Advance Design What Is New 2023 en

What's New in Design Modules of Advance Design 2022
WHAT’S NEW
IN
2023
INCLUDING DESIGN MODULES
1
What's New in Advance Design 2023
Table of contents
WELCOME TO ADVANCE DESIGN 2023................................................................................ 4

1. CALCULATION CAPABILITIES .......................................................................................... 6
1.1 Performance .............................................................................................................................6
1.2 Construction stages................................................................................................................ 8
1.3 Advanced supports ............................................................................................................... 16
1.4 Tension/Compression only linear releases ........................................................................ 22
2. MODELLING LOADS ................................................................................................... 27
2.1 Possibility to generate wind on free-standing walls (EN 1991-1-4) ................................27
2.2 Improvements to Crane loads ............................................................................................ 32
2.3 Wind on canopy roofs for Poland .......................................................................................37
3. STEEL STRUCTURES .................................................................................................. 39
3.1 Parametric Cold-Formed sections .................................................................................... 39
3.2 Partial safety factors for steel design available to edit.................................................. 44
3.3 Possibility for performing deflection checks with the second-order displacements .. 45
3.4 Extension of the scope of analysis for cold-formed sections ........................................ 46
3.5 Synchronization of rotational stiffness calculated by Steel Connection module ........ 48
4. TIMBER STRUCTURES ................................................................................................. 52
4.1 Timber design verification for North American codes ..................................................... 52
4.2 Updated libraries of materials and cross-sections......................................................... 53
5. MASONRY STRUCTURES ............................................................................................. 56
5.1 Modelling Masonry Walls ..................................................................................................... 56
5.2 Design of masonry walls ..................................................................................................... 59
6. MISCELLANEOUS ...................................................................................................... 69
6.1 Tables with results ............................................................................................................... 69
6.2 Spain and Portugal localization ..........................................................................................72
6.3 Import of models from Tricalc............................................................................................ 74
6.4 Other small improvements and corrections ......................................................................75
7. DESIGN MODULES - GENERAL ....................................................................................... 80
7.1 Applying the same bar mark for identical bars ................................................................. 80
7.2 Possibility to adjust the info-panel height ......................................................................... 81
7.3 Drawings: Permanent annotations on drawings .............................................................. 82
7.4 Drawings: New default title block templates for Germany ............................................. 82
7.5 Drawings: New tags to be used for preparing user title blocks ...................................... 83
7.6 Other improvements ........................................................................................................... 84
1
8. RC BEAM MODULE..................................................................................................... 89
8.1 Update of peak deflection calculations for France following FD P18-717 ..................... 89
8.2 Concrete volume measured on clear spans ...................................................................... 96
8.3 Separate anchorage methods for top and bottom bars ................................................. 96
8.4 Ability to define concrete cover per span ........................................................................ 97
8.5 Minimum length for bottom longitudinal bars ................................................................... 98
8.6 New options for spacing of the vertical reinforcement on openings ............................. 99
8.7 Option for centering top reinforcement at supports ...................................................... 100
8.8 Possibility to ignore maximum diameters ........................................................................ 102
8.9 Import of eccentricities for supports ............................................................................... 102
8.10 Drawings: Possibility to show marks of longitudinal bars on sections ........................ 103
8.11 Online help .......................................................................................................................... 104
9. RC COLUMN MODULE ............................................................................................... 105
9.1 New reinforcement scenario - user imposed several bars ............................................. 105
9.2 Drawings: Break lines ......................................................................................................... 106
9.3 Drawings: Improvements to bottom starting bars on drawings ................................... 106
10. RC FOOTING MODULE .............................................................................................. 107
10.1 Shear check for linear footings......................................................................................... 107
10.2 Selectable type of analysis for the soil layer for the substitute foundation method for
bearing ....................................................................................................................................... 108
10.3 Drawings: Option to switch between real or symbolic rebar distribution .................. 108
10.4 New templates for France ............................................................................................... 109
10.5 Improvements to defining reinforcement spacing ........................................................ 109
10.6 Possibility to set number of iterations for geometry optimization ............................... 110
10.7 Improvement to the import of loads from MELODY Bâtiment ........................................ 111
11. RC WALL MODULE.................................................................................................... 112
11.1 Possibility to copy reinforcement data from one wall in a group to another ................ 112
11.2 Easier setting of geometrical parameters for a group ................................................... 113
11.3 Additional symbol to the vertical bars package name ................................................... 113
11.4 Possibility to impose diameter and spacing for vertical and horizontal bars .............. 114
11.5 Possibility to generate U bars at the same spacing as horizontal bars ........................ 115
11.6 Updated project template for France .............................................................................. 116
12. RC SLAB MODULE .................................................................................................... 117
12. 1 Variable-length bar distribution generated as a single system.................................... 117
12.2 Small improvements to the Reinforcement settings dialog........................................... 118
12.3 New settings for the location of the automatic split of bars......................................... 118
12.4 New default fabrics list for Germany ............................................................................... 121
2
13. STEEL CONNECTION MODULE .................................................................................... 122

13.1 Preloaded bolts .................................................................................................................. 122
13.2 Improvements to drawings .............................................................................................. 123
13.3 Verification of the backing plates dimensions............................................................... 125
13.4 New Codes – Spain and Portugal.................................................................................... 126
3
Welcome to Advance Design 2023
GRAITEC is pleased to present the latest version of the leading structural analysis software – Advance
Design 2023, part of the Graitec Advance suite.
GRAITEC has continuously strived to provide first-rate advancements for innovative software
solutions to its valued customers, and the recent launch of its new and upgraded product range for
2023 is no exception, proving they are still top of their game in terms of providing top-level
Construction, AEC and Building Design software solutions worldwide.
This version 2023 of Advance Design is enhanced with a lot of users-centric new functionalities with
high end benefits, and is articulated around few main subjects:
• Performance – a significant reduction of the time required for calculations

• Construction stages - new mechanism for the definition, management and calculation of
structures using stages
• Advanced non-linear supports - new possibilities for defining nonlinear relationships for
supports
• Masonry structures - possibility to model and verify masonry walls (acc. EN 1996) using a new
Masonry Wall design module
• Wind on free-standing walls - possibility to generate wind on free-standing walls acc. EN
1991-1-4
• Result tables - fast and easy checking FEM results with Results Tables
• Localization for Spain and Portugal - an adaptation of Advance Design for the Spanish and
Portuguese market, including the introduction of new national annexes for the Eurocodes and
new working languages for both countries
• Improvements to New possibilities and improvements for reinforced concrete design.
Version 2023 of Advance Design also comes with a vast number of improvements and adjustments
following the feedback received from thousands of users worldwide. Particularly a lot of new features
4
have been introduced to RC design modules, which have gained dozens of distinct types of
improvements.
See below a list of new and improved features with descriptions.
5
1. Calculation capabilities
The latest version 2023 of Advance Design brings a great number of changes and enhancements to its
computational capabilities, from a significant speed increase to the ability to perform staged analysis,
to new advanced nonlinear supports and linear releases.
Summary of key features & benefits:
1. Increased computing speed

• Faster static calculations
• Faster steel design
• Smaller size of projects
2. New mechanism for the definition, management, and calculation of structures using stages
3. Advanced non-linear supports

• Defining supports having different specificity in each direction
• Defining gap or hardening supports
• Defining supports with user-defined non-linear characteristic
4. Possibility for defining non-linear (tension/compression only) edge releases
1.1 Performance
To save the most precious resource - time, the latest version of Advance Design introduced several
changes that result in a significant reduction of the time required for calculations. Three areas have
been changed:
• Improvement of the calculation solver and program architecture
These changes consisted in the optimization of operations, thanks to which the speed of the FEM
calculations has been increased.
• Changed the way results for combinations are calculated
Previously, the results for each linear combination for each node were determined and saved to a file
during the calculation. Now the results are calculated while displaying the results, which has
dramatically reduced the size of the project on disk as well as significantly reduced the computation
time. At the same time, the increase in the generation time for graphical results is unnoticeable.
• Optimization of verification procedures for steel elements
These changes concern the design procedures for steel members according to Eurocode 3, but they
also apply to a certain extent to other standards and the verification of timber members, resulting in a
significant reduction in design time.
The cumulative effect of these changes is presented below in a table and five examples.
6
➢ 1.1.1 The average increase in performance

The table below shows the values for the decrease in the required time and the decrease in size of the
project file compared to the previous version of the program. The table contains averaged values for
ten different examples.
Decrease (version 2023 vs 2022.1)

Finite element calculation time 60 % 2.5 x faster
Steel design (EC3) time 70 % 3.0 x faster
Project size 85 % 6.5 x smaller
NOTE: The above values are averaged and may vary depending on the number and type of elements,
the number of load combinations and the type of analyses performed. The biggest differences are
visible for large structures with a large number of linear combinations.
➢ 1.1.2 Examples
Example 1 - Concrete high building

1850 load combinations
418 linear elements
249 planar elements
2022.1 2023 Decrease
Finite element calculations 20:51 3:03 85 %
Project size 116 GB 1.6 GB 99 %
Example 2 - Concrete building

509 linear elements
248 planar elements
Project size 7.6 GB 1.6 GB 79 %
Example 3 – Steel Hall

