CSFM analysis is based on finite element methods. Concrete members and rebars are composed of finite 2D and 1D elements, respectively. At the same time, multi-point constraints (MPC) and bond elements together with springs at the ends of each rebar capture the interaction between concrete and reinforcement.
In the IDEA StatiCa version 21.0, the MPC and bond elements were joined together and substituted by the new so-called superelement, which covers their functions in the finite element model.
As a result, the CSFM analysis is faster, more stable, and may fix some models that did not converge.
Available in Expert and Enhanced edition.
