RAM Elements 2024 v24.00.03.117 Win x64 English

RAM Elements 2024 (24.0.3) - Release Date: November 2024
This release includes:
- New Wind Load Definitions according to the AS/NZS 1170.2 code.
- Cable analysis results for modal analysis, buckling analysis and response spectra.
- Enhanced force calculation using node forces in wall modules preventing integration errors in wall designs.
- Enhancement for spreadsheet multi-elements selection using the ID column and copy-paste.
- Thumbnail previews enhancement for model files for quick and easy identification of RAM Elements files.
- Bug fixes and other small enhancements.

Features:
1. Enhanced Force Calculation Using Node Forces in wall modules.RAM Elements now improves wall module calculations by using node forces instead of shell stresses, addressing user concerns related to integration errors wall design. This update delivers more precise and reliable results for wall analysis, enhancing accuracy and efficiency across all wall design modules, and ultimately providing a more robust solution for structural design.


Figure 1. Enhanced Force Calculation Using Node Forces in wall modules
2. Wind Load Definitions per AS/NZS 1170.2 Code.Wind load definitions are now available according to the AS/NZS 1170.2 code, enhancing the ANZ offering for steel design. With minor adjustments to the existing wind load generation system, this feature enables users in the ANZ region to generate wind loads directly within RAM Elements, eliminating the need for external tools.


Figure 2. New AS/NZS 1170.2 wind load generation
3. Expanded Analysis Results for Cable Members:The analysis capabilities for cable members have been enhanced to include response spectrum, modal analysis, and buckling analysis. Cable members now provide detailed analysis results across all available advanced analysis options in RAM Elements, offering more comprehensive insights into their behavior.




Figure 3. Cable results for a model analysis showing axial values only when in tension
4. Enhanced Spreadsheet Selection with ID Column and Multi-Element Copy-Paste.The spreadsheet now supports element selection using the ID column, along with the ability to select multiple elements at once through copy-paste.


Figure 4. Copy - Paste for multiple selection in the ID columns
4. Enhanced Thumbnail Previews for Model Files.Model file thumbnails now provide an improved, clearer preview, allowing for quick and easy identification of RAM Elements files. This enhancement helps users efficiently navigate and locate specific models and reducing time spent searching for files.


Figure 5. Preview thumbnail now clearly shows model file
Resolved Issues:
ADINA Export:Fixed a problem where exporting to ADINA failed if the export was performed twice on the same model within the same session. Exports can now be performed repeatedly without errors. (1535078)
Beam Design Module Flexural Capacity:Resolved an error where flexural capacities were switched for double-angle sections. The Alpha = 0 setting is now enabled for all sections with principal axes rotated 90 degrees from their local axes, ensuring accurate capacity reporting. (1529102)
Masonry Design Module Lintel Thickness:Corrected a calculation error in the Masonry Design Module where lintel thicknesses were incorrectly determined for non-equal level cases. The thickness calculation now works as intended. (1537440)
Wall Design Module Stresses in Strips with Openings:Fixed a snapping point error that caused incorrect stress calculations in strips with openings. Stress results are now accurate. (1537440)
Steel Design Module Unbraced Lengths for Tapered Members:Enhanced the handling of unbraced lengths in the Steel Design Module for tapered members. Previously, force locations were based on a single unbraced length that could lead to non-conservative results. Now, force locations are determined based on the member length, regardless of whether the unbraced length parameter is smaller or larger. To calculate exact force locations, users should define multiple unbraced lengths that sum to the total member length. (1555486)


RAM Elementsis a unique combination of a 3D finite element analysis/design program with structural engineering toolkit modules for every day engineering design needs. This program provides unequaled flexibility for the design and analysis of different types of 2D or 3D structures containing linear members and shell elements. The types of analysis available are: First order (Linear Analysis), Second order (P-Delta Analysis) and Dynamic (Seismic Analysis). In addition, RAM Elements is also capable of designing hot-rolled or cold-formed steel members, wood (sawn lumber and glulam) and reinforced concrete members using the AISC 360-05 ASD, AISC 360-05 LRFD, AISC 360-10 ASD, AISC 360-10 LRFD, AISC 360-16 ASD, AISC 360-16 LRFD, AISC 341-05, AISC 341-10, AISC 341-16, BS 5950-00, AISI 01 ASD, AISI 01 LRFD, AISI 07 ASD, AISI 07 LFRD, AISI 2012 ASD, AISI 2012 LFRD, AISI 2016 ASD, AISI 2016 LFRD, AS 4100-98, CSA S16-09, NDS 05 ASD, NDS 05 LRFD, ACI 318-05, ACI 318-08, ACI 318-11, ACI 318-14 and BS8110-97 codes respectively. The program includes special modules for designing spread footings, combined footings, reinforced concrete columns, retaining walls, concrete walls, tilt-up walls, masonry walls, continuous beams and trusses. Additionally, RAM Elements has links with RAM Connection, a revolutionary tool that allows the fast design of steel connections inside or outside RAM Elements, STAAD.Pro, the RAM Structural System and ProSteel (SDNF).
Performing the Analysis in RAM Elements
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