476 linear elements
Steel design 5:32 1:48 68 %
7
Example 4 – Steel Hall

295 linear elements
Steel design 2:25 0:22 85 %
Example 5 – Timber roof

252 linear elements
Timber design 0:18 0:11 39 %
1.2 Construction stages
A completely new mechanism for the definition, management, and calculation of structures using
stages has been introduced in the latest version of the program.
➢ 1.2.1 Introduction
In conventional structural analysis, all loadings are applied at once to the complete final structure
before studying their effects in a single-step calculation. In other words, no loading of any type is
applied to the structure until the entire construction process is completed.
However, in practice, structures are constructed in stages (story by story) and loadings such as self-
weight, construction, and finishing loads are present at each stage before structure completion.
Therefore, at each construction stage, the distribution of displacements and internal forces in the
completed parts of the structure (due to the existing loads) is not affected by elements of upper stories
that do not exist yet.
In addition, concrete is a time-dependent material and sometimes the structural elements at certain
stages are unmolded before reaching the concrete full strength. Hence structural elements will have
different concrete characteristics depending on their age in each construction stage. Thus, influencing
the distribution of displacements and internal forces in the existing structure.
As it can be seen, neglecting the staged construction effect in the conventional analysis will
sometimes yield wrong results. The correct displacements and internal forces distribution should be
calculated by cumulating analysis results from each construction stage.
Staged construction analysis is not exclusive to new structures under construction. It can be also used
for studying the effect of structural modifications on existing complete buildings such as retrofitting
work, changes in structural elements, and support conditions.
8
➢ 1.2.2 Defining stages
In Advance Design, the user specifies the number of stages plus the structural elements, supports, and
loads to assign for each stage according to the planned construction sequence. This can be also
generated automatically according to floors defined in Advance Design.
Depending on the user's preference, creating stages, and assigning objects to them can be done based
on the prepared model or by starting from an empty model by adding new elements to subsequent
stages.
In addition, the user has the option to remove structural elements and supports from the structure at a
certain stage.
Assignment to stages in Advance Design
Thanks to the fact that stages are presented in Project browser, it is quite easy to select the active
stage and make changes to it.
At each construction stage, the properties of supports and structural elements highlighted in green
can be modified.
For supports, the restraints on each Degree Of Freedom (DOF) can be enabled or disabled at each
stage. For line elements, section, end releasees, and material characteristics can be modified at each
stage.
For surface elements, material characteristics can be changed at every stage.
9
Properties that can be modified at each stage for point supports, linear elements, and surface
elements
For concrete structures, Advance Design has the option to consider time-dependent characteristics
of concrete hardening at each stage. This calculation option should be activated in the staged
construction properties and the age of each stage (duration between concrete pouring and
unmolding) needs to be specified.
Time-dependent concrete properties in staged construction
10
To verify the assignment of elements to a stage and the stiffness of concrete varying with time (if you
have activated the time consideration for the concrete strength) you can refer to the new tables in the
report.
“Concrete material properties vs. age by element” report table
➢ 1.2.3 Results
Once analysis is launched, Advance Design calculates each construction stage separately. It is worth
noting that the staged analysis in Advance Design assumes that elements added in subsequent stages
are placed on an undeformed structure and new loads are assigned to only one stage.
This allows the results from a particular case/combination from each stage to be added together
(accumulated). For a selected stage we can display the cumulated results from all previous stages or
the envelope of cumulative results for all stages.
The idea of cumulative results and their envelope can be seen in the following example of a simple
frame modeled in two stages. In the first image, you can see the results (bending moment) of a given
load determined separately for each stage.
Model used in both stages and bending moment diagrams obtained separately for each stage
11
The image below shows two bending moment diagrams for the second stage - on the left is the
cumulative force diagram (i.e., the respective sums of the diagrams from stages 1 and 2), and on the
right is the cumulative force envelope diagram (i.e., the envelope of the cumulative results from all
previous stages).
Diagram of cumulative bending moments (left) and envelope of cumulative moments (right)
Example – Transfer beam
To demonstrate the idea of staged analysis, let us take a look at a small example, in which the
difference between classical analysis and stage analysis is perfectly visible. Consider a Reinforced
Concrete frame structure with a transfer beam in story 1. This structure is subjected to its self-weight
and finishing dead loads at each story.
RC frame structure with transfer beam
12
Four construction stages are defined according to the actual story by story construction sequence.
NOTE: In successive stages only new loads are added, which will allow for subsequent summation of
the results from each stage (the so-called cumulative results).
Construction stages for the RC frame structure
To highlight the importance of conducting a staged construction analysis results comparison between
the classical analysis where all loads are applied at once on the complete final structure and the
staged construction analysis is presented below.
Displayed are the results of the dead load (self-weight + line load combination) from the staged
analysis (model on the left) and the classical analysis (model on the right). In the case of the staged
analysis, these are the cumulative results for the given combination from all stages.
Displacement due to dead load in staged construction (left) and classical analyses (right)
13
Bending moments due to dead load in staged construction (left) and classical analyses (right)
The above example with the transfer beam is one of the most extreme examples showing the difference
between the true behavior of the structure illustrated by the stage analysis and the results from the
classical analysis.
Example – Backfilling of underground stories
For structures with underground floors, the behavior of the basement wall depends on the stage at
which backfilling work is done. Two scenarios are possible:
1. Backfilling is done once the ground floor slab is completed.

2. Backfilling is done around the basement walls and then the ground floor slab is constructed.
In the classical analysis procedure, all loads are applied at once to the complete final structure. Thus,
scenario one can only be calculated in this type of analysis.
Previously, for calculating scenario two the user had to study the basement wall in a separate model
and add up the results manually.
Now, with the staged construction analysis feature, it is possible to calculate scenario two in the same
structural model. To highlight scenario 2 calculation, the reinforced concrete building presented below
is considered.
14
Reinforced concrete building with soil pressure
During the construction stages, the structure is subjected only to backfill pressure and its self-weight.
Construction stages for the building
For the considered building, a comparison in Advance Design results between classical and staged
construction analyses is presented below.
15
Bending moment in the vertical direction for basement walls due to soil pressure
in classical (left) and staged construction analyses (right)
It is clear in the above figure that the staged construction analysis was able to calculate scenario two.
In fac for this type of analysis, the basement wall is working as a cantilever in the vertical direction.
1.3 Advanced supports
Advance Design 2023 is a version with a special focus on developing capabilities in more advanced
(non-linear) areas.
One of the related innovations is a new type of support, called Advanced supports.
This new type of support on one hand facilitates the creation of supports with distinctive
characteristics in different directions but also introduces a whole new set of possibilities for defining
nonlinear relationships, which is especially important for some types of structures requiring a more
complex definition of supports.
New Advance supports are available for point, linear, and planar supports.
Selecting a new type of support
16
➢ 1.3.1 Key features
Key features and capabilities of the new type of support:
• Defining supports having different specificity in each direction (each degree of freedom)
Although this possibility applies to all existing and new types of relationships, it is particularly
important for nonlinear T/C (tension/ compression only) supports.
Previously, we could define supports as having only compression or only tension transfer for all
directions simultaneously. Now, as we can have different relation for each direction, we can create,
for example, compression-only relation for vertical translation, and tension-only relation for
horizontal translation.
The type of relationship can be set separately for each DOF (degree of freedom) directly from the
property list.
Advanced support assignment for each DOF
• Defining gap supports
These are supports that allow displacements/rotations within specified limits. Once these limits are
reached, the supports are activated.
In addition, it can be determined whether the relationship is elastic after activation and whether the
relationship is symmetric (i.e., the limit is in both directions of action).
17
Characteristic curves for gap support (2 cm gap) are defined as symmetric

without elasticity (left) or elastic (right)
• Defining supports with hardening
These supports block displacements/rotations until specified reaction forces/moments limits are
reached. Once these limits are reached, displacements/rotations are allowed while maintaining the
limit forces/moments reactions.
And for this type of supports, we can also determine whether it works unilaterally or bilaterally and
whether it has elastic characteristics.
Characteristic curves for a hardening support (10 kN limit) defined as unilateral

without elasticity (left) or elastic (right)
• Supports of any non-linear characteristic
Finally, we can create supports for which the force-displacement relationship is defined by a diagram.
In this case, you specify in a table the successive points of a nonlinear force-displacement or stiffness-
displacement diagram.
This gives us many possibilities, including the definition of a nonlinear soil response, supports with
gradual stiffening, or, for example, supports that break after a certain force.
18
Graph of user-defined non-linear support characteristics,

compression-only (left) and symmetric (right)
➢ 1.3.2 Modifying parameters
Additional parameters of the support for each DOF can be specified using a special dialog opened
using the icon from the row describing the direction restraints.
And to help you visualize the type of relation and the influence of the entered parameters, a Force-
Displacement or Stiffness-Displacement diagram is presented in this window.
Assigning characteristics of advanced support
Since they exhibit nonlinear behavior, advanced supports require a nonlinear analysis when used in
Advanced Design.
In the following example, let us see the impact of using one type of advanced support:
19
Example – Gap support
Let’s consider two identical frame structures: on the left side, they both have pin support and on the
right side, advanced support is used.
Frame 2 carries double the load of frame 1.
Both frames have the same supports (advanced support marked with a red circle)
The advanced support for both frames is fixed in the vertical translation and presents a 2 cm limit
displacement gap in the horizontal translation.
20
Characteristics of the advanced gap support
Analysis results are presented in the pictures below:
Displacement of frames
21
Support forces in the horizontal direction
Analyzing the above images, it is clear that for frame 1 the gap support did not reach its limit (1.67 cm
< 2 cm) therefore no support reaction was applied to block the displacement.
For frame 2, we should get double the displacement. However, the gap limit of 2 cm is reached, and
support reaction is applied to block any further displacement.
1.4 Tension/Compression only linear releases
Another new feature in Advance Design 2023 related to the definition of complex (non-linear)
relationships between structural elements is advanced releases defined on the edges of surface
elements.
Same as before, linear releases are defined from the surface element properties:
Side release for surface elements
22
Until now, only pinned edge releases could be defined. Now the possibilities are much greater and
include:
• Free end side release
We can easily specify for selected edges that they are not connected in any way to other objects.
Free end side release assignment for surface elements
• Determining the release separately for each direction
We can set the releases independently for the three directions of displacement and rotation around an
edge. In addition, you can define the release as partially rigid by entering a stiffness value.
Line elastic side release for surface elements
• Traction/compression only side release
The most important change is the possibility to set the release to act only in compression or only in
tension. In this case, you can also specify a stiffness value within the range of the release. This option
is especially useful when modeling structures containing masonry walls if you want to ensure that the
walls only work in compression during FEM calculations.
23
Traction/compression only line spring side release for surface elements
NOTE: Since they exhibit nonlinear behavior, Traction/compression only line spring side releases
require a nonlinear analysis when used in Advance Design.
In the following example, using the new surface element side releases are presented:
Example - Slab supported by masonry walls
Let us consider two identical structures (model 1 and model 2) made of masonry walls and a reinforced
concrete slab. The slab is simply supported on the masonry wall perimeter (pin side releases on slab
edges) and carries a uniformly distributed load.
In model 1, masonry walls provide vertical support to the slab in both tension and compression while
the walls in model 2 provide vertical support in compression only.
Masonry wall structures
24
Masonry wall side releases
Masonry wall release providing vertical support in compression only
Analysis results are presented in the pictures below:
25
Displacement of structures
The above figure shows that model 2 was able to capture the slab uplift at corners since the supporting
masonry walls are considered to provide only vertical support by compression.
Vertical axial force in masonry walls
The above figure shows a concentration of vertical tensile forces in the walls at the corners of model 1
while these forces disappear in model 2 since the walls can only carry vertical loads by compression.
26
2. Modelling Loads
Advance Design 2023 brings new features related to defining loads, including the ability to define
automatically wind loads on free-standing walls and a set of improvements related to crane loads.
1. Possibility to generate wind on free-standing walls (EN 1991-1-4)

