Version 11.

5 i 12/04
* * * A T I R * * *
S T R A P
for
Windows
STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS
PROGRAM
TUTORIAL
&
DEMO
Examples
- Metric units Version 11.5
December 2004
STRAP
Version 11.5 ii 12/04
Disclaimer
The STRAP programs have been written by a team of highly qualified engineers and
programmers and have
been extensively tested. Nevertheless, the authors of the software do not assume
responsibility for the validity
of the results obtained from the programs or for the accuracy of this documentat
ion.
The following examples demonstrate various program options used for
defining the geometry and loads for structural models and for
displaying their results. These examples were designed as teaching
aids only and should not be considered as a guide for accurate
modeling of similar structures
The authors remind the user that the programs are to be used as a tool for struc
tural analysis, and that the
engineering judgement of the user is the final arbiter in the development of a s
uitable model and the
interpretation of the results.
The user must verify his own results
Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corp.
AutoCAD is a registered trademark of Autodesk Inc.
Acrobat is a registered trademark of Adobe Systems Inc.
STRAP
Version 11.5 iii 12/04
Table of Contents
1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
1.1 Installing the Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
1.2 Hints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
2 Demo examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
2.1 Demo 1 - Plane Frame . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
2.2 Demo 2 - Plane Grid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
2.3 Demo 3 - Space Frame . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
2.4 Demo 4 - Chess Loads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
2.5 Demo 5 - Finite element results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20
2.6 Demo 6 - Result Combinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . 2-22
2.7 Demo 7 - Structural steel design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . 2-25
2.8 Demo 8 - Reinforced concrete design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . 2-29
2.9 Demo 9 - Light gauge steel design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . 2-32
2.10 Demo 10 - Bridge loading analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . 2-37
2.11 Demo 11 - Bridge analysis
Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . 2-39
Miscellaneous . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-58
3.1 Defining new models . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-58
3.2 How to Use HELP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-59
STRAP
Version 11.5 1-1 12/04
1 General
This DEMO version is a limited version of the STRAP analysis and design program.
New models with up to 12 nodes may be defined, solved and saved. For instruction
s, refer to section 3.1.
The DEMO includes:
the files of 11 existing models; these models already contain more than 12 nodes
and additional nodes may
be defined. However, revisions to the geometry and loading will not be saved.
detailed instructions for defining the geometry or loading of models or viewing
their results (Demo 2.1 to
Demo 2.11).
The 11 existing models are:
DEMO - Empty model :
an empty model i.e. it contains no existing geometry. It may be used to define any
model up to the program
capacity (32,000 nodes), e.g. the models in Demo 2.1, Demo 2.2 and Demo 2.3. How
ever the geometry
will not be saved.
DEMO 4... to DEMO 11... :
the models corresponding to Demo 2.4 to Demo 2.11. These Demo examples describe
the definition of
loads, viewing of results and use of the design postprocessors.
Ramp , Stadium , etc.
4 large solved models, intended primarily for displaying results.
Note:
The Windows version of STRAP provides the user with extensive on-line Help; the
entire User's Manual
is an integral part of the program and may be displayed at any time. For instruc
tions, refer to section 3.2.
STRAP
Version 11.5 1-2 12/04
1.1 Installing the Program
Before starting the program installation, make sure that you have all the hardwa
re required to run STRAP:
A personal computer with Windows 95/98/2000/NT
At least 35 MB of free space on your hard disk
The files on the STRAP installation diskettes or CD are in compressed format; th
ey are copied to the hard disk
by an installation program. The program cannot be installed by copying the files
from the diskettes or CD.
To install the program::
Insert the CD in its drive.
Follow the instructions on the CD case back cover

Follow the instructions displayed on the screen:

Then define the program directory and select the modules to be installed:
The program should be installed in a separate directory (the installation progra
m will open a new directory if
the directory with the name entered does not exist).
To change the program folder, click
Set the required program modules
to , Note that the entire program
does not have to be installed, a
useful feature for updates.
Click to begin the
installation.
STRAP
Version 11.5 1-3 12/04
1.2 Hints
Help
Note that Help is available at any point by pressing the key; the program will
display the manual page
for the current option. Refer to 3.2.
Undo
If you made a mistake, simply click the Undo option in the menu bar at the top o
f the screen; the program
will delete the previous definition step.
Icon bar
Note the row of small icons below the menu bar at the top of the screen. Clickin
g an icon provides access
to many of the program options. Place the on an icon to display a hint explaining
its function.
Zoom
Click the Zoom option in the menu bar at the top of the screen and try the Numbe
r of Windows option.
This option creates a split screen showing different views of the model. Each view
can be rotated to a
different angle, have a different zoom and display different information.
Any of the windows may be the active one; move the into a window and double click
the mouse. When
you define part of the geometry in the active window, all of the other windows a
re updated simultaneously.
Display
Click the Display option in the menu bar at the top of the screen to display var
ious information about the
model - node, beam and property group numbers, support location and type, spring
location, etc.
Verify node coordinates by selecting Define/revise dimension lines; the program
will display the distances
between nodes that you select. The lines may be vertical, horizontal or parallel
to any pair of nodes.
Print graphics
Select the Output option on the menu bar and click on Print drawing. The current
display will be printed
to the scale and with the title that you define.
File management
The program provides complete file management capabilities (backup, restore, del
ete, etc.); select the Files
option in the menu bar in the program s initial screen (STRAP models list).
Create your own model
To create a new model of your own, simply Exit to the STRAP models list, select
Files in the menu bar and
click New model. Remember that only models with 12 nodes or less can be saved in
the Demo version.

Refer to 3.1.
Try the Models wizard option - you only have to type in a few parameters to crea
te standard structural models.
Note that the models available in the preprocessor are dependant on the Model ty
pe specified - click the
Wizard button and the program will display the models that may be defined.
Beam/element properties
Beam properties (section properties, dimensions or steel section) are defined fo
r property groups; each
beam is then assigned to a group. Revise the whole group instead of making tedio
us member by member
changes.
Click the Display option in the menu bar and select Property name to verify that
the correct property was
assigned to all of the beams in the model.
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-1 12/04
2 Demo examples
Select the STRAP icon in the Windows Program Manager screen:
The program Main Menu and model list is displayed. The model list initially cont
ains the names of the models
supplied with the Demo. Remember that the geometry and loads of these models may
be revised but the
revisions will not be saved.
To select an existing model:
move the to the model name in the list and click the mouse; the model name will
be highlighted.
follow the detailed instructions in each of the Demo examples.
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-2 12/04
2.1 Demo 1 - Plane Frame
Define the following plane frame using the Models wizard.
Demo 1 is a simple example that demonstrates the following:
Definition of a simple plane frame, using STRAP s model wizard library.
STRAP contains a library of standard structures that enables the user to easily
and quickly define the model
geometry and loads by entering a small number of parameters. The library can be
extended to include
additional model types.
Utilization of STRAP s copy feature for defining the diagonals in the upper stories.
STRAP s copy commands are powerful and sophisticated. The program refrains from dupl
icating existing
beams. In our example, the program will duplicate only the diagonals and not the
other existing members
(beams and columns).
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-3 12/04
Define the model:
Main Menu
- double-click DEMO - Empty model in the model list. This is an empty demo model
that allows you to define
any size model up to the program capacity.
Preliminary Menu:
Arrange the menu as follows:
Revise the model units (if necessary)
Set the model type to Plane frame
Click to continue
Model wizard:
- Click
- Define the plane frame parameters:

