkit capabilities and show various instabilities that may occur.

Examples Menu

Examples

To access the analysis examples, press the drop-down button below the [Analysis] button on the
[Document] ribbon tab.

Once the selected example is opened, press the [Linear] button to analyse the structure using first-
order linear analysis, or use the drop-down button below the [Linear] button to access second-order
analysis methods.

If the analysis is successful, select the [Results] palette on the [Project Tree] dock to access the
results diagram buttons or use the shortcut key combinations.

Examples
Loads:
• Point Loads Point loads on nodes and members, use of control points
• Uniform Loads Distributed loads on nodes and members, use of control points
• Torsion Loads Torsional loads on nodes and members
• Node Local Member PL Variables and application of node load via local member point
(Chang
• All Loads Shows how various point loads in 6 dof are illustrated

Simple:
• Loadcases Beam with load cases including gravity
• Problem 7.17 Coates Continuous beam Problem 7.17 from reference 1
• 3 Bay Truss Symmetrical truss example 2 including member releases
• 4 Bay Truss Symmetrical truss example 3 including member releases
• Tension Only Truss Non-symmetrical loaded truss using tension only members
• Compr. Only (Restraint) Using a compression only member to simulate inability of a
restraint to provide hold-down

Other:
• Temperature Change Effect of temperature increase in a single member in members
• Constrained (Hung) A master-slave hanger
• Constrained (Transfer) A master-slave load/displacement transfer on a cantilever

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 Analysis Examples

Member Releases:
• Simple Releases Member release on different sides of a node
• Unusual Releases 1 Vertical slider release on different sides of a node (PL)
• Unusual Releases 2 Vertical slider release on different sides of a node (UDL)
• Continuous Hinged continuous 2D beams
• Frame Frame with a hinged first floor beam in various configurations

Frames: Advanced frames (and variables)

• 2D portal (Variables) Frame and loads defining using changeable variables
• 2D Brace Frame Domestic style 4 node brace portal
• 3D Cantilevers 3D results
• 3D Tower 3D replicated tower
• 3D Road Sign Road-sign style torsional frame
• 3D 7.14 - Coates Showing member release problems
• Out-of-Plane Frames Shows a frame not in the x-y plane with associated rotated
support orientation. Also demonstrated changing alpha for
second-order
• Ground Slab A bed of springs with applied point load

Supports
• Spring Support Showing a restraint that deflects proportional to loading
• Settled Support Result of prescribing a support displacement
• Inclined roller Frame with angled supports
• Rotated Beam Compares 2 rotated bars
• 2D 90° rotation Using a support rotated 90 degrees

2nd Order Examples

• Cantilever (large displ.) A very slender large displacement problem (p-delta)
• Restrained Beam Applying a point load to a simple beam that the supports are
restrained from sliding
• P-Delta Vertical cantilever with a tip compression and out-of-plane load
• Cantilever 2 (Local PL) Effect of global versus local loads for second-order
• Sway Frame Two-storey sway frame
• 2nd 4.2.1-Spillers Text book example showing difference in methods Reference 7

The example Frame can be modified, however, needs to be closed and re-opened to allow analysis.

If you have the Standard Version all the examples will be able to be re-analysed after closing and re-
opening (providing the modified geometry allows this).

The Lite Version restrictions apply after the structure has been re-opened and second-order as well as
some other more advanced features are restricted.

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 Creating a New Model

Creating a New Model

A New Document
To create a new Frame document, press the [Analysis] button on the [Document] ribbon tab.

A dialog box will appear allowing selection of a preset arrangement or primary and combination load
cases. Whether this feature is shown when starting a new frame is controlled in the Analysis Options.

Loadcase setup

Choose None if you are going to create customised cases and combinations.

Creating Nodes and Members

Nodes and members can be created several ways:

• By selecting [By Typing] using the drop-down under [Nodes] and generating members.
• By selecting [Draw Member] using the drop-down under [Members] (press a key to bring up
the input dialog similar to the above).
• By defining nodes in the node editor then drawing between them using the drop-down under
[Members].
• By copying or mirroring existing nodes and members.