• Management of buildings with a significant opening ratio
• Automatic determination of wind zones and pressure coefficients
• Reduction of wind forces due to shelter effect from an upwind wall
2. Improvements to Crane loads

• Overview of the crane data and corresponding crane loads
• Easy control of the crane forces computed by the program
3. Better communication with other parties involved in the project
2.1 Possibility to generate wind on free-standing walls (EN 1991-1-4)
Advance Design 2023 is now able to generate wind forces on free-standing walls, as per §7.4 from
EN1991-1-4.
Walls should be treated as free-standing walls when a building features a significant opening ratio.
More precisely, as defined in §7.2.9, if two sides of the building (roof or walls) have an opening ratio >
30% then:
• Walls should be treated as free-standing walls (§7.4)
• The roof should be treated as canopies (§7.3)
For example, the building below features two open faces. Therefore, the walls (2) should be treated
as free-standing walls while the roof (1) should be treated as a duo-pitch canopy.
Building requiring consideration of free-standing walls
27
➢ 2.1.1 Free-standing wall types
Eurocode 1 defines two types of free-standing walls:
• Without return corner
• With return corner
Free-standing walls without return corner (left) and with return corner (right)
In Advance Design, two free-standing walls connected with an angle of 45° to 135° are recognized as
a wall with a return corner.
Free-standing wall detected as having a return corner
➢ 2.1.2 Wind direction
The free-standing walls are designed oblique winds, along with the usual perpendicular wind.
➢ 2.1.3 Pressure coefficients
Pressure coefficients on free-standing walls are given in Table 7.9. These pressure coefficients depend
on two parameters:
• The solidity ratio (φ) (or porosity or opening ratio)

• The Length/Height ratio (l/h)
Determining the pressure coefficients usually requires one or several linear interpolations.
28
➢ 2.1.4 Wind zones
The Length/Height ratio of the wall also determines the zoning. Long walls will have A, B, C, and D zones
while short walls will have only A and B zones:
Wind zones for free-standing walls
➢ 2.1.5 Shelter factor
Advance Design also considers the shelter effect that may result from the presence of an upwind wall
(acc. § 7.4.2).
A shelter factor (ψs) reduces the pressure coefficients on the wall under consideration:
C p,net ,s =  s  C p,net
The shelter factor ψs depends on:

• The spacing between the sheltering wall and the wall under consideration
• The solidity ratio of the sheltering wall
29
➢ 2.1.6 Definition in Advance Design
In Advance Design, free-standing walls will be defined as a specific type of load area. This gives
access to the Solidity ratio parameter. The shelter factor (per wind direction) can be either determined
by Advance Design or imposed by the user.
Wind properties for free-standing walls
On the example below, Advance Design was able to determine that the wall under consideration could
benefit from a sheltering effect for the Y+ winds, due to the presence of an upwind wall.
Automatic determination of the shelter effect for the relevant wind direction
30
Therefore, the pressure coefficients on the wall under consideration are affected by a 0,3 coefficient.
This results in a 70% reduction when compared to the upwind wall (except on an h distance from the
free edge, where the shelter effect does not apply).
Pressure coefficients under an oblique Y+ wind with a -45° deviation
If there are several upwind walls, Advance Design will consider the closest one to determine the shelter
factor.
To prevent a small upwind wall from producing a shelter effect on a much larger wall, a ‘Minimum % of
sheltered area’ parameter has been introduced in the properties of the wind family:
A free-standing wall can be made of one or several load areas.
31
In the case of multiple load areas, the Length, height, and solidity ratio parameters will be
determined as follows:
• Length will be the sum of the lengths of the load areas forming the free-standing wall
• Height will be the maximum height of the load areas forming the free-standing wall
• The solidity ratio will be the weighted average of the solidity ratio of all load areas forming the
free-standing wall
Free-standing wall made of several load areas
2.2 Improvements to Crane loads
Advance Design 2023 offers several improvements to the crane load feature introduced in version
2022.
➢ 2.2.1 Improvements to the Crane actions window
One of the available methods for defining load data for a crane is the By crane loads (EN 1991-3)
method, in which you manually define loads for different components on each wheel.
In the latest version of the program, you can speed up the data editing process by using buttons to
copy forces from one rail to another.
32
New commands for copying values to the other rail
➢ 2.2.2 New Load generation settings dialog
To make force generation easier and more controllable a new option has been added to the list of
crane properties, opening a new settings window.
The Load generation settings dialog now lets the users decide which load groups should be generated
and how the longitudinal force (Fx) and the transverse force (Fy) should be oriented.
Load generation settings dialog
A positive Fx force will have the same orientation as the local x axis of the linear element supporting
the crane runway.
A negative Fx force will go opposite to the local x axis. The same goes with the Fy force.
33
The default orientation is based on the local axes of the linear element
bearing the crane runway
NOTE: The content of the list of groups depends on the input method:
Load generation settings dialog for Input method: By crane parameters (ASCE/NBCC)
34
➢ 2.2.3 Grouping of generated Crane Loads

When generating loads from the crane, the way of grouping generated forces in Project browser has
been modified. The data are grouped first per crane, then per load group, then per step, and then
forces.
This simplifies the verification of forces and graphical presentation, especially when more than one
crane is defined in the model.
Loads from 2 cranes in Project Browser
➢ 2.2.4 New report tables dedicated to crane loads
A new set of tables related to the crane loads are now available in the report generator.
Report generator from Advance Design 2023

35
There are four tables:
• Crane runway properties
This table contains basic information about the crane runway, including lengths and offsets.
• Crane data
This table is generated separately for each crane and contains two parts. The upper part shows basic
identification and geometric information such as the number of wheel axles, and wheel spacing.
The content of the lower part depends on the method used for force generation (Direct input, By crane
loads (EN 1991-3), By crane parameters (EN 1991-3), By crane parameters (ASCE/NBCC)), and
contains a list of parameters required for force generation - for example, the crane weight and load
capacity or dynamic factors.
• Crane system definition
This table shows information related to the defined number and position of cranes, including start/end
forces positions, spacing between positions, and the number of steps.
36
• Generated crane loads
This table lists the forces (Fx, Fy, and Fz forces) on each wheel of the crane for each position,
separately for each load group.
2.3 Wind on canopy roofs for Poland
In the case of wind load generation for the selected Polish National Annex, a differentiation of
methods for determining load for a mono-pitch roof has been added.
In case an option for activating additional wind generation rules according to the CNC2M (from July
2017) is disabled, then rules from Eurocode 1 (EN 1991-1-3, 7.3) are used.
When this option is enabled (default) then wind on canopy roofs is generated according to CNC2M
rules.
37
One of the wind cases according to EC1 (left) and the same case according to CNC2M (right)
38
3. Steel Structures
Advance Design 2023 brings several exciting new features for structural analysis, including the ability
to quickly define cold-formed sections, model and analyze share plate connections, and import
rotational stiffness information from the Steel Connection module.
1. Parametric cold-formed sections

• A wide array of cross-sections now eligible for cold-formed design
• Fast and easy definition of cross-section dimensions
2. Possibility for performing deflection checks with the 2 nd order displacements
3. Extension of the scope of analysis for cold-formed sections
4. Import the rotational stiffness calculated by the Steel Connection module
3.1 Parametric Cold-Formed sections
Advance Design 2023 now lets the users define several types of cold-formed sections in a parametric
way (by specifying dimensions).
It is possible to define profiles from families: Omega, Sigma, L, Z, Zed, Zeta, C, and Cee.
New parametric sections now supported for cold-formed design
Some of these sections such as Sigma or C sections may feature lips. In this case, the users will be able
to select a subtype as well.
39
Sigma sections with straight or inclined lips and with different top and bottom flanges
C sections with or without lips and with different top and bottom flanges
40
Z sections with or without lips (straight or inclined)
Design of cold-formed members as per EN1993-1-1 was introduced in Advance Design version 2022
and it was available in the sections from the Graitec Profiles library (those bearing the Cold-formed…
type of lamination) and the parametric C sections.
Now verifications also include all newly added parametric profiles.
Example - omega profile
During the steel design sequence for cold-formed sections, Advance Design determines the effective
cross-section by considering:
• Local Plate buckling: Advance Design determines the effective widths, following the
procedure from EN1993-1-5
• Distortional buckling (flexural buckling of the end stiffener): Advance Design determines the
reduced thickness of the edge stiffener as per §5.5 from EN1993-1-3
The picture below shows the effective cross-section of an Omega profile, in pure bending, with
compression on the top element.
The ineffective width of the top internal compression element is displayed in red. The edge stiffeners
on the left and right are in tension and thus, they are not affected by distortional buckling.
41
Effective cross-section in pure bending (compression on the top member)
Results from the cold-formed design are available in the shape sheet, in the CFD tab:
Results for an Omega section in bending
42
This shape sheet is also available in its detailed version:
Detailed results available in the report
43
3.2 Partial safety factors for steel design available to edit
During design calculations for steel members according to Eurocode 3, partial factors are
automatically adopted following the provisions of the relevant National Annexes. However, as some
of the National Annexes allow for modification of these factors in particular cases, in the latest version
of the program it is possible to modify the values used.
For this purpose, a new tab Safety factors have been added in the settings window for the
dimensioning of steel members according to Eurocode.
New tab in Calculation Settings window for steel elements
NOTE: Value modifications will only be applied during the generation of load combinations .
You can check the values of the factors used by the individual combinations in the Steel tab of the
combination window.
Combination window - Steel tab
44
3.3 Possibility for performing deflection checks with the second-order

displacements
A new option under Advance stability named Use for deflection checks has been added to the list of
element parameters related to the design of steel elements according to EC3.
This option can only be enabled when Advance Stability (2nd order analysis using 7 degrees of freedom)
is run for the element.
When the new option is enabled, the deflection verification is performed based on the results from the
Advance Stability analysis, i.e. second-order calculations.
New option in the Advance Stability group
45
Results of deflection analysis of a steel member
TIP: To quickly check deflection values from static analysis and Advanced Stability analysis you can
display them easily using Result Curves graphs.
Diagrams showing element deflection for the selected combination

of static analysis (left) and Advance Stability (right)
3.4 Extension of the scope of analysis for cold-formed sections
The analysis of cold-formed members was extended by additional verifications related to stability,
according to EN 1993-1-3:
46
• The buckling resistance of uniform members in compression (6.2.2 of EN 1993-1-3)

