Tips & Tricks
May 13, 2025
Transfer In/Out: Controlling Wall Opening Load Redistribution in RISA-3D
The Transfer In and Transfer Out checkboxes in RISA’s Wall Design Rules spreadsheet help you control how forces from regions above and below openings are redistributed during design. Whether you're excluding precast elements or ignoring small segments over openings, these settings let you tailor the force path to match real-world behavior. What Do "Transfer In" and "Transfer Out" Actually Do? In RISA, wall panels automatically generate design regions above and below openings, in addition to the full-height wall segments. Transfer In → Applies to in-plane loads (axial/shear). When checked, the in-plane forces from the small regions above and below openings are transferred into adjacent full-height wall regions. Transfer Out → Applies to out-of-plane loads (bending/shear). When checked, out-of-plane forces from regions above/below openings are transferred to adjacent full-height regions. This includes: Line loads (like from floors or roofs) located directly above the region The self-weight of the wall segment for that region These forces are added into the adjacent region’s total force calculation for design. Important Note: This is a design-level adjustment only. It does not affect the stiffness matrix used in analysis. The stiffness from all regions remains in place during solution. After solving, the forces collected in the…
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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.

October 25, 2024
Tips for Solving a Slow Solution in RISA-3D
Is your RISA-3D software solution running slower than you expected? There are a few things you can do during your model set up in order to make your model more efficient and reduce the solution time. RISA has compiled a list of our most common tips for solving a slow solution in RISA-3D.

October 22, 2024
How to View Step Results for Moving Loads in RISA-3D?
In RISA-3D, moving load results are generated by simulating a load that moves across a structure in defined increments. These loads are often used for designing bridges, cranes, or other structures where dynamic loads shift across the structure over time. Moving loads are complex because they...

October 8, 2024
How to Troubleshoot Large Deflections in RISA-3D?
Deflection is a key tool for verifying whether your model was built correctly in RISA-3D. After solving, you can view the deflected shape to confirm if the deflections are within the expected range. If you notice abnormal deflections, use the following steps to troubleshoot the issue.

August 30, 2024
How Do I Dock Spreadsheets in RISA-3D?
Docking spreadsheets in RISA-3D can be a game-changer for streamlining your workflow. Whether you're managing complex data sets or need quick access to design parameters, integrating your spreadsheets directly into RISA-3D allows for seamless data management and enhanced efficiency. In this guide,...

August 2, 2024
RISA-Revit Link: Reviewing the Analytical Model
Integrating structural models from RISA to Revit seamlessly can sometimes present challenges, especially when it comes to creating and reviewing your Revit analytical model accurately. In this support article, we'll delve into the process of modifying you Revit's graphical view of your Analytical...

June 6, 2024
Engineering Tomorrow: Adapting Infrastructure for Climate Change and Disasters
Designing resilient infrastructure to tackle climate change and natural disasters involves using smart strategies, cutting-edge technologies, and sustainable practices. Here’s how engineers are shaping a more resilient future:

May 21, 2024
Engineering Tomorrow: The Benefits and Challenges of Modular Construction
Modular construction is making waves in the infrastructure world, revolutionizing how we build everything from bridges to buildings. By assembling prefabricated modules off-site and then transporting them to their final location, this method offers unique advantages along with some challenges.
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