ssd Tutorial 2008 Uk - SOFiSTiK AG

SSD 

SOFiSTiK Structural Desktop 

User Interface of SOFiSTiK Software 

Getting Started (Tutorial for UK-Market) 

© SOFiSTiK AG, 2008

SSD SOFiSTiK Structural Desktop 

Inhaltsverzeichnis 

1 Preface...........................................................................................................................3 

2 Basics SSD.....................................................................................................................4 

2.1 Overview.................................................................................................................4 

2.2 User interface SSD.................................................................................................5 

2.3 Basic Workflow.......................................................................................................6 

2.3.1 Groups................................................................................................................6 

2.3.2 Tasks..................................................................................................................7 

2.3.3 Template files .SOFiSTiX.......................................................................9 

2.4 Structure and Function Mode................................................................................12 

2.4.1 Computation status...........................................................................................12 

2.4.2 SOFiSTiK Options.............................................................................................13 

2.4.3 Files..................................................................................................................17 

3 Basics of SOFiPLUS(-X)...............................................................................................18 

3.1 Basic Input............................................................................................................18 

3.1.1 Structural Elements...........................................................................................18 

3.1.2 Finite Elements.................................................................................................20 

4 Example Flat Slab.........................................................................................................21 

4.1 Problem................................................................................................................22 

4.2 Step 1: Starting SSD.............................................................................................23 

4.3 Step 2: Materials and Cross Sections...................................................................25 

4.4 Step 3: Graphical Input.........................................................................................26 

4.5 Step 4: Linear Analysis.........................................................................................50 

4.6 Step 5: Non-linear Analysis in SLS.......................................................................52 

4.7 Step 6: Graphical Output......................................................................................54 

5 SSD Functionality..........................................................................................................58 

5.1 Description TASKS...............................................................................................58 

5.2 Bore Profile...........................................................................................................60 

5.3 Work Laws for Springs an Implicit Beam Hinges...................................................62 

5.4 Prestressing Systems...........................................................................................62 

5.5 Design ULS –Beams.............................................................................................63 

5.6 Design ACCI –Beams...........................................................................................64 

5.7 Design SLS –Beams.............................................................................................65 

5.8 Non-linear Analysis in ULS...................................................................................66 

5.9 Non-linear Analysis in SLS...................................................................................67 

5.10 Construction Stage Manager................................................................................67 

Preface 1


5.11 Eigenvalues..........................................................................................................68 

5.12 Buckling Eigenvalues............................................................................................69 

5.13 Design RC Section...............................................................................................70 

5.14 Summary of Masses.............................................................................................71 

6 Support.........................................................................................................................72 

7 Literature.......................................................................................................................74 

Preface 2


1 Preface 

Dear SOFiSTiK Customer, 

With the FEA Version 23 and the SOFiSTiK Structural Desktop (SSD), you have the latest 

development. The SOFiSTiK Structural desktop (SSD) represents a uniform user interface 

for the entire range of SOFiSTiK-Software. The SSD module controls Pre-processing, 

Processing and Post processing. 

This Tutorial provides you with a short overview and by means of simple examples a fast 

entry to the SSD. 

In the chapter Basic Workflow we introduce the SSD’s new user interface and explain the 

fundamental functionality of the individual areas. 

The following chapters execute several examples with the SSD. All essential steps are 

described descriptively so they can simply be reproduced by you. We chose standard 

examples from literature so that you can compare the results directly. 

In the last chapter the essential functions of the SSD are arranged and expounded. 

We now wish you much success with the execution of the software. 

Your SOFiSTiK Team 

Preface 3


2 Basics SSD 

2.1 Overview 

In order to understand the operation of the SOFiSTiK programs, the basic program structure 

is represented subsequently. It is imperative, that all data is stored in a central data base 

(SOFiSTiK Database CDB). 

The SOFiSTiK software has a modular structure. The SOFiSTiK Structural Desktop (SSD) 

controls the communication between all of the individual application programs. 

Basics SSD 4


2.2 User interface SSD 

The SOFiSTiK Structural Desktop (SSD) represents a uniform user interface for the total 

range of SOFiSTiK software. The module controls pre processing, processing and post 

processing. The system can be entered graphically with SOFiPLUS(-X) or as parameterised 

text input using TEDDY. The control of the calculation and design process takes place using 

dialog boxes, which are accessed via the task tree. 

The screen is divided into three main areas. 

1. task tree 2. table area 3. work area 

Figure 1: Division of SSD screen 

Basics SSD 5


2.3 Basic Workflow 

The SSD is task oriented. The tasks are arranged in groups (e.g. the group "System and 

load" contains the tasks materials, cross sections, geometry and loads). 

When creating a new project, the necessary groups and tasks are set by default depending 

on the chosen problem. 

2.3.1 Groups 

The computational groups are organized in a tree-structure. This structure can be changed 

by the user at any time, as the individual tasks can be dragged to the desired place with the 

mouse. The user can remove or insert additional groups at any time with associated tasks. 

Figure 2: Group structure SSD 

Example of a possible group-structure of 

the SSD: 

System 

- System and load 

Linear Analysis 

- Calculation and Superposition 

Design Area Elements 

- Design ULS and SLS 

Basics SSD 6


2.3.2 Tasks 

The tasks available are accessed via the right-click-menu in the task tree. They can be 

inserted at any place within the tree. When you select the command “insert task” with the 

right mouse-button, the following dialog with all available tasks appears. 

Figure 3: List of the tasks 

Basics SSD 7


2.3.2.1 Task Tree 

In the task tree the options are accessed via the right-click-menu which automatically adjusts 

itself to show only those available. 

Figure 4: Right click menu in the task tree 

2.3.2.2 Table Area 

Figure 5: Table area 

Right click menu in the task tree 

The right click menu will provide 

relevant functions for the selected 

task. 

Examples: 

Process Dialog 

Edit Text-Input (.DAT) 

Reports Result viewer 

(name.PLB) 

Database information is written in the 

table area. 

Possible categories: 

- Geometry 

- Loads 

- Results 

These results can be copied with right 

clicking menu into the clipboard 

Possible format: 

- Text - Format 

- EXCEL- Format 

Basics SSD 8


2.3.2.3 Work Area 

The work area displays the ANIMATOR visualisation of the system by default. The work area 

changes to WinPS during processing to show calculation status and the TEDDY for further 

text input prior to analysis. The graphical input with SOFiPLUS(-X) operates within its own 

separate window making the best possible use of dual monitors. 

