Complex time stage simply delivered

Balanced cantilever bridges are no problem with the new FCM wizard.

Enter the pier, span and segment dimensions together with construction cycle times let LUSAS build the model and set up the entire construction sequence.

Loads for segments being cast or lifted are calculated and added one stage ahead of their installation.

Tendons and loss calculations

Defining tendons is simple with just 5 or 6 inputs to define a typical profile. 

Tendons loads are applied when their anchorage segments are installed automatically, with losses to a range of codes of practice.

Incorporate full time-dependent losses and deformations including creep and shrinkage.

Save time and enjoy the preview

Use smart tools to avoid repetitious data inputs. 

In-wizard previews allow you to check on the dimensions and stages before the model is built and solved. 

Preview tendon locations in cross-section, elevation and plan as you go.

Everything, everywhere, all at once

Highway and rail traffic loading effects for any results of interest: moments, shears, torsions, stresses.

One envelope covering all of your structure. No nodes to choose, no loadcases to solve, no comparisons to make. 

Combine the one envelope with dead loads and other loads for design effects everywhere.

Fast, thorough, transparent

Rationalised vehicle placement methods produce results faster.

Our unique algorithms check different lane arrangements that fit within the highway width.

Our tested and trusted technology places traffic loads for the most onerous effects.

View critical load patterns for checking purposes at a click.

Draw it like it is

Model reinforcement bar arrangements in 2D and 3D continuum models without the need to subdivide the feature geometry to follow the lines of reinforcement, greatly simplifying the modelling process.

Draw bars and cages in LUSAS with our advanced modelling tools, or import from Revit or other CAD software if that makes it easier. 

Cracking, crushing and creeping

Our industry-leading nonlinear concrete material model offers cracking and crushing along with creep and shrinkage to a range of codes of practice.

The new embedded bars make it easy to model an unusual component or reinforcement detail, and you can use nonlinear properties for these bars.

Put it together with other facilities in LUSAS, like soil models for interaction.

It's hot stuff

• Predict the internal heat generation as the concrete cures and identify temperature gradients with a hygro-thermal analysis.
• Couple that with a structural analysis to determine time- and age-dependent deformations and stresses.
• Include embedded bars to assess crack patterns and likely crack-widths.
  

Construction sequences

Model construction or dismantling, excavations, embankments, backfilling.

Add and remove supports or structural parts for retaining, tunnel or above ground structures.

Change material properties at any stage in the sequence, e.g.  increase back of wall friction after the completion of backfilling operations or change a joint from being pinned to being encastre.

Test multiple scenarios

Track time dependent effects of consolidation together with creep and shrinkage of concrete.

Compare alternative scenarios with multiple analyses and branches.

Check stability or dynamic performance of part-finished projects with branches at any stage.

Fine control where you need it

Reset deformations in any part of the model, while retaining stress history. Ensure parts are added exactly where they were drawn.

Use manual increments, automatic increments or load curves to cover any scenario.

Grillages and Frames

For grillage modelling, define grillage sections for shear key decks and multicellular sections.  These additions to the LUSAS facilities complete the set of bridge decks as described in Hambly’s definitive text and the Canadian code of practice.

Add wind loading to trusses and frames.  The windward area of beam members is determined automatically to calculate the line loading from an applied pressure and direction.

Use an “end fixity factor” to easily define partial fixity for beams.

Moving loads

Quickly generate a series of loadcases, modelling the movement of any notional vehicle load from a code of practice, or custom array of point and/or patch loads across a model.

Follow any arbitrary path with the vehicle orientated to path at each incremental distance.

Combine vertical, lateral and longitudinal loads to incorporate centrifugal and/or braking effects.

Pedestrian dynamics

Easily define excitations for a single pedestrian, groups of walkers or joggers, to suit international codes of practice.

Generate a transient analysis with the appropriate moving and varying loads.

Vertical, lateral and longitudinal excitations are included, with the relevant magnitudes, frequencies and phase shifts.

Use the flexible interface for excitations which don’t comply  with codified rules.

Rail track analysis

Many rail projects, not just High Speed Rail, require modelling of the interaction of the track components and the supporting bridge, to check that rail stresses arising from temperature and train loading are acceptable.

Use our Rail Track Analysis wizard to go beyond the simplified structural analogies of the codes. Build rail systems in the wizard and attach them to almost any structure inside LUSAS. 

Ballast and automation

New for Version 21, and for when rail stresses or displacements become excessive, ballast now can be modelled as offering reduced (or even zero) longitudinal resistance.

Modifying the model on the basis of results from an initial analysis is now automated, making your workflow slick and efficient.

LNG Tanks

Generate solid models of concrete tanks using the upgraded LNG Tank System. 

Incorporate the full 3D geometry (including buttresses) in a detailed thermo-mechanical coupled analyses.   

Model double steel tanks (on a concrete base slab), with a construction analysis for the installation of panels.  Include wall stiffeners and the domed roof with polar and radial beams