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FEM 

GEO5

Geotechnical software

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Reinforcements

The frame "Reinforcements" contains a table with the list of reinforcements. Adding (editing) reinforcements is performed in the "New reinforcements" dialog window ("Modify reinforcement parameters").

Reinforcements can also be introduced using mouse. This imputing mode is activated by clicking an appropriate button on the horizontal tool bar "Reinforcements". The following modes are available:

  • Add
 By clicking the left mouse button on the desktop we define the starting and the end point of a reinforcement. Exploiting the function of grid may simplify this step.
  • Adjust
 Clicking the left mouse button on already existing reinforcement opens the "Modify reinforcement parameters" dialog window, which allows for modifying its parameters.
  • Remove
 Clicking the left mouse button on already existing reinforcement opens the reinforcement removal dialog window – accepting this action removes the selected reinforcement.

The inputted reinforcements can also be edited on the desktop with the help of active objects. The program employs the following coordinate systems.

The reinforcement end points can be automatically hooked to the ground, an arbitrary interface or opening (tunnel lining). These points are then automatically positioned in to the intersections of the prop line determined by the inputted points and the selected lines. The reinforcement can also be introduced directly by specifying coordinates of the two end points.

Reinforcements are tensile reinforcing elements (geotextiles, geodrids), which are defined by their starting and end points and their stiffness.

Unlike anchors or props, the reinforcement is linked to an underlying finite element mesh along its entire length. However, similar to anchors the program introduces the reinforcement end points into the finite element mesh automatically so the reinforcement can be specified anywhere within the mesh. Similar to anchors the reinforcement is modeled by a tensile/compressive bar element with the possibility of transmitting only normal force. Owing to its geometrical characteristics, the reinforcement calls for the input of the cross-sectional stiffness taken per 1m (foot) run of its width. The user should contact the manufacturer for this information. 

In subsequent stages the reinforcement cannot be edited – it can be only removed.

Reinforcement inputReinforcement input

The program allows us to consider the reinforcement also in compression – by default however, the part of reinforcement found in compression is disabled for the analysis. This state is simulated in the figure showing the distribution of normal tensile forces over active parts of individual reinforcements. The compressive part of the reinforcement is temporarily excluded from the analysis. Similar to anchors, however, it can be automatically activated once loaded again in tension.

Tensile stress in reinforcementsTensile stress in reinforcements

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