TRAINING GETTING STARTED MODELER DIN

RM Bridge V8i
September 2010

RM Bridge Professional Engineering Software for Bridges of all Types

RM Bridge
Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

Contents
1

General ......................................................................................................................... 1-1

1.1

The Example (Tutorial) ....................................................................................... 1-2

1.2

The Structural System.......................................................................................... 1-2

1.2.1 Support Constraints ......................................................................................... 1-3

1.2.2 Cross-Section ................................................................................................... 1-3
2

Program Start ............................................................................................................... 2-1

Creating a New Project Directory................................................................................ 3-1

Construction of Axis .................................................................................................... 4-3

4.1

Create an Axis...................................................................................................... 4-4

4.2

Constructing an Axis in Plan ............................................................................... 4-4

4.3

Constructing an Axis in Elevation ....................................................................... 4-7

4.4

Modify ................................................................................................................. 4-9

Construction of Cross-Section ..................................................................................... 5-1

5.1

Definitions ........................................................................................................... 5-4

5.1.1 Construction Lines ........................................................................................... 5-4

5.1.2 Cross-section and axis ..................................................................................... 5-4
5.1.3 Cross-section.................................................................................................... 5-4
5.1.4 Cross-section element ...................................................................................... 5-4
5.1.5 Part ................................................................................................................... 5-4
5.1.6 Reference Points .............................................................................................. 5-5
5.1.7 Reference Sets ................................................................................................. 5-5
5.1.8 Layer Management .......................................................................................... 5-5
5.2

Definition of Construction Lines ......................................................................... 5-6

5.3

Cross-Section Elements ....................................................................................... 5-9

5.4

Definition of Reference-Sets ............................................................................. 5-11

5.4.1 Connection Points .......................................................................................... 5-11

5.4.2 Stress Points ................................................................................................... 5-13
5.4.3 Reinforcement Groups ................................................................................... 5-15
6

Segment Definition ...................................................................................................... 6-1

6.1

Definition of the Structural System ..................................................................... 6-2

6.2

Definition of Segment Points .............................................................................. 6-2

6.3

Cross-Section Assignment ................................................................................... 6-3

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Training Getting Started Modeler DIN
6.4
7

II

Assignment of Element Numbers ........................................................................ 6-4

Definition of Supports ................................................................................................. 7-1

7.1

Geometrical position of bearing: ......................................................................... 7-1

7.2

Definition of Support ........................................................................................... 7-2

3D - View .................................................................................................................... 8-1

Export to Analyzer .................................................................................................... 9-1

9.1

Export to Analyzer ............................................................................................ 9-1

10 Data management and backup ................................................................................... 10-2

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RM Bridge

General

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

1-1

1 General
In this example, the necessary definitions for modeling the bridge structure will be shown
step by step. The subprogram Modeler is a geometry-preprocessor. The following geometric data should be defined:

Axes

The street-axes geometric location. The definition is

done in ground, elevation plan. It provides straight line,
circle, spiral and cubic curve elements which are usually used for the street design.

Cross-section

Cross-section definition, typical for cross-section in

main girder (hollow box) and pier (rectangle).

Segment

The different structure parts are assigned to a segment.(i.e. segment for main girder, pier, link segment).
The segments will be closed to each other according to
the static connection after the assignment.

Static system

Preparation for the static system (the static analyze is

executed in RMBridge)

The start point of one axis should be located in the global-coordination system in groundplan(X and Z-coordination) or in elevation plan (the desired position and the height) at first.
The segment is created by assigning cross-section to one section of an axis. Use the axis
station to define the start point and the end point of a section.
The segment is subdivided into segment points. The cross-sections are assigned to these
points. In the segment point list (in Modeler), each segment point has its own station and is
defined with certain distance to the next one. After the export to RMBridge, the stations will
be converted into structure nodes. The distance between the segment points will be the
length of element. They are used for static analyze in RMBridge.

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General

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

1-2

1.1 The Example (Tutorial)

A two span T-beam structure (see Fig. 1) will be created, it consists of one axis, one segment (60 m).

