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Introductory Example RSTAB 2009 Dlubal Engineering Software

Program
RSTAB 7
Structural Analysis for General Frameworks
Introductory
Example
Version
October 2009
All rights, including those of translations, are reserved.
No portion of this book may be reproduced mechanically, elec-
tronically, or by any other means, including photocopying without
written permission of DLUBAL ENGINEERING SOFTWARE.

Dlubal Engineering Software
Am Zellweg 2 D-93464 Tiefenbach
Tel.: +49 (0) 9673 9203-0
Fax: +49 (0) 9673 1770
E-mail: info@dlubal.com
Web: www.dlubal.com



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Introductory Example RSTAB 2009 Dlubal Engineering Software
Contents
Contents Page Contents Page
1. System and Loads 4
1.1 System and Loads 4
1.2 Material and Cross-Sections 4
1.3 Load Determination 5
2. Start RSTAB and Create New
Structure 6
3. Enter Structural Data 7
3.1 Adjust Work Window and Grid 7
3.2 Define Members 8
3.2.1 Enter Columns 8
3.2.2 Enter Horizontal Beams 13
3.2.3 Define Sets of Members 16
3.3 Define Nodal Supports 17
3.4 Change Numbering 18
3.5 Check Input 18
4. Enter Load Data 20
4.1 Load Case 1: Self Weight 20
4.2 Load Case 2: Snow 22
4.3 Load Case 3: Wind to the left 23
4.4 Load Case 4: Imperfection 25
5. Combination of Actions 28
5.1 Define Load Groups 28
5.2 Define Load Combinations 32
6. Calculation 36
6.1 Check Plausibility 36
6.2 Calculate Structure 37
7. Results 38
7.1 Graphical Results 38
7.2 Results Tables 40
8. Documentation 41
8.1 Create Printout Report 41
8.2 Edit Printout Report 42
8.3 Insert Graphics into the Printout
Report 45
9. Outlook 48

1 System and Loads


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Introductory Example RSTAB 2009 Dlubal Engineering Software
1. System and Loads

This chapter helps you to become familiar with the most important functions in RSTAB 7. As
there are so many different ways to achieve specific objectives in the program, it might
make sense to try one or the other always depending on the situation and your preferences.
This simple example wants to inspire you to discover the possibilities and options of RSTAB 7
on your own.
This example describes the construction of a planar two-hinged frame. It will be calculated
for the load cases Self-weight, Snow, wind to the left of the columns (Wind in +X) and
Imperfections according to the second-order analysis.
The file RSTAB-Example-06.rs7 that contains the data of this example can be found in the
EXAMPLES project that will be created automatically during the installation. However, for
the first steps in RSTAB 7 we recommend that you enter the example manually.

1.1 System and Loads

1
2
3
4
5
LC2: s = 3,4 kN/m
10,00 10,00
1
2
3
4
X
Z
L
C
3
:

w
D

=

2
,
0

k
N
/
m
L
C
3
:

w
S

=

1
,
2
5

k
N
/
m
5
,
0
0
2,40
LC1: q = 1,5 kN/m
7
5
6
6
1
,
0
0
LC4:
0
= , w
0
=
1
200
l
300

5,7

Figure 1.1: System and loads
1.2 Material and Cross-Sections
In this example, the standard steel S 235 is used.
In addition, rolled cross-sections of the type IPE are used.
1 System and Loads

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1.3 Load Determination
Load case 1: Self-weight
The load is determined by the self-weight of the structure (cross-sections) and the roof
structure of the hall. We assume that the self-weight of the roof structure is 30 kg/m. For a
frame distance of 5 m at both sides the following equation is considered:
q = 0.30 kN/m
2
* 5 m = 1.5 kN/m
The reference length of the load is the real member length with the load direction Z. It is
not necessary to add the self-weight of the structure because RSTAB can calculate it on its
own on the basis of the cross-sections used in the model. Furthermore, we assume that
possible loads of walls are not transferred to the columns.
Load case 2: Snow
We assume that this construction project lies in zone 2 whose representative value is ap-
plied with 0.85 kN/m
2
. Together with the shape coefficient, the snow load is defined by:
s = 0.8 * 0.85 kN/m
2
* 5 m = 3.4 kN/m
The snow load acts on the projected length with load direction Z.
Load case 3: Wind to the left of the columns
The wind load of the framework in wind zone 1 is determined on the compression side by:
w
C
= 0.8 * 0.5 kN/m
2
* 5 m = 2.0 kN/m
On the suction side, it is defined as follows:
w
S
= 0.5 * 0.5 kN/m
2
* 5 m = 1.25 kN/m
In this example, the wind load is simplified and applied only to the columns.
Load case 4: Imperfections
According to Eurocode 3, imperfections must be considered. They are managed in a sepa-
rate load case because this allows the user to assign partial safety factors separately to the
imperfections when creating load groups.
In this example, we want to use IPE cross-sections. According to EN 1993-1-1:2005, table
6.2, these cross-sections can be assigned to the buckling curve a. To simplify the model, we
assume:
Inclination
0
= 1/200
Precamber w
0
= l/300
The exact values can be determined according to EN 1993-1-1:2005, chapter 5.3.2. The di-
rection of the applied imperfections should correspond to the lowest buckling mode of the
total system or subsystem.
2 Start RSTAB and Create New Structure