2.3.3 Template files .SOFiSTiX 

For processing of frequently recurrent standard tasks, the Template files of the type 

.SOFiSTiX are provided. General Templates are saved in a subdirectory of the 

SOFiSTiK directory, for example C:\Programs\SOFiSTiK\SOFiSTiK.23\ SSD-Templates. 

2.3.3.1 Adding User- defined Template directories 

For own Templates, the user can define further Template-directories. 

⇒ SOFiSTiK Options… SSD-Template Path (Find-Button Suchen2.ico ) and Add 

In this directory, further subdirectories can be created. These subdirectories appear as tabs 

and template icons (see Figure 9). There is only one level of subdirectories available. 

Figure 6: SOFiSTiK Options SSD-Template Path 

Basics SSD 9


2.3.3.2 User Defined Template Files 

Any file .SOFiSTiK can be stored into the desired Template-Directory as Template 

.SOFiSTiX. 

All current project settings can be saved as Templates Including the arrangement 

and sequence of the tasks. The materials and cross sections are dependent on 

the chosen design code. A fixed design code cannot be changed within the 

project. File Save As Template 

Figure 7: Dialog Save Project as Template 

A later changing of the code is possible if the Template is stored “without 

design code". 

Figure 8: File Save as Template 

File New Project from Template 

The saved file .SOFiSTiX is now available as a further Template. 

The existing Template directories 

are shown under Directories. 

Basics SSD 10


2.3.3.3 Usage of Template Files .SOFiSTiX 

⇒ File New Project from Template… 

The existing Templates from the Template path are offered. 

Figure 9: File New Project from Template ... 

Root directory: 

„General“ 

Subdirectory: 

„Concrete“ 

„Steel“ 

The desired file .SOFiSTiX is selected and stored under a new data file name with 

the button “Save As…” into a project directory. 

The new file contains all tasks of the Template. In addition, the data (for example cross- 

sections, geometry... etc.) from the Template are transferred into the new file. The data is 

then immediately ready for calculation. 

With "Templates without Design Code”, the design code can be altered. The 

materials and cross sections must be checked and amended. 

Basics SSD 11


2.4 Structure and Function Mode 

2.4.1 Computation status 

Every task has its own symbol to show the actual computation status 

Without computation Input is written directly into the database 

Green check mark No computation required 

Blue arrow New input data computation required 

Blue cross Old data computation required 

Red cross Error message computation required 

Green cross Warning message computation required (possibly) 

Figure 10: Computation status 

Basics SSD 12


2.4.2 SOFiSTiK Options 

Numerous settings within the options dialog are possible of which only the most important 

are introduced now. 

2.4.2.1 Language Settings 

There is a difference between the dialog box language and the input/output language. The 

dialog box language is stored within the REGISTRY of the local computer. The SSD must be 

started again so that this alteration is activated. The input/output language is stored within 

the file SOFiSTiK.DEF. 

Figure 11: Dialog SOFiSTiK: Options Language 

2.4.2.2 Project defaults 

With the option Project Defaults, the user can assign default attributes of new projects. In 

addition, the user can define if graphical or text is the default input. These attitudes are 

stored in the Registry. 

Basics SSD 13


Figure 12: Dialog SOFiSTiK: Options Project defaults 

Basics SSD 14


2.4.2.3 Process the environment variables in the file SOFiSTiK.DEF 

The SOFiSTiK dialog supports numerous parameters, which are defined as environment 

variables (in the Environment, in the SOFiSTiK.DEF or in the local .DAT). General 

defaults are preferably stored in the file SOFiSTiK.DEF. In the following example, the input of 

a modified company heading takes place in the results listing with the variable 

SOFiSTiK_NAME. 

⇒ SOFiSTiK Options Edit File “sofistik.def“ Select SOFiSTiK-DEF file with 

a tick Edit Button 

Figure 13: Dialog SOFiSTiK: Options Edit SOFiSTiK.DEF 

Basics SSD 15


The pre-defined parameters are displayed with the button “New”. 

Figure 14: Dialog: Pre-defined parameters 

Figure 15: Allocation of an environment variable 

The modified company name now is 

assigned to the key of 

SOFiSTiK_NAME as value: 

"Jack Miller" 

Pressing OK stores the new values. 

However, the program must be closed 

and re-launched for the new settings to 

apply. 

The principle hierarchy of the definition files SOFiSTiK.DEF is shown in Figure 13. The 

different files SOFiSTiK.DEF are checked in succession one after the other. Highest priority 

has the setting, which is stored in the SOFiSTiK.DEF file in the project directory. The path of 

the SOFiSTiK variable is checked off afterwards. If no SOFiSTiK variable is defined in the 

Environment, the SOFiSTiK directory is used as default. 

Basics SSD 16


2.4.3 Files 

The basic files are arranged in the following table: 

Name.SOFiSTiK Central XLM- file where all information is saved. 

Name.DAT Control file, ASCII format 

Name.PLB For each task the result is saved in a file task.PLB. This file can be 

Name.CDB Central data base 

shown and/or printed out individually. Also it can be assigned to 

the total result using the command "all results". 

Name.DWG Using graphical input all information about system and loading is 

saved in this drawing. 

Name.SOFiSTiX Template- file in XLM- format: File in Template- directory. 

Table 1: Overview of the file- Extensions 

Basics SSD 17


3 Basics of SOFiPLUS(-X) 

3.1 Basic Input 

SOFiPLUS(-X) is a graphic user interface (GUI) for the system generation based on 

AutoCAD and ADT. 

There are two basic generation principles. First you may generate the systems by directly 

defining the finite elements. Every element and node has to be drawn separately and the 

system will be generated out of this input. Second you may define the system by structural 

elements, which are only the wire frame of the structure. After that an automatic mesh 

generation will create the finite element system for further analysis. 

The important differences are described below. For further information please 

see the SOFiPLUS(-X) HELP file. 

3.1.1 Structural Elements 

The definition of Finite Elements starts with the toolbox “SOFiPLUS Classic Create 

Structure”. Structural Areas, Structural Lines and Structural Points are the main elements for 

the structure definition. 

The basic functionality of Structural Elements are: 

- Structural Area 

- Curved Area 

- Opening 

- Structural Line 

- Structural Point 

- DWG SOFIMSHB 

- The meshing is done externally 

- No FE-mesh! 

