SAP2000
and ETABS now give users the option to use the ANSI/AISC Direct
Analysis Method in addition to the Effective Length Method. This
new capability is practical and user friendly because SAP2000 and
ETABS allow many of the complex requirements of the Direct Analysis
Method to be automated, such as:
•
Second-Order Effects
SAP2000 and ETABS automatically include the structure and element
nonlinear second-order P-Delta and P-d effects that are required
by the Direct Analysis Method.
• Reduced Member Stiffness
The user can specify all tao-b values to be fixed or variable.
The program will then automatically calculate pertinent tao-b
values and apply appropriate element stiffness reductions to account
for inelastic and residual stress effects.
•
Notional Load Combinations
Notional Loads are now included as part of the Direct Analysis
Method to account for inelasticity and geometric imperfections
such as the out-of-plumb effects on a structure. All Notional
Loads and associated vertical and lateral loading combinations
can be automatically generated.
The
Direct Analysis Method generally produces results that are closer
to the true values when compared to the Effective Length Method.
Also, the Direct Analysis Method is seen by many as a better and
more accurate way to model frame stability effects and, as a result,
eliminates the need to calculate the effective buckling length factors
used for compression members.
For
a schedule of free web demos on SAP2000 and ETABS, click
here.
For
ordering information, contact the CSI Sales Department at sales@csiberkeley.com
or (510) 649-2201
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