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Introductory Example RSTAB 2009 Dlubal Engineering Software
2. Start RSTAB and Create
New Structure

To start RSTAB,
click Start, point to Programs and Dlubal, and then select Dlubal RSTAB 7.xx
or double-click the icon Dlubal RSTAB 7.xx on the computer desktop.
The work window appears and you are prompted to enter the general data for the new
structure in the following input dialog box.

Figure 2.1: Dialog box New Structure - General Data
In the input field Structure Name, enter Frame. In the input field Description, enter Manual
example. The Structure Name box must always be filled in because this entry will be used
as file name later. The Description box does not necessarily need to be filled in.
In the text box Project Name, select Examples from the list if not already set by default. The
project Description and the corresponding Folder are displayed automatically.
In the dialog section Type of Structure, select 2D in XZ. In this way, the model will be sim-
plified and represented only in two dimensions. It is always possible to change the frame in-
to a spatial framework later by modifying the General Data. The default setting Downwards
for the orientation of the axis in Z-Direction is not modified.
Enter the settings in the dialog section Initial Workspace on Screen as shown in the figure
above. In the Comment box, you can enter some additional explanation.
Click [OK] to close the dialog box. The empty workspace appears.
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3. Enter Structural Data

3.1 Adjust Work Window and Grid
First, click the [Maximize] button on the title bar to enlarge the window. In the workspace,
you see the axes of coordinates with the X- and Z-axis displayed on the screen.
You can adjust the axes of coordinates. Click the toolbar button [Move] shown on the left.
The pointer turns into a hand. Now you can place the workspace anywhere you want by
moving the pointer and holding the left mouse button down.
In addition, you can use this grab function to zoom in and out and rotate the whole struc-
ture:
Rotation: Move the pointer and hold the [Ctrl] key down.
Zoom: Move the pointer and hold the [Shift] key down.
The grid forms the background of the workspace. In the dialog box Work Plane, Grid/Snap,
Object Snap and Guidelines, you can adjust the spacing of grid points.

Figure 3.1: Dialog box Work Plane, Grid/Snap, Object Snap and Guidelines
To open the dialog box, click the toolbar button [Settings of Work Plane] shown on the left.
For entering data to the grid points later, it is important that the control fields SNAP and
GRID are active in the status bar. In this way, the grid becomes visible and the points will be
snapped on the grid when clicking.
The XZ plane is set as work plane. This means that all objects entered graphically will be
generated in this plane. The plane has no significance for the input in dialog boxes or
tables, however.
All default settings are suitable for the introductory example. To close the dialog box, click
[OK].
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3.2 Define Members
You may define all nodes in the tables first and insert the members afterwards. However, it
is easier to use the graphical input to define members directly. The corresponding nodes
will be created automatically.
3.2.1 Enter Columns
Select Structural Data on the Insert menu, point to Members and Graphically, and then
select Single. You can also use the toolbar button shown on the left. The dialog box New
Member opens.

Figure 3.2: Dialog box New Member
The first Member No. and the Member Type Beam are already preset. To finally define the
member, assign a cross-section. In the dialog section Cross-section, click the [New] button
shown on the left to determine the cross-section for the Member Start.
The dialog box New Cross-section appears.
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Figure 3.3: Dialog box New Cross-section
In this example, rolled cross-sections are used. Use the buttons [Retain Cross-section from
Library] or [IPE] in the upper right corner of the dialog box to open the cross-section library
directly.

Figure 3.4: Cross-section Library
Click the button for I-sections and all tables of I-shaped rolled cross-sections will appear.
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Figure 3.5: Rolled Cross-sections, I-Sections
Select the cross-section IPE 450 to define the columns. To look at the cross-section proper-
ties related to the IPE 450 that are stored in the data base, click the button [Info about
Cross-section] shown on the left.
Click [OK] to import the cross-section values to the dialog box New Cross-section.

