STAAD.

Pro
Structural Analysis and Design for Professionals. Version 2006

STAAD Environments:
-Graphical User Interface (GUI)
-Command File/ STAAD Editor

GUI:
Menu Bars
Toolbars
Main Window
Page Control
Data Window

Starting up STAAD
Create Folder for Project
Open STAAD application

First Dialog Box Options

Structure Type
Space 3 Dimensional Structure (Coordinates x, y, z)
Plane 2 Dimensional Structure (Coordinates x, y)
Floor 2D or 3D Structure with no horizontal movement
Truss 2D or 3D Structure with axial stresses only

File Name (Project Name)

Location of Folder
Unit Options (Force and Distance Units)

Geometry Page (GUI)

-here is where we can create a model (structural layout).
-structural model consist of members like beams and columns; elements and surfaces.
-members can be created by connecting nodes at start and end of its length.

Creating a Model
-STAAD Platform has Global Coordinates (X,Y,Z) which structure and its members can be,
specifically, located and established.

Establish the nodes

-to create a model, let us establish the nodes first
-a node can be established by specifying coordinates (X,Y,Z) according to its ID number
in the data window
 -node is the only way we can connect and intersect members.

Creating Members
-specify the first then the second node at the data window corresponding to its ID.
-or use add beam toolbar then click the first and next second node at the main window.
-establish a pattern for easy locating later on.

Translational Repeat Tool

-for faster modeling

Create Sample Structure:

STAAD Command Editor:

STAAD SPACE can be replaced with STAAD PLANE, STAAD FLOOR and STAAD TRUSS

Input Width means number of characters readable for STAAD

Joint Coordinates Inputs for nodes

Pattern: NODE <space> X <space> Y <space> Z;
Node - node id number
x y z global coordinates

Member Incidences Inputs for members

Pattern: MEMBER <space> NODE1 <space> NODE2;

Element Incidences Inputs for elements/plates

Pattern: ELEMENT <space> NODE1 <space> NODE2 <space> NODE3 <space> NODE4

FINISH Closing command