Fig. 1: T-Beam with 2*30m span wise

1.2 The Structural System

A1

30m

A2

10x3m

30m

A3

10x3m

Fig. 2: Structural System

Axis in plan:
Part 1: straight line:
Axis in elevation:
Part 1.: straight line:

The numbering:
Node numbers (span wise):
Element numbers (span wise):
Support (spring) elements:

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Station: 0-60 m
Station: 0-60 m

101-111-121
101-110,111-120
1100, 1200, 1300

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General

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

1-3

1.2.1 Support Constraints

A1

A2

A3

1100

1200

1300

101-110

111-120

Z
X

Fig. 3: Defined Support Constraints

1.2.2 Cross-Section

1.65 m

2.00 m

0.10 m

0.25 m

8.00 m

0.10 m
3.50 m

3.40 m
1.00 m
Fig. 4: T-Beam Cross-section

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Program Start

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

2-1

2 Program Start
After the program installation, you can find the RM-Icon on the desktop.

The program can be started by double-clicking this symbol or selection in the windowstartmenu.

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Creating a New Project Directory

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

3-1

3 Creating a New Project Directory

The program starts and the main window of RmBridge appears.
Double-click the RM-Icon to start the program.

First level

If the program starts for the first time, RM-Default database(material, tables and variables
which are depend on different standards) and cross-section catalog will be loaded, the project
starts in the installation directory. The program starts always in the last work directory. The
complete pad is shown on the top of main window.

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Creating a New Project Directory

Create a new project directory

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

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3-2
Use File change
work directory in main
menu to change the
project into the desired
directory.
The project should be
initialized. In the setting window, you can
set some general options (i.e. Standard,
material group).
After the initialization,
the modelling-process
can begin.

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Construction of Axis

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

4-3

4 Construction of Axis
Axis elements are used to define the axis in plan. For this example the axis is straight.
Click Modeler in the navigation to start Modeler. Use Modeler to prepare the geometry of
the bridge. The project is shown in the ground plan (empty yet).

Recalc(Export the data from

Modeler to Analyzer (RM))
Functions, which are provided in ground plan

Use tcl files to import

and export the Modeler
data.
Close Modelers

Navigation menu

Input window Axes in

ground plan
View and zoom function

The input window changes according to the selected geometric definition (navigation
menu). Modeler can be closed by pressing Esc-button or click the close icon x. It is
also possible to exit Modeler that if you switch to another function, which could be found in
the navigation menu and not a sub-function of Modeler.
In helpbrief help for Icons you can find the description for different functions.
Note: Recalc-function in Modeler(GP) and Analyzer(RM) are not the same. In Modeler, the Recalcfunction is used to export the Modeler data to Analyzer. But in Analyzer, the Recalc
function is used to start the calculation. The calculation options can also be set in the Recalc-function.
The import and export function for Tcl-file works in the same manner. The import and export
process is executed in the Modeler database (if Modeler is active) or in the Analyzer database
(if Analyzer is active).

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Construction of Axis

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

4-4

There is a detailed description about data management and backup in RmBridge, see
chapter 1010.

4.1 Create an Axis

The geometric definition of one axis consisting of axis-elements. The definition should
be done in ground, elevation plan. The axis-element can be a straight line, circle, spiral
and cubic curve elements.
New Axis:

Define an Axis

A new axis should be

defined at first. Select
the axis-menu in the
navigation. Click the
right mouse-button and
choose new axis

Confirm
If there are more axes existing, double-click the desired axis to select it.

Active

The currently active

axis is shown in the
information-bar at the
left lower corner (
Axis1 in this example).

4.2 Constructing an Axis in Plan

Axis in plan:

straight line:

Station: 0-60 m

Select ground plan list in the navigation-menu.

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Construction of Axis

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

4-5
Select P0 in order to
define the starting point
of the axis in the
ground
plan.
The coordinates for the
starting points (X =
east, Y = north).

Confirm

Keep the default set for this example (P0 (0.0/0.0).). The new axis goes along the Xdirection, no angle needs to be defined. After input confirmation the point with the specified direction are visible on the screen. Please use the Zoom functions at the left vertical
tool bar (or use Free hand symbols, see next page) to view.
Select Append straight
line to axis from the
tool-bar.
The length of the
straight line is 60.0 m.

Confirm

The axis is now defined in the ground plan and is displayed on the screen.