Some examples of use of the input dialog in the first two methods are:

• 4 Create a node at x=4 with the y and z = 0.

• @5 Create a node 5m along the positive x relative to the last point created.
• @1, 2 Create a node 1m to the right and 2m above the last point created.

You can turn of the automatic member generation on or off while using the By Typing mode
unchecking the Generate Member item.

The section assigned to the created members is the current section. To set the current section,
select the section in the section editor before creating nodes and members. Alternatively see
Assigning a Section to a Member.

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While drawing members in the Member Draw mode, snap marks appear as the mouse moves over
members and nodes enabling joining of members and insertion of new nodes into members.

Creating Custom Restraints

To create a custom restraint, press the [Restraints] button on the [Geometry] ribbon bar to access the
restraint editor.

General Concepts section.

A single restraint type can be assigned to multiple nodes. By redefining a restraint, all the nodes that
use this restraint will automatically be updated.

Assigning Restraints to Nodes

Restraints can be assigned to nodes several ways:

• Select a node in the model viewport and use the right mouse-button to show the context-
menu, and select a restraint type under the Assign Restraint under the Node Selection item.
• Press the [Restraints] to access the restraint editor, select the desired restraint from the drop-
down. Select the nodes from the model viewport and press [Assign].
• Double click on the node to access the node editor, and use the restraint drop-down.

•
• Screenshot 18 Assigning restraints

To clear a node restraint, select the nodes and use the right mouse-button to show the context-menu,
and select Clear Restraint under the Node Selection item.

Creating Materials
Press the [Materials] button on the [Geometry] ribbon bar to access the material editor.

General Concepts section.

A number of predefined materials are available including steel, various timber grades and various
concrete strengths.

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A material is assigned to a section using the section editor. Alternatively use the material editor and
select the material from the drop-down. Select members from the model viewport and press
[Assign].

As the material is assigned to the section (and not the member), all sections used in the model will
now have the new material assigned. If you want to use the same section with two different
materials, then you need to define two different sections and assign them separately to the
members.

Creating Sections
Press the [Sections] button on the [Geometry] ribbon bar to access the section editor.

General Concepts section.

Sections properties can be entered using values, shapes or using the library associated with the
material.

Assigning a Section to Members

A section is assigned to a member using the member editor. Alternatively use the section editor and
select the section from the drop-down. Select members from the model viewport and press [Assign].

Defining Primary Load Cases

A load case must be created before creating loads.

Press the [Cases:] button on the [Loads] ribbon bar to access the load case editor.

General Concepts section.

Enter the load type ie. Dead Load, Self-weight Only, Live load, Wind.

By defining the load type, the default load combination factors will automatically be added in the
factors drop-down in the load case combination editor.

Gravity can be applied to individual cases and is defined as a constant for the entire
analysis model.

Defining Load Case Combinations

Combinations enable factoring of defined load cases.

Press the [Comb:] button on the [Loads] ribbon bar to access the combination load case editor.

General Concepts section.

Select the load case in the available load cases in the left panel, and choose the multiplication factor.
Add it to the current combination by pressing the or double clicking the selected load case in the
left panel.

Items can be removed or re-arranged using the arrow buttons.

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Defining Loads
Node and member loads can be created after the load case has been defined.

Press the [Loads] button on the [Loads] ribbon bar to access the load editor.

Load definitions are defined by inputting forces and moments in the 6 degrees of freedom using the
Global Axis convention. General Concepts section to create
new load definitions.

Once the Load has been defined, it can be applied to nodes and members to create the node or
member load.

In the Load application section, select in the loads drop-down and select the load type:

• Node Point Load Node PL

• Member Point Load Member PL
• Member Distributed Load Member UDL
• Member Partial Distributed Load Member PUDL
• Member Variable Distributed Load Member VUDL

Select the load case the load is to be added to, and select the load definition.

For Member loads, a start and end load may be necessary along with a start and end position on the
member (for variable and partial distributed loads).

If applying a node load, select the node from the node drop-down. Alternatively, select nodes from
the model viewport, then press the [Assign].

If applying a member load, select the member from the member drop-down. Alternatively, select
members from the model viewport, then press [Assign].