• The lateral-torsional buckling of members subject to bending (6.2.4 of EN 1993-1-3)
• The interaction between axial force and bending moment (6.2.5 of EN 1993-1-3)
The shaped sheet of cold-formed linear elements
Additional verifications can be activated from element properties using the Buckling resistance option
in the Cold-formed design additional options group.
When enabled, checks 6.2.2, 6.2.4, 6.2.5, and 6.3 according to EN1993-1-3 are performed.
47
New option to activate new verifications
NOTE: In the above verifications key parameters are Ncr (critical force) and Mcr (critical moment).
When the Advanced Stability analysis is performed, the values of Ncr and Mcr are obtained from the
numerical calculation.
When the Advances Stability is disabled, the critical force and the critical moment are calculated
using the formulas from the Stability chapters of EC3-1-1, using as the critical length the length of the
element. However, EC3-1-1 provides formulae for Ncr_tf only for monosymmetric cross-sections.
3.5 Synchronization of rotational stiffness calculated by Steel Connection module
The latest version of the program introduced an automatic synchronization of information and results
related to rotational stiffness determined in Steel Connection module into steel connection data in
Advance Design.
These results are now available both from the connection properties and in a new table in the report.
48
➢ 3.5.1 Rotational stiffness
The rotational stiffness and joint classification (according to EN 1993-1-8, 6.3.1) are calculated during
analysis in the Steel Connection module.
Such calculations are available for four connection types that can be created in the model in Advance
Design: Base plate, Moment end plate, Apex haunch, and Gable wall end plate.
Results of joint stiffness analysis in Steel Connection module
After completing the design in the connection module and returning to the Advance Design
environment, the rotational stiffness information is now automatically transferred to the connection
data in Advance Design.
These results are available in a new group of connection properties, including:
• value of rotational stiffness

• value of initial rotational stiffness
• value of moment resistance
• the joint classification (if it is Rigid or Semi-rigid)
49
New result group in connection properties
Currently depending on if the moment used is positive or negative, values are received either from
+Moment (Sj+, Sjini+, MjRd+) or from -Moment (Sj-, Sjini-, MjRd-).
In the case of the base plate connection for a column with a circular or rectangular tube section, as the
connection is evaluated for moments in both directions simultaneously, separate values are obtained
for both directions (X-X and Y-Y).
Results for base plate connection for tubular column
➢ 3.5.2 New report table for the rotational stiffness
In addition to data available on the property list of connections, a new report table for steel
connections with the info about rotational stiffness is available.
The table contains information for those types of connections for which classification is conducted
(Base plate, Moment end plate, Apex haunch, Gable wall end plate).
50
51
4. Timber Structures
The latest version of the Advance Design is also special for North American customers because it
introduces the possibility of performing verification of wooden elements based on American and
Canadian standards and also introduces new databases of cross-sections and timber materials
dedicated to these markets.
1. Verification of wooden elements according to North American standards

2. Library of wood profiles for different wood species commonly used in North America
4.1 Timber design verification for North American codes
Timber members can now be verified based on the specification from North American codes:
• CSA O86-19 - Canada

• NDS2018 (ASD and LRFD) – United States
New standards available in the configuration window
Advance Design can perform several checks as below:
• Shear resistance (including notch and holes)

• Bending moment resistance for strong and weak axis
• Compressive resistance parallel to grain
• Compressive resistance perpendicular to grain (bearing resistance)
• Tensile resistance
• Resistance to combined forces
• Deflection verification
52
Parameter set for timber element analysis according to the Canadian standard
Window with results of wood element verification
4.2 Updated libraries of materials and cross-sections
A new database of wood profiles as well as a new library of materials for different wood species
commonly used in North America are available.
The new profile library called North America Timber Profiles contains wood sections from the families:
• Sawn lumber (SL)

• Structural composite lumber (SCL)
• Glue-Laminated (GL).
53
North America Timber Profiles library
Also, a new library of materials has been added for different wood species commonly used in North
America:
• Canadian Visual grade lumber/timber

• North American Machine stress rated (MSR) & machine evaluated lumber (MEL)
• US Visually graded lumber / Timber for most used species (Douglas-Fir-Larch / Hem-Fir/
Spruce-Pine-Fir / Southern-Pine, etc.).
54
The new list of timber materials for the US
55
5. Masonry Structures
Advance Design 2023 is special for masonry modeling and analysis because it introduces the ability
to model masonry walls and a brand-new Masonry Wall module for the design calculations of the
masonry wall according to the Eurocode 6 (EN 1996) with several national annexes (for France,
Poland, Czech, Slovakia, UK), Italian NTC2018 and Romanian CR6 standard.
1. Possibility to model several types of masonry walls using a new type of material
2. Verification of masonry walls using the new design module
5.1 Modelling Masonry Walls
In the latest version of the program, several new features have been introduced to allow easy definition
of masonry walls. Masonry walls are modeled by using surface elements, whereas the information
about the wall thickness as well as the wall construction is determined during the material definition.
The Masonry material can be used to define various types of walls in terms of their construction -
single-layer (including stiffened), two-layer, facing, or cavity (filled or not).
The type of wall influences the mechanical parameters of the material such as masonry strength
parameters but also stiffness parameters. In this way, multi-material walls can be defined, and
parameters required for FEM analysis, including wall stiffness, are automatically determined.
Material parameters for a masonry wall
56
A new MASONRY material family has been implemented, along with relevant national standards,
including Eurocode 6 with national annexes (for France, Poland, Romania, Czech Republic, Slovakia,
and the UK), Italian NTC 2018, and Romanian CR6 2013.
New selection in the configuration of standards for masonry construction
The definition of a new masonry wall section is possible by adding new material from the Masonry
family.
Steps of defining a masonry material: 1 - add a new one (with specifying a name),
2 - set MASONRY, 3 - go to properties
57
After adding new material all details regarding the construction of the wall section are set in
properties.
Depending on the selected wall construction type the parameters of one or two layers are defined as
well as additional information - for example, for cavity walls, these are thickness and cavity filling.
The content of lists of available mortars and masonry units, as well as additional parameters and rules
for determining the wall properties, depends on the selected standard and National Annex to EN 1996-
1-1 (Eurocode 6 – Design oof masonry structures).
NOTE: Depending on the settings (such as selected wall type, whether the layer is load-bearing, and
whether the layers are connected by ties), the wall thickness used for FEM calculations may differ from
the total thickness.
Parameters of masonry cross-section for cavity wall
Apart from the possibility to define linear releases at the edges of walls (including the possibility of not
transferring tension to the wall), masonry walls are treated in the same way as walls made of other
materials in FEM calculations.
Verification of walls according to masonry standards is done with the new Masonry Wall design
module.
Workflow is similar to verification of reinforced concrete elements using RC modules, i.e. given wall
can be opened or exported to the Masonry Wall module by using commands from the context menu or
the Design tab.
During this operation, the geometric data of the wall, information about the cross-section structure,
and internal forces are transferred.
58
A masonry wall modeled in Advance Design must meet several conditions to be exported/opened in
the Masonry Wall module:
• Vertical planar element,

• Material: masonry,
• Shape: rectangular,
• With/without openings.
Masonry wall opened for analysis in Masonry Wall module
5.2 Design of masonry walls
Entirely new design module for verification of walls made of masonry elements.
Calculations are based on Eurocode 6 with national annexes (for France, Poland, Romania, Czech
Republic, Slovakia, and the UK), Italian NTC 2018, and Romanian CR6 2013.
59
Masonry Wall module
➢ 5.2.1 Workflows
According to the idea of Advance Design modules, there are two working scenarios available:
1. Using the module on walls in the FEM model
2. Independent running of the application, where the user specifies the geometry of the wall and
loads will calculate any part of the wall without creating a FEM model.
Wall from 3D model opened in Masonry Wall module directly in Advance Design
When working with a masonry wall in Advance Design, important is how the wall data is transferred
into the module.
First, the entire modeled wall is transferred along with all the required geometry information, including
opening size and location, as well as wall section data.
60
Second, the computational model is transferred, including the full set of internal forces in the finite
elements.
Then within one wall element, all pillars in such wall can be verified simultaneously. This is possible
because the forces from the FEM calculation are converted to resultant forces in the pillars (panels).
And what is important, the user can manage the width of the strips used for force integration and
introduce his panel division.
Automatic reduction of FEM forces to resultant forces in pillars
When using the module as a standalone application, all data is entered directly, including information
about geometry, structural layout, and cross-section construction.
Also, the loads are entered directly, as external loads applied directly on the wall (linear, point,
surface, earth) but also as loads on adjoining slabs.
Based on the entered data, design panels are created automatically and then the internal forces are
determined and the required verifications are conducted for each panel.
Linear loads defined directly on the wall
61
Loads defined on adjoining slabs
➢ 5.2.2. Masonry unit database
The program contains market-specific default databases for mortar and masonry units.
You can easily expand the masonry units database with your items or create completely new and
independent lists of units.
Masonry units editable database
➢ 5.2.3 Wall sections
A section of Masonry walls is not homogeneous and in general, contains vertical layers - one or two
leaves made of masonry elements + optional empty or filled cavity layer inside.
Leaves could be defined by using different masonry units (for example – one leaf is made from bricks
and the second from concrete blocks).
62
Advance Design Masonry Wall module allows to define of 6 types of masonry wall sections:
Single-leaf A wall without a

