Bulletin 22, Autumn 2007 - Plaxis

New DevelopmentsIn addition to the Plaxis 2D version, the new general Plaxis 3D model that is currentlybeing developed will have these facilities from the beginning of its existence. The internaldata structure has been designed such that properties are mainly assigned to the basicvolumes (like soil layers or excavation volumes) and are inherited by the resultingsub-volumes as soon as basic volumes are crossed with other objects. Volume propertiesare maintained when the geometry is modified. Mesh generation, generation of elementproperties from the (sub-)volumes, and initial stress generation is only considered afterdefinition of the calculation phases, just before the start of the finite element calculations.This structure guarantees the consistency of model settings and facilitates theoptimization of the model from a simplified preliminary analysis to a more detailed finalrun. More details about the new 3D model will be given in the next Plaxis bulletin.With the new Plaxis 2D update (2008) and the new 3D version (early 2009) we will fulfillstrong desires from Plaxis users, as came out of the inquiry (Figs. 1 and 2). Some ofthe new features, such as the HS small-strain stiffness model, Simulation of soil tests,and Parameter variation are already available as part of the VIPlaxis package. For moreinformation about this package see the Plaxis web site. We trust that the new releases willfurther increase the perception of user-friendliness and robustness. More importantly, itwill stimulate the improvement of accuracy of finite element simulations.Ronald BrinkgrevePlaxis bvFigure 2. Outcome of user-requiry 2005 (general remarks)Because of increasing activities, Plaxis is continuously searching for talentedprofessionals to join our Team in Delft. At the moment we have vacant positionsfor a back-office manager and for a project manager with a geo-engineering backgroundto further lead the successful Plaxis 2D development line. For details andapplications see the announcement on the Plaxis website.