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Construction of Axis

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

Top level of MODELER with axis in plan

4-6

Alternatively to the zooming facilities, the so called free hand symbols can be used. Such
a free hand symbol is executed with the left mouse button and simultaneously pressing
[Ctrl]-key on the keyboard. The free hand symbolV creates a full view of the currently available items.
The other free hand symbols can be viewed by clicking the explanation button on top
of the screen.

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Construction of Axis

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

4-7

4.3 Constructing an Axis in Elevation

Axis in Elevation: planar line:

Station: 0-60 m

Select elevation graphic or elevation list to specify the elevation.

Select P0 to define
the starting point of the
axis.
The default setting can
be kept.

Confirm
Select the button append straight line by
station and set Station
Difference to 60 m..

Confirm
Now the axis definition is finish. You can use the zoom-function as explained above to
check the axis.

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RM Bridge

Construction of Axis

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

Elevation of Axis

4-8

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Construction of Axis

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

4-9

4.4 Modify
The Delet last axis element button allows to delete the last input.
Modifications to the axis
definition in plan and
elevation can be done in
the ground plan list or
elevation list.

Modifications

In the list, the existing

element can be modified. By modification,
you should pay attention, that some elements
are related to each other,
they can only be
changed in the right sequence.
The upcoming listing
allows to change data in
any line (radius, slope,
lengths, ..).
Confirm with <OK>.
and <Close> the window.
Use Modify button to modify.
Use Delete button to eliminate the input data.

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Construction of Cross-Section

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

5-1

5 Construction of Cross-Section

1.65 m

2.00 m

0.10 m

0.25 m

8.00 m

0.10 m
3.50 m

3.40 m
1.00 m
Fig. 5: Cross Section

Define Cross-Section

Click cross-section in the navigation-menu with the right mouse-button. Select New
Cross Section in the context.
The basic definitions
for the cross-section
name can be used, confirm with <OK>.

Confirm

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Construction of Cross-Section

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

5-2

Aktive CS

The new cross-section is listed

in the navigation-tree on your
left. Several cross-sections can
be defined in one project, only
one is needed for this example.
Changing between the crosssections is done by doubleclicking on the desired cross
section.

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The active CS is always displayed at the lower window on

the information-bar. All further
CS definitions will refer to this
Cross-Section (cross1).

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Construction of Cross-Section

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

5-3

Select the cross-section to open the graphic input screen.

Draw functions for Dimension line

Draw functions for Reference point
Draw functions for FE-Element in
Cross-section network

Basic construction line CL1 and CL2 ()

(The default directions are along Z- and
Y-coordination axes in the cross-section)

CS Window

Draw functions for construction line

Default position for part 1 (in the intersection point of CL1 and CL2). It is
marked by a small flag and the part
number.

Direction
Different viewzoom functions

and

Cross-section Part (Click the arrow to

open it) and shows the active parts.
Reference-Sets (Click the arrow to
open it) and shows the active RefSet.

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Variables in the cross-section (Click

the arrow to open it) and shows the
active variables or constants, which are
used in this cross-section to define the
construction line.

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Construction of Cross-Section

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

5-4

5.1 Definitions
5.1.1 Construction Lines
The construction line (CL) is needed for locating the intersection points, which are used to
draw a FE-element. The FE-elements construct the cross-section network. Use the drawfunctions to create the construction lines. The construction lines are referenced on each
other (i.e. parallel to). All the construction lines are depends on CL1 (horizontal) or CL2
(vertical).
Note: Different dependencies of construction lines on each other are important for defining construction lines
with variables. The assigned variables are given in Tables and formulas. The influence of variables on the
other construction lines should be considered.

5.1.2 Cross-section and axis

The default position of CL1 and CL2 are the Z- and Y- coordinate-axis of cross-section.
The intersection point of CL1 and CL is the connection point of cross-sections.
Note:

Use Offset-option can move cross-section position (CL1, CL2) relate to the Axes.

5.1.3 Cross-section
In order to create a cross-section, the elements are required, which defined by intersection
point of construction lines. Every element is a build-part of the cross-section.
Note:

The construction of cross-section is done in the direction against X-axis.