wall cavity or continuous
vertical joint in its
plane. It is a basic
wall type, and it is
made from one
masonry unit type.
Stiffened Single-leaf
single-leaf wall stiffened
wall by piers.
Double- A wall consisting of

leaf wall two parallel leaves
with the longitudinal
joint between filled
solidly with mortar.
Faced wall A wall comprises of

two different types
of structural units
which are bonded
together to form a
solid wall.
Cavity wall A wall consisting of

two parallel single-
leaf walls.
The space between
the leaves is left as a
continuous air cavity
or filled with thermal
insulating material.
Leaves are
effectively tied
together with wall
ties or bed joint
reinforcement.
63
Grouted A wall consisting of

cavity wall two parallel leaves
with a cavity filled
with concrete.
The selection of a wall type influences modeling the wall section and design calculations.
When modeling the wall section, for Single-leaf and Stiffened single-leaf wall types we define a single
layer (leaf) of masonry units, while for the remaining wall types we define two layers (leaves) of
masonry units, which means we have separate two sets of masonry units and mortars and two sets of
strengths parameters.
For design calculations, depending on the selected wall section type, a wall is treated either as a solid
wall, so design checks are done as for a single leaf or a wall is treated as a cavity wall, and then design
checks are done separately for each of two leaves.
When defining the cross-sections of masonry walls in the program, data such as masonry units and
masonry mortars are selected from lists of databases.
During this process, the program controls that only allowed combinations are possible because
depending on the selected National annex to the code not all combinations of Masonry units and
Mortars are available.
The strength parameters are determined automatically according to norm regulations, but it is also
possible to modify the parameters according to your needs.
Definition of the parameters of one of the wall layers
64
➢ 5.2.4 Geometry data
The module offers extensive possibilities for the definition of geometry. A wall can contain many
window and door openings, defined graphically or by entering values.
When openings are created, then the wall is automatically divided into calculation panels. If necessary,
the panels can be easily divided, or their width changed. Note that verifications are performed for
panels (pillars) of full wall height.
Automatic wall division into panels
During the definition of the wall parameters, you can define if it is an internal or external wall and also
its location - at the top floor, intermediate floor, or basement.
In case the wall is modeled in the standalone module it is necessary to define additional system
parameters such as location and type of floors and walls above and below and support conditions.
Wall geometry parameters
65
➢ 5.2.5 Design calculations
The most detailed range of calculations is available for design calculations according to the provisions
of Eurocode 6. Both detailed methods based on Part 1 of the standard (EN 1996-1-1) and simplified
methods based on Part 3 (EN 1996-3) may be used.
The scope of the calculation of masonry walls:
• verification of walls subjected to mainly vertical loads (at the top, middle, and bottom)
• verification of walls subjected to concentrated loads
• verification of bending of walls from loads perpendicular to the wall plane (e.g. wind/soil
pressure)
• verification of shear in the plane and from loads perpendicular to the plane of the wall.
You can indicate whether you want to perform all or only selected verifications.
Selection of analyses for Eurocode 6
In addition, stresses can be verified according to classical mechanics principles.
Out of wall plane stresses in leaves of cavity wall
66
The basic verification results are presented in the info panel.
You can decide whether these are results for the critical panel or results for a specific one. In case the
wall section consists of two layers, the results can be displayed separately for each layer.
The results in the info panel are presented for an example wall
➢ 5.2.6 Reports
Detailed calculation results are available in reports. As with the other Advance Design modules, you
can generate either a summary report or a detailed report with a complete description of all performed
verifications.
Excerpt from the detailed report
67
As with the other design modules, it is possible to choose the scope of the report to suit your needs.
Report settings window
68
6. Miscellaneous
Advance Design 2023 introduces several changes and new features in various areas of the program,
in line with the wishes of current and future customers, including the ability to quickly present the
results of calculations in tabular form and the adaptation of the system to the Spanish and Portuguese
markets.
• Fast and easy checking FEM results with Results Tables

• New National Annexes of the Eurocode and languages for Spain and Portugal
• A set of enhancements in various areas of the program to increase the convenience of everyday
work
6.1 Tables with results
In Advance Design 2023, users can filter and check FEM calculation results even faster.
This is all thanks to the new Results Tables functionality which allows us to quickly display the results
in a tabular form directly on the screen.
This feature is available after the FEM calculation has been completed and can be accessed directly
from the ribbon.
Group of options for result tables on the ribbon
We can generate a table with the results for:
• Nodes (displacements)
• Linear elements (displacements, internal forces, stresses)
• Planar elements (displacements, internal forces, stresses, resultant forces)
• Supports (displacements, forces)
69
Default table of internal force results for linear elements
We can use the default result tables, and if we want to narrow the number of displayed columns, we
can easily hide the unnecessary.
Quickly manage column visibility
But we can also create our template with specific result columns and settings. Saved table templates
will be able to be used in all projects or deleted when no longer needed.
An example of a custom table with data and results for a linear element
70
To facilitate the identification of selected rows in a table and to enable easy narrowing of the table
content, object selection in the table and the model are interrelated:
• Firstly, if you select some rows in the table, then the corresponding objects are selected in the
model.
• Secondly, if some elements are selected in the model, then after the table generation it will
contain only rows with selected elements.
It is also possible to narrow the results in the table to only selected load cases and load combinations.
To do this, use the case selection window called from the ribbon of the Result tables group.
The tables also have useful features that make it easier to find interesting results in the already
generated table:
• Firstly, in a straightforward way, we can sort values on columns, just by double-clicking on

headers.
• Secondly, we can filter the results using special fields below column headers. As a result of
using a filter in a given column, only those rows that meet the criteria will be displayed. And
what is great is that we can easily use multiple filters at the same time.
We can use various kinds of filters, including:
• Text - selects fields containing a given text fragment (e.g. IPE)

• Numeric - selects fields with entered number (e.g. 101)
• Ranges with operators <, >, <=, >= (e.g. >25)
• Ranges using '-' (e.g. 101-105)
• Lists and ranges using spaces (e.g. >10 <20 or 2 3 6)
Defining multiple filters using special fields
Finally, another excellent feature of the tables is the ability to export the contents of the table to an
Excel spreadsheet.
71
To do this, just use the export button and the entire process will run automatically. This allows us
different scenarios for further external work with results.
Table content transferred to Excel sheet
NOTE: Related to this improvement, a ‘Cancel export’ button has been added, it allows interrupting
the export in Excel and resuming work with the results tables.
6.2 Spain and Portugal localization
Version 2023 AD is the first version that has been adapted for the Spanish and Portuguese market so
that it can be used by designers from these countries, but also by all those who want to perform
verification based on Spanish and Portuguese standards or want to generate documentation in one of
the two newly available languages.
The selection of settings for both countries, including languages and standards is available from the
localization configuration window:
72
Selecting regional settings
In the current version of the program, the working language and reports are available in both Spanish
and Portuguese.
Spanish interface language
Adaptation covers the implementation of national annexes to the Eurocode for load related
generators (combination, wind, snow and seismic) as well as design calculations for steel and timber
elements.
73
Seismic zone selection map for Portugal
NOTE: Calculation according to national annexes of Eurocode 2 (reinforced concrete structures) is

not yet available in this program version for both countries. Additionally, for Portuguese, the
translation does not cover RC design modules yet.
6.3 Import of models from Tricalc
Starting with the 2022.1 version of Graitec Tricalc, it is possible to export a geometric model to GTCX
format.
This allows the model to be imported into Advance Design for further advanced analysis (e.g. non-
linear, seismic, dynamic).
With the 2023 version of Tricalc, the export capabilities to Advance Design are enhanced to include
the export of load cases, combinations, and load values.
*.gtcx
74
6.4 Other small improvements and corrections
With every update and the latest version of the program, special attention is paid to improving the
quality.
Also in this version, a large number of small improvements and corrections have been made, of which
the following are some examples:
➢ 6.4.1 Using default material for Structure Designer models
When using the Structure Designer the grouped structure now can use the Advance Design default
material grade for Steel elements (that is set by the user or the country/region default, when the new
model is created).
➢ 6.4.2 Possibility of using a super element as a selection criterion
The new element category Super element is now available in the element selection window. It allows
quick check and selection of linear or planar super elements.
Possibility of selecting a super element as a selection criterion.
75
Ability to use Super element type when defining selection filters
➢ 6.4.3 Refresh the look of several dialogs
A number of dialog windows in the program have been updated to standardize the appearance and
the possibility of working with windows.
Selected refreshed windows
76
➢ 6.4.4 Protection against unintentional starting of calculations
Previously, when the Analytical Model view was active, pressing the Enter key launched the
calculation.
To prevent accidental calculation activation, the Calculation sequence window is now opened to
accept or cancel the calculation decision.
➢ 6.4.5 Enhanced capabilities to analyze and export user cross-sections
The section design module has been extended by plastic sectional modulus calculations. Also, the data
export to Advance Design has been extended with plastic modulus and moment of inertia Ixy.
Cross-section design module window
In addition, the data export window has been modified to better present the exported data.
77
Window for exporting a section to the library
➢ 6.4.6 Report table for Punching verification for North American codes
When analyzing RC slabs in Advance Design using North American (US/Canada) standards, the
punching shear in the slab is verified. Now we can generate a report with a table containing the result
of this verification.
➢ 6.4.7 Corrections (selected)
• Corrected an issue wherein the properties of the timber elements (according to EC5) it was
not possible to select whether the nodes are braced or unbraced. (#88917)
• Corrected an issue where no results were displayed for optimization of wood members due
to deflection. (#87336)
78
• Corrected an issue wherein case of analyzing the slab penetration from above (e.g. in
foundation slabs), the ratio of longitudinal reinforcement to the bottom reinforcement was not
always considered. (#128119)
• Correction of the problem of not considering the AC:2009 amendment to NF EN 1993-1-2

