Frequently Asked Questions:

Page 1 / 2 / 3 / Examples / Computer Errors    Why Sta4CAD gives unexpected results? You can download the Sta4CAD data input & modelling reccomendations from here.

Does Sta4CAD applies 3D analysis? STA4-CAD runs 3D static and modal analysis. Every joint has 6 DOF in 3D space. The hexagon example examined below requires a 3D analysis and can not be solved with frame approach. Also the modal analysis is runned in 3D space, the twisting mods are calculated. Buildings higher than 5 storey must be analysed with a 3D analysis because the axial deformations of the columns can not be neglected on these systems.

Sta4CAD also performs 3D analysis on mat foundation and FEA analysis modules, to see the verification tests, click here.

When must be use polygonal columns instead of panel members in STA4-CAD? If the contour of a polygonal column is smaller than 5m, it is better to use polygonal columns in order to obtain more accure results because these elements are modelled as frame element in static analysis. But if the member is longer than 5m in story plan, the frame approach wont be sufficient, the member must be modelled as panel members in order to use shell elements in static analysis.

In wich axis must the beams be defined? In STA4-CAD, the axes defined by the user is only geometrical axes, the program searchs and finds the static axes atomatically. The results wont change if the definition of geometrical exes changed.

Why does the beam load changes after the analysis? Sta4CAD applies load filiter to avoid adding the same load twice. The loads on the slabs are excluded from the loads o beams automatically. This option can be disabled from the options menu.

Can the shear walls be entered as a single column element is Sta4CAD? If the plan length of the wall is smaller than the two times of the story width, it can be entered with a single column element. But if the shear wall sits on a basement system, you must continue with panel members for continuity. Also when using panel members, divide the members into finite elemets from the connection points of other members.

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