Type in the number of bays

Type in the number of storeys
Type in the bay width
Type in the storey height
Click the button
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-4 12/04
- Define the section type for beams:
Click the icon
Select American (if necessary)
- Click UB in the section type list and 406x140x39 in the section list.
Select Steel
Define X3 as the major axis
Click the button
- For columns, click the icon and select UC and 356x368x129.
- Define dead, live and wind loads and load factors for combinations.
The model wizard creates standard load cases from the basic load data. For the p
lane frame wizard, nine
cases are created - Press to display more details.
Note that loads defined by a wizard in the Demo version are not saved and cannot
be displayed. Loads for
this frame are also defined in Demo 4.
- Define dead and live load:
Type in the dead load value
Type in the live load value
Type in the self weight factor
Click the button
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-5 12/04
- Define Wind loads:
Type in the wind loads
Click the button
- Define combination factors:
Enter the load factors
Click the button
- The program now creates the model according to the parameters and displays it
on the screen with the
following Dialog Box at the bottom:
- To revise the dimension of the third bay to 7.5 m, click the button.
- Move the to the horizontal dimension line so that the dimension of the third
bay is highlighted with the
rectangular blip; click the mouse.
Enter the new dimension
Click the button
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-6 12/04
Select This dimension only
- Press Esc (right click the mouse) to end the revision of dimensions.
- Click the button to leave the Model Wizard. The program now enters the regula
r geometry module.
Geometry
- click in the menu bar to display the node numbers
- To define the bracing, click the icon in the Main menu
- Click the icon in the Beam options menu at the side of the screen
- move the into the Dialog box at the bottom of the screen and set Prop.= 3; cl
ick Screen .
- move the adjacent to node 3 so that the node is highlighted with a ; click t
he mouse
- move the adjacent to node 9 so that the node is highlighted with a ; click t
he mouse

the program creates a beam linking nodes 3 and 9.

- In a similar manner, create a beam linking nodes 4 and 8.
Copy the bracing to all floors:
- Click the icon
- Click the icon
- Click the icon in the Copy options menu at the side of the screen
Click Individual nodes
- move the adjacent to node 3 so that the node is highlighted with a ; click th
e mouse
- Similarly select nodes 4, 8 and 9
- after the node 9 has been selected, click the mouse again without moving the c
rosshair (or click the
End selection button in the Dialog box at the bottom of the screen).
- Select the reference node: move the adjacent to node 3 so that the node is hi
ghlighted with a ; click the
mouse
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-7 12/04
- Select the new location of the reference node: click the button and select no
de 8.
Set Number of copies to 2
Select Automatic numbering
Select Automatic numbering
- click ; the program creates and draws the new bracing
Define the section properties of the bracing:
- Click the icon.
- Click the icon.
- Click the icon.
Undefined.
Select 3
Click Define/revise
- click the icon and select 2L and 150x150x10; click
- Click the button to complete the property definition.
- Click the icon
You have now completed the definition of the geometry and the loads. To select t
he next Demo model:
- click File in the top menu bar
- select STRAP model list in the pull-down menu.
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-8 12/04
2.2 Demo 2 - Plane Grid
Define the grid of finite elements shown in Figure D.2.
Demo 2 demonstrates STRAP s powerful features of automatically generating a mesh o
f elements. The user
can define an area of any shape (which may also include holes in it) and the siz
e of the elements that he wants.
The program identifies existing supports (e.g. columns) and includes them in the
mesh nodes.
When defining a mesh area adjacent to an already defined mesh, the program will
take care of a smooth
connection between the elements of the two areas.
Figure D.2
Main Menu
double-click DEMO - Empty model in the models list. This is an empty demo model
that allows you to define
any size model up to the program capacity.
Preliminary Menu
- set the default Units to meter and kN , the Display width range from -5 to 60
and the Display height range
from -5 to 40 (if necessary).
- set the Model type to Grid

- click the button

Geometry
Define the grid of support nodes:
- click the icon
- click the icon
Select Equally spaced
and click the button
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-9 12/04
- The base line starts at coordinates (0,0); type 0 (the cursor automatically en
ters the X1= box) and
press [Enter]. The cursor moves to the X2= box; type 0 and press [Enter]. Press
[Enter] or click the
button.
(Alternatively - move the on the screen so that the coordinate in the Dialog box at the bottom
of the screen are X1=0.
and X2=0.; click the mouse.)
- The base line ends at coordinates (50,0); type 50 and press [Enter]. The curso
r moves to the X2= box; type
0 and press [Enter]. Press [Enter] three times or click the button.
(Alternatively - move the on the screen so that the coordinate in the Dialog box at the bottom
of the screen are X1=50
and X2=0.; click the mouse.)
- Specify 5 segments and click the button
- Define the nodes on the grid height line as Equally spaced and click the butt
on
- The height line ends at coordinates (50,32.5); type 50 and press [Enter]. The
cursor moves to the X2= box;
type 32.5 and press [Enter]. Press [Enter] three times or click the button.
(Alternatively - move the on the screen so that the coordinates in the Dialog box at the bottom
of the screen are X1=50
and X2=32.5 (or dX1=0 and dX2=32.5); click the mouse.)
- Specify 5 segments and click the button; the program creates a grid of nodes
and displays them
on the screen.
Note that nodes not attached to elements are ignored by the program.
- Click the icon.
Define the supports:
- Click the icon.
- Click the icon in the Restraints option menu at the side of the screen.
Click Select all nodes
the program creates the pinned supports ; click in the icon bar at the to p of
the screen to draw them
on the nodes.
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-10 12/04
- Click the icon.
Define the mesh of elements:
- click the icon
- click the icon
Select Generate nodes
Select Rectangular
and click the button
- Define the contour line enclosing the floor area:
move the adjacent to node A1 (Figure D.2b) so that the node is highlighted with
a ; click the mouse.
Similarly select nodes A2 to A8 and A1 (again) to close the contour.