(for France)) when determining the load-bearing capacity of steel sections in fire resistance
analysis subjected to combined bending and axial compression. (#126521)
• Corrected an issue where when synchronizing a model from a GTCX file, for some steel
profiles in Advance Design their names were slightly different than the names stored in the
GTCX file, causing them to be marked as modified. (#127897)
• Correction of an issue related to EC2 cracking calculations - the problem was that in some
examples the introduced stress limit for SLS QP combinations was not considered while the
cracking limit for these combinations was enabled. (#87347)
79
7. Design modules - General
Version 2023 brings many new options and improvements to all design modules of Advance Design.
Below is a list of selected novelties and improvements that are common to all design modules of
Advance Design.
• New scenario for automatic bar numbering - applying the same bar mark for identical bars
• Improved ease of use through various interface enhancements
• Easier to customize drawings with custom descriptions
• Better adaptation of the drawings to the German market
7.1 Applying the same bar mark for identical bars
To adapt to the different scenarios when numbering rebars, a new option has been introduced so that
members having the same shape can receive the same bar mark number.
By default, when generating the reinforcement in Advance Design reinforced concrete modules, the
rebars are numbered according to the rule that only rebars belonging to the same family receive an
identical number.
For example, for a footing, as shown in the picture below, all rebars in the bottom distribution in
direction X have the same number (1), but the rebars in the top distribution in this direction, although
identical, have a separate number (2).
Similarly, for the bottom and top distributions in the Y direction, we get numbers (3) and (4),
respectively.
However, this scenario can be changed with the new Same mark for bars with an identical geometry
option.
A small dialog window with this option can be opened from the right-click menu (by using the Bar
Numbering command) or from the ribbon.
80
After activating this option, the members are renumbered according to the rule that all members in the
element (or in the model in the case of a multi-span beam or a group of walls) should have the same
marking if their geometry is identical: the same shape + same diameter + same length.
For the same footing example, we obtain the same number (1) for the bottom and top distribution bars
in both directions.
7.2 Possibility to adjust the info-panel height
To allow a better overview of the contents of the window containing the info panel, it is now possible
to modify the border between the view and the panel.
This allows changing the height of the results area graphically. In the case when the size of the info-
panel area is smaller than its content, appropriate vertical sliders appear.
81
7.3 Drawings: Permanent annotations on drawings
In drawings generated by all modules, it is possible to place text descriptions as a new drawing
component.
These descriptions are treated as independent components of the drawing and therefore retain their
content and position during drawing regeneration. Descriptions can be placed anywhere on the sheet
and edited or moved as needed.
You can add any number of descriptions to the drawing and each description can have independently
set parameters, such as color, font, and size.
7.4 Drawings: New default title block templates for Germany
The available templates for title blocks for Germany have been modified.
The format and content of the title blocks are now better adapted to the needs of German customers.
82
7.5 Drawings: New tags to be used for preparing user title blocks
To increase the possibility of customizing templates used during drawing generation, the number of
available parameters to be used in Title blocks templates has been increased.
Parameters are used as block attributes in template files that are saved in AutoCAD DWG format.
Below is a list of the new parameters:
1. Parameter source: Project Settings dialog / Project Data tab
• STRUCTURE_TYPE - Structure type

• REVISION - Revision
2. Parameter source: Project Settings dialog / User Data tab
• COMPANY - Company
• CITY - City
• USER_ADRESS - Address
• PHONE - Phone
• DESIGNED_BY - Designed by
• DESIGNED_DATE - Designed date
83
• VERIFICATION_DATE -Verification date

• VERIFIED_BY - Verified by
• CLIENT_NAME - Client name
3. Parameter source: Project Settings dialog / Element Data tab
• DRAWING - Drawing
• REVISION - Revision
4. Parameter source: Design Assumption dialog
• CONCRETE_CLASS - Reinforced Concrete Class

• YIELD_STRENGTH - Steel yield strength
• EXPOSURE_CLASS – Exposure class
• LATERAL_COVER – Lateral concrete cover
• TOP_COVER – Top concrete cover
• BOTTOM_COVER – Bottom concrete cover
• SUPPORTED_ELEMENT_COVER – Supported element cover (RC Footing)
• CONCRETE_COVER – Concrete cover (RC Column)
• UPPER_COVER – Upper concrete cover (RC Column)
• LOWER_COVER – Lower concrete cover (RC Column)
• EXTERIOR_COVER – Exterior concrete cover (RC Wall)
• INTERIOR_COVER – Interior concrete cover (RC Wall)
• OTHER_COVER – Other concrete cover (RC Wall)
5. Parameter source: Drawings
• SCALES – a tag that shows all the scales used in the drawings
7.6 Other improvements
In addition to the above, many other smaller novelties and improvements related to all RC modules
have been introduced.
Below is a list of selected ones:
➢ 7.6.1 Improvement to dialog windows – possibility for collapsing/expanding

tree
In dialogs that include a tree, it is now possible to quickly collapse or expand the tree, making it easier
to quickly access the content.
84
➢ 7.6.2 Drawings: Double line rebar annotations
To increase the adaptability of the drawing to the requirements of different users, the possibility to
generate rebar descriptions in two lines has been added.
The content details of both lines can be set on the Annotations tab in the Bending details and
measurement settings window.
Remember that you can use different parameters in the description fields added by selecting from the
right-click menu, as well as add your text between double << characters.
Defining the content of the description

85
One line description (left) and two-line description (right)
➢ 7.6.3 Improvements to importing load combinations and results from

Advance Design
Two improvements have been made in importing loads from Advance Design to modules. The changes
are in RC Footing and RC Column modules and concern the design groups.
1. When the import includes not only simple load cases but also combinations, in cases where
there are more than one hundred total load cases (number of load cases multiplied by the
number of elements in the design group), the combinations are now automatically renumbered
to avoid lack of consistency (overlapping between the combinations IDs and the load cases
IDs).
2. The second change concerns the import of forces in the case of design groups. Now when
exported data contains also results from combinations, they are detected and shown
correctly.
86
➢ 7.6.4 Exporting combinations and force values to Excel, previously imported

from Advance Design
One of the existing features of the modules is the possibility to export the contents of a load
combination definition table (for all modules) and a load list table (for RC Footing module, RC Column
module, and Steel Connection module) to an Excel spreadsheet.
In this version, it is also possible to export these data if you have imported the internal forces from the
combinations from Advance Design.
➢ 7.6.5 Improvements to the Design assumption dialog
Options related to concrete cracking are moved to a new tab on the Design assumptions dialog, which
makes it easier and faster to find and edit related parameters.
This change applies to modules containing settings for outlining (Beams, Columns, Foundations).
87
➢ 7.6.6 Report generation in a separate process
The calculation report generation operation now takes place in a separate process, so that the
application is not blocked while preparing the report.
➢ 7.6.7 Improvement to tooltips
To make it easier for users to access tooltips, the rules for their presentation have been unified. The
tooltips will be displayed now both when hovering over the string and its corresponding edit-box/
checkbox/ combo-box.
The tooltip appears when hovering over the string (top)

and when hovering over the edit-box (bottom)
88
8. RC Beam module
The 2023 version brings many new options and improvements to the RC Beam module.
Below is a list of selected novelties and improvements.
1. Update of peak deflection calculations for France following FD P18-717

• Compliancy with the latest version of the FD 18-717 standard
• Accurate calculation through decomposition of the permanent loads
• Diminution of deformations by subtracting creep effects between load events
2. Possibility to define concrete cover per span

3. Possibility to measure a concrete volume on clear spans
4. Separate anchorage methods for top and bottom bars
5. Possibility to define the minimum length for bottom longitudinal bars
6. Better adjusting transversal reinforcement on openings
7. Possibility to center top reinforcement at supports
8. Import of eccentricities for supports
9. Possibility to show marks of longitudinal bars on sections
10. Online help
8.1 Update of peak deflection calculations for France following FD P18-717
The peak deflection calculations for France were modified to comply with the updated version of FD
P18-717 standard.
The FD P18-717 standard version from August 2021 now replaces the version from December 2013.
89
This update modifies the calculation of concrete deflections:
• Fictive inertia is introduced instead of cracked inertia

• Estimation of the Mcr critical moment is no longer required
• The αe coefficient (equivalence between a concrete and steel section) is 15
• The permanent actions are still decomposed but the names of the components have been
modified
• The moment is computed between support faces (not support axes)
• The ψ0 and ψ1 creep coefficients (from EN1992-1-1, Annex B) can still be used to subtract
a certain amount of deflection
• The limit values are different
➢ 8.1.1 Fictive inertias
The Update still makes use of the uncracked inertia (I0), but it now also introduces the concept of
fictive inertias (short-term and long-term) instead of the cracked inertias from the 2013 version.
I0
• Long term loadings: I fv = 1,1
1 + v .
I0
• Short term loadings: I fi = 1,1 
1 + i .
With:
f ctw f ctw f ctw

v = 0, 02  i = 0,05   = 1 − 1,75  0
 b   b  4   s   + f ctw
 2 + 3  w     2 + 3  w   
 beff   beff 
The μ parameter reflects the load level.
It is computed based on σs (reinforcement tension stress, considering the moment between support
faces, for the considered load case).
➢ 8.1.2 Permanent load decomposition
The new method still uses the decomposition of dead loads, except the names are changed:
• pp is self-weight (previously p0)

• fr is the load corresponding to the 1st brittle element put in place (previously c)
• per is the rest of the permanent actions (previously r)
The sum of pp and fr is now referred to as j (permanent loads when 1st brittle element is put in place)
90
pp + fr  j
The sum of all permanent loads (pp, fr, and per) is now referred to as g
pp + fr + per  g
The sum of all permanent loads (g) and live loads (q) is now referred to as p
g +q p
➢ 8.1.3 Peak deflection Δft
Peak deflection is given by:
ft = f gv − f ji + f pi − f gi
v stands for long term deformations (computed with Ifv and Ec,eff)
i stands for short term deformations (computed with Ifi and Ecm)
In case the installation of the brittle elements is delayed (creep coefficients ψ0 and ψ1 not null), we can
subtract the creep deflection of the pp component:
ft = f gv − f ji + f pi − f gi − c (t fr , t0 )  ( f ppv − f ppi )

βc(tfr,t0).(fppv – fppi) is the creep deflection that has occurred by the time the 1 st brittle element is
introduced.
NOTE: If ‘General method’ is selected, the pp component is split into two parts (pp0 and pp1) and the
formula becomes:
ft = f gv − f ji + f pi − f gi − c (t fr , t0 )  ( f pp0v − f pp0i ) − c (t fr , t1 )  ( f pp1v − f pp1i )

