Analyzing large models with master-slave

Description of the
problem:

Please review this model as

it indicates that the
maximum stiffness matrix
bandwidth has been
exceeded. My computer
has available hard disk
space of 19 GB.
Analyzing large models with master-slave, … cont’d.

Description, … cont’d:
Analyzing large models with master-slave, … cont’d.

Cause: A limitation in STAAD.

Description of the feature and the limitation:
There is a built-in mechanism in STAAD called
minimizing the bandwidth whose aim is to make the
stiffness matrix as small as possible. The smaller the
matrix, the faster it can be inverted besides other benefits
like a smaller disk space requirement for the operation.
This mechanism involves an internal re-numbering
(changing the internal order) of joint numbers.
Analyzing large models with master-slave, … cont’d.

Cause, … cont’d.
Master-slave links causes additional joints to be
connected to each other. Unfortunately, STAAD does not
consider master/slave connections in arranging the
equation sequence and minimizing the stiffness matrix
bandwidth. In larger models, this sometimes leads to a
very large bandwidth and consequently, a large matrix, a
large file for the matrix and very long running times.
Analyzing large models with master-slave, … cont’d.

The workaround:
Since the US second edition of STAAD.Pro 2004 (also
known as Build 1004.US), an interim solution is
available that is capable of renumbering the joints for
matrix bandwidth minimization while considering the
additional joint connections created by master/slave
input. To trigger this facility, simply enter all of the
master-slave data twice - once just before the support
data and once just after the support data. The
STAAD editor (from the Edit menu, select Edit Input
Command File) is the best place from where to do
this.
Analyzing large models with master-slave, … cont’d.

The workaround, … cont’d:

For example:
Analyzing large models with master-slave, … cont’d.

The workaround, … cont’d:

If you do not have a version with this feature, you can do one of the
following instead:

1. Replace the master/slave connection with very stiff members with

releases to achieve the same effect.
2. Keep the master/slave but add very weak members between the
pairs of master and slave joints. This will include the joint
connections for bandwidth minimizing while changing the stiffness
very little.
3. Fill in the rigid spaces with plates that are defined as PLANE
STRESS; and also have an E of about 1000 times that of the
surrounding members. This arrangement will run much faster
because the band will be much smaller.