Click Define contour of a hole

- move the adjacent to node B1 so that the node is highlighted with a ; click t
he mouse. Similarly select
nodes B2, B3, B4 and B1 (again) to close the contour of the opening.
- Select End contour definition
- Arrange the mesh parameters menu as follows:
Set the Grid step to 2.0
Set the Grid step to 1.3
Set Align grid with existing nodes
Click the button
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-11 12/04
- The program superimposes the preliminary mesh (6.0 x 4.0) on the area defined
by the contour.
- Click the button.
The elements as displayed in Figure D.2b are generated. Note that the existing e
lements in the contour area
are erased.
- Click the button when the program asks Is the mesh OK?
Define the element thickness:
- click the icon.
- double-click the 1 - Undefined line (all elements were assigned to Property Gr
oup no.1 by default)
- Set the Thickness = 25 (cm.)
- click the button
- Click the End button to complete the property definition.
- Click the icon
You have now completed the definition of the geometry.
To select the next Demo model - click File in the top menu bar
- select STRAP model list in the pull-down menu.
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-12 12/04
2.3 Demo 3 - Space Frame
In Demo 3 we will define a space structure.
In this Demo you will learn how to use STRAP s more advanced features to quickly a
nd easily define this
complex space frame.
Note: You are advised to run this DEMO after trying Demo 1.
The demo demonstrates the following features of STRAP:
Definition of a single frame by using a Model Wizard (similar to Demo 1).
Duplication of the single frame to form the space model.
Definition of the transverse truss as a submodel, also using a model wizard.
The submodel feature enables to define part of the structure as a separate model
and then add it to the main
model at specified locations. Similar to the Copy option, the program does not g
enerate double members.
Working in two windows (split screen). The whole model is displayed in one windo
w. In the other one, the
transverse truss is displayed and selected for duplication.
The Mirror option for copying the transverse truss.
To define the model:
Main Menu
- Double-click DEMO-Empty model in the model list.
Preliminary Menu
- Set the Model Type to Space frame
- Click the icon
Models wizard
- Click the Frame truss button
STRAP

Version 11.5 2-13 12/04

- Specify the parameters:
Click the button
- click Skip all twice as we will not define section properties and loads in th
e Wizard.
- The program displays the model, click to continue
Copy the frame truss
- click in the menu bar to display the node numbers (note that it will be very
convenient to switch the
node numbers on/off many times during the course of building this model; these i
nstructions will not mention
it every time)
- Click the icon in the main menu.
- Click the icon in the copy options menu
- Click the Select all nodes button
- Select a reference mode: move the adjacent to node 1 so that the node is high
lighted with a ; click the
mouse.
- Define the new location of the reference node:
- Click the by coordinates button
- Type the coordinates X1=0, X2=0, X3=8 in the box at the bottom of the screen.
- Click to continue
Set Number of copies = 3
For convenience in identifying nodes in parallel trusses,
set increment = 100
click the button
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-14 12/04
- The program creates the new trusses. Click the button in the icon bar twice a
nd the button once
to rotate the model to the isometric view.
- Click the icon.
Restraints
- Click in the icon bar; note that restraints we not copied. To define them on
the copied trusses - Click the icon.
- Click the icon in the Restraints option menu at the side of the screen.
- Click the Individual nodes button and select the 12 new base nodes.
Definition of the transverse truss:
- Click the icon.
- Click the Model wizard button in the submodel menu
- Click the icon
- Define one bay only (4 panels):
Click the button
- the program displays the model, click to continue
The Wizard defines by default two support restraints (Click in the icon to disp
lay them). As our structure
is a submodel, we have to delete them.
- Click the icon.
- Click the icon.
- Click the Select all nodes button
- Click the icon.
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-15 12/04
Copy the truss to create 3 bays:
- Click the icon in the main menu
- Click the icon in the copy options menu
- Click the Select all nodes button
- Select a reference node: move the adjacent to node 1 (lower left corner of th
e submodel) so that the node

is highlighted a ; click the mouse.

- Define the new location of the reference node: click the at an existing node
button
- move the adjacent to node 5 (lower right corner of the submodel) so that the
node is highlighted with a ;
click the mouse.
- Set Number of copies = 2 and click the button; the program creates and draws
the truss.
- Click the full drawing icon in the icon bar at the top of the screen.
Add the submodel to the main model:
- Click the icon.
- Click the icon.
- Select reference nodes: move the adjacent to node 22 (at lower right end) so
that the node is highlighted
with a ; click the mouse
- Select nodes 1 and 6
- Define the new location of the reference nodes:
- Select nodes 318 (the ridge of the bottom chord of the first frame), 18 (the r
idge of the bottom chord of the
last frame) and 32 (the ridge of the top chord of the last frame) or type the no
de numbers in the Dialog box
at the bottom of the screen.
Duplicate the transverse truss
We will use the Zoom option - Number of windows - to simplify the node selection
procedure.
- Select Zoom in the menu bar at the top of the screen.
- move the adjacent to - Number of windows - and then click Display 2 geometry
windows
- move the adjacent to the right window and double-click the mouse or click the
title bar; the focus will now
be on this right window (note that the title bar is shaded!)
- Select Zoom in the menu bar.
- Create a window about the transverse truss.
- Select Remove in the menu bar at the top of the screen then select Limit displ
ay to a plane
- Select any 3 nodes in the truss plane (nodes 318, 18, 32 for example)
Copy the transverse truss:
- Click the icon.
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-16 12/04
- Click the icon in the copy menu.
- Click the Select all nodes button
- Select a reference node: select node 318 (the bottom node of the transverse tr
uss, at the near end).
Define the new location of the reference node:
- Click the at an existing node button
- Move the adjacent to the left window and double click the mouse (to shift the
focus to the left Window) then
select node 316 (two nodes to the left from node 318).
- Set Number of copies = 3 and click the button
Duplicate the transverse trusses to the other side
Complete the definition of the secondary trusses by creating a mirror image of t
he entire model!
- Click the icon.
- Click the Select all nodes button
- Select a reference node: select node 301 (the bottom left node of the left leg
)
- Define the new location of the reference node:
- Click the at an existing node button and select node 346 (the bottom right no
de of the right leg).

- Click the button to copy the trusses

Please note that although we selected the entire model, the program copied the t
ransverse trusses only
because it automatically eliminates double members generated by the command.
To select another model:
- Click the File in the top menu bar.
- Select STRAP models list in the pull-down menu.
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-17 12/04
2.4 Demo 4 - Chess Loads
In this Demo we will create the following load cases for the frame defined in DE
MO1:
This Demo demonstrates STRAP s unique Chess load option that automatically generates
the critical loading
cases from basic Dead load and Live load cases (a & b in the drawings).
The program by itself identifies the continuous beams and applies the dead load
and live load to the appropriate
spans and with the correct load factors. The program is smart enough to identify
intermediate nodes if defined
and ignore them when applying the load.
define the dead loads shown in Figure (a) in load case 1
define all live loads shown in Figure (b) in load case 2
use the program Chess loads option to automatically create load cases (c), (d) a
nd (e).
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-18 12/04
Main Menu
- highlight DEMO 4 - plane frame - LOADS in the model list
- Click the icon in the side menu.
Load case 1 - dead loads
- Click the icon.
- enter the load case tile; type Dead loads and click the button
- specify Beam loads and click the icon
- Click the icon.
- Specify Select only beams parallel to a beam and click the Select all beams
button
- Select the parallel beam (the load will be applied only to beams parallel to thi
s one); move the adjacent
to any horizontal beam so that the beam is highlighted with a ; click the mouse.
- Type in the uniform load =-21 (check that Direction: FX2) and click to conti
nue
- The program creates the loads and draws them on the screen. Click the icon.
Load case 2 - live loads
- Click the icon.
- enter the load case tile; type Live loads and click the button
- proceed as described for Load case 1, except enter a uniform load = -13
- to define the point loads, click the icon
- Click the icon.
- Click the Individual beams button
- Select one of the exterior roof beams; move the adjacent to any horizontal be
am so that the beam is
highlighted with a ; click the mouse. Repeat for the other exterior roof beam.
- Click the End selection button
- Type in the point load =-24 (check that Direction: FX2 and that Fraction = 0.5
) and click End to
continue
- The program creates the loads and draws them on the screen. Click the icon.
Chess loads
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-19 12/04