- Copying elements including object attributes is possible 

The basic idea with the structural elements is to create a wire frame of the structure. For this 

all AutoCAD commands can be used. After finishing the wire frame model the automatic 

Basics of SOFiPLUS(-X) 18


mesh generation will create a finite element system and an input data file .DAT 

which can be modified using TEDDY. 

Important is the possibility to define “Free Nodes”, which are independent from mesh and 

structure. You also may define loads connected to structural elements. 

The analysis will be started directly out of SOFiPLUS or with WinPS. 

A mixture of Finite Elements and Structural Elements is possible under special conditions. 

We recommend avoiding any mixture if at all possible. 

The Post processing can be done with the normal programs like WinGRAF, DBPRIN and 

DBView. For the documentation use the URSULA result browser. 

The most important attributes are: 

Structure Area 

- Defined by Structure Points and Structure Lines 

- Plane and curved areas are available 

- = geometric area in SOFiMSHB (GAR) 

Structural Line 

- Area boundary 

- Defined by ≥2 Structure Points 

- Geometric restraint for SOFiMSHB 

- Definition of linear support conditions 

- Definition of linear coupling 

- Beam, Truss or Cable element 

- Pile Element 

- Form: straight line, arch, spline 

- = geometric line in SOFiMSHB (GLN) 

Structure Point 

- Geometric restraint for SOFiMSHB 

- Part of Structure Line 

- Single Support condition 

- Column including dimensions for punching design 

- Spring 

- = geometric point in SOFiMSHB (GPT) 



3.1.2 Finite Elements 

The definition of Finite Elements starts with the toolbox “SOFiPLUS-Classic Create 

Elements”. Nodes, constraints, beams, springs, truss elements, cables, boundary elements 

and area elements are possible elements. 

The basic functionality of Finite Elements are: 

- FE Elements are produced directly in AutoCAD 

- Meshing is done directly in AutoCAD 

- CDB export / import 

- Copying of elements is possible 



4 Example Flat Slab 

Figure 16: Geometry of Slab 

Example Flat Slab 21


4.1 Problem 

A concrete and punching design according to British code BS 8110 for the slab shown in 

Figure 16 is required. 

Materials:- Concrete C 40 

Reinforcement Grade 460 

Concrete cover cnom = 30 mm 

Columns: 450 x 450 mm (unless noted otherwise) 

Walls: 200 mm 

Slab thickness 300 mm 

Floor height 3000 mm 

Loads: 

Dead loads (G) 

Self weight slab (0.3 * 25) = 7.5 kN/m² 

Finishes = 1.8 kN/m² 

Variable loads (Q) 

Live load (general) = 1.5 kN/m² 

Partitions = 1.0 kN/m² 

Corridor area = 4.0 kN/m² 

The following structural design calculations will be carried out: 

Ultimate limit state (ULS) 

Serviceability limit state (SLS) 

Punching design 

Non linear analysis with cracked concrete for long term displacements 

The following example shows the basic workflow right from the beginning of a project with 

the definition of geometry and loads, then analysis and design with the final documentation of 

results. 



4.2 Step 1: Starting SSD 

First of all we have to start the SSD with a double click on the button , which should be 

located on your desktop. To open a new project please use the button / or go via the top 

menu using: File > New Project… 

After that the following dialog box will open. Please add ‘Title’ (optional), ‘Database’ name 

and ‘Directory’ location. 

If you intend to use a particular drawing for graphical input, the database name 

MUST BE IDENTICAL to the drawing name. Th directory should point to where the 

drawing to be used is located on your local hard drive. 

In this example the database name should be “Tutorial 1”. 

Also select options from ‘Design Code’, ‘System’, and ‘Calculation’ as shown below and 

choose the option “Graphical Pre-processing”. 

Figure 17: Start dialog – System Information 

With selection of “Graphical Pre-processing” additional input is required as shown below. 



Figure 18: Start dialog – System Information with extension Graphical Processing 

The default settings are, in most cases, acceptable. However, ensure the Initial Workspace is 

sufficient for the extent of your model so that the graphical input is set to the correct scale. 

The Coordinate System should be set to the same setting that the drawing for 

graphical input has been generated within. In the UK, this is almost always the 

World Coordinate System (WCS) with the Z axis upwards. 

Confirming the input with OK, the program starts a database called ‘Tutorial 1.cdb’. 

Changing the design code after saving the project is not possible. 

The screen should now look like that shown below:- 



Figure 19: Main window SSD 

As described in chapter 2.3.2.1 the task tree is placed on the left side. With this tree you can 

access all groups and tasks within the project. 

The next step is to define materials and cross sections. 

4.3 Step 2: Materials and Cross Sections 

Figure 20: Dialog Material 

item ‘Materials’ in the tree. 

Three default materials concrete C 35, 

reinforcement grade 460 and structural 

steel S 275 are created. To modify the 

concrete grade, open the dialog with a 

double click on the item ‘1 C 35 (BS 

8110)’ in the tree on the LH side. 

Change the classification from 30 to 40 

and confirm the change with the OK 

button. 

To delete a material, simply use the 

right mouse click DELETE. 

To create a material, double click the 



4.4 Step 3: Graphical Input 

For system and load generation the graphical input program SOFiPLUS(-X) will be used. 

Now double click on the task “GUI for Model Creation (SOFiPLUS(-X))“ in the tree on the LH 

side to open it. 

Open the drawing file ‘Tutorial 1.dwg’ which should be saved on your local drive. 

It is important that the dwg file from which the analysis model is created is stored on 

the local drive and not across the network. During analysis, files stored across a 

network will run very slowly or even cause the analysis to fail. 

First of all turn off the layers ‘Dimensions’, ‘Hatching’ and ‘Loading’ to clarify the drawing by 

opening the ‘Layer Properties Manager’ using the button within AutoCAD. The display 

should now look as shown below. 

Figure 21: Screenshot SOFiPOLUS Desktop 



The next stage, and in some ways the most important, is to determine how the floor slab 

should be divided so that the program will automatically find the very worst case loading 

scenario to cause maximum bending and shear forces within the slab. If the columns are on 

a regular grid it is an easy matter of creating panels for each bay. More complex 

arrangements of columns and walls makes the situation less clear. The tutorial has been 

designed to help focus on some of the more difficult issues during this part of the design 

process. 