5.1.4 Cross-section element

The shape of the cross-section is defined by individual elements. These elements are based
on the intersection points of the construction lines. These 2 dimensional elements are created with either 3 or with 4 corner nodes. A polygonal line around the element defines the
border, the first and the last polygon part close the element. The order of input does not
matter (cycle), the polygonal line must not cross itself.
5.1.5 Part
The cross-section elements with different properties can be summarized into different
groups (part). I.e. For the composite cross-section, the concrete elements and the steel elements should be assigned into different groups.
Note:

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Parts can also be used to assign the different static length system of one cross-section into
different part. (i.e. Doppel-T cross-section prepared as Grillage, that means instead of two
single cross-section (each -T)to two different segments, you just need one cross-section
and one segment, the cross-section consists of two parts for two separate longitudinal element series ),

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Construction of Cross-Section

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

5.1.6

5-5

Reference Points

The intersection of CL1 and CL2 represents the axis of the bridge and acts as a reference
point for the position of the cross-section in the overall 3D geometry.
5.1.7

Reference Sets

In addition to the cross-section geometry information for the structural analysis such as
temperature points, reinforcement layers, stress points and others are defined in so called
reference sets. Properties (e.g. material) of a Reference Set can be defined and grouped in
so called Attribute Sets.
5.1.8

Layer Management

Each object of the cross-section can exist in all, one or several graphical layers.

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Construction of Cross-Section

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

5-6

5.2 Definition of Construction Lines

Constants

Six vertical and four horizontal lines are needed for the following cross-section. First parallel and vertical lines with a distance of 4.0m to the centre are defined.
Set the constant to 4.0
in
the
variables/constants-input
field.

Press the icon Parallel Line to activate this function. The graphic cursor is then displayed
as continuous line indicating a function being active.
During the execution of this action the following information is displayed in the status
line:

Select the vertical line as basic line (CL_2).

During the execution of this action the following information is displayed in the status
line:

Click to the right side of the selected line to create a new construction line. This new CL
has a distance of 4.0m to the centre.
Create the second line on the other side in the same way:
Select the vertical basic line.
Click to the left side of the selected basic line (CL_2) to create a new CL. This new CL
has a distance of 4.0m to the centre.

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Construction of Cross-Section

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

CS window

5-7

The next figure shows the rest of the needed CLs with the corresponding distances . The
procedure is the same as explained above. Click at the vertical or horizontal basic line and
set the constant to the appropriate value.

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Construction of Cross-Section

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

5-8

The following overview shows all necessary construction lines for this example:

0.35

0.25

4.00

2.00

CS Window

4.00

Basic lines CL1 and

CL2
0.5

0.6

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Construction of Cross-Section

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

5-9

5.3 Cross-Section Elements

After all CLs are available the cross-section elements can be defined:
Activate the "Cross-section element by selecting the appropriate icon.
During the execution of this action the following information is displayed in the status
line:

CS Window

Click at the intersection points of the construction lines to create the corner nodes 1, 2, 3
and 4 of the new element (see picture below). The new element is automatically assign
to part 1, thus the number 1 appears in the middle of the element. (Different parts are
needed in composite constructions, see next training)

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Construction of Cross-Section

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

5-10

All other elements are generated in the same way. Please make use of the zoom functions
to properly select the intersection points. A wrong definition can be interrupted by hitting
the <Esc> key (or right mouse button). A wrongly defined element can be selected (element line changes colour) and deleted with the delete icon.

Elements can be copied and mirrored to speed up the input. These icons can be found with
right click above the icon Linear 4-Point-Element.

CS Window

The cross-section of this example consist of 4 elements only, see picture below:

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Construction of Cross-Section

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

5-11

5.4 Definition of Reference-Sets

Four sets are used in this example: 2 for reinforcement layer (top and bottom), one for the
stress points (to calculate stress at top and bottom fibre at a certain point). The forth set is
needed to define the geometrical position of the support springs (connection points).

5.4.1 Connection Points

Reference-Sets

Select the arrow key next to the reference point.

Create a new reference
set with the name support and select the
type connection point
.