- Click the icon in the main menu.

- The program correctly assumes that load case 1 contains all of the dead loads
and that load case 2 contains
all of the live loads. Correct the maximum/minimum load factors if necessary; cl
ick to continue.
- The program displays the series of generated load cases; click to continue af
ter each case.
Check the loads in the generated load cases:
- Click the icon in the main menu and select the load case to be displayed, or
- select Output in the top menu bar, then Display load commands and select the l
oad case to be displayed.
You have now completed the definition of the loads. To select the next Demo mode
l - click File in the top menu bar
- select STRAP model list in the pull-down menu.
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-20 12/04
2.5 Demo 5 - Finite element results
For the plane grid defined in Demo 2, display graphic results for finite element
s.
The graphic results for elements can be displayed in any one of three ways:
Results at element centres
display the model geometry with the numerical value of the result written at the
centre of each element.
Contour map
display the model geometry with a contour map of the results superimposed. Each
line of the contour map
gives the location of a specified value of the result.
Results along a line
display the results plotted along a section through the model.
For example:
Figure D5 - Finite Element Results
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-21 12/04
Main Menu
- highlight Demo 5 - grid - mesh - RESULTS in the model list
- click Results in the menu bar at the top of the screen
Results at element centres
- select Draw and click the icon
- Specify:
- click the button; the program displays the results as shown in Figure D5a.
- Click in the icon bar to zoom in on any part of the model (Figure D5a shows t
he lower-left corner).
Contour map
- Click the icon.
- Specify:
and Fill contour regions with colour
- click the button; the program displays the results as shown in Figure D.5b.
Results along a line
- Click the icon.
- Specify:
- click the Define a section line button; define the horizontal section line sh
own in Figure D.5c.
- click the Parallel to X1 button
- Move the to any point on the first interior horizontal line, i.e. so that X2=
7 is displayed in the bottom dialog
box. Click the mouse.
- Define additional section lines or click the End button
- click the button; the program draws moment diagrams along the sections as sho
wn in Figure D.5c.

To select the next Demo model

- click File in the top menu bar
- select STRAP model list in the pull-down menu.
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-22 12/04
2.6 Demo 6 - Result Combinations
For the plane frame defined in Demo 1 and Demo 3, display results for beams.
The example will demonstrate the use of the Combinations options to create a ser
ies of combinations
1.2D+1.2W+1.2L (BS8110), each combining the wind load case with one of the stagg
ered load cases.
Please note the following:
In STRAP, unlike some other programs, you do not have to define the combinations
along with the basic
loading cases. You can define them after the solution and change them as you lik
e without solving the model
again.
STRAP also has an option to define a group of load cases. If a group is added to a
combination definition,
the program will either:
- automatically generate a different combination for each load in the group.
- add the sum of the load cases in the group to the combination.
Using this feature when applicable can reduce the work required to create large
numbers of loading
combinations.
Main Menu
Define the group:
- highlight DEMO 6 - plane frame - Results in the model list
- click Results in the menu bar
Combinations
- click Combinations in the menu bar
- click Define/revise groups in the pull-down menu
- click the Add/revise a group button
- Click the first -UNDEFINED- group in the list, type in a group name and click
the button
Click each of the Staggered load no. n so
that YES is displayed on the right-hand
side of the table opposite these cases.
click the button
- click the Generate a combination for each load in the group button
- click the End button
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-23 12/04
Define the combinations:
- click Combinations in the menu bar
- click Define/Revise combinations in the pull-down menu
- in the following menu: move the to column "9:wind" for combination no.1 (firs
t row), click the mouse and
type 1.2. Press [Enter]; the crosshair moves into the adjacent column "group 1 "
; type 1.2.
- click anywhere else in the menu; the program creates the title "9*1.2+g1 *1.2"
in the title column.
- click the button. The program generates n load combinations, where n = the number
of staggered
load cases defined.
Tabular results
- Specify Tables and click the icon
- Specify Sort results by elements/nodes
Beam results: End and max. in span
- click the button; the program displays a table showing the moment, shear and

axial force at both

beam ends as well as the maximum span result.
- Click Exit in the menu bar of the table window to return to the main menu
Graphic results
- Specify Draw and click the icon
- Specify:
and Combination; select any combination from the pull-down list box
- click the button; the program superimposes the result diagram on the model ge
ometry.
Graphic results - Single beam
- Display all envelope results for the beams on the first floor:
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-24 12/04
- Specify Single beam and click the icon
- Specify:
Select result types
Select Display a line of beams
click the button.
- move the adjacent to beam 5 (start of line) so that it is highlighted with a
; click the mouse. Similarly
select beam 8 (end of line); the program draws envelope diagrams for all result
types for the selected line
of beam.
To select the next Demo model
- click File in the top menu bar
- select STRAP model list in the pull-down menu.
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-25 12/04
2.7 Demo 7 - Structural steel design
The model geometry as defined in STRAP does not provide sufficient information f
or the postprocessor to carry
out an accurate design.
For example, Figure D.7b shows a typical steel frame elevation. Figure D.7a show
s the same frame as
analyzed in STRAP. It is obvious that the postprocessor is unable to determine w
hich STRAP members form
continuous beams (chains of members must be designed as a single unit by the Pos
tprocessor), the location
of intermediate supports for lateral-torsional buckling and axial buckling as we
ll as design constraints.
Figure D7 - Steel Postprocessor - Design Example
Define the following design data:
Sections: Limit selection to:
- beams - UB shapes
- columns - UC shapes
- bracing - double angles
Identical beams:
- Column 11-12-13 specified as an identical group
- Column 15-16-17-18 specified as an identical group
- Column 19-20-22 specified as an identical group
- Bracing 23 and 24 specified as an identical group
Intermediate supports:
Members 4,7,8: "Continuous" support for +z major axis bending, major and minor a
xis buckling. The support
is provided by the floor slab.
Combined beams:
Members 11,12: Beam 3 provides buckling support only for the major axis of this
column, i.e. members
11 and 12 act as a single unit for minor axis buckling. Define major axis buckli
ng and

-z bending supports at the common node.