Figure 3.6: Dialog box New Cross-section
The Material list box is already preset to Steel S 235. If you want to change the material,
use the button [Material Library] below the Material box. In the Comment field, you can en-
ter Columns, for example to specify the cross-section.
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Click [OK] to close the dialog box. The initial dialog box New Member appears.

Figure 3.7: Dialog box New Member
Check the entries in the input fields, and then confirm the dialog box by clicking the [OK]
button. Now you can start to define the members graphically. Click the grid points that you
want to select one after the other. You can also enter the coordinates in the floating dialog
box New Member as Coordinates X and Z.

Figure 3.8: Graphical input of members
Grid points or nodes can directly be clicked by using the mouse device. If the start or end
points of the member do not lie within the grid that has been previously set, you can also
enter the coordinates in the New Member dialog box. Make sure that you do not move the
mouse device outside the dialog window when entering coordinates to avoid that already
entered data will be overwritten. You can also switch between the input fields by using the
[Tab] key on your keyboard. Instead of clicking the [Apply] button you can also use the key-
board shortcut [Alt+A] to finally define the nodes in the graphical workspace.
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For the graphical input, grid points or available nodes will be selected by mouse click. This
procedure is also recommended in our introductory example.
Define member 1 by clicking the point of origin (X/Z-coordinates 0.00/0.00) and the grid
point (0.00/-5.00). Continue with the definition of member 2 by clicking the grid points
(20.00/0.00) and (20.00/-5.00).
When both members have been defined, close the input mode by using the [Esc] key on
your keyboard or by a click on the right mouse button in the work window.
If you want to display the numbering of nodes and members, right-click anywhere in the
work window. The following context menu appears showing numerous options for adjust-
ing the display.

Figure 3.9: Context menu when right-clicking in the work window
In the Display navigator, further detailed setting options are available.

Figure 3.10: Display navigator

3 Enter Structural Data

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Introductory Example RSTAB 2009 Dlubal Engineering Software

3.2.2 Enter Horizontal Beams
The horizontal beams are connected to each other. As they can be generally considered a
continuous line, select Structural Data on the Insert menu, point to Members and Graph-
ically, and then select Continuous. You can also use the toolbar button shown on the left.
The dialog box New Member opens again. Select a cross-section from the library as de-
scribed above. In our example, the cross-section IPE 360 is defined as second cross-section.
When you have defined the new cross-section, the New Member dialog box looks like the
figure below.

Figure 3.11: Dialog box New Member
Click [OK] to confirm the dialog box and enter the frame beam graphically. Start with Node
No. 2 (0.00/-5.00) that has already been defined. Assign the member end as roof ridge
node to the grid point (X/Z-coordinates 10.00/-6.00). Click Node No. 4 (20.00/-5.00) to
finish the input.
By clicking these three points you create the new members 3 and 4.

Figure 3.12: New members 3 and 4 as continuous line
By now you may have noticed that the entered model does not correspond to the structural
system specified in the beginning of this chapter. The tapered frame joints are still missing.
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First, divide both horizontal beams. Right-click the left frame beam, point to Divide Mem-
ber in the context menu and select Distance.

Figure 3.13: Dividing a member via context menu
In the dialog box Divide Member using Distance, set the reference direction of the distance
in relation to the start node first by selecting Projection in X. Then enter 2.40 into the in-
put field Distance between New Node and Member Start. The distance to the end node will
be determined automatically.

Figure 3.14: Dialog box Divide Member using Distance
When you confirm the dialog box by clicking the [OK] button, the left horizontal beam will
be divided automatically. Member 5 will be created.
Repeat the same procedure for the right frame beam with the exception that you enter
2.40 into the input field Distance between New Node and Member End.
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Introductory Example RSTAB 2009 Dlubal Engineering Software
Finally, assign the larger of both cross-sections to the frame beams on the column-side
ends. To enter the tapered members, double click member 3. The dialog box Edit Member
opens.

Figure 3.15: Dialog box Edit Member with selection list
To connect the tapers to the columns, set the column cross-section 1: IPE 450 for the
Member Start in the Cross-section dialog section. Select the cross-section from the list by a
click on the [] button. For the Member End, select cross-section 2: IPE 360 in the same
way.
When you use cross-sections that have been already defined, like in this case, you can select
them directly from the selection list. Otherwise, you may define a new cross-section.
Confirm the modifications in the dialog box Edit Member by clicking the [OK] button. Now,
double click member 6 to define a taper for this member: This time, select cross-section 1:
IPE 450 for the Member End. The preset cross-section 2: IPE 360 for the Member Start can
be accepted.
Confirm the dialog box, and then click in an empty area of the workspace to cancel the se-
lection of member 6.
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3.2.3 Define Sets of Members
Members can be combined in sets of members. RSTAB distinguishes between continuous
members with continuously connected members and groups of members with arbitrarily ar-
ranged members.
Both horizontal beams on every side of the roof will be defined as continuous members.
Select Structural Data on the Insert menu, point to Sets of Members, and then select
Dialog Box. The following dialog box opens.