Basically, the slab needs to be broken into loading panels that will cause the worst bending 

within the slab. The slab also needs to be broken into areas taking into account different slab 

thicknesses, cover to reinforcement, reinforcement directions or concrete grades. These 

parameters are set for each structural area individually. Also, beams within the floor slab 

and/or steps in the slab are best modelled by a structural line between two structural areas, 

so this too may affect the manner in which the floor is broken into areas. 

If in doubt, it is better to break the slab into more areas than too few. The program 

will still find the worst conditions on the slab with too many areas but cannot do the 

same with too few. The disadvantage of too many is the increased analysis time. 

If load patterning is not required (due to the imposed loading being insignificant 

compared to the dead loading) for the design process, the slab does not need to be 

divided in the same way. For small floor areas, such as this tutorial, the slab could 

be designed as a single structural area. Large floor areas still need to be broken 

down into ‘managable’ parts to ensure the automatic mesh generator creates the 

finite element model successfully. In this case all structural areas should have the 

same loadcase numbers. 

In this tutorial we will demonstrate a solution to the problem. However, there is more than 

one method of resolving issues that will be addressed later. This tutorial is attempting to 

demonstrate as many different ways of approaching the problems as possible, not 

necessarily the most appropriate. 

“Center Lines” 

Create auxiliary lines through the centre of walls, columns and beams 

by opening the command “Center Lines” and select the “First Line” and 

then the “Second Line” of the object. A red auxillary line should appear 

midway between the two lines selected which is a useful tool. These 

lines are added to the layer “X___AUFL” in the drawing. 



Now we need to create additional auxillary lines to divide the floor into structural areas. We 

simply use the “Line” tool within AutoCAD. 

We recommend making the layer “X___AUFL” the current layer so that all 

additional lines are coloured the same and kept in the same layer as the auxillary 

lines generated before. 

_LINE 

Create additional lines using the AutoCAD “Line” command to divide the 

floor into the areas as shown below. 

Figure 22: auxillary lines as geometric boundary for structural areas 

Before we can define our structural areas, we have to sort out some potential problems that 

will arise if we don’t carefully check the intersection of these auxillary lines. The importance 



of checking that the auxillary lines intersect at precisely the same point cannot be over 

stressed. 

Creating structural areas without first checking the intersection of auxillary lines 

may result in multiple structural points being created at very close centres where 

these auxillary lines do not intersect at exactly the same point. This will cause the 

mesh generation to either fail or cause it to create finite elements which are too 

small, causing problems later in the calculation process. 

Note that one of the auxillary lines does not run parallel with the lift shaft entrance (Option 1). 

This is to avoid two structural points that would be formed very close together at the end of 

the wall to the left of the lift opening as shown in option 3. An alternative would be option 2. 

as shown below which does not model the full length of the LH wall. 

Option 1 OK Option 2. OK Option 3. To be avoided 

Rationalise the model to keep structural points to a minimum and avoid creating 

structural points at very close centres as this will create a finite element mesh that 

is too fine. Finite elements that are very small on plan exceed the recommended 

ratio of 1:4 which is the maximum in difference between edge lengths. Distorted 

finite elements in areas of high stress (such as at the ends of walls) is to be 

avoided. 

The next location that needs to be adjusted is at the LH end of the two span beam. The 

auxillary line was created along the centre-line of the beam. However, this does not intersect 

at the centre of the column at the LH end as shown in the “Before” diagram below. Drag the 

auxillary line along the beam onto the centre of the column as shown in the “After” diagram. 



Before After 

Now we need to adjust the auxillary lines at the RH end of the two span beam. These lines 

fail to intersect at the same point. If structural areas are created without making these 

adjustments, the structural areas will form several structural points and it may even create an 

arrangement which is impossible to mesh. 

In this case, we will make the common intersection point in the middle of the RH face of the 

column rather than the centre as we wish to include as much of the balcony area in the 

model. The fact that the beam is not going to be created exactly in the right place is of 

secondary concern. Drag the auxillary line along the middle of the beam to the centre of the 

RH face as shown in the “After” diagram below. 

Before After 



The last location which needs to be addressed is at the centre supporting column on the two- 

span beam. The auxillary line alone the centre of the beam has been moved slightly. They 

no longer intersect at the centre of the column by a very small distance. Drag the auxillary 

lines onto the centre of the column as shown in the “After” diagram. 

Before After 

If, during the creation of structural areas, the following dialog box appears, then the lines 

being seclected are not intersecting at exactly the same place. Cancel the current command 

by pressing the “Esc” key and look very carefully (by zooming in very close) at each 

structural point on the structural area just created and you will see two or more structural 

points almost on top of each other. 

Figure 23: warning caused by very short structure lines 

To remedy the situation, delete all the structural areas (by selecting the slab name and 

pressing the “Delete” key) associated to this problematic intersection and correct the 

geometry of the intersecting lines. Then re-create the structural areas. 

Now we are ready to create the structural areas. 



“Structure Area” 

Selecting the command “Structure Area” will cause this dialog box to 

appear. Simply enter the thickness of the slab (in this case 0.3m) and 

leave all other controls as they are. The loads and other properties of 

the slab are best modified later. The program will create all loadcases 

automatically, setting up the default safety factors if you DO NOT press 

the “Loads” button. The program will ask for the loading once the 

structural area has been defined. 

Figure 24: Dialog SOFiSTiK: structural area 

Now click on the main screen and the following options will be displayed. 

Figure 25: Options for creating structural areas (only AutoCAD 2006 or higher) 

Select “Select Boundary” and then select the boundary of the first structural area in 

sequence either clockwise or counter-clockwise. Nothing appears to happen when the first 

line is selected, but upon selecting the second line, stars appear to confirm the intersection of 

the lines has been found. You will notice that lines are extended to intersect with each other 

automatically. 



Figure 26: Create structural area with option “select boundary” 

Once all the edges are selected as shown above, then press the “Enter” key. 



Figure 27: Dialog SOFiSTiK: Loads on Slabs 

The “Loads on Slabs” dialog box appears allowing you to enter general dead and imposed 

loading. The dead load should include both the self weight of the slab and the finishes. 

When using the BS 8110 design code, the slab self weight cannot be calculated 

with the automatic self weight option available in the program. This is because 

BS 8110 is the only design code to superimpose the dead loading with either a 1.0 

or 1.4 safety factor. To accommodate this, the program must create a different 

dead loadcase for each structural area. However, automatic self weight can only be 

applied to a single loadcase. The automatic self weight option can be used for all 

other design codes because only a single dead loadcase is generated. 