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 Modifying a Structure

Modifying a Structure

Modifying Nodes
Nodes can be modified several ways:

• Double clicking on a node to access the node editor.

• Press the [Node] button in the [Geometry] ribbon bar to access the node editor, then select
the appropriate node from the drop-down.
• Select a node, and use the right mouse-button to show the context-menu, and select Drag
Node (an input dialog can be brought up by pressing a key while dragging)

Restraints can be assigned or changed using the Node Editor or context-menu.

Modifying Members
Members can be modified several ways:

• Double clicking on a member to access the member editor.

• Press the [Member] button in the [Geometry] ribbon bar to access the member editor, then
select the appropriate member from the drop-down.
• Select a member near to an end and use the right mouse-button to show the context-menu,
and select Drag Member.

Splitting Members
Select the member or members to split and use the right mouse-button to show the context-menu,
and select Split under the Member Selection item.

A dialog will show with the options for splitting a member.

Joining Members
To join two or more members they must be connected by common nodes and be in a straight line.

Select the members to join and use the right mouse-button to show the context-menu, and select
Join under the Member Selection item.

Swapping Member Ends

To reverse the member ends, select the member or members and use the right mouse-button to
show the context-menu, and select Swap Member Ends under the Member Selection item.

Moving, Copying, Rotating and Mirroring Members (and Nodes)

Select the nodes and members to be moved, copies, rotated or mirrored and use the right mouse-
button to show the context-menu, and select the appropriate function under the Member Selection
item.

A dialog will appear with appropriate options particular to the function being used.

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Modifying Loads
Loads can be modified several ways:

• Double clicking on a load to access the load editor.

• Press the [Loads] button in the [Loads] ribbon bar to access the load editor, then select the
appropriate load definition from the drop-down (upper section).

Both the load definition and the node or member load can be edited using the load editor.

Modifying Materials, Sections and Variables

To edit materials, sections and variables use the appropriate button on the ribbon bar to access the
editor.

Values are updated immediately after the cursor leaves the input cell.

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 Analysis

Analysis
Analysis by Structural Toolkit can analyse using First-Order Linear and a variety of Second-Order
Geometrically non-linear methods.

If there is any error in the geometry of the structure, the [Analyse] button will be red and the tooltip
will explain the problem.

First-Order Linear Analysis

Press the [Linear] button on the [Analysis] ribbon bar to analyse the structure using First-Order Linear
Analysis. Alternatively use the F5 key shortcut.

Equilibrium of the un-deformed geometry is performed to verify the analysis results.

Equilibrium of the deformed geometry is also performed to determine if there may be a requirement
to undertake a second-order analysis based on P-Δ (or joint displacement).

After the analysis iteration, members are checked for a valid axial loading condition (for compression-
only and tension-only members) and removed as required, followed by repeating the analysis cycle.

During analysis, member deflections are reviewed and if they exceed a customisable limit (refer to
Analysis Options > Analysis), a warning is provided to consider the insertion of additional nodes to
model the P-δ affect (or out-of-straightness).

Control excessive member deflection messages in the Analysis Options > Analysis

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 Analysis

Second-Order Geometrically Non-Linear Analysis

Press the drop-down arrow below the [Linear] button on the [Analysis] ribbon bar to access the
Second-Order analysis methods. Alternatively use the Shift + F5 key shortcut for the Direct Iterative
Method.

The following methods are available (see Analysis of Structures):

• Direct Iterative
• Pure Incremental
• Pure Incremental-Iterative
• Geometric Stiffness

The user should be familiar with each of these techniques before using them.

For most structures with relatively small deflections compared with the structures geometry, the
Direct Iterative approach produces acceptable results providing suitable nodes are provided to model
any member curvature from loading.

During analysis, member deflections are reviewed and if they exceed a customisable limit (refer to
Analysis Options > Analysis), a warning is provided to consider the insertion of additional nodes to
model the P-δ affect (or out-of-straightness).

Following a successful analysis, the Iteration drop-down will allow selection of the First-Order result,
intermediate iterations, or the final second-order result.

Convergence may not necessarily occur for some structures under Direct Iterative Method.