Figure 3.16: Dialog box New Set of Members
In the Description field, enter Horizontal beam left and select Continuous Members in the
Type dialog section. Now, click the [Pick] button shown on the left to select the horizontal
beams 3 and 5 one after the other in the graphical work window by mouse-click. Confirm
the selection window in order to return to the initial dialog box that looks like the figure
above. Click [OK] to finally define the set of members. Again, click in an empty area of the
workspace to cancel the selection.
The right set of members of horizontal beams will be defined graphically. Use the button
shown on the left (fifth button from the left in the second row of the toolbar). A small win-
dow opens asking you to Pick Members.

Figure 3.17: Set of members Pick Members
Click beams 4 and 6 one after the other. After you have confirmed the selection window,
the dialog box New Set of Members opens where you define the Type as Continuous
Members. In addition, enter Horizontal beam right into the Description field. To complete
the definition of the second set of members, click [OK].
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3.3 Define Nodal Supports
To define the supports in our introductory example, select node 1 and 3 on the base of
each column. The selection is required for editing nodes later. Hold the left mouse button
down and draw a selection window across both nodes.

Figure 3.18: Selection of supported nodes via selection window
Usually, the selection mode is "alternatively" effective: When you click an objcet (node,
member, load), the selection of an already selected object will be canceled. Only the new
object is selected. If you want to add an object to an existing selection, however, hold
down the [Shift] key on your keyboard additionally when clicking.
The selected objects, in this case node 1 and 3, are highlighted in a different color. Do not
click into the workspace or any other object now, otherwise the selection will be canceled.
To define the supports, select Structural Data on the Insert menu, point to Nodal Sup-
ports, and then select Graphically. You can also use the toolbar button shown on the left.
The dialog box New Nodal Support opens.
Node No. 1 and 3 as well as the Hinged Type of Support are already preset. By means of
the [New] button shown on the left, it is possible to define any new support type.

Figure 3.19: Dialog box New Nodal Support
In our example, we can accept the hinged presetting with a rigid support in direction X and
Z. The three letters YY N (Yes for support in direction X and Z, No for restraint about Y) al-
low for a quick overview of the definition criteria.
Click [OK] to complete the input of the structural data.
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3.4 Change Numbering
Due to the division of members, the numbering of the model is slightly modified. This mod-
ification has no significance for the calculation. However, a clearly arranged numbering or-
der facilitates the input and evaluation of data. Gaps in the numbering of members and
nodes are permitted.
RSTAB is able to correct irregular numberings automatically. Select all objects by drawing a
selection window across the entire structure.
On the Tools menu, point to Renumber and select Automatically. The following dialog
box opens where you specify the priorities for the numbering directions.

Figure 3.20: Dialog box Renumber - Automatically
First, nodes and members are numbered according to their X-coordinates, in an ascending
order and in direction of the Positive Axis X.
The Y-axis is of no importance for our 2D example. Therefore, Axis Z is the second priority.
In addition, set the numbering direction to Negative. In this way, the support nodes will be
numbered first and then the other nodes that are defined in negative direction Z. Click [OK]
to carry out the renumbering.
3.5 Check Input
The definition of the structure has been carried out in the 3D rendering mode that ensures
a good visual control of the input data. To set the full screen display for the structure, select
Show All on the View menu, click the toolbar button shown on the left or use the function
key [F8] on your keyboard.
In addition to the photo-realistic graphic display, a model view that is reduced to solid lines
is also available. You can switch between these two different display types by selecting Dis-
play Solid/Line Model on the View menu. You can also use the toolbar button shown on
the left. For complex systems, the line model display brings more clarity to the structure.
As already mentioned, RSTAB offers different options for entering structural data. The
graphical data input described above is completely reflected in the input tables. So please
have a look at the tabular data. The tables are displayed below the work window by de-
fault. You can open and close the tables by selecting Display on the Table menu.
For different structural objects, separate input tables are available that can be selected by
register tabs. For example, if you are looking for a particular member in the table, select ta-
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ble 1.7 Members and select the member in the graphic by mouse-click. The row of the cor-
responding member will be highlighted in the table.

Figure 3.21: Table 1.7 Members with selected member 4
Now the input of the structure is complete. Save the input data by selecting Save on the
File menu or use the corresponding toolbar button shown on the left.