The option “Increment loadcases automatically” should be checked so that a new loadcase 

number is generated each time a structural area is created. The option “Don’t show this 

again” should be checked because the same loading is going to be applied to each structural 

area and the loading dialog box does not need to appear again. Press the “OK” button to 

close the dialog box and the following structural area description should appear. 



Figure 28: Structural Area 1 

Note that the structural points are created at the intersection of each line selected. 

Hence, when subsequent structural areas are created, it is imperative that the 

intersection lines are at exactly the same position. 

Now continue to create the remainder of the structural areas. You will notice that the mouse 

pointer is still a small square ready for selecting the next line. You do not have to call the 

command “Sturcture Area” again. 

When selecting the edges of previously generated structural areas, AutoCAD 

sometimes cannot find the line. Press the “CTRL” key as you select the edge to 

turn on “Cycle on”. Then without pressing the “CTRL” key, select the line again and 

it will change colour. Now press the “Return” key and the edge will be selected. 



If you make a mistake while entering a structural area by selecting the wrong line, use the 

“Undo” command from the right click menu and re-select the line. 

When generating structural areas Nos. 5 & 6, select the lines around the openings as shown 

below. The wall between the two openings does not need to be modelled. 

Figure 29: Creating a structural area around opening 

After generating all the structural areas, the slab should look like the following:- 



Figure 30: Slab system consisting out of 8 structural areas 

Openings in the slab that are adjacent structural lines (ie, wall supports) should be 

modelled by the absence of the slab rather than defining an opening. Creating an 

opening which is adjacent to a structural line using the “Opening” command will 

cause the mesh generator to fail. 

The next stage is to generate any additional structural points required to model the column 

and wall supports. First we will insert the three additional structural points required to model 

the columns. 

“Column/Structure 

Point” 

Select the command “Column/Structure Point”and select the midpoint of 

the column at the top LH corner of structural area No.1. You do not need 

to enter any information into the dialog box at this stage. Then close the 

dialog box. 



Now the structural point in the top RH corner of structural area No. 1 needs to be created. 

However, the point lies on a structural line and for this reason a different command is 

required. 

“Split Line” 

Select the command “Split Line”and select the midpoint of the two 

columns at the top RH corner of structural areas No.1 & No. 8. This 

command uses a two stage selection. Select the point first and then 

either select “First point” from the right mouse menu or click the same 

position again. 

The model should now look like the following:- 

Figure 31: Slab system including columns 

Never use the command “Column/Structure point” when creating a structural point 

along a structural line. If the point selected should be slightly to the side of the 

structural line (by a millionth of a millimetre even) this could cause an error during 

mesh generation. Always use the “Split line” command as this ensures the 

structural point is formed on the structural line. 



At this stage all the structural points, structural lines and structural areas required have been 

formed. It is a good idea to save the drawing and export the model now before spending time 

applying column/wall sizes and other data to the model. If any errors are found in the 

geometry, it can be easily corrected without losing previously entered data. 

“Export” 

Select the command “Export” and the following dialog box appears. 

Simply press the “OK” button. 

The automatic mesh generator uses the geometry from the structural areas, 

structural lines and structural points to form the finite element mesh. All other data 

will have little or no bearing on the mesh generation. Therefore, it is a good stage 

to run a “quick” mesh just to see that the geometry is good. 



The drawing within the graphical input program SOFiPLUS(-X) will not change. However, if 

you now switch back to the SOFiSTiK Structural Desktop, you will find that the finite element 

model appears in the Animator program on the RH side panel as shown below. 

Figure 32: ANIMATOR view of slab system only 

Check to make sure the finite element mesh looks good. There should not be clusters of 

very small finite elements at support locations which might cause problems during the 

analysis. This might indicate a problem with the geometry, ie, two or more structural points 

are too close to each other. 

Now we can return to the raphical input program SOFiPLUS(-X) to resume entering the 

remainder of the structural information. First we will enter the column information. 



“Modify 

Column/Structure 

Point” 

Select the command “Modify Column/Structure Point” and select the 

structural points (carefully as three are close to an adjacent 

structural point) representing the centre of the column in the top LH 

corner of structural area Nos. 1, 2, 7 & 8 and also the top RH corner 

of structural area No. 8 and then press the “Return” key. The 

following dialog box appears in which the column dimensions can be 

entered as shown. 

Now select the “Bottom column” tab and enter the column details as 

shown below. 

Press the “OK” button and the column data will be complete. 

The two columns at the bottom of structural area No. 1 have not been entered 

because this might cause an error during the punching shear calculations due to 

the close proximity of the columns to each other. The design of this part of the slab 

will be unaffected if treated as a wall support between the columns and overcomes 

the likely problems during punching shear checks. 

Notice that the column in the top RH corner of structural area No. 7 is not at the correct 

angle. To adjust this, select the command “Modify Column/Structure Point” again and select this 

structural point. On the “General” tab select the button adjacent to the “Angle” entry and 

then select two corners along one face of the column shown in the drawing. The angle of the 

column will then be displayed in the dialog box. Just press the “OK” button to close the dialog 



box and the column for the analysis (shown in red) will align with the column in the drawing 

as shown below. 

Before After 

Now we need to enter the wall supports. 

“Modify Structure Line” 

Select the command “Modify Structure Line“ and select all 

structural lines which represent walls. There are 9 in total which is 

displayed at the bottom of the dialog box which appears when the 

“Return” key is pressed. 

Also on the “General” tab we need to enter the “Support width” as 

0.2m for punching shear calculations. Now select the “Stiffness for 

nonlinear supports” on the “Suppport Conditions” tab and press 

the “Wall stiffness” button which becomes active to open the 

following dialog box. 

We will assume we want both rotational and vertical spring 

supports. Therefore, check both boxes for “Spring attributes” and 

enter the details shown opposite. Press the “OK” button to close 

this dialog box and then again the “OK” button to close the 

previous “Structure Line” dialog box 



Circles should appear along the structural lines which have been modified to indicate spring 

supports. 

Wall supports should always be modelled with vertical springs and not rigid PZZ 

support conditions. This helps distribute the support forces over neighboring nodes 

which reduces the high stresses that would otherwise result. 