Connection points

Confirm
This new reference set
is inserted in the table
of existing reference
sets. Several sets can be
defined in one project.
Select the wanted set
and hit <OK> to change
the active set

Active

Insert

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The activated reference

set will be displayed in
the input field. All
definitions
on
the
cross-section level will
now refer to this reference set.
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Construction of Cross-Section

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

5-12

Single Point

Connection point

Select the icon for the

connection point definition.

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Select the intersection

of CLs with crosssection element border
to define the position of
the reference point.

The upcoming window

asks for the name of
this new point (CP0 in
this case).

Confirm

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Construction of Cross-Section

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

5.4.2

5-13

Stress Points

Open the reference set input window by clicking the arrow key next to it.

Reference-Sets

Select Insert after

button to add another
reference set to the listing.

Insert

Stress Points

Create a new set with

the name STRESS
and select the type
Stress check points .
The Attribute-Set is
named similar to the set
name: STRESS

Confirm

Active

The newly defined reference set is inserted in the table of available reference sets.
Select the new set and hit <OK> to activate the reference set.

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The active reference set

is displayed in the
lower side of the window. All definitions
from now on will refer
to the active reference
set (STRESS in this
case).

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Construction of Cross-Section

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

5-14
Select the icon for the
stress point definition.
The intersection point
is selected by clicking
it with the cursor in
order to define the
wanted position of the
reference
point.
The upcoming window
asks for the definition
of the point name for
the
selected
point
(SP_TOP in this case).

Confirm

Select the icon for the

stress point definition.
The intersection point
is selected by clicking
it with the cursor in
order to define the
wanted position of the
reference
point.
The upcoming window
asks for the definition
of the point name for
the
selected
point
(SP_BOT in this case).

Confirm

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Construction of Cross-Section

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

5-15

5.4.3 Reinforcement Groups

Reinforcement is defined either as one or more single points or polygons. Reinforcement
areas that are assigned or automatically calculated later are distributed over these points and
polygons. Positions are defined relative to construction intersection points or cross-section
element nodes. The sole geometry is stored in form of Reference-Sets, which may be
grouped and addressed by Attribute-Sets. Attribute-Sets hold additional information such as
material definitions. In most cases the Attribute-Set names are identical to the ReferenceSet names.
First a Reference-Set is created as already shown above.
Open the reference set input window by clicking the arrow key next to it.

Reference-Sets

Use the Insert after

button to define a new
Reference-Set.

Insert

Reinforcement Top

Create a new Reference-Set with name

REBAR_TOP
and
select type Bending
Reinforcement. Use
the same name again
(REBAR_TOP) for
the Attribute-Set and
assign the wanted material.

Confirm
The newly defined reference set is inserted in the table of available reference sets.
Select the new set and hit <OK> to activate the reference set.

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Construction of Cross-Section

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

5-16
Select the appropriate
icon for the reinforcement
definition.
Select the element corner to which the reference point is relative to
using the mouse cursor.
The upcoming window
requires data for point
type, point name and
offset to the selected
element corner. The
new point will be the
start of the reinforcement polygon.
Confirm

Select the appropriate

icon for the reinforcement
definition.
Select the element corner to which the reference point is relative to
using the mouse cursor.
The upcoming window
requires data for point
type, point name and
offset to the selected
element corner. The
new point will be the
end of the reinforcement polygon.
Confirm

After the reinforcement definition at the top layer is defined the bottom reinforcement will
following as next:

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Construction of Cross-Section

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

5-17

Open the reference set input window by clicking the arrow key next to it.

Reference-Sets

Use the Insert after

button to define a new
Reference-Set.

Insert

Reinforcement Bottom

Create a new Reference-Set with name

RBAR_BOT an select type Bending Reinforcement. Use the
same
name
again
(REBAR_BOT) for
the Attribute-Set and
assign the wanted material.

Confirm
The newly defined reference set is inserted in the table of available reference sets.
Select the new set and hit <OK> to activate the reference set.

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Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

Construction of Cross-Section
5-18
Select the appropriate
icon for the reinforcement
definition.
Select the element corner to which the reference point is relative to
using the mouse cursor.
The upcoming window
requires data for point
type, point name and
offset to the selected
element corner. The
new point will be the
start of the reinforcement polygon. Define
the polygon end point
in the same way.