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4. Enter Load Data

4.1 Load Case 1: Self Weight
As first load action, enter the load case for self-weight. On the Insert menu, point to Loads
and Member Loads, and then select Graphically. The dialog box for creating a new load
case appears.

Figure 4.1: Dialog box New Load Case - General Data
In the text box Load Case Description, select Self-weight from the list. You can type the
name of this load case also manually. LC No. 1 and the Type of Load Case Permanent are
set by default. The Self-weight of the member structure in direction Z is automatically taken
into account when the Factor in Direction Z is preset to 1.00 as shown in the figure above.
Click [OK] to accept the entries. The dialog box New Member Load appears.

Figure 4.2: Dialog box New Member Load
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The self-weight of the roof structure acts as Load Type Force. The Load Distribution is
Uniform. Accept these presettings as well as the Load Direction in Z and the True Member
Length as Reference Length.
In the dialog section Load Parameters, enter 1.5 kN/m for p (see Load Determination,
page 5) and close the dialog box by clicking [OK].
Now you can assign the load to the corresponding members graphically. Next to the poin-
ter, a small load symbol is displayed. It will disappear as soon as you move the pointer near
a member. Click member 2, 3, 4 and 5 one after the other to put the roof loads on the ho-
rizontal beams.

Figure 4.3: Setting loads graphically
To finish the input, use the [Esc] key on your keyboard or right-click in an empty area of the
workspace.
Alternatively, it is possible to select the members for load application first and to open the
dialog box for load input then.
The load values displayed in the graphic can be switched on and off by means of the tool-
bar button [Show Load Values] shown on the left.
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4.2 Load Case 2: Snow
Before you define the next load action, create a new load case. On the Insert menu, point
to Loads, and then click New Load Case. You can also use the toolbar button [New Load
Case] shown on the left.

Figure 4.4: Dialog box New Load Case - General Data
In the dialog field Load Case Description, enter Snow. The Type of Load Case is already pre-
set to Variable. This entry is important for creating load groups or load combinations when
defining the relevant partial safety factor. When you define load cases, however, you should
avoid specifying any safety factors. Basically, it is recommended to define load cases as ser-
vice loads. Therefore, accept the presetting for the LC Factor. Click [OK] to confirm the data.
This time, the input of member loads will be carried out in another way: First, select the en-
tire frame beam (member 2 to 5) by drawing a selection window across these beams. Then,
use the toolbar button [New Member Load] to open the following dialog box.

Figure 4.5: Dialog box New Member Load
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In contrast to Figure 4.2, the member numbers are already entered in the dialog field
On Members No.. The snow load acts as Load Type Force. The Load Distribution is again
Uniform with the Load Direction in Z. The Reference Length, however, must be set to
Projection in Z.
In the dialog section Load Parameters, enter 3.4 kN/m for p (see Load Determination,
page 5) and close the dialog box by clicking [OK].

Figure 4.6: Load case 2 Snow
4.3 Load Case 3: Wind to the left
In the same way, enter the wind load as third load action. This time, use the Data navigator
to create a new load case: On the Data navigator, right-click Load Cases and select New
Load Case.

Figure 4.7: Context menu Load Cases
In the dialog field Load Case Description, select Wind in +X from the list. The presetting
Variable in the dialog section Type of Load Case can be accepted. Close the dialog box by
clicking [OK].
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Now, select the column members 1 and 6 one after the other by clicking the members
while holding down the [Shift] key. Use the toolbar button [New Member Load] shown on
the left to open the following dialog box.

Figure 4.8: Dialog box New Member Load
The Load Type is preset to Force. The Load Distribution is set to Uniform. The Load Direc-
tion must be set to Global X. The presetting of the Reference Length must be modified:
Select Projection in X.
In the dialog section Load Parameters, enter 2.0 kN/m for p (see Load Determination,
page 5) and close the dialog box by clicking [OK].
The value of the wind load for the right column is obviously to high, but it has been applied
deliberately. To modify the load value (wind suction), double click the right wind load. The
dialog box Edit Member Load opens where you can modify the load value.
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Figure 4.9: Correction of the right column load in load case 3 Wind
Modify the Load Parameters by setting p to 1.25 kN/M and close the dialog box by means
of the [OK] button.
The wind load acting on the roof structure will be ignored in the introductory example.
4.4 Load Case 4: Imperfection
Finally, define the imperfection load case. Use the toolbar button [New Load Case] shown
on the left.

