RISA | Tips & Tricks

November 19, 2024

How to Run a Basic Dynamic Eigensolution in RISA-3D?

Welcome to a high-level walkthrough of dynamic analysis in RISA-3D! This guide introduces essential aspects of modeling dynamics, focusing on natural frequencies, mode shapes, and the impact of dynamic behavior on structural integrity. The Dynamics Scenario Imagine we’re tasked with evaluating the stability of a cantilevered pedestrian bridge that spans over a city street. The bridge is connected to a building on one side and features decorative panels and a lightweight canopy. The concern? Wind gusts and foot traffic could cause the bridge to vibrate. Our goal is to understand its dynamic properties—natural frequencies and mode shapes—and assess whether it can handle these dynamic forces without compromising structural stability. We start by setting up dynamic mass for each load case: Canopy Load: Applied uniformly along the length of the bridge to account for wind effects. Pedestrian Load: Simulated at intervals along the span to reflect walking traffic. Decorative Panels: Modeled with specific weights on each side. Once mass and stiffness are set, RISA-3D enables us to simulate how the structure behaves dynamically, revealing which parts might be sensitive to specific frequencies or forces. Running the Eigensolution Analysis In RISA-3D, we use an eigensolution to identify: Natural Frequencies (intrinsic vibration rates…

September 13, 2017

Vertical Slab and Beam Offsets

In RISAFoundation, you can add a vertical offset for slabs or beams. Traditionally, RISA uses centerline analysis which aligns all elements at their centerline. This is a common structural analysis assumption as the loads will get transferred to the centerline even if there is difference in the...

January 5, 2012

How Do I Assign Joists with Exact Spacing in RISAFloor?

If you want to assign joists in a framing bay with an exact spacing RISAFloor will allow you to specify which side of the bay you want the program to start the spacing measurement from. Go to the Generate Beams within Bay option from the Drawing toolbar. Select the Exact Spacing of option in the...