PRO_SAP Modules: Comprehensive Solutions for Structural Analysis and Design

Introduction to PRO_SAP
PRO_SAP is a powerful structural analysis and design software tailored for engineers and construction professionals. With a wide array of modules, PRO_SAP covers various aspects of structural engineering, from basic modeling to advanced analysis and design. Below is a detailed description of each module, from the base module to Module 11.

Base Module: Essential Tools for Structural Modeling and Analysis

The Base Module of PRO_SAP provides essential tools for structural modeling and linear static analysis. This module allows users to create detailed 3D models, apply loads, and perform basic structural analysis. Key features include:

  • 3D Modeling: Create detailed models of structures with various materials and geometries.
  • Load Application: Apply static loads and boundary conditions.
  • Linear Static Analysis: Perform basic analysis to understand structural behavior under applied loads.
  • Reporting: Generate comprehensive reports of the analysis results.

Module 1: Reinforced Concrete Design

Module 1 focuses on the design and verification of reinforced concrete (RC) structures. It provides tools for:

  • Reinforcement Calculation: Calculate and optimize reinforcement for beams, columns, slabs, and other RC elements.
  • Verification: Ensure compliance with international standards, including NTC 2018 and Eurocode 2.
  • Detailing: Generate detailed drawings and schedules for reinforcement.

Module 2: Steel Structure Design

Module 2 enables the design and verification of steel structures using the limit state method (LSM) and allowable stress method (ASM). Key capabilities include:

  • Design and Verification: Perform design and verification of beams, columns, and bracings.
  • Standards Compliance: Adhere to standards like CNR 10011, NTC 2018, and Eurocodes.
  • Stability Checks: Conduct stability and resistance checks for various steel profiles.
  • Existing Structures: Assess and reinforce existing structures using steel encasements.
  • Scaffolding Design: Calculate scaffolding structures.

Module 3: Seismic Analysis

Module 3 specializes in seismic analysis and design, including:

  • Response Spectrum Analysis: Perform seismic analysis using response spectrum methods.
  • Dynamic Analysis: Conduct linear dynamic analysis (modal).
  • Seismic Isolation: Design and analyze structures with seismic isolation systems.

Module 4: Detailed Reinforced Concrete Drawings

Module 4 generates detailed construction drawings for RC elements, such as beams, columns, walls, and slabs. Features include:

  • Automatic Detailing: Create detailed reinforcement drawings from analysis results.
  • Customization: Customize reinforcement layouts and check compliance with design codes.
  • Foundation Design: Produce detailed drawings and calculation reports for footings and piles.

Module 5: Steel Connection Design

Module 5 focuses on the design and verification of steel connections, including:

  • Connection Types: Base plates, beam-to-column joints, beam-to-beam joints, bolted and welded connections.
  • Normative Compliance: Follow standards like CNR 10011, NTC 2018, and Eurocodes.
  • Automatic Verification: Generate drawings and perform automatic verification of connections.

Module 6: Nonlinear Static and Dynamic Analysis

Module 6 provides tools for advanced nonlinear analysis, such as:

  • Pushover Analysis: Conduct nonlinear static analysis for new and existing buildings.
  • Construction Stages: Model construction stages and variable static schemes.
  • Nonlinear Step-by-Step Analysis: Perform step-by-step nonlinear analysis for large displacements.

Module 7: Masonry and Timber Structures

Module 7 supports the design and verification of masonry and timber structures, including:

  • Masonry Analysis: Verify new and existing masonry buildings using linear and nonlinear methods.
  • Timber Design: Design timber elements according to limit states and allowable stresses.
  • Local Failure Mechanisms: Calculate local failure mechanisms in masonry.
  • Compliance: Adhere to standards like NTC 2018, Eurocode 6, and Eurocode 5.

Module 8: Fire Resistance Analysis

Module 8 analyzes the fire resistance of structures, covering:

  • Material Types: Concrete, steel, and timber.
  • Standards: UNI EN 1992-1-2, UNI 9502, UNI EN 1993-1-2, UNI EN 1995-1-2.
  • Fire Exposure: Define fire-exposed sides and calculate temperature distribution.
  • Verification: Automatically verify structural elements under fire conditions.

Module 9: Geotechnical Analysis

Module 9 focuses on geotechnical analysis, providing:

  • Soil-Structure Interaction: Calculate Winkler constants for shallow and deep foundations.
  • Bearing Capacity and Settlement: Determine bearing capacity and settlements based on applied loads and soil stratigraphy.
  • Geotechnical Report: Generate comprehensive geotechnical reports.
  • Lateral Load Capacity: Calculate the lateral load capacity of foundation piles.
  • Micropile Design: Design and analyze micropiles.
  • Soil Pressure: Calculate the earth pressure at rest or seismic surcharge on buried structures.

Module 10: Innovative Construction Technologies

Module 10 supports the design and verification of structures using modern construction technologies:

  • Reinforced Masonry: Analyze and design reinforced masonry structures.
  • XLAM Panels: Design structures using cross-laminated timber (XLAM) panels.
  • Composite Trusses: Design prefabricated mixed trusses (TTRC) with automated construction phase management.
  • FRP and FRCM Reinforcements: Strengthen masonry and concrete structures with fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP) and fiber-reinforced cementitious matrix (FRCM).

Module 11: 64-bit Solver for Large-Scale Analysis

Module 11 introduces a 64-bit solver, offering:

  • Enhanced Memory Management: Utilize virtually unlimited memory, allowing analysis of large FEM models.
  • Linear Static and Modal Analysis: Improve analysis times with linear static and modal analysis.
  • Large Structure Capability: Analyze large structures without memory limitations.
  • Design and Verification: Note that the design and verification phases are not affected by this module; it focuses solely on analysis.