The calculation of βc(tfr,t0) and βc(tfr,t1) is still based on Annex B from EN1992-1-1.
In the RC Beam module, these parameters are named ψ0 and ψ1:
 0 = c (t fr , t0 )
 1 = c (t fr , t1 )
The ψ1 parameter is used only if General method is activated.
91
➢ 8.1.4 Allowable deflection
Deflection limits are different for simply supported or continuous beams and cantilevers.
• Simply supported or continuous beams

ln
o If ln ≤ 5m, Limit =
500
ln
o Else, Limit = 0, 005 +
1000
With ln the span length (between support faces) in meters.
Example: For a 7m span, Limit = 0,005 + 7/1000 = 1,2cm
• Cantilevers
ln
o If ln ≤ 2,50m, Limit =
250
ln
o Else, Limit = 0, 005 +
500
Example: For a 2m cantilever, Limit = 2/500 = 0,8cm
➢ 8.1.5 Definition in RC Beam module
In the Assumptions dialog, the updated methods (from 2021), as well as the previous methods (from
2013), are all available.
92
NOTE: The FD P18-717 methods (2021 as well as 2013) compute deflections from moments using the
simplified expressions:
The General methods (2021 as well as 2013) will compute deflections from numerical integration of
curvatures.
Limit values will be appropriately determined when set on Auto.
The Load definition dialog will mention the permanent load components with their updated names:
93
➢ 8.1.6 Results in RC Beam module
The Deflection result page mentions all the deflection components leading to the final value (Δft).
Deflection results
The detailed calculation report provides extensive information, mentioning every single parameter
used in the calculation.
94
Excerpt from a detailed report
95
8.2 Concrete volume measured on clear spans
In the Bill of materials dialog, a new option now lets the user decide whether the concrete volume
should be measured relative to clear spans (length measured between support faces) or relative to the
distance between support axes.
Clear span (between support faces)
8.3 Separate anchorage methods for top and bottom bars
Now it is possible to set the default method of anchoring the bar ends separately for the longitudinal
bottom and top bars.
For this purpose, hook angle settings are available independently in the Reinforcement assumption
window.
96
Independent settings for top and bottom reinforcement hooks
8.4 Ability to define concrete cover per span
To allow for better control over the design assumptions, the reinforcement cover can now be defined
independently for each span of a multi-span beam.
For this in the reinforcement Assumptions dialog, the Special features section now lets the users define
concrete cover values separately for each span.
97
Added content in tabs for overwriting settings to spans
8.5 Minimum length for bottom longitudinal bars
Now we can impose the minimum length for bottom longitudinal bars.
It is possible to make this setting global and apply to all spans - for this purpose, a new option is
available in the Reinforcement assumptions window on the Longitudinal bars tab, but it is also
possible to override this setting independently for each span in Special Features tab.
New option in the Reinforcement Assumption window
98
Result for an example beam with the disabled new option (no minimum length) - bars of length 95 cm
Result for an example beam with the enabled new option (minimum length=150cm )
8.6 New options for spacing of the vertical reinforcement on openings
For better adjusting transversal reinforcement on openings two new options are available on the
Transversal Reinforcement tab of the Reinforcement Assumption dialog:
• Minimum spacing at the left and right of an opening

It defines the minimum spacing to be considered when generating the transversal
reinforcement at the left and right of the openings
• Symmetric reinforcement at the left and right of an opening

An option to generate symmetrical transversal packages at the left and right of an opening
99
New settings in Reinforcement Assumption
Effect of spacing setting
8.7 Option for centering top reinforcement at supports
Usually the length of the bars of the top reinforcement on both sides of the column is different for design
reasons. However, to avoid mistakes in construction, a symmetrically distributed reinforcement is
often used.
For this, a new option Symmetrical top bars on intermediate supports has been added to the Assembly
Bars tab of the Reinforcement Assumption dialog.
When activated the top bars on intermediate supports are symmetrically extended at the left and the
right of the column.
100
The option will not affect the top bars on the supports which are adjacent to cantilever spans or for
those near a depression.
New option in Reinforcement Assumption
New option disabled - top reinforcement is not symmetrical
New option enabled - top reinforcement is symmetrical
101
8.8 Possibility to ignore maximum diameters
One of the default reinforcement settings is the relationship of the maximum bar diameter of the
applied reinforcement for different section width ranges.
These settings are available on the tab Bar Constraints/Maximum Diameter in the window
Reinforcement Assumptions. Now a new option Ignore maximum diameter has been added in this
window.
When checked (default) then max diameters are ignored if the required area could not be covered
using the maximum imposed diameters. When unchecked then the imposed maximum diameters are
strictly respected.
New settings in Reinforcement Assumptions
8.9 Import of eccentricities for supports
When importing geometry for a concrete beam from the Advance Design model into the RC Beam
module, eccentricities of supports (e.g. columns) defined in the model are now also transferred. This
way, the clear span length is considered.
102
Model in Advance Design where column is defined with eccentricity
The eccentricities are visible on the Main geometry tab of the geometry parameters window. These
values are only filled in during import from Advance Design and are not available for editing.
8.10 Drawings: Possibility to show marks of longitudinal bars on sections
In the list of drawing parameters for cross-sections in the RC Beams module, there is a new option that
enables you to add a description for longitudinal members in the beam cross-section drawing.
103
8.11 Online help
Since the latest version of RC Beam, there is online help available. The online help can be called from
within the program either by using a shortcut (for example from the menu) or by pressing F1.
It can also be called directly using this link: https://www.graitec.com/Help/Advance-Design-

modules/Beam/desktop/Advance_Design_Rebar_modules_Help.htm
The online help contains information about the interface, how to use the program, and examples with
the theoretical background. The online help is available in English.
TIP: By using free tools offered for example by Microsoft or Google it is possible to machine translate
the content of this website into local languages using popular browsers or dedicated websites.
104
9. RC Column module
The 2023 version brings several new options and improvements to the RC Column module. Below is a
list of selected novelties and improvements.
• Additional scenario for generating longitudinal reinforcement by imposing the number of bars
• Improvements to drawing aligned to the customers' expectations
9.1 New reinforcement scenario - user imposed several bars
A new additional mechanism for the generation of longitudinal reinforcement in rectangular columns
by imposing the number of bars on the sides is available.
For this purpose, in the Reinforcement Assumption / Longitudinal Reinforcement tab, a third
scenario User defined number of bars has been added to the list of available scenarios. When
activated, you can specify the number of rebars along both sides of the column.
This way you can define the number of bars you want at each edge of a column and during calculations
module selects the right diameter.
This is especially important if you calculate chained columns having the same section at each store,
but with gradually changing diameters between floors, because then you avoid the need to generate
additional starter bars.
105
9.2 Drawings: Break lines
In order to better adapt the drawing generated for the column to the customer's expectations, the
generation of break lines on ends of elements on drawings of RC column module was introduced.
9.3 Drawings: Improvements to bottom starting bars on drawings
When bottom starting bars are generated and the option for including these in the rebar schedules is
activated, then bottom starting bars receive a number and are annotated on the elevation view.
This can be now achieved also for all non-rectangular sections, including Triangular, Trapezoidal,
Hexagonal, T-shaped, and L-shaped.
106
10. RC Footing module
The 2023 version brings many new options and improvements to the RC Footing module. Below is a
list of selected novelties and improvements.
• Verification of the punching shear condition for strip foundations

• New options for bearing verification with the substitute foundation method
• New options for the generation of reinforcement distribution and drawings
• Import of envelope cases from MELODY Bâtiment as load cases
10.1 Shear check for linear footings
For linear foundations, it is now possible to perform shear punching verification.
If the punching shear condition of the foundation is not fulfilled and a warning is given, the footing
height must be increased.
107
10.2 Selectable type of analysis for the soil layer for the substitute foundation
method for bearing
One of the available methods of bearing analysis for multilayer soil in RC Footing module is the
substitute foundation method, which is recommended when below a strong layer on which the
foundation is based, a weak layer exists.
To allow better control over the calculations, a new column has been added to the table in the Soil
Profile window to select if you want to calculate the current soil layer only in drained conditions or in
both drained and undrained conditions during bearing calculation with the substitute foundation
method.
This option becomes active only if both these options are activated: Consider substitute foundation
method (Design Assumptions / Multilayered Soil Verification dialog) and Perform a calculation under
undrained conditions (Soil Profile dialog).
NOTE: When checking Cohesive option, the selection automatically becomes Drained + undrained,
while when unchecking Cohesive option, the selection automatically becomes Only drained, but these
settings can be changed later if required.
10.3 Drawings: Option to switch between real or symbolic rebar distribution
When generating the reinforcement drawings for foundations, you can now select in the properties list
of the drawing whether the rebars in the distribution are shown symbolically (i.e. only the first bar of
the distribution is visible) or actually (i.e. all bars of the distribution are visible).
108
10.4 New templates for France
The default template for France has been modified to better customize the default setting of the
project for French customers.
10.5 Improvements to defining reinforcement spacing
New option related to reinforcement settings in the foundation pad has been introduced to allow
imposing precast spacing of main reinforcement distribution.
The new option is available in Reinforcement Assumption window on Pad tab.
After activating this option the program finds the reinforcement diameter which fulfills the
requirements for specified spacing.
109
10.6 Possibility to set number of iterations for geometry optimization
To increase control over the foundation geometry optimization process, an option has been
introduced to limit the number of iterations during the search for optimal dimensions.
The new option is available in the Design Assumptions window on the Footing Design tab.
110
10.7 Improvement to the import of loads from MELODY Bâtiment
The exchange of data between MELODY Bâtiment and RC Footing module has been improved with the
ability to send envelopes.
Now during the export from MELODY Bâtiment, envelope cases are automatically imported to the RC
Footing module as load cases.
MELODY Bâtiment
Envelope cases carried over to AD Footing
This allows for accurate footing design for cases where exporting elementary load cases and
combining them in the footing module would result in incorrect results (e.g. nonlinear analysis).
111
11. RC Wall module
The 2023 version brings many new options and improvements to the RC Wall module. Below is a list of
selected novelties and improvements.
• Possibility to copy reinforcement data from one wall in a group to another