Figure 4.10: Dialog box New Load Case - General Data
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In the dialog field Load Case Description, select Imperfection towards +X from the list and
set the Type of Load Case to Imperfection. In this way, the appropriate partial safety factor
will be assigned automatically when defining load groups later.
Click [OK] to close the dialog box. Then, open the following input dialog box by means of
the toolbar button [New Imperfection] shown on the left.

Figure 4.11: Dialog box New Imperfection
Applicable values for Inclination and Precamber are already preset conforming to the re-
quirements specified at the beginning of this chapter (see Load Determination, page 5).
The value for Apply the Precamber from
0
in the Parameters dialog section is used for limit
settings according to DIN 18800.
As member 6 was still selected because of the load modification in the previous load case,
its number is already entered in the On Members No. list. To add the number of the left
column to the selection, use the [Pick] button shown on the left, and then click member 1
in the graphic. When you close the small selection window Imperfection - Pick Members by
clicking [OK], the initial dialog box will look like the figure above. To finish the input of im-
perfections for the columns, close the dialog box by a click on the [OK] button.

Figure 4.12: Inclination and precamber of both columns
For the horizontal beams, a "continuous" imperfection across both members on every side
must be applied. Use the toolbar button shown on the left to switch from the rendered dis-
play to the line model. Then, select the set of members 1 (Horizontal beam left) by clicking
the dotted line of the continuous members. Again, use the button [New Imperfection] to
open the input dialog box for imperfections.
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Figure 4.13: Dialog box New Imperfection for set of members 1
Accept the preset values. Check the dialog sections Reference to and On Sets of Members
No. where Sets of Members and the member set 1 must be defined.
Repeat this input procedure for the second set of members (Horizontal beam right). This
time, however, enter negative signs for inclination and precamber.

Figure 4.14: Dialog box New Imperfection for set of members 2 with negative signs
Now the input of the four load cases is complete.
Finally, you can quickly check the individual load cases in the graphic by using the buttons
[] and [] in the toolbar to select the previous or subsequent load case.
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Figure 4.15: Quick graphical check of the individual load cases
5. Combination of Actions

5.1 Define Load Groups
Now combine the load actions in order to calculate the frame according to the second-
order analysis. Create a load group for the design values according to the Eurocode with
partial safety factors on the action side.
To open the New Load Group dialog box, right-click Load Groups on the Data navigator
and then select New Load Group.

Figure 5.1: Creating a new load group via context menu
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Figure 5.2: Dialog box New Load Group
The LG No. 1 and the LG Factor 1.00 are already set by default. Enter Design values as
Load Group Description. You can also chose an entry from the list.
Select Eurocode from the Code list. The load group includes all four load actions and is de-
fined as follows:
1.35 * LC1 + 1.35 * LC2 + 1.35 * LC3 + 1.0 * LC4
In the dialog section Existing Load Cases, select all four load cases one after the other by
holding down the [Ctrl] key on your keyboard when clicking the individual load cases.
After clicking the button [Add to LG], the load group will be created.
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Figure 5.3: Dialog box New Load Group
In accordance with the Microsoft Windows standard, you can also use the [Shift] key for
multiple selection to select the relevant load cases. Use the button [] to delete single load
cases that have been accidentally added to the dialog section Set in the Load Group.
Confirm the dialog input by clicking [OK]. Two other load groups will be created according
to the described procedure.
Load group 2 contains the load actions Self-weight, Snow and Imperfection:
1.35 * LC1 + 1.5 * LC2 + 1.0 * LC4
Create a new load group and enter the data as follows:
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Figure 5.4: Load group 2
Finally, create load group 3 that contains the actions Self-weight, Wind and Imperfection.
1.35 * LC1 + 1.5 * LC3 + 1.0 * LC4

Figure 5.5: Load group 3
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It is possible to define even more load groups in any combination. Please make sure that
the results are always related to the appropriate partial safety factors of the contained load
cases. This means: To determine the characteristic values according to the second-order
analysis without partial safety factors (for example support forces), additional load groups
whose load cases are considered with partial safety factor 1.00 would have to be created.
5.2 Define Load Combinations
As you can see, several load groups must be analyzed in our example. After all, the evalua-
tion does not necessarily include the results of all load groups, but only the extreme values
of the relevant load groups at different locations in the system. Therefore, you finally define
a load combination that compares the results of the load groups and shows only the go-
verning values as "envelope".
A load combination only evaluates load cases, load groups or load combinations that are al-
ready available. A completely independent calculation won't be carried out. You always get
maximum and minimum results, that means two values on each location.
To open the dialog box New Load Combination, use the context menu of the navigator item
Load Combinations.