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 Viewing Results

Viewing Results

Results Diagrams
Diagrams for each degree of freedom are available for each analysed load case:

• Bending moment diagrams (Member major Mz, and member minor My)
• Shear force diagram (Member in-plane Vy, member out-of-plane Vz)
• Torsion diagram (Mx a curved moment diagram)
• Axial diagram (Vx compression is solid line and tension dashed)

By default, the results graphs are generated using a pre-defined number of intermediate points (10 by
default). Additional points for locations of maximums and zero values, and locations of loading
locations are added.

If significant torsional rotation occurs within a member, providing additional intermediate points will
increase the resolution of the 3D diagram. Individual members can be assigned different default
intermediate points also using the context menu.

The number of points can be changed in the Analysis Options > Analysis > Default
Segments

Also shown for each analysed load case are:

• Support reactions (on nodes that have applied restraints)

• Deflections
• 3D Deflections (which show the approximate stress as a color gradient)

Keyboard shortcuts can be used to quickly toggle these diagrams (see Shortcuts)

Additional keyboard shortcuts for the display of the support reactions if defined by a rotated support
are:

Shortcuts View
Ctrl-G Reactions displayed in global coordinate system
Ctrl-L Reactions displayed in local coordinate system

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 Viewing Results

Viewing results Load Cases and Combinations

The currently displayed results for a primary or combination load cases (and created envelopes) are
controlled by using the drop-down on the [Results] ribbon bar. Results envelopes can be created
from within the results drop-down.

Results display selection

Check the result or results that are to be shown.

If a second-order analysis was performed, the iteration may also be selected.

Screenshot 20 Iteration display

After selecting multiple load cases, an envelope can be created with an upper and lower envelope.

Querying a Node or Intermediate Member Result

Have the case visible.

Hover over the node while holding down the Shift key to query the deflection and support reactions (if
restrained).

Hover over the member while holding down the Shift key to query the moments, forces and
deflections at that location.

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 Screenshot 20 Screen Results
.
The forces and deflections are shown for the currently selected result load cases on the [Console]
palette in the [Project Tree] dock.

Alternatively, select the member, and use the right mouse-button click to show the context menu,
then select [ ] under the Member Selection item. Enter the location or locations on the
member the results are to be obtained.

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 Printing Diagrams and Reports

Printing Diagrams and Reports

Printing and Previewing a Diagram

To print or preview a diagram, the model viewport needs to be visible. Select the [Model] tab at the
bottom of the Document Window.

Preview Settings Options

Have the diagram (or diagrams) visible in the model viewport, and turn on, or off, any visual objects
such as section shapes, or member local axes.

When printing diagrams, several options are provided to customise the content such as whether grids
and the axis symbol are visible.

Preview the diagram using the [Preview] button on the [Document] ribbon tab and then press the
[Print] button to print.

Alternatively, use the [Quick Print] button on the menu bar, the [Print] button on the [Document]
ribbon tab, or [Print] from the Backstage area accessed using the [File] menu button.

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 Printing Diagrams and Reports

Capturing a Diagram
A screen image of the currently displayed model viewport can be saved to the clipboard or as a
bitmap image to disk by pressing the [Capture] button on the [Results] ribbon tab.

Capture can be used to quickly integrate results into a document such as Word by pasting directly
from the clipboard after the Capture.

Model and Report tabs

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 Printing Diagrams and Reports

Generating an Analysis Report

An analysis report can be generated by pressing the [Report] button on the [Results] ribbon bar. If a
report has not been generated for the current analysis geometry, the report will also be generated by
selecting the [Report] tab at the bottom of the Document Window.

Model and Report tabs

A number of options are available to control the contents of the report.

Report options

To return to the analysis editor, select the the [Model] tab

Geometry Options

The geometry section controls which geometry items are shown in the report.

You can limit the report to specific objects using the filter input boxes. For example if you only want
to show nodes N1 and N2 in the report, N1, N2 odes filter.

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 Printing Diagrams and Reports

Results Options

The results section controls inclusion of intermediate results points, errors and corrections as well as
the analysis log.

The content of the log can be changed to be more detailed in the Analysis Options.