• Easier setting of geometrical parameters for a group
• Additional symbol to the vertical bars package name
• Possibility to impose diameter and spacing for vertical and horizontal bars
• Possibility to generate U bars at the same spacing as horizontal bars
• Updated project template for France
11.1 Possibility to copy reinforcement data from one wall in a group to another
To make it easier to use the same reinforcement on multiple walls in a group, it is possible to easily copy
reinforcement data from one wall in a group to other walls. This option is especially useful when you
want to modify reinforcement in selected walls or impose your own for verification purposes.
The options to copy reinforcement data are available in the lower-left corner of the main
reinforcement editing window.
112
The copy operation is performed with the button on the left of the selection drop-down lists.
It copies data from the wall selected in the first drop-down list to the wall(s) selected in the second
drop-down list. The button is not available if at least one wall in the group has openings.
The command copies data for vertical, horizontal, and transversal bars. If the geometry of the walls is
different, the number of bars will be copied, and the spacing will be calculated accordingly.
11.2 Easier setting of geometrical parameters for a group
The window for defining wall geometric parameters has been improved in many points, making the
definition and modification of geometry more intuitive.
The main change is a change in the way data is grouped, so that now data for multiple walls can be
edited at the same time, thanks to data inheritance properties in the tree.
11.3 Additional symbol to the vertical bars package name
To facilitate a quick selection and modification of the vertical bars in the wall in case of multiple
packages of different heights, which is especially the case in walls with openings, for the bars having
the same value for top offset an asterisk symbol (*) is displayed in the tree next to the package number.
113
11.4 Possibility to impose diameter and spacing for vertical and horizontal bars
To make the setting of the reinforcement generation more flexible, new options are introduced to
impose rebar diameters and a uniform spacing for the wall web and nodes reinforcement.
New options are available in the Reinforcement Assumptions window and allow to impose spacing and
diameters separately for vertical and horizontal bars. In addition, a new option has been added to set
the angle value for the hook for horizontal bars at the edges of the wall.
114
11.5 Possibility to generate U bars at the same spacing as horizontal bars
Along the vertical edges at both ends of the wall, you can define U-shaped members.
In the latest version of the module, it is possible to generate the U-shaped members with the same
spacing as used for the horizontal reinforcement bars in the wall. A new option is available in the
Reinforcement Assumptions window / U-shaped Edge Bars tab.
115
11.6 Updated project template for France
For the French settings, the default project template has been modified to better adapt to the
expectations of French customers.
Changes include default settings for reinforcement parameters, for example setting as default
reinforcement with fabrics.
116
12. RC Slab module
The 2023 version brings many new options and improvements to the RC Slab module. Below is a list of
selected novelties and improvements.
• The generation of the variable-length bar distribution as a single system

• Improvements to the Reinforcement settings dialog
• Additional settings for an automatic split of bars
• New settings for the location of the automatic split of bars
• New fabrics list for Germany
12. 1 Variable-length bar distribution generated as a single system
In the case that the rebar distribution contains members with variable length, it is now generated not
as a set of individual bars but as a group. Thus, in the drawings and schedules, the distribution of rebars
with variable length is treated as one distribution with the same bar mark.
117
12.2 Small improvements to the Reinforcement settings dialog
To increase the intuitiveness of the data input some improvements have been made in the window with
the definition of the reinforcement settings including renaming and a more intuitive arrangement of
some of the options and separation of the minimum reinforcement settings into a new tab.
12.3 New settings for the location of the automatic split of bars
If the length of the bars exceeds the maximum permissible length, the program can automatically split
the bars using several types of continuity preservation (overlapping, welding, or couplers).
By default, during this operation, the splitting point is set automatically. However, with the latest
version of the program, we can now decide where to divide rebars.
And settings can be set separately for the top and bottom reinforcement in both directions.
These settings are available in the Reinforcement settings window.
118
New split location settings are defined independently for both reinforcement directions,
separately for bottom and top
Using the options available there, we can set one of four scenarios:
1. Bars are divided independent of the location of the supports, i.e. only the maximum bar length
is decisive.
2. Bars are split over the support. Especially useful for bottom reinforcement when the maximum
moment is in the middle of the span and not above the supports.
119
3. Bars are split near the support. As in the above case, it is especially useful for bottom
reinforcement, but we do not want a split overall supports. In this scenario, you can in addition
specify the width of the zone (via an absolute value or relative to the span width) in which you
allow splitting.
4. Bars are split in the middle of the span. This is especially useful for top reinforcement when
the maximum moment is above the supports and not in the middle of the span. As in the above
case, you can also specify the width of the zone in which you allow splitting.
In addition, in the case of a slab on columns and without a beam/wall supports you can activate an
option that automatically generates fictitious supports between columns for use during splitting.
120
12.4 New default fabrics list for Germany
In the latest version of RC Wall and RC Slab modules, the default reinforcement mesh database for the
program settings for Germany has been modified.
Currently, it is a dedicated database compliant with the requirements of the German market.
121
13. Steel Connection module
The 2023 version brings many new options and improvements to the Steel Connection module. Below
is a list of selected novelties and improvements.
• Preloaded bolts option for MEP, Apex, and Gable Wall

• Improved drawings
• Verification of the backing plates dimensions
• National annexes to Eurocode 3 for Spain and Portugal
13.1 Preloaded bolts
Starting with the 2023 version, the preloaded bolts are available in the Steel Connection module. For
this version, preloaded bolts have been added for MEP, Apex, and Gable Wall connections.
Therefore, in the Bolts dialog, under the definition tab, an option to choose the connection category
has been added.
The connection can be defined as bearing type or as slip-resistant. For this, in the Steel Connection
module, the user can choose from three categories:
• A – Bearing type
• B – Slip-resistant at serviceability
• C – Slip-resistant at ultimate
122
Slip-resistant connections depend for their performance on the tightening of preloaded bolts to a

specified minimum preload and a friction coefficient for the faying (interface) surfaces.
These two conditions of performance have been added in the dialog as new parameters when a
connection is set as a Slip-resistant one, categories B or C:
• Surface friction
• Preloading level
Frictional resistance is highly dependent on the surface conditions. This is integrated into the design
of a connection through the slip factors, which are available in the dialog as a drop-down menu,
showing the corresponding class and the slip factor value, according to the norms.
13.2 Improvements to drawings
With the new 2023 version, the drawings for steel connections have been improved. The improvements
concern:
• Title block information

• New default dimensions
• Representation of elements
Title block (for France)
The title block template for France has been updated by:
123
• Change of some names

• Removing some parameters not used for the French market
• Regrouping the information about bolts
New default dimensions
The drawings for Base Plate and Tubular Base Plate connections have been improved by introducing
additional default dimension lines.
Here are some examples of new dimensions:
Representation of elements
The anchors which are too long have a new representation. The real length is displayed in a dimension
and the anchor is drawn with a break.
124
13.3 Verification of the backing plates dimensions
In the latest version of the module, there is an additional verification for backing plates.
The backing plate verification is a constructive verification, according to EN 1993-1-8 point 6.2.4.3.
This verification is done for all types of joints which are having T-stub: Base Plate, Tubular Base Plate,
Moment end Plate, Apex, and Gable Wall.
The verification consists in checking the inequalities according to EC 3 as can be seen in the following
picture, where the leff is the effective length of a column flange (used in determining the T-stub
resistance of a column flange).
125
Figure 6.3 from the EN 1993-1-8 shows the backing plate (1) and verification conditions (right)
The reports for the corresponding joints have been updated with this new verification, which can be
seen in the verification chapter of the report.
The new sub-chapter can be found under the main T-Stub method chapter.
New sup-paragraph on reports
13.4 New Codes – Spain and Portugal
From the 2023 version, the connections can be designed using new national annexes to Eurocode 3
for Spain and Portugal.
The user can choose the new localization by accessing the Localization dialog from the ribbon under
the Settings tab.
In addition, both countries can be selected in the localization settings, and Spanish is also available as
the language of work and documentation.
126
127

Advance Design What Is New 2023 en

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Advance Design What Is New 2023 en

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

What's New in Design Modules of Advance Design 2022

WELCOME TO ADVANCE DESIGN 2023................................................................................ 4

13. STEEL CONNECTION MODULE .................................................................................... 122

Welcome to Advance Design 2023

• Performance – a significant reduction of the time required for calculations

See below a list of new and improved features with descriptions.

Summary of key features & benefits:

1. Increased computing speed

3. Advanced non-linear supports

4. Possibility for defining non-linear (tension/compression only) edge releases

• Improvement of the calculation solver and program architecture

• Changed the way results for combinations are calculated

• Optimization of verification procedures for steel elements

➢ 1.1.1 The average increase in performance

Decrease (version 2023 vs 2022.1)

Example 1 - Concrete high building

Example 2 - Concrete building

Example 3 – Steel Hall

Example 4 – Steel Hall

Example 5 – Timber roof

1.2 Construction stages

➢ 1.2.2 Defining stages

Assignment to stages in Advance Design

For surface elements, material characteristics can be changed at every stage.

Time-dependent concrete properties in staged construction

“Concrete material properties vs. age by element” report table

Example – Transfer beam

RC frame structure with transfer beam

Construction stages for the RC frame structure

Example – Backfilling of underground stories

1. Backfilling is done once the ground floor slab is completed.

Reinforced concrete building with soil pressure

Construction stages for the building

1.3 Advanced supports

Selecting a new type of support

➢ 1.3.1 Key features

Key features and capabilities of the new type of support:

Advanced support assignment for each DOF

• Defining gap supports

Characteristic curves for gap support (2 cm gap) are defined as symmetric

• Defining supports with hardening

Characteristic curves for a hardening support (10 kN limit) defined as unilateral

• Supports of any non-linear characteristic

Graph of user-defined non-linear support characteristics,

➢ 1.3.2 Modifying parameters

Assigning characteristics of advanced support

Example – Gap support

Frame 2 carries double the load of frame 1.

Characteristics of the advanced gap support

Analysis results are presented in the pictures below:

Support forces in the horizontal direction

1.4 Tension/Compression only linear releases

Side release for surface elements

• Free end side release

Free end side release assignment for surface elements

• Determining the release separately for each direction

Line elastic side release for surface elements

• Traction/compression only side release

Traction/compression only line spring side release for surface elements

Example - Slab supported by masonry walls

Masonry wall structures

Masonry wall side releases