The model should now look like the following:- 

Figure 33: Slab system with correct local coordinate systems 

Now we need to enter the downstand beams along three structural lines. 



“Modify Structure Line” 

Select the command “Modify Structure Line“ and select the three 

structural lines which represent the downstand beams. Press the 

“Return” key and check 3 have been selected in the dialog box. 

Select the “Beam/Cable” tab and select the option “Excentr Beam or Pile” from the “Element 

Type” list on the LH side. The “Cross Sections” dialog box should appear from which you can 

press the “New” button. Select “T-Beam section” from the following dialog box. 

Figure 34: Dialog General Cross-Sections 

The “T-Beam section” uses the SOFiSTiK T-Beam theory to automatically adjust 

the stiffness of the slab to take into account the different neutral axis positionof the 

beam. The reinforcement for both the beam and slab are also adjusted 

automatically to take this additional stiffness into account. 

The “Rectangular” option keeps the neutral axis of both beam and slab on the same 

axis. 

Enter the data as shown in the following dialog box and press the “OK” button. 



Figure 35: Dialog Cross-Section T-Beam 

This returns you to the previous dialog box which should now look like the following:- 

Figure 36: Dialog Cross-Sections 



The “Import” button allows you to import cross sections created in any other 

database rather than having to define them again. 

Now press the “OK” button and the original “Structural line” dialog box looks like the 

following. 

Figure 37: Dialog structural line – Beam/Cable Tab 

A different coss section can be applied at the end of the beam to form tapered 

beams. 

Pressing the “OK” button completes the structural input. Now we need to develop the 

additional loading from the corridor and the cladding. 

The corridor loading falls mainly on structural area No. 6 and so will be best applied under 

LC 12. However, it also covers structural area No. 3 which has a different loadcase. To 

ensure the corridor loading is patterned in the same way as the general imposed loading, we 

need to break the corridor loading into two areas and apply them under different loadcases. 

Turn on the layer “Loading” in the “Layer Properties Manager” in AutoCAD. 



“Free Area Load” 

Select the command “Free Area Load” and enter the details in the 

dialog box as shown below. 

Now select the 4 corners of the corridor area that covers structural 

area No. 6 as shown. 

Figure 38: Input free area load according to the corridor and Area 6 

Now change the loadcase number in the above dialog box to 6 and select the 4 corners of 

the corridor area covering structural area No. 3. 



Figure 39: Input free area load according to the corridor and Area 3 

Now we need to apply the cladding loads. These loads can either be applied under the 

various loadcases associated with the slab areas or for simplicity a new loadcase can be 

generated for the cladding loads. In this example we will do the latter. 

“Loadcase Manager” 

Select the command “Loadcase Manager” and press the “New” button. 

Enter the details in the dialog box as shown below. 

Close the dialog box with the OK button. 



“Free Line Load” 

Select the command “Free Line Load” and enter the details in the dialog 

box as shown below. 

Click on the screen once to get the “cross-hair” input cursor and then from the right click 

menu select “Enter polygon”. This allows you to apply a continuous load around the perimiter 

of the slab. You can either select “Close” from the right click menu to form a complete 

boundary load or press the “Return” key twice to end the line loading without closing. 

You can also apply loads to structural lines by selecting “Select structural lines” 

from the right click menu. This is useful to apply loads along curved edges such as 

the balcony in this example. 

This completes the structural data on this model. 

Save the drawing and select the command “Export” as before. All the information is now 

stored in the dwg file and this can be archived for future calculation retrieval. 

The SOFiSTiK Structural Desktop should now look as shown below:- 



Figure 40: ANIMATOR view slab system including support conditions 

4.5 Step 4: Linear Analysis 

To run the elastc analysis, we double click the “Linear Analysis” task in the task tree. The 

following dialog box should appear. 

Figure 41: Dialog Linear Analysis – Loadcases Tab 



By default all the loadcases are “checked” and will be run in the analysis. Remove the check 

mark if you don’t wish a particular loadcase to be analysed. 

Note the check mark against the option “Calculate immediately”. This will run the task 

automatically when the dialog box is closed with the “OK” button. 

Press “OK” to run the analysis. 

Do exactly the same with the task “Select Superpositioning”. 

Now open the task “Design Parameters of area elements”. Here we can enter the cover to 

the reinforcement. Note this is distance to the centre of the reinforcement and is NOT 

adjusted during the calculations if larger reinforcement bars are required to achieve the areas 

of reinforcement required in the design. Allowance must be made of the final size of 

reinforcement used in the design. 

Press “OK” to run the task. 

Now open the “Design ULS – area elements” task and select the “Shear reinforcement” tab. 

Here we can select the method of design for punching shear. It is recommended to use the 

default option and adjust the “Maximum bending reinforcement ratio RO_V” from 1.5% to a 

more realistic value. The 1.5% represents the maximum area the main reinforcement will be 

increased to to prevent the use of shear links. This percentage, therefore, must be a value of 

reinforcement that will eventually be detailed in the final design. 

Press “OK” to run the task. 

The majority of times it is simply a matter of accepting the default settings. To run 

the analyis of the slab without having to open each task is possible by highlighting 

the “Linear Analysis” task and then selecting “Calculate from” in the right mouse 

click menu. All the tasks starting from the “Linear Analysis” task will be run 

automatically. 



4.6 Step 5: Non-linear Analysis in SLS 

To carry out the non-linear analysis to determine long term deflections on the slab, we need 

to create a new task. 

Select “Insert task…” from the right mouse click menu when the mouse is over the task tree. 

The following dialog box should appear. 

Figure 42: List of available Tasks 

Select the task “Non-linear Analysis in SLS” and click the “OK” button. The task should 

appear at the bottom of the tree. If it appeared in another position, drag and drop it at the 

end of the tree of tasks. Double click the task to open the following dialog box. 



A new loadcase is required for the non-linear analysis as only a single loadcase can be 

analysed. All the dead loads are added to this loadcase with a factor of 1.0 and the imposed 

loads can be added with a user defined factor. The default is 0.7 but this is high for office 

buildings. 

Press the “New” button and click inside the box under the title “Type Q” and enter a value 

between 0.0 and 1.0. on entering this bvalue you will notice that all imposed loads are now 

added with this same value. Each loadcase can in fact be adjusted individually if required. 

The dialog box should look as shown below:- 

Figure 43: Dialog Non-linear Analysis in SLS complete input 

Now press the “OK” button to run the analysis. 