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Segment Definition

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

6-1

6 Segment Definition
The structural system consists of 2 span girders with a constant T-shaped cross-section.
Only one Segment is needed for this project.
Click Segment in the navigation-menu with the right mouse-button. Select New segment in the contex.

Define Segment

Name, type, reference

axis and eccentricity
type can be defined for
the new segment in the
upcoming window.
For this example the
default set is ok and the
name is seg1. After
confirmation the new
segment will be available in the segment
listing.
Confirm
The newly created segment is displayed in the table of existing segments. Several segments may exist for one project. Changing the currently active segment is done by clicking the wanted segment and confirming with <OK>.

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Segment Definition

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

6-2

6.1 Definition of the Structural System

The next step in MODELER is the assembly of the structural system. A structural system
consists of Elements, Nodes, Cross-sections and Material properties.
Each segment consists of several segment points. Each segment point is defined in 3D with
its position along the axis. The structural nodes are created using these segment points, the
structural elements are generated using the spacing between the segment points. Material
properties are assigned to the elements, the cross-sections are assigned to the segment
points.

6.2 Definition of Segment Points

Open the segment point listing by clicking the symbol on the right side.

Segment Point Listing

The table will be empty

since no data has bee n
defined yet.

Define new segment points by clicking the "Insert after" - button (at the left of the general screen).

The structural system shall start at 0 and shall end at Station 60.0 m.
All elements will have a length of 3.0m, 20 elements will finally compose the girder. 10
elements for the left span and 10 elements for the right span.

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Segment Definition

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

6-3

Insert Segment Points

The input for the Segment Points can be seen

in the Figure on the left
side.
A step of 3 m is used
to
define
segment
points that will reflect
the element lengths of
the structural system.

Confirm

Segment Points

The structural system is

herewith defined. (60m
long with elements of 3
m length).

6.3 Cross-Section Assignment

The assigned cross-sections are shown in the segment list. The column OK describes if
the cross-section at this stage is correctly defined for the further procedure. The + shows
that at this station the appropriate cross-section is assigned. If this sign switches to - the
cross-section was recently modified after it had been assigned to the segment.. In the lower
list all specified variables, parts and connections of the cross-section are displayed. Later on
tables and formulas will be assigned to those variables.
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Segment Definition

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

6-4

6.4 Assignment of Element Numbers

Element numbering

The element and node

numbering for the
whole system can be
done at once. First select parts to view the
undefined parts. Only
one line is displayed
since the cross-section
exists only of one part.

The element numbering should start at segment point 1, the first element and node-number
should be 101. At the end of the first element (101) the nodenumber is 102. The increment is definition by 1.
The properties of the material is:C_35/45 (DIN 1045-1) will be applied.
All elements are grouped with the name MG (main girder).
Activate the 'Modify' - Function at the left of the table to open the input pad.

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RM Bridge

Segment Definition

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

6-5

Element numbering

Definition for all segment points (1 to 21):

See Fig. on the left
siede.

Confirm

Segment Point Listing

The numbering can be

controlled by stepping
through the segment
point listing in the upper table.
The data to the currently marked line is
shown in the lower
table.

Any modification after this initial definition can be done, but <recalculate> must be executed in MODELER before export the project to ANALYZER .

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RM Bridge

Segment Definition

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

6-6

The cross-section 'cross1' is locked after this initial assignment. Any modification to the
cross-section requires to unlock the cross-section (program asks for it). Again <recalculate> must be executed in MODELER before the export to ANALYZER starts.

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RM Bridge

Definition of Supports

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

7-1

7 Definition of Supports
The following definitions are required:

A connection point is required for the support. It should be defined in the crosssection (see Definition of Reference-Sets).

Create the connection between sub- and superstructure with spring elements- see below:

CS Window / Add. Points

7.1 Geometrical position of bearing:

Bentley Systems

The green, triangular

symbol attached at the
bottom of the girder is
the geometrical position of the bearing. The
definition is already
done in chapter 5.4.1.

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RM Bridge

Definition of Supports

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

7-2

7.2 Definition of Support

Open the segment point table.
Select the first line in the upper listing (Station 0).
Select the button for connection to open the corresponding input window.
Select insert before
to see the possible
choices.
Select New spring-0
to open the corresponding spring definition
window.

