The definition of boundary conditions is one of the most difficult tasks for modeling in any software. IDEA StatiCa Member works with part of your structure which is “cut-off” from your global 3D FEA model. Therefore, program lets the definition of boundary conditions on a judgement of a structural engineer.
In IDEA StatiCa Member you can define boundary conditions at the ends of related members. Application offers to input:
a) Supports – definition of supports should correspond to your 3D FEA model
b) End forces on related members – correspond to internal forces calculated in the standard 3D FEA program
• it is not possible to input only End forces on related members without using supports. A more precise model (e.g. local eccentricities of members, real lengths of members are taken into account ) is used. Thus the imposed imperfections for the GMNIA analysis cause that the equilibrium is not preseved and mechanism may therefore be defined.
• Reasonable supporting based on structural engineer judgement is recommended.
c) Supports + End forces on related members – minimal reasonable supporting based on structural engineer judgement + add internal forces from your 3D FEA program.