This completes the analysis. 



4.7 Step 6: Graphical Output 

“Graphical Output” 

Figure 44: WINGRAF view 

Select the program “Graphical Output” from the main toolbar and 

the program WinGRAF will appear showing the contour of the floor 

plan as shown below. 

The tree on the LH side lists all the available results that can be viewed. The Figure 

displayed shows the “current” Figure which can be saved at any time to create a portfolio of 

Figures ready for printing. 

“New Graphics” 

Select the command “New Graphics” to save the current shown 

Figure into the portfolio of Figures ready to be printed. 

Select from the LH tree “Results”, then “Nodes”, then “Nodal displacements” and finally “in 

global Z” to look at the vertical deflection of the slab. Change to the “representation” tab at 

the top of the results tree and select “Iso-line”. You can change the size of the text with the 

slider control in the main toolbar. Now switch to the “Load/design cases” tab and select 

loadcase 1176 which shows the worst downward deflection in the slab as shown below:- 



You will see the maximum deflection in Area 1 is -1.69 mm downward. 

Now select loadcase 1001 which is the deflection calculated in the non-linear analysis. The 

maximum deflection has increased to -7.87 mm which is substancially higher than the elastic 

defelection. Loadcase 1001 is often the governing factor for the design of flat slabs. 

Now select the “Results” tab again and select “Design”, then “Area element” and then 

“Reinforcement”. The list now shows all the results you will require for the reinforcement 

design. The first two (Top and bottom reinforcements) show the reinforcement values in both 

directions at the same time, useful for quick assessment of the reinforcement levels. 

However, for detailing the reinforcement the following four are the most useful. 

Top principal reinforcement - Top main reinforcement quantity in mm2/m 

Top cross reinforcement - Top distribution reinforcement at 90 degrees 

Bottom principal reinforcement - Bottom main reinforcement quantity in mm2/m 

Bottom cross reinforcement - Bottom distribution reinforcement at 90 degrees 

The top main reinforcement is shown belowas iso-lines:- 



Figure 45: WINGRAF – top reinforcement shown with iso lines 

“Box” 

Figure 46: WINGRAF – box view 

Select the command “Box” to select part of the structure such as the 

internal column to see the reinforcement contours over the column in 

more detail as shown below. 



Each time a new Figure is generated you wish to save just select the “New graphics” 

command used earlier. 

Punching and shear reinforcement can either be viewed separately or together. The 

punching reinforcement shows the outline of the column with the area of reinforcement (if 

any require) at each critical perimeter. The critical perimieters are shown as blue lines and 

show what has been assumed to be the length of the critical perimeter taking openings and 

edges of the slab into account as shown below. 

Figure 47: WINGRAF – punching reinforcement and critical perimeters 

In this tutorial no punching reinforcement is required. 

Now select the “layer” tab at the top of the tree to view all the saved graphics. You can 

delete or reorder the graphics within this list. 

The graphics can now be printed out using the normal print command in Windows. 



5 SSD Functionality 

5.1 Description TASKS 

All the following tasks are provided by the SSD (see chapter Figure 3). The basic contents 

and functionality are described in the following chapters. 

System 

Bore profile (see chapter 6.2) 

Work Laws for Springs (see chapter 6.3) 

Prestressing (see chapter 6.4) 

Text Interface for Model Creation (see chapter 5.4) 

Text Interface for Loads (see chapter 5.5.2) 

Linear Analysis 

Linear Analysis (see chapter 4.5) 

Define Superpositioning (see Manual MAXIMA Chapter 4) 

Select Superpositioning (see chapter 4.5) 

Design Area Elements 

Design in ULS (see chapter 4.6.2) 

Design in SLS (see chapter 4.6.3) 

Design Beam Elements 

Design Steel Construction (see chapter 5.8) 

Lateral Torsional Buckling 

Design in ULS -Beams (see chapter 6.5 

Design in ACCI -Beams (see chapter 6.6 

Design in SLS -Beams (see chapter 6.7 

Non-linear Analysis 

Non-linear Analysis in ULS (see chapter 6.8) 

Non-linear Analysis in ULS (see chapter 6.9) 

Loadcase Combination Manager (see chapter 5.6) 

2 nd Order Theory (see chapter 5.7) 

Prestressed Structure 

SSD Functionality 58


Beam and Slab Bridge (see separate Tutorial Bridge Design) 

Arch Bridge 

Pre Tee 

Analysis of Slab Prestress 

Additional Modules 

Interactive Graphic (see Manual WINGRAF) 

Earthquake (see separate Tutorial Earthquake) 

CSM Construktion Stage Manager (see separate Tutorial Bridge design) 

Eigenvalues (see chapter 6.11) 

Buckling Eigenvalues (see chapter ) 

Half space Calculation (see separate Tutorial Half Space) 

Design RC section (see chapter ) 

Summary of Masses (see chapter ) 

Text Editor (TEDDY) (see chapter 5.5.2) 

WALLS-X (see Manual WALLS) 



5.2 Bore Profile 

Using the task Bore Profile there are two basic possibilities. To define a pile bedding 

constant or use a constrained soil modulus. For each pile, a geometric start coordinate and 

direction is required. 

Figure 48: Dialog Bore Profile – General tab 

Soil bedding modulus for the pile elements. 

These values are derived from the soil modulus above by a multiplication with a 

form factor with typical values between 0.5 and 2.0. More precisely the soil 

modulus is transferred to a Winkler bedding constant [kN/m3] by a division with 

some structural dimension and is then integrated by a multiplication with the 

width of the pile section. 

Properties of the constrained soil modulus for the analysis of settlements or a half 

space modelling with HASE. 

In Figure 56 the basic input for a bore profile is shown. In addition to that, the axial bedding, 

the transverse bedding and the moment bedding have to be defined. The input follows the 

same principle in all three cases. The input may contain several soil layers, which are 

defined by the input of depths from the top of the pile. To create a new depth, select the 

button NEW. Default distance is 1 m. The different modulus values may be defined for each 

depth separately. On the right-hand side a graphic displays the actual input. For further 

information please look at the handbook AQUA. 



Figure 49: Dialog Bore Profile – Axial Bedding tab 



5.3 Work Laws for Springs an Implicit Beam Hinges 

Using this task, you may define special work laws for springs and for implicit beam hinges. A 

worklaw can be defined for every single degree of freedom. Please use the predefined 

worklaws out of the column TYPE. 