By selecting the Ends, Control Points and Maximums, the report can show only the intermediate
values that are maximums or minimums, rather than at each predefined segment location.

Options

The options provide control over the rotation units (radians or degrees), hiding of 3D values and
removal of unused items. (ie. Sections and materials that are not required to analyse the current
geometry)

Load cases to Show

To include or exclude any load cases, select (or unselect) the case in the checked list box.

Primary and combination load cases may be printed.

Envelopes for each of the degrees of freedom do not produce a report.

Printing and Previewing an Analysis Report

To print or preview a report, the report needs to be generated and visible. Select the [Report] tab at
the bottom of the Document Window.

The generated report consist of sections. Each section can be viewed by selecting the tab.

Preview the report using the [Preview] button on the [Document] ribbon tab and then press the [Print]
button to print. When previewing and printing, the sections of the report are combined into a single
document.

Alternatively, use the [Quick Print] button on the menu bar, the [Print] button on the [Document]
ribbon tab, or [Print] from the Backstage area accessed using the [File] menu button.

To print to a different printer, or select a range of pages, use the drop-down button on the right side
of the main [Print] button.

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 Printing Diagrams and Reports

To reduce the number of pages generated by the report, choose the Double option and the report
pages are doubled up ie. two columns per page.

Just be careful as the fonts get very small.

Report double up

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Printing Diagrams and Reports

Report with sections

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 Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: After I have analysed the frame, I can see the Bending Moment and Shear Force diagrams but my
loads have disappeared?

A: Loads are turned off after an analysis so results diagrams are easier to see. You can show loads
and results at the same time by using the drop down next to [Cases:] button on the [Loads] ribbon
bar. Select the cases you want to make visible.

Q: The Snap is set to 0.1m. How can I change this setting to 1.0m?

A: The Snap value can be changed by either double clicking on the [Snap] button (a dialog will appear
allowing you to set the desired); or using the [Show] palette accessible on the [Project Tree] dock and
using the input box.

Q: I cannot query a result on a member, or query at a position on the member when using the Control
Key and mouse pointer?

A: Firstly, make sure the frame has been analysed and a result is available. If results are available the
results drop-down will have selectable load cases. Also check that the Snap is not active (highlighted)
which may be limiting the points at which you can query the result.

Q: I am having trouble saving my Analysis document?

A: After starting a new project, whether using the Member design features or Analysis features, you
should begin by saving the project to set where the project files are saved. On the [Project] ribbon
tab, press the [Save] button to show the save dialog and follow the instructions. If the instructions do
not appear, set the Options > Interface > Show project save help. The files are temporarily located in
the User s Documents folder under the Structural Toolkit sub folder until you have saved the project.
You can right mouse-button click in a blank part of the [Project Tree] and select Open Folder to show
the contents.

Q: I can only analyse up to 4 nodes but when using the examples I can analyse more than 4 nodes?

A: The Lite Version is restricted to 4 nodes and 2 dimensions. Additional nodes, 3D structures and
more advanced features are available in the Standard Version including second-order analysis.
Contact us at support@[Link] or call on (03) 9878 4684 to upgrade your license.

Q: If I change an example the frame will not allow me to re-analyse?

A: To analyse a modified example, close the Analysis and then re-open it. Providing the features
required to analyse the frame are available you can then re-analyse the modified example.

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 Technical Support

Technical Support
Telephone and email technical support is provided as part of a current License Subscription.

Technical support enquiries regarding potential errors with design templates should be accompanied
by PDF output of examples that demonstrate the behavior along with sufficient hand calculations and
other documentation to be able to efficiently diagnose the issue.

The time required to answer each question may vary depending on the complexity of the issue,
however, Anthony Furr Software endeavors to respond to queries within 2 business days.

You may also be asked to send the System Information. Refer to the explanation on System
Information accessible on the [Help] tab in the Backstage.

Anthony Furr Software

ABN 74 992 513 430

97 Mt Pleasant Road
Nunawading, Victoria 3131

P 03 9878 4684
F 03 9878 4685

support@[Link]
[Link]

[End]

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Copyright © 2002-2020 Anthony Furr Software