• For dynamic modules 41 and 64, calculation of damping ratios by mode shapes (according to damping ratios specified for elements).

Note: In LIRA-SAPR 2022 R2, in analysis on accelerograms of earthquake load with dynamic modules 27 and 29 for design models consisting of elements or fragments with different damping properties, the analysis of equivalent attenuation by the j-th eigenmode of vibrations was implemented by the following formula:

ξj={φj}T*∑[ξK]i*{φj}/{φj}T*[K]*{φj}

where {φj} is the vector of the j-th mode shape, [K] is the stiffness matrix of the model, ∑[ξK]i is the stiffness matrix (for the i-th element or fragment) multiplied by the damping ratio for this element.

• New option to use separately the damping ratios for each dynamic load case in the dynamic modules 27/29 and 41/64. For these modules, it is possible to limit the damping ratio: for 27 and 29 - maximum damping ratio, for 41 and 64 - minimum and maximum Nu.

• For the strain in FEs 55, 255, 265 and 295, an alternate sign rule is applied. The new rule states that strain along an axis of the element's local coordinate system has the sign "-" if nodes move in the direction of each other (compression), and the sign "+" if nodes move in the opposite direction (tension). If the projections of the nodes on this axis coincide, the sign of strain will depend on the order of node numbers defined for the element, that is, by the same order as previously defined.

Note:

Previously, strains were computed as the difference in displacements of the 2nd and 1st node. That is, the sign of strain depended on the order of node numbers defined for the element.

• In analysis of plate systems, for individual finite elements of shell, it is possible to define the sixth degree of freedom (rotation UZ relative to the axis orthogonal to the plane).

Analysis of the load on fragment (reactions) and punching shear analysis for loads defined "by formula".

It is possible to have a graphical representation of the cleanup objects that is color-coded (green for objects with cleanup, red for objects without cleanup). Cleanup in columns for slabs and in beams for walls, columns, and beams are displayed as points. Wall cleanup for slabs is displayed with horizontal lines, and wall cleanup for walls is displayed with vertical lines. The points and lines of cleanup in the meshed model become the points and lines of the combined behaviour of the objects (intersection points and lines). This type of representation makes it possible, even at the stage of the physical model, to identify locations where the combined behaviour of objects cannot be guaranteed. Use the "Filter for object visualization" dialog box to specify the parameters for cleanup points and lines in objects.

In accordance with certain criteria, new visualization modes are introduced to the set of functions for colour presentation of objects:

• to display layer colours; it enables you to display objects in the colours corresponding to their layers. This tool facilitates orientation in the model when the "import floor plans" option is applied;

• "Editable Analytics" mode. In this mode, objects that were modified manually will be displayed in colour. This visualization mode will help the user understand the modifications made to the analytical model.

These functions significantly simplify work with the model and provide more convenient and efficient interaction with the model.

• For more productive work with the model, there is a visualization mode in which you can assign translucency to selected objects. 

  These parameters can be defined either with the "Apply Translucency" command for selected objects and individually in the "Properties" dialog box.

  The degree of translucency is defined in the "Visualization" dialog box.

• In the new version of the program, for the "Elements translucency" mode, the way of selecting constructive objects is changed. Now to select them, it is necessary just to click the object's edge. For example, it allows you to select columns that are behind the wall. This option greatly simplifies the process of selecting the necessary objects in the model.

• In LIRA-CAD module, you can use a visualization filter that allows you to select the currently active storey for better visibility. When the filter is activated, objects that belong to the current storey will automatically become visible, while objects on other storey will be hidden.

  This mode also provides flexible setting of the "Display together with current storey" option that is activated when you hold down the SHIFT key and click the "Current storey only" command. In this mode it is possible to configure which elements of adjacent storeys should be displayed together with the currently active storey, such as load-bearing walls, partitions and columns that belong to adjacent storeys above or below the current storey.

• The new version of the software has added the ability to display "underlays" on certain storeys; it greatly facilitates the process of generating and analysing the building model.

  Moreover, there is an option to hide the soil model when visualising only the current storey is visualized.

• The visual isolation of the active storey is improved. The visibility filter can now be applied to: pile arrays, wind loads and soil pressure loads on basement walls. 

• When the main and additional reinforcement are placed in slabs and walls, it is very convenient to use the "Reinforcement Palette" option. However, previously only one standard set with settings was available for this tool. The updated version of the software offers three separate types of "Reinforcement Palettes" specifically for:

  • foundation slabs and floor slabs;
  • walls;
  • 3D visualization of the reinforcement in the whole building model.