Figure 50: Dialog Stress Strain Curves for Springs 

5.4 Prestressing Systems 

In particualr for posttensioned slabs this task makes it very easy to define the prestressing 

systems. 

Figure 51: Task Prestressing Systems 



5.5 Design ULS –Beams 

Use this task to design beams to ultimate limit state. 

Figure 52: Dialog Design ULS – Beam 

As in all design tasks, first select the design loadcase. The selection can be either manual or 

automatic. The next step is to select the reinforcement distribution. There are variable 

distributions available. For further information see the AQB handbook, command REIN. 

Figure 53: Distribution of reinforcement 



5.6 Design ACCI –Beams 

For accidental design, start a new task. The complete input is similar to the design in ULS. 

Figure 54: Dialog Design ACCI –Beams 

The reinforcement distribution from the accidental design will be saved in a 

separate loadcase number 11. The reinforcement results will not overwrite the 

reinforcement from the ULS or SLS design. 



5.7 Design SLS –Beams 

Again the task Design SLS is similar to the other design tasks. Important is the design control 

where the crack width is defined. The crack width can be defined manually instead of the 

default settings which will use the values according to the selected design code. . 

Figure 55: Dialog Design SLS – Beams 



5.8 Non-linear Analysis in ULS 

Using this task you start a nonlinear calculation with cracked concrete. 

Figure 56: Dialog Non-linear analysis in ULS – General tab 

This calculation is useful to check the loading capacity of members where insufficient 

reinforcement is provided. For this calculation, a work law will be used. The different pre- 

defined work laws can be selected in the register “Stress-strain-curves”. The ultimate limit 

state with safety factors is pre-selected. 



5.9 Non-linear Analysis in SLS 

This task may be used for the calculation of long term deflections in concrete structures. The 

nonlinear material will be used and therefore you will get very accurate results. The 

influence of creep and shrinkage will also be taken into account. 

Figure 57: Dialog Non-linear Analysis in SLS – General tab 

5.10 Construction Stage Manager 

With this task it is very easy to define a construction schedule for your system. Simply create 

the construction stages, the groups per construction stage and the load cases. 

Figure 58: Construction Stage Manager 



5.11 Eigenvalues 

Eigenvalues are simply calculated by the named task. Just add the number of sought 

Eigenvalues and the first storage loadcase number and start the calculation. The results will 

be saved in storage loadcases starting with the first number from the input dialog. 

The storage loadcase number has to be different from any other loadcase 

number. In situation where a loadcase 2001 already exists, the new storage 

loadcase 2001 from the Eigenvalue calculation will overwrite the other results. 

It is only possible to convert one loadcase into additional masses. 

Additional masses from only one loadcase is possible. 

Using a primary loadcase, only the stresses will be used for the Eigenvalue calculation. 

Figure 59: Dialog Eigenvalues 



5.12 Buckling Eigenvalues 

Use this task for stability checks. Just add the number of sought Eigenvalues and the first 

storage loadcase number and start the calculation. The results will be saved in storage 

loadcases starting with the first number from the input dialog. 

The storage loadcase number has to be different from any other loadcase 

number. In situation where a loadcase 3001 already exists, the new storage 

loadcase 3001 from the Eigenvalue calculation will overwrite the other results. 

It is only possible to convert one loadcase into additional masses. 

Additional masses from only one loadcase is possible. 

Using a primary loadcase, only the stresses will be used for the Eigenvalue calculation. 

Figure 60: Task „Buckling Eigenvalues“ 



5.13 Design RC Section 

This task may be used for simple design checks, without analysis the whole model. Just 

input the design forces and start the calculation. 

Figure 61: Task Design RC Section 



5.14 Summary of Masses 

A very useful task is the “Summary of Masses”, which gives you a quick overview of all 

system relevant masses. 

Figure 62: Task 

All Masses are related only to the structural system. 

The mass of reinforcement is calculated without lap length and additional 

structural reinforcement 



6 Support 

In case you have further question please contact our Hotline Services via Email 

support@sofistik.de or via phone under +49-(0)700-76347845 (12.4 ct/Minute). We are on 

your service daily from 9-12 am and 2-5 pm on Fridays 2-4 pm. 

For every Support request we need to know your Customer number and all used program 

versions. In most cases it is much faster to send us an Email, containing all relvant data 

including a small example, which will show your problem. 

Inside the SSD menu Help you will find a command “SOFiSTiK Hotline…” which will guide 

you through 4 dialog boxes to create a new support request with all necessary data. You 

may send this request directly out of SSD oder copy and paste text and attachment to your 

Email browser and send it to support@sofiistik.de . 

The 4 Steps to create an support Request are shown below. 

Figure 63: Step 1 of 4 Problem Descritption 

Figure 64: Step 2 of 4 Attachments 

Support 72


Figure 65: Step 3 of 4 Customer Information 

Figure 66: Step 4 of 4 Send mail to support 

In almost every case, it is much faster to send your request via mail, because all 

relevant data including reduced data files are attached. This will fasten up your 

We also have a SOFiSTiK Forum you may use. Going to our website www.sofistik.com you 

will find a link to this Forum. The Forum is for communication and information for all our 

customers. We also post news, tips and tricks. 

Additional Tutorials are stored on our ftp-server http://ftp.sofistik.de/. 

For alle customers with maintenance contract, we offer a special web based SOFiSTiK 

Online Portal. There you may use the FAQ Data Base and you may directly post your hotline 

Request in our System, which is the most comfortable and also the fastest way to contact our 

Hotline. For additional Information to our SOFiSTiK Online please contact us or your local 

sales partner. 

Support 73


7 Literature 

[1] Betonkalender 2006, Teil II, Kapitel 7.1.6 Durchstanzen bei Flachdecken mit 

Randüberständen, S. 181-187 

[2] Beutel R.; Hegger J., Lingemann J.; Stahlbetonflachdecke nach DIN 1045-1, Beton- 

und Stahlbetonbau 99 (2004), Heft 9, S. 754 – 760 

[3] Hünersen G.; Fritsche E.; Stahlbau in Beispielen Berechnungspraxis nach DIN 18800 

Teil 1 bis Teil 3, 4. Auflage Werner Verlag 1998 

Further Information you will find in our SOFiSTiK manuals. 

Literature 74

ssd Tutorial 2008 Uk - SOFiSTiK AG

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