Figure 5.6: Creating a load combination via the context menu
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Figure 5.7: Dialog box New Load Combination
This dialog box is similar to the dialog box for load groups. However, the option for creat-
ing "Or" groups is additionally available. Using this function does not result in an addition of
results from load cases or load groups but in an alternative analysis considering only the re-
spective maximum and minimum values.
Enter Governing Load Combination as Load Combination Description for the CO No. 1.
You can also select the description from the list. In the dialog section Existing LC, LG, CO,
select the load groups 1, 2 and 3 one after the other by holding down the [Ctrl] key on your
keyboard.
In the dialog section Set in the Load Combination, set the factor to 1.00 in order to avoid
that the load group results will be scaled with additional factors. Furthermore, select Per-
manent because one of the three load groups should always be effective.
Finally, use the button [Add with 'or' ] to add all three load groups to the load combina-
tion in one single step. To confirm the input, click [OK].
In another load combination, the load cases will be evaluated according to the linear static
analysis, for example for the support forces or deformations (serviceability). First, create a
new load combination and define the input data as shown in the figure below.
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Figure 5.8: Load combination 2
Only the load cases 1 to 3 are used because imperfections are not to be considered accord-
ing to the linear static analysis. Select Serviceability from the Code list in order to set the
factor to 1.00 automatically. Then select all three load cases and click the button
[Add with '+' ].
All settings required for the calculation have been carried out. The Data navigator on the
left side of the screen offers a good overview about the structural and load data that has
been entered. By double-clicking a particular entry in this tree structure, you can quickly
open the corresponding dialog box. If an entry is preceded by a [+], further sub-items are
available.
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Figure 5.9: Data navigator
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6. Calculation

6.1 Check Plausibility
It is recommended to check all input data before starting the calculation. On the Tools
menu, click Plausibility Check to open the dialog box Plausibility Check where you define
the following settings.

Figure 6.1: Dialog box Plausibility Check
Click [OK] to carry out the plausibility check. If no errors have been found, the following
message including summary will be displayed.

Figure 6.2: Results of the plausibility check
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6.2 Calculate Structure
To start the calculation, select Calculate All on the Calculate menu.

Figure 6.3: Calculation window
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7. Results

7.1 Graphical Results
As soon as the calculation has been completed, the deformations of the active load case are
displayed in the graphic.

Figure 7.1: View of deformations in load case 2
By using the toolbar buttons [] and [] (to the right of the load case list) you can select
the results of the individual load cases and load groups similar to the check function already
described for load cases. Selecting from the list is also possible.

Figure 7.2: Toolbar Default
When you put the pointer on a particular toolbar button, a short description of its function
appears.
For a well-arranged results output, the different types of results are displayed in a separate
navigator. To access the Results navigator, the display of results must be active. You can
switch the results display on and off in the Display navigator or by using the toolbar button
[Results on/off] shown on the left.
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Figure 7.3: Results navigator
In front of the different result categories (Deformations, Members, Support Reactions) you
see check boxes. When you tick such a check box, the corresponding internal force or de-
formation will be displayed. In front of the entries contained in these categories you see
even more check boxes by means of which you can set the type of results to be displayed in
detail on the screen. Now try to scroll through the different load cases and check the de-
formations, internal forces and support reactions.
It is also possible to display several results at the same time. For a structural calculation
check, internal forces and deformations of a particular load group may be important. First,
select LG 1 from the load case list in the toolbar. Then select Arrange Results Window on
the Results menu. You can also use the toolbar button shown on the left to open the fol-
lowing dialog box.

Figure 7.4: Dialog box Show Results in Multiple Windows
Define the settings for the result types as shown in the figure above. Click [OK] to open an
overview of the most important result diagrams.
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Figure 7.5: Internal forces and deformations of load group 1
7.2 Results Tables
The results are also listed numerically in tables. Therefore, have a quick look at the results
data.
Same as for the numerical input, separate tables are available for the results, too. To access
the different results tables, use the register tabs. For example, if you want to find the results
of a particular member in the table, select table 3.1 Members - Internal Forces and then
click the relevant member in the graphic. The results table will jump to the member internal
forces of the selected member.

Figure 7.6: Results table 3.1 Members - Internal Forces
Use the buttons [] and [] in the table toolbar to navigate to the individual load cases.
You can also use the selection list to display the results of a particular load case.
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8. Documentation

8.1 Create Printout Report
Usually, RSTAB results won't be sent directly to the printer. First, a so-called printout report
will be generated from the input and results data. In the printout report, you decide which
data will finally be printed. In addition, you can insert graphics, comments and even results
from other programs into the printout report.
To open the printout report, click Open Printout Report on the File menu. You can also
use the toolbar button [Current Printout Report] shown on the left. A dialog box appears
where you can specify the name for the new printout report.