Bentley Systems

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RM Bridge

Definition of Supports

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

7-3

Support Definition

The support spring

1100 represents the
connection
between
girder and soil. The
position of this spring
element is done with
the assignment to the
nodes (Node1 = 0 =
earth, Node2 = 101 top
of girder)

Switch over to the input

of spring constants.
Press

Spring Constants

The spring constants

are defined here. The
element 1100 represents the support condition in vertical (X) and
transverse (Z) direction. A constant of 1e8
represents the stiffness
of the support condition.

Confirm
The newly defined spring element will be displayed in the table for support definitions.

Bentley Systems

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RM Bridge

Definition of Supports

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

7-4

Support Definition

Press the i-button to

see a graphical picture
of the support.
Several conditions can
be defined at any segment point. Select the
wanted line in the table
to see the corresponding support condition.

The same procedure is repeated for the other two connections (segment point 11 und 21).
The element numbers shall be 1200 and 1300.
The table below shows the sprig constants for the spring elements.
Element
Spring constants
CX
CY
CZ
CMX
CMY
CMZ

Bentley Systems

1100
KN/M
1e8
0
1e8
0
0
0

1200
KN/M
1e8
1e8
1e8
0
1e8
0

1300
KN/M
1e8
0
1e8
0
0
0

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RM Bridge

3D - View

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

8-1

8 3D - View
The completed girder can be viewed in 3D now.

3D - View

Select the corresponding button to open the 3D view.

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RM Bridge

Export to Analyzer

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

9-1

9 Export to Analyzer
9.1 Export to Analyzer
The completed structural system can be transformed into a structural model for further use
in Analyzer.

Export

Export to Analyzer

Select 'Recalc'-Icon to start the calculation and export the Modeler data to Analyzer .

Recalc:

Set the project calculation options. Click

<Run> to start the calculation. After the calculation, the Modeler
data can be exported to
Analyzer, if the Create
model option is set.
Close the input-window
to exit Modeler. The
Analyzer part can
begin.

Some sub-functions are provided in the Recalc window for Modeler. They are separate
calculation parts. For complex project, sometimes the evaluate formulas check box
will not be selected to reduce the calculation time.
The Evaluate formulas has to be selected for further calculation options. Hamblyis
a special algorithm to find the common gravity line of several different cross-section
areas. Precast segmentation is used in RMCast.

Check numbering of
elements and nodes:

To check if any element or node-number is used for more times. This option will be
set automatically, if the Create model is set.

Create model:

Export the Modeler data to Analyzer. There are three sub-options can be set.
(1)Keep the original model data in Analyzer, only the new data will be added into the
database. (2) initialize the model structure in analyzer or (3) initialize the whole analyzer data (include the input data in Analyzer).

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RM Bridge

Data management and backup

Training Getting Started Modeler DIN

10-2

10 Data management and backup

Since the version RmBridge V8i, Modeler (previously GP) is the geometric preprocessor,
Analyzer (previously RM) is mainly used to prepare the static calculation. And they are
executed in the same user interface.
Nevertheless, Modeler and Analyzer have separate database. Executes the initialization,
both database are initialized.
The input-data writes according to the input window into different databases. Restart the
program, the database is in the last work state.
It is suggested to create backup-files, when a certain state is reached and the next modeling
state will begin. It cannot return to an unsaved state (Undo function). The backup-files
are separate in Modeler and Analyzer database.
The database is exported in ASCII-text file (Tcl-format). That means the project-data can
be read and edited, they are stored in a readable text-file (use Text-Editor). In the texteditor, it is possible to use script-languages for defining variables (loops and if..then)
and so on. It simplifies and speeds up the input-process. When the project-data is imported,
the programmed routines are also executed.
By export and import Modeler-data, the entire project is always saved or loaded.
By export the Analyzer-database, there are additional options, which are able to assign certain project-part to export (Default: the entire project). So the single project-part can be
saved in a separate Tcl-file for further use. By import Tcl-file project data in Analyzer is
possible to make a part import Add to project, which just adds this Tcl-file to the current
project. The option New project executes an initialization of the database and then loads
the Tcl-file.

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