• In the new version of the program, there are more options to display in colour the elements for which the design procedure was carried out. In such a way, it is possible not only to evaluate the model but also to generate working drawings, such as:
  
  • plan of the framework elements;
  • sectional views;
  • 3D views;
  • legends of column reinforcement;
  • legends of pile reinforcement.

In LIRA-CAD module version 2024, there is enhanced management of visibility in elements of the building information model by object type.

The Filter for Object Visibility allows you to easily modify the parameters of the view that are relevant to visualization, as well as the composition of visible objects by type.
Object types are presented in a hierarchical tree, taking account of their subtypes.

The dialog box now includes a large set of object types. The dialog box is not modal, resizable and has an auto-refresh option.

This dialog box is dynamically updated and shows a group of elements specific to the current view. As a result, only element types and subtypes that are present in the current view of the model will be displayed in the list. The state of each type (visible or invisible) is indicated with a "light bulb" icon. Use the mouse pointer to activate the "light bulbs"; then the picture in the graphical window will be changed right away: elements of the appropriate type are either shown on the screen or become invisible.

You can now select which objects should be visible as well as display them based on certain criteria for more flexible display configuration. Use the settings for the object filter to select the required criterion; objects that fulfil this criterion will be displayed. For example, if you select the criterion for columns with a cross-section of 400x400 mm, then only columns of this size will be displayed in the model.

In the new version, this dialog box allows you not only to filter objects, but also to select items with the CTRL and SHIFT keys.

Additional options to display the local axes for walls, columns and beams are available in the Meshed Model mode.

A two-way converter is developed between two engineering software products: Tekla Structures 2023 and LIRA-FEM. The converter provides full interaction between the two systems; it enables the user to transfer and exchange data between them with no limitations.

This made it possible for engineers to analyse and design metal and reinforced concrete structures more quickly and effectively by integrating data and models between Tekla Structures 2023 and the LIRA-FEM program.

• A new technology for dynamic link with DWG files is introduced. All of the model and storey data may be specified in a single file, which makes it more easier to coordinate the project and make modifications, and it also reduces the possibility of errors when working with several files.

• To create both main and additional reinforcement zones in floor slabs and foundation slabs, new tools have been developed. So, it will be simpler to move a design option from a 2D drawing to a 3D model of the project.

• Improved nodes for IFC import are a significant factor that helps make structural items specified in IFC files easier to understand, even when their geometry is distorted.

• For the nodes, it is possible to define the linear and surface loads in the model. The intensity of these loads vary. Because of this, you can more precisely simulate design models and more accurately describe the actual behaviour of the building.

• New parameters are introduced for the surface load; triangulation of slabs and walls depends on these parameters.

• Using pre-defined shapes, such as polylines or underlays, is not the only way to create openings. The perimeters of the current structural elements, such as the beams, slabs, and columns, may also serve as a basis. Using the dimensions and shapes of the existing objects, this approach generates openings more quickly and accurately. This method eliminates the unnecessary step of drawing individual contours for every opening, considerably accelerates the modelling process, and improves design correctness and efficiency.

• To work in the Rhino 8 (Grasshopper) environment, the LIRA-CAD 2024 plug-in was modified. It allows geometry to be transferred from Grasshopper to the LIRA-CAD module natively. A two-way integration between Rhino 8 (Grasshopper) and the LIRA-CAD module is developed in this version of the program.

The "feedback" options between the project's design model (VISOR) and analytical model (LIRA-CAD) have been improved. The LIRA-CAD module can now receive updates to cross-sections of elements that were modified in the VISOR module in addition to the results of strength analysis and analysis of reinforcement

If the stress-strain state of the structure is evaluated and it is necessary to relocate columns or modify the cross-sections of certain elements, then such modifications may be transferred from the VISOR module to the LIRA-CAD module with a single click. So the changes will be automatically applied to the LIRA-CAD physical model, which reduces the errors in case the model is updated manually and provides additional time for decision-making and modelling alternatives.

A major improvement that offers more precise and adaptable parameter settings when importing IFC files is included in the latest release. As a result, users now have the ability to establish more detailed relationships between parameters of an IFC object and parameters of objects in the LIRA-CAD module. Each particular kind of object can have this customization applied; it helps with more precise and customized data import.

The following key changes and improvements should be noted:

• Parameters of IFC objects: Now, when importing an IFC file, users can customize parameters of the IFC objects so that they correspond to parameters of objects in the LIRA-CAD module. This makes it possible for the two systems to match data more precisely and facilitates a quicker import procedure.

• Matching for materials and cross-sections: A new option to match materials and cross-sections in elements is added for more in-depth modelling and evaluation. When importing data from IFC, this helps the user determine the element properties more precisely.

• Assign properties to structural elements: Now you can assign properties to structural elements. Then, such elements are imported to LIRA-CAD either with all properties or with selected ones. This makes it possible to fill the model with the necessary information in LIRA-CAD module.

• Filters for objects: New functionality enables the user to filter objects based on the parameters used in IFC objects. This makes it easier to find objects that have a certain set of parameters.

• Export of elements with built-up sections: This feature expands the possibilities for platform and system integration by enabling the export of elements with built-up sections to IFC.

• Check the model after import: When the building information model is imported and the frame structure is created, a check for possible errors is made for the entire model. The inaccuracies are subsequently corrected in an automated procedure.

These updates make working with IFC files much more accurate and flexible. They also make it easier to integrate IFC with the LIRA-CAD module, which in turn helps to design building structures more precisely and efficiently.

The tool for import of DWG file is greatly modified in the latest version of LIRA-CAD module, providing a number of new and enhanced features. With the help of this innovative tool, the user can generate new objects unique to LIRA-CAD and more precisely modify settings during the import procedure.

Important aspects in the new version:

• Import as a block of underlays: Several floor plans can now be included in a single DWG drawing. In order to accomplish this, specify an elevation or list of elevations for each plan and a base point; the plans will be aligned along the height relative to this point. When the data is imported, several floors are generated, and the plans are placed on top of each other.

• Create new object types: In this version of the program new object types are added, such as main and additional reinforcement in slabs, opening in load, opening in space, thickening in slab and foundation slab, line segment, arc, polyline, and spline. This makes it easy to transform the location of reinforcement in slabs, get drawings in the LIRA-CAD module, and get the reserve factor of a pilot reinforcement (PR).

• Use hatching as a basis to generate the building objects: You can now import hatchings from DWG files, it enables you to generate more complex structural objects, loads, spaces, and other elements of the framework.

• Import 3D polylines: Import of 3D polylines is supported; it enables the user to create objects of complex configuration in the model space.

• Enhanced work with floors: It is now possible to work with each floor independently and define parameters (thickness, section, materials, etc.) for objects on each floor so as to improve flexibility and accuracy of modelling.

• Save settings to templates: New option to save parameters of objects to templates and save the template to a separate file. This option makes it simpler to share a customised preset data with coworkers, reuse settings, and standardise projects.

• Model validation: After the import process and when the framework of the structure is generated, the model is validated for possible errors and inaccuracies that may occur during the generation of the building information model.

The LIRA-CAD model is now much more flexible, accurate, and productive thanks to these upgrades, which also greatly enhance the modelling and import procedures. This leads to better and more effective design of engineering structures.

The new version of LIRA-SAPR 2024 software provides extended functionality for two-way integration with Autodesk Revit. For engineers and architects, a lot of things have been significantly improved.

• Enhanced automation tools for model generation and access to analysis results.

• New input tables to define and modify coordinate axes, height elevations, structural blocks, materials for reinforced concrete, composite (steel and reinforced concrete), masonry reinforcing, and steel and aluminium structures are added. New parameters are added to input tables for perfectly rigid bodies, offsets for bars, forces for bars, and subgrade moduli C1 and C2 for plates and bars.

• Tracing routine is provided for the check and selection of steel cross-sections by "Eurocode 3: Design of Steel Structures - Part 1-1 - General Rules and Rules for Buildings. May 2005. Incorporating Corrigenda February 2006 and March 2009" (hereinafter called EN 1993-1-1:2005/AC:2009) and "Eurocode 3: Design of Steel Structures. Part 1-1: General Rules and Rules for Buildings. May 2005. May 2005. Including Corrigenda February 2006 and March 2009", taking into account the national annex, (hereinafter referred to as SP RK EN 1993-1-1:2005/2011).

  The file with tracing routine is generated in HTML format and you could open it in a web browser.

• For elements subjected to warping torsion, tangential stresses t,Ed caused by lateral-torsional moment Tw,Ed is added. This option is supported in analysis by EN 1993-1-1:2005/AC:2009 and SP RK EN 1993-1-1:2005/2011.

  N.B. The normal stresses w,Ed caused by the BEd bimoment (this point will be computed only for the FE type 7 in problems with the model type 6) are also taken into account in analysis of bearing capacity for elements.

• For the SP RK EN 1993-1-1:2005/2011, check and selection of welded I-beam cross-section are carried out by analytical formulas (without reference to the steel sheet tables). So, it is possible to select the most economic cross-section according to the criterion of the lowest weight.

• For the analysis of steel structures,it is possible to select the coefficient Ω,min not from adjacent elements, but from the whole system, including super-elements. The option may be defined in the "Analysis parameters (Metal, RC)" dialog box. N.B. Seismic energy dissipation may be taken into account as a result of plastic hysteresis behaviour of structural elements. The analysis method itself is implemented according to Section 6 "SPECIAL REGULATIONS FOR STEEL BUILDINGS", "Design of structures for earthquake resistance. Part 1. General rules, seismic actions and rules for buildings. Incorporating Corrigenda July 2009". CP RK EN 1998-1:2004/2012.

• Responsiveness of application is enhanced during analysis of metal sections for large models. There are additional checks for analysis termination. Elements are divided between logical cores regardless of their number.

• The user interface is updated.

• Calculation of modulus of subgrade reaction C1/C2 for inclined slabs and bars.

• The table of soil properties is expanded with properties for analysis by ultimate limit state (ULS); they are used to compute bearing capacity. Soil properties for analysis by serviceability limit state (SLS) are used to compute settlement and stiffness. The confidence level α is taken as equal to 0.85 for analysis of foundation base by SLS and 0.95 for analysis of foundation base by ULS.

• Calculation of pile stiffness by SP RK 5.01-103-2013 is implemented.

• In the SOIL system, it is possible to define a low-compressible/unstable soil. If the pile is rested on such soil, the pile should be considered as a post.

• The method for automatic filling in the values of the proportionality constant is changed. The constant of proportionality is used to calculate the horizontal stiffness of piles. For SP RK 5.01-103-2013, it is possible to select the table for proportionality constant.

• The calculation of pile bearing capacity for sandy loam at plasticity number Ip≤4 is clarified.

• For pile foundations of bridge piers, the calculation of the design resistance of soil under the bottom end of bored and drilled piles and shell piles is clarified.

• To generate an equivalent model of pile foundation, it is possible to select additional options Req has been added: h tg(Fi,II / 4) and h tg(Fi,II / 4) < 2D, where h and Fi,II are respectively the depth of pile penetration and the angle of internal friction. For the calculation according to SP RK  5.01-103-2013, the value h tg(Fi,II / 4) is taken by default.

• New option to set the water table level as the borehole properties as an alternative to manually separating properties of geological element (GE) above and below the water table.

• New option to transfer the active soil pressure Pz at the bottom face of the slab rather than at the middle of the slab/shell.

• For all methods for calculation of elastic foundation, there is an option of not calculating the C2 modulus. This option is available in the settings for calculation in the SOIL system and in the "Soil model" dialog box.

• Imported loads that do not have common boundaries may be automatically divided into subgroups of loads. For example, for correct calculation of design resistance R for stand-alone foundations.

• In the SOIL system, mosaic /contour plots and screen shots with soil model are displayed with their names to easily document the input and output data.

• When the output data is displayed, the name of mosaic plot for design soil resistance R, etc. contains the appropriate elevation.

• New option to select the value of the load factor for soil in pullout load to determine the bearing capacity (relative) of piles.

Note. In LIRA-FEM program, when calculating the bearing capacity of piles (FE 57 both for single piles and for pile groups with account of mutual influence), their bearing capacity Fd (with account of seismicity)/ Fdu (without account of seismicity) is calculated.

• New mosaic plots are implemented to evaluate the bearing capacity of piles according to calculation results:

• Mosaic plots for the bearing capacity of piles in compression/pullout load with/without earthquake (relative);
• Mosaic plots for load on pile Qх/Qy/Q;
• Mosaic plots for pile pressure on the soil along the side surface σz,х/σz,y/σz

• For some specific soils (collapsible, saline) and consolidation analysis, the stresses from the weight of soil excavated from the pin are now taken into account.

• The search for the lower boundary of the subsidence zone (the point of intersection between the total stresses and initial subsidence pressure) is clarified. If the total stresses under the foundation base are less than the subsidence pressure, then the search for the possible lower boundary of the subsidence zone continues along the entire height of the subsidence zone.

• Clarified calculation of self-weight stresses for specific soils in case the weight of soil excavated from the pin should be taken into account.

• Clarified calculation of expansive soils for which the height of the shrinkage zone Hsh now starts at the soil level.

• Mosaic plot for loads with account for overlapping load areas.

• New option to display the properties of constructed soil (soil cushion) on a cross-section.

• In the "Results at point" window, new option to display the elevation at the bottom of the pin and the base of equivalent foundation.

• New control when the loads from excavated soil are overlapped to more than 0.5% of the area. Previously the calculation was not