Figure 8.1: Dialog box New Printout Report
The printout report can be created on the basis of predefined Printout Report Templates.
Select 3 - All Chapters from the templates list. Click [OK] to open the print preview.

Figure 8.2: Preview in printout report
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8.2 Edit Printout Report
On the left side, a navigator showing all chapters of the printout report is displayed. To
open a particular chapter, click the corresponding navigator item. For every chapter a con-
text menu is available that can be opened by a single click on the right mouse button. Use
this menu, for example, to delete a chapter from the printout report or to change the chap-
ter concerning its detailed information.
In chapter Results Load Cases, Load Groups, right-click Members Internal Forces. The
context menu opens where you select the menu item Selection.

Figure 8.3: Context menu Members Internal Forces
A dialog box with detailed selection options for member internal forces appears.
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Figure 8.4: Dialog box Printout Report Selection
Clear the check box for the results output of internal forces for All members to enable the
input field Number Selection to the right. Enter member number 2 into this input field.
Then click 3.1 Members - Internal Forces in the Table column to enable the [...] button at
the end of the line. Use this button to open the Details dialog box. Clear the check boxes
for the results output of nodal and member partition values as shown in Figure 8.4. In addi-
tion, reduce the printout to the extreme values of the axial forces N and the bending mo-
ments M
y
.
Close both dialog boxes by clicking the [OK] button. Only the extreme values of member 2
appear as member internal forces in the printout.
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Figure 8.5: Only extreme values of member 2 in printout report
The maximum and minimum values are marked by an asterisk (*). The internal forces in the
remaining columns represent the corresponding internal forces.
In the same way, you can adjust any chapter of the printout report according to your needs.
To change the position of a chapter in the document, move the chapter to the new position
in the navigator by using the drag-and-drop function.
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8.3 Insert Graphics into the Printout Report
Usually, documentation becomes clearer when graphics are added. First, click the [x] button
to close the printout report. You can also select Exit on the File menu. Confirm the query to
accept the changes.
The four result windows are still displayed on the screen. Now include the multiple win-
dows display into the printout report. Select Print on the File menu or use the toolbar but-
ton shown on the left to open the dialog box Graphic Printout.

Figure 8.6: Dialog box Graphic Printout
Set the print parameters as shown in Figure 8.6.
In the dialog section To Print Window, the button shown on the left is available to the right
of the selection field All. Use this button to define detailed settings for the window ar-
rangement. Click the button to open the following dialog box.

Figure 8.7: Dialog box Window Arrangement
Select Page Filling for the Arrangement of Graphics on Page.
To print the graphic into the printout report, click [OK] in both dialog boxes. The picture
appears page filling at the end of the chapter Results - Load Cases, Load Groups.
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Figure 8.8: Printout report with graphics
Finally, print a detailed view of the moment distribution in load combination 1 for the right
part of the frame beam (continuous members 2).
Maximize the window for the display that shows the distribution of the bending momemt
M
y
. Use the toolbar button [Show Whole Structure] shown on the left to set the screen fill-
ing display. Then select the set of members 2 by clicking the dotted line in the graphic. Now
select Result Diagrams on Selected Members on the Results menu or use the toolbar but-
ton shown on the left to open the following window.

Figure 8.9: Result distribution in set of members 2
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In the upper left corner, select CO 1 from the load case list. Use the pointer to display the
different result values of the envelope on the continuous members. In the navigator on the
left, the results of deformations and internal forces can be switched on and off. Activate
only the internal forces M-y for the printout report.
Click the [Print] button in the toolbar of this window to open the dialog box Graphic Prin-
tout. In the dialog section Graphic Picture Size, select Use Whole Page Width and set the
Height box to 30 % of Page. Click [OK] to create the printout report.

Figure 8.10: Printout report with result diagrams
To document the serviceability limit state design, it would be additionally necessary to add
the graphics for deformations and support forces. These graphics can be printed into the
printout report in the same way. Then you can move them to an appropriate place by drag-
and-drop.
When the printout report has been completely prepared, you can send it to the printer.
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9. Outlook
Now you have reached the end of the introductory example. We hope that this short over-
view has helped you to get started with RSTAB 7 and made you curious to discover more of
the program functions. In the following chapters of the present manual you will find a
complete description of RSTAB.
Similar to the help function in Windows, you can search for particular terms in the RSTAB
online help that can be opened by means of the Help menu or by using the [F1] key on your
keyboard. The online help is based on the manual, but may sometimes be more up-to-date
than the print version.
Finally, if you have any questions, you are welcome to use our free fax and e-mail hotline or
to have a look at the FAQ page at www.dlubal.com.

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