STRAP
Version 11.5 2-26 12/04
Define the model:
Main Menu
- highlight Demo 7 - steel postprocessor in the model list
- click Design in the menu bar at the top of the screen
- click Steel postprocessor in the pull-down menu
General
- specify the British section table (the first time that the postprocessor is r
un on the model)
- Note the default parameters listed at the bottom of the screen. They automatic
ally apply to all members in
the model.
- To change the default parameters, click the icon.
- To define different parameters for a specific member, click the icon.
Section types
The program can select the lightest section from a list (type or group) or check
a specified section.
- Click the icon in the side menu
- Specify Limit section to section type and select UB; click the button
- Click Select all beams
- Select Display in the menu bar and Section type/group/check in the pulldown me
nu; UB is displayed
adjacent to every beam.
- Click the icon in the side menu
- Specify Limit section to section type and select UC; click the button
- Set Select only beams parallel to a beam, click Select all beams and select
any column member
- Click the icon and select 2L in the listbox; Click
- Click the Individual beams button
- Select the two diagonal bracing members.
Identical
- Click the icon in the side menu
- Click the Define lines of identical beams button
- Specify One node in the window/polygon and click the Select by window button
- Create a window about the lower end of all the columns. Note that each column
forms a separate identical
group
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-27 12/04
- Click the icon
- Click the Select a series of identical beams button
- Click the Individual beams button and select the two diagonal members.
Supports
- Click the icon in the side menu
- Specify the following supports:
- Click the Continuous support button
- Click the Individual beams button and select beams 4, 7, and 8.
- Click the End button
Combined beams
- Combine members 11 and 12 to form a single design unit and specify the major a
xis support provided by
beam 3.
- Click the icon in the side menu
- Specify the following supports at the common nodes:
- Click the Select each beams individually
- Select beams 11 and 12: click on beam 11, click on beam 12 and then click on b
eam 12 again to end the
selection.

Compute
- click the icon and click the button; the program now selects the lightest se
ction according to
the user defined parameters. All load combination are checked for axial, bending
, shear, LTB and combined
stress capacity and for slenderness and deflection limitations.
- The program displays a table showing for each member the section selected, the
critical combination, the
slenderness, deflection and the capacity ratios (actual/capacity) for each of th
e design checks.
- click Exit in the menu bar.
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-28 12/04
Graphic results
- click Results in the menu bar.
- click Display selected sections in the menu bar. The program superimposes the
names of the selected
sections on the model geometry.
- click Results in the menu bar.
- click Display capacity in the menu bar.
- specify Colour by capacity and Display % of capacity
- click the Result type box and select Axial force+moment from the list displaye
d (or any other type).
- click the button; the program superimposes the capacity percentage on the mod
el geometry. Note
the colour coding of the members and the text.
To select the next Demo model
- click File in the top menu bar
- select STRAP model list in the pull-down menu.
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-29 12/04
2.8 Demo 8 - Reinforced concrete design
Design the beams and columns of the frame shown in Figure D.8 and create a colum
n schedule.
Figure D.8 - Concrete Postprocessor - Design Example
Beams and columns are designed separately; each has its own default parameters.
The continuous beams
and columns must be defined by the user
Main Menu
- highlight Demo 8 - concrete postprocessor in the model list
- click Design in the menu bar at the top of the screen
- click Concrete postprocessor in the pulldown menu
Note:
- Note the Height axis = X2 parameter. The program assumes by default that all m
embers parallel to this
axis are columns and that all members perpendicular to this axis are beams.
- beam default parameters are listed at the bottom of the screen. They automatic
ally apply to all beams in
the model. If you specify columns in the side menu, different parameters will be
displayed.
To change the default parameters, click the icon.
To define different parameters for a specific member, click the icon.
Beams
- Specify Beams in the side menu
Parameters
- click the button and the tab
- Specify Shear reinforcement as:
Links only
Diameter: Min=8 Max=8
Shear reduction

- click the button

STRAP
Version 11.5 2-30 12/04
Define
Define the continuous beams in the model. The program assumes that beams are per
pendicular to the
Height axis and can create them automatically.
- Click the icon
- click the Automatic definition of all beams button.
- click the Display/revise beams button.
- move the adjacent to any beam so that the beam is highlighted with a ; click
the mouse. The program
displays the continuous beam schematically.
- click the End button.
- display more beams or click the End button.
Compute
- Click the icon
- Specify For all defined beams and click the button. The program calculates mo
ment and shear
reinforcement for all of the beams and displays a summary table listing the resu
lts.
- click Exit in the table menu bar
Results
- select Results in the menu bar at the top of the screen
- select Display detailed results in the pull-down menu
- move the adjacent to any beam so that the beam is highlighted with a ; click
the mouse.
- Specify Display envelope only and click the button.
- The program displays the detailed results for the beam. Scroll though them.
- click Exit in the table menu bar
Columns
- Specify Columns in the side menu
Default parameters
- Click the icon
- Specify
- Click the tab
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-31 12/04
- Specify the column lap and link details
- click the button.
Define
Define the continuous columns in the model. The program assumes that columns are
parallel to the Height
axis and can create them automatically.
- Click the icon
- click the Automatic definition of all columns button.
- click the Display/revise columns button.
- move the adjacent to any column so that the column is highlighted with a ; c
lick the mouse. The program
displays the continuous column schematically.
- click the End button.
- display more columns or click the End button.
Compute
- Click the icon
- Specify For all defined columns and click the button. The program calculates
reinforcement for
all of the columns and displays a summary table listing the results.
- click Exit in the table menu bar
Results
- select Results in the menu bar at the top of the screen

k
-

select Display detailed results in the pull-down menu

move the adjacent to any column so that the beam is highlighted with a ; clic
the mouse.
Specify Design combination only and click the button.
The program displays the detailed results for the column. Scroll though them.
click Exit in the table menu bar
Column schedule
- Click the icon
- click the New table button.
- type in the table name, select the table size and orientation.
- Click Edit
- click Select all beams to include all columns in the table
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-32 12/04
- specify the schedule format parameters:
- click the button to display the schedule.
The schedule is displayed without the elevations and with diamond-shaped additio
nal links. Let s add the
elevation for column 4 and revise the links to rectangular ones.
- Click the icon.
- Click and highlight COL 4 in the table and click the Add elevation button on
the right of the dialog box;
a new line is added to the table.
- click the button to display the schedule again with the elevation for column
4.
- Click the icon.
- Click the icon.
- Click the Link types button and select Use rectangular links where possible
- click Select all beams to revise all the columns in the model
- click the End button and click the icon
- Click Edit To display the revised schedule.
To select the next Demo model
- click File in the top menu bar
- select STRAP model list in the pull-down menu.
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-33 12/04
2.9 Demo 9 - Light gauge steel design
Figure D9 - Light Gauge Steel Design
This demo demonstrates the definition and design of a structure fabricated from
Cold-formed (light gauge) steel
sections.
The program designs cold formed sections according to one of the following codes
:
AISI ASD or LRFD specification - 1996.
AISI ASD specification - 1986 with the 1989 addendum.
The user may use the standard section tables included in the program or define h
is own sections.
Note that structures with both cold-formed and hot-rolled sections may be design
ed by the program.
The following design data will be defined in the demo:
Sections:
- truss members : limit sections to C+Lips
- Columns : limit sections to CDEE
Identical beams:
- Members 23-24 specified as an identical group.
- Members 7-8-9-10-11-12-21-22 specified as an identical group.
- Members 1-2-3-4-5-6 specified as identical group.
Intermediate supports:
Members 7-8-9-10-11-12: support for +Z major axis bending ,
minor axis buckling.

Members 23-24: support for +Z major axis bending.

minor axis buckling.
Combined beams:
Members 1-2-3; 4-5-6: Define major axis buckling at the common nodes.
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-34 12/04
Define the model:
Sections
- Select Files in the menu bar of the STRAP models list.
- Move the to Utilities and select Create/Edit a steel section table.
- Select File in the menu at the top of the screen.
- Select Edit cold form table file.
- Select Edit in the menu bar at the top of the screen.
- Select Add section type in the pull down menu.
- Click the button to open the section shape pull-down-menu
- Select: 2C sections with lips front to front
- Type the Section type name as - DCEE (notice that DCEE in the section type men
u is highlighted).
- Click the button
- Select Edit in the menu bar and Select Add section to current type.
Enter the dimensions
Click the button
- Click in the section data table
- Click File in the menu bar
- Click Exit in the file menu.
Main Menu
- Highlight Demo 9 - Cold Formed in the model list.
- Click Design in the menu bar at the top of the screen.
- Click Steel postprocessor in the pull-down menu.
Default parameters
- Note the current default parameters listed at the bottom of the screen. To cha
nge a parameter, click the
icon in the side menu
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-35 12/04
- specify a new value for Fy:
Click the Steel grade tab
select User defined in the Steel grade list
box and type 50 in the adjacent Fy= text
box.
- Click
Sections
- Click the icon in the side menu
- Specify Limit section to section type and select C+Lips; click the button
- Specify both nodes in the Window/polygon and click Select by window
- Create a window about the truss.
- Click the icon and select DCEE section type; Click
- Click the Individual beams button
- Select the two column members.
To display and check the last definition:
- Click Display in the menu bar at the top of the screen
- Click Section Type/Group/Check in the pull-down menu
- (To Delete the section type from the display use the same option again)
Identical
- Click the icon in the side menu
- Click the Select a series of identical beams button
- Click the Individual beams button and select the two columns (members 23,24)
- Click the icon
- Click the Define lines of identical beams button
- Click the Individual beams button and select the beam members 21,22 and 1.

Note that each beam forms a separate identical group. (use Display option)
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-36 12/04
Supports
- Click the icon in the side menu
- Specify the following supports:
- Click the Intermediate supports button
- Click the Individual beams button and select the beams 7-8-9-10-11-12.
- Specify Distance from beam start = 4.5
- Click the End button
- Click the icon
- Specify the following supports:
- Click the Intermediate supports button
- Click the Individual beams button and select the columns 23, 24.
- Specify Distance from beam start = 3.0
- Click the Next support button
- Specify Distance from beam start = 6.0
- Click the Next support button
- Specify Distance from beam start = 9.0
- Click the Next support button
- Click the End button
- Use the Display option to check your definition
Combined beams
Combine members 1-2-3 and 4-5-6 to form a single design unit:
- Click the icon in the side menu
- Specify the following supports at the common nodes:
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-37 12/04
- Click the Select start and end beams in a line
- Select beams 1 and 3
- Click the icon in the side menu
- Specify the following supports at the common nodes:
- Click the Select start and end beams in a line
- Select beams 4 and 6.
- Use the Display option to check your definition.
Compute
- Click the icon in the side menu
- Click the button; the program now selects the lightest section according to t
he user defined
parameters and slenderness and deflection limitations.
- The program displays a table showing for each member the section selected, the
critical combination, the
slenderness, deflection and the capacity ratios (actual/capacity) for each of th
e design checks.
- Click Exit in the table menu bar.
Results
- Select Results in the menu bar
- Select Display detailed results in the pull-down menu.
- Move the adjacent to column 23 so that the column is highlighted with a ; cli
ck the mouse.
- Specify Design combination only and click the button
- The program displays the detailed results for the column. Scroll through them.
- click Exit in the menu bar.
To select the next Demo model - Click File in the top menu bar.
- Select STRAP model list in the pull-down menu.
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-38 12/04
2.10 Demo 10 - Bridge loading analysis
The bridge module automatically calculates the critical loading pattern that gen

erates the max/minresults for

any result type at any point on the bridge.
Analyze the bridge shown in Figure D10.1
Figure D10.1 - Bridge example, Lanes
General
- Divide the bridge into lanes and then divide each lane into strips perpendicul
ar to the axis of the lane.
- Solve the model: the program automatically applies a unit load to each strip i
n a separate load case (no. of
load cases = no. of strips). The program uses the results of those cases to calc
ulate worst case effects by
means of superposition.
- Define lane loads: specify the vehicle loads and the distributed loads require
d by the codes on each of the
lanes.
- Create load cases: tell the program how to arrange the various lane loads to c
reate the design load cases.
- Transfer results to STRAP: append a load case to the STRAP results files that
contains an envelope of the
maximum results for vehicle load.
- Create combinations of the vehicle results and the self-weight and temperature
loads.
Main Menu
- Highlight Demo10
Two lanes bridge in the model list.
- Click Design in the menu bar and Bridge module in the pull-down menu.
Lanes
- The bridge consists of 2 parallel lanes, each 9 feet wide. They are defined by
specifying the center line axis
and width.
Select Lanes
- Click the icon to define lane 1.
- Click Node 5 to specify the start of lane.
- Click Node 8 to specify the end of lane.
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-39 12/04
- Define the lane parameters:
Type in lane Width and the center line Offset (the
offset of the lane center from the line connecting
start and end nodes)
Type in the number of strips
Click End definition
- Similarly define lane 2 between nodes 13 and 16.
Load distribution
The generated loads may be applied to nodes, elements or selected beams.
- Select Options in the menu bar.
- Select Load direction to specify the Global direction of applied loads.
Select Global X3 direction
- Select Options in the menu bar.
- Select Loads distribution in the pull down menu.
Click All beams
Click the button
Solve the model
STRAP will create one case for each strip in the model (a unit load is applied t
o the strip), i.e. 240 load
cases will be solved in this model.
- Demo version:
The large number of load cases exceeds the limit of the Demo version. To continu
e, please go to Demo
11 which is identical to this model but includes the result files.
- Regular version:

Select File in the menu bar and Solve in the pulldown menu and then continue acc
ording to the
instructions in Demo 11 .
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-40 12/04
2.11 Demo 11 - Bridge analysis
Results
Main Menu
- Highlight Demo 11
Two lanes bridge Results.
- Click Design in the menu bar and Bridge model in the pull down menu.
Display influence lines
Display influence lines for any STRAP beam ,element or node for any result type.
For example, display the
influence line for M2 moment at the center of beam 111.
- Select Results in the menu bar:
Select Draw influence lines
Select Beam results
Select M2
At the midpoint of the span
Click the button
- To select beam 111, highlight it with the and click the left button of the mo
use.
- The program displays the following influence line:
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-41 12/04
Define lane loads
- Specify the vehicle loads applied to the lanes. The following lane loads may b
e defined: uniform, vehicle,
knife-edge loads.
Select Lane load
- Click the icon
Type in Load case name
Type in Uniform load
Select a load reduction (vs. length) factor
table
Select a Vehicle group
Type in Knife edge load value(applied by
the program as a uniform load to a strip)
Click the button
Define load cases
Assign a lane load to each lane to define a load case. The program applies the l
oad to each of the strips along
the length of the lanes; only those loads that contribute to the requested maxim
um/minimum result are used.
Select load cases
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-42 12/04
- Click the icon
- Define three load cases:
1 - apply lane load A to lane 1 only.
2 - apply lane load A to lane 2 only.
3 - apply lane load A to both lane 1 and lane 2.
- Define load case 1 and 2:
Create the load cases by specifying all possible permutations of the lane loads
on the selected lanes. The
program will create load cases by interchanging the lane loads.
Select lane load A
Select lane 1
Specify all possible permutations
on lanes 1 and 2
Click the Assign button

Click the button

- Define load case no. 3.
Select lane load A
Select lane 1 and 2
Click the Assign button
Click the button
Display selected results
The program displays the loads applied to the various strips that are required t
o generate the
maximum/minimum result. For example, display the maximum absolute value for Mx r
esult in the center
of element 58.
- Select Results in the menu bar.
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-43 12/04
Select Draw applied loads for selected results
Select Absolute value maximum
Click the button
Select Element results
Select Result type and Location
Click the button
- To select element 58 click the mouse.
- The program displays the location of the loads applied to achieve the max resu
lts.
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-44 12/04
Transfer results to STRAP
Create a single STRAP load case consisting of a maximum result envelope for all
results types (moment,
shear, etc.). Note that you can create separate load cases for each result type.
The program will search for the critical load pattern for each result type for e
ach node, element and beam
(1/10th of span). The results will be transferred to the STRAP results file.
- Select Results in the menu bar.
- select Update STRAP result file.
Select envelope result type
Type in name
Click the button
The program runs about one MILLION comparisons for each beam in this model for c
omputing the envelope
and takes a few minutes to complete the calculation.
- Select File in the menu bar.
- Select STRAP results to return to the STRAP results screen.
Combinations
The model also contains other load types e.g. self-weight and temperature (alrea
dy defined). Let's now
define factored loading combinations of these loads with the vehicle loads envel
ope.
- Select Combinations in the menu bar
Define/revise combinations
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-45 12/04
- Click the button to exit from table.
- To display results:
click Draw
click the icon
Select Display type
Select Result type
Select Load combination
Select Fill contour regions with color

Click the button

STRAP
Version 11.5 2-46 12/04
2.12 Space Frame with Wall Elements
Define the geometry of the following 10-storey building that includes four walls
extending the full height of the
structure:
Note:
this example explains how to define the geometry; for dynamic analysis and inter
pretation of the results,
refer to
The model is used for dynamic analysis only:
- the slabs are defined with dummy elements; the in-plane rigidity is provided b
y rigid links.
- columns are not defined because their contribution to the lateral stiffness is
negligible.
To define the model:
Main Menu
- Double-click DEMO-Empty model in the model list.
Preliminary Menu
- Set the Model Type to Space frame
- click the button
Geometry
Define the wall reference nodes 1, 2, 3, 4 at ground level (X3=0.0):
- click the icon
- click the icon
- Node 1: Move the crosshair to X1 = 0.0, X2 = 8.0, X3 = 0.0 and click the mouse
.
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-47 12/04
- Node 2: Move the crosshair to X1 = 24.0, X2 = 20.0, X3 = 0.0 and click the mou
se.
- Node 3: Move the crosshair to X1 = 24.0, X2 = 0.0, X3 = 0.0 and click the mous
e.
- Node 4: Move the crosshair to X1 = 9.15, X2 = 13.85, X3 = 0.0 and click the mo
use.
- Click End definition
Define the supports:
- Click the icon.
- Click the icon.
- Click the icon.
- Click the Select all nodes button
Copy the nodes to all 10 floors:
- Click the icon
- Click the icon
- Click the icon in the Copy options menu at the side of the screen
- Click the Select all nodes button
- select any of the 4 nodes as the reference node
- Click the by coordinates button
- Define the floor levels at 3.0 m intervals (X3): Press the left mouse button a
nd do not release; move the
into the X3 edit box (note that the coordinates will not change) and type 3.0:
- set Number of copies: 10 and click
- click the Isometric View icon in the icon bar to display the entire model.
Define the wall sections:
- Click the icon
- Click the icon
- Click the icon in the menu at the side of the screen
STRAP
Version 11.5 2-48 12/04

- Select the section:

Select section 1
Click Edit/add section
- Define the properties and dimensions of Wall 1; the wall consists of one segme
nt only and we will define
the segment end at DX=0, DY=400:
Specify thickness = 300
Specify DY = 4000mm
and press [Enter]
The segment is drawn in the
center box as
Click Close
Define Wall 2 section:
- Click the icon in the menu at the side of the screen
- Highlight section no . 2 and click Edit/add section
- The wall is composed of two segments; the first ends at DX=4000; DY=0. Set the
Thickness = 300, type
in DX = 4000 and press [Enter]; the first segment is drawn in the center box:
- the second segment is offset DX=0, DY=3000 from the end of the first segment.
The cursor is already in
the DY= box; type 3000 and press [Enter]; the second segment is added to the dis
play:
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Note the reference point at the first corner denoted by the .
This is the point where the wall section will be attached to nodes
in the structural model. Referring to the floor plan at the
beginning of this example, it is apparent that Walls 2a/2b will be
attached at the corner joining the two segments in the section.
To move the reference point, click ; move the
to the new location so that it is highlighted with the ; click the
mouse. The will now appear at the correct location.
- Click Close
Define Wall 3 section:
- Wall 3 is created by defining nine segments in the following order:
Note:
- segments 3 and 5 are coupling beams
- segment 9 bisects segments 4 and 8 and
divides them each into two new
segments.
- Click the icon in the menu at the side of the screen
- Highlight section no . 3 and click Edit/add section
- Segment 1:
Specify thickness = 300
Specify DY = -2000mm
and press [Enter]
The segment is drawn in the center box:
- Segment 2:
Specify DX = 1000mm and press [Enter]. The segment is drawn:
- Segment 3 (coupling beam):
Specify Coupling beam
H= 800 mm
Specify DX = 1000mm
and press [Enter]
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- Segment 4: - Segment 5:
Specify Wall and DX = 2000 Specify Coupling beam and DX = 1000
Segment 6: - Segment 7:

Specify Wall and DX = 1000 Specify Wall and DY = 2000

- Segment 8:
This segment ends at the start of segment 1
Specify Another segment end
Click Select segment end
move the to the start of Segment 1 so that it is highlighted with the ; click t
he mouse.
- Segment 9:
Specify Thickness = 600 mm
This segment starts at the mid-point of segment 4 and ends at the mid-point of s
egment 8
Click Within a segment
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move the adjacent to segment 4 so that it is
highlighted with the ; click the mouse.
Specify the location along segment 4:
Enter the distance from the start of the segment to the
mid-point.
Now define the end-point of the segment:
Specify Within another segment
Click Select segment end
Move the adjacent to segment 8 so that it is highlighted with the ; click the m
ouse. Specify the location
of the end point of segment 9 at the mid-point of section 8, as explained above
for the start point.
- Section 3 is now complete; Click Close.
Now we will attach the three wall sections to the model:
- click the node number icon in the icon bar to add the node
numbers to the display:
- click
- select the wall section:
- attach section 1 to line 1-41:
move the adjacent to node 1 so that it is highlighted with the
; click the mouse; move the adjacent to node 41 so that it
is highlighted with the ; click the mouse;
The program adds the wall section to the line 1-41.
- attach section 2 to line 2-42:
Specify Sect =2 and select nodes 2 and 42. Note that the
orientation of the wall is not correct. We will rotate it after the
other three walls have been attached.
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- attach section 2 to line 3-43:
Specify Sect =2 and select nodes 3 and 43
- attach section 3 to line 4-44:
Specify Sect =3 and select nodes 4 and 44
- click the node number icon , the Isometric View icon and the Restraints icon
. The model is
displayed on theX1-X2 without numbering or restraints:
All of the walls are oriented correctly except Wall2a (check the
coordinates of the wall corners by clicking on the Data icon )
- Rotate Wall 2a:
click the Isometric View icon
- click icon
- the wall may be flipped or rotated:
Specify Flip about X axis
- Click Select by window
- Create a window around Wall 2a; the program flips it into its correct position
.

Define the floor slabs:

The floor slabs are modeled by dummy elements since the model will be solved onl
y for dynamic loads. The
elements are necessary in order to define the masses, but the size of the elemen
ts is not important.
We will define the slab at X3=3.00 and copy it to the other 10 levels.
- Click on Remove in the toolbar at the top of the screen
- Select Limit display to a plane
- Select any three nodes at X3 = +3.00
- click the Isometric View icon to display theX1-X2 plane
Define the nodes at the X1=0 corners of the slab
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- click the icon
- click the icon
- Type in the coordinates X1 = 0.0, X2 = 0.0, X3 = 3.0 in the dialog box at the
bottom of the screen
- Type in the coordinates X1 = 0.0, X2 = 20.0, X3 = 3.0 in the dialog box
Define the element mesh:
- click the icon
- click the icon
Click OK
- Select the four corner nodes and end the selection by clicking the first corne
r again
Select End contour definition
Specify Grid steps: X = 2.4, Y=2.0 and click OK
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- click in the Elements menu
- click Dummy element
Select meshes
- select any two nodes in the mesh
- Click on Remove in the toolbar at the top of the screen
- Select Limit display to a plane
Cancel last plane selection
- click the Isometric View icon
Copy the slab to the other nine levels:
- Click the icon in the main menu.
- Click the icon in the copy options menu
- Click the By levels button
- Select level X3 as the height axis; select X3 = +3.00 and click
- Select a reference mode: move the adjacent to the node in the left corner so
that the node is highlighted
with a ; click the mouse.
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- Define the new location of the reference node:
- Click the by coordinates button
- Click and hold the left mouse button and drag the cursor into the dialog box a
t the bottom of the screen the coordinate values in the box will not change as t
he cursor moves. Type the coordinates X3=6.0.
- specify No. of copies = 9
- Click to continue
Define Rigid links in the slab plane:
- Rotate the model so that it is displayed on the X1-X3 plane. Select Rotate in
the toolbar, specify X1-X2 and
enter the rotation values X1 = -90, Y = 0, Z = 0
- Click the icon in the main menu.
- Click the icon in the Restraints options menu

Select X1-X2 plane

Select Selected nodes with same X3 coordinates
- Select the nodes in the entire model, except the support nodes at X3=0.0
The geometry of the model is now complete. Refer to the next example for the dyn
amic analysis of this model.
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2.13 Wall elements - dynamic analysis
This example is a continuation of Example 2.12. The files for this model contain
the geometry as defined as
well as the following static loads applied to all floor slabs on all levels:
- Dead = 8.0 kN/m2
- Live = 1.5 kN/m2
The mass used for the dynamic analysis will be based on these static loads.
Main Menu:
- highlight DEMO 13 - WALLS - DYNAMIC in the model list
- click on Dynamics in the toolbar and Weight data in the pulldown menu.
- click the icon
- click the icon
- Select File in the toolbar and Solve the model in the pulldown menu.
- Select Seismic analysis in the tool bar and Method for combining modes in the
pulldown menu
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- Select Seismic analysis in the tool bar and Parameters in the pulldown menu
(If UBC is not displayed in the title of the
box, click Select another code and select
UBC 1997)
- click the Tables - icon
The results for all wall segments are displayed on the screen.
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Add the dynamic results to the static results file:
- Select Seismic analysis in the toolbar and Update static results files in the
pulldown menu
Display the results in STRAP:
- Select File in the toolbar and Static results in the pulldown menu
- click the Graphics - icon
The moments in the walls are displayed.
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3 Miscellaneous
3.1 Defining new models
New models with up to 12 nodes may be defined, saved and solved.
- select Files in the menu bar
- select New model in the pull-down menu.
- Revise model title if necessary:
- arrange the preliminary geometry menu:
Select the default units
Enter the model title
click Continue to proceed to geometry
Select the model type
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3.2 How to Use HELP
The windows version of STRAP provides the user with extensive on-line Help; the
entire User's Manual is an
integral part of the program and may be displayed at any time.
STRAP Help uses the standard Windows Help format; a window containing the Help i
s displayed on the right

half of the screen.

There are two ways to call Help while running the program:
press the key: Help for the current option will be displayed.
click the Help option in the menu bar at the top of the screen and select Conten
ts in the pull-down
menu: The Table of Contents of the full STRAP User's Manual is then displayed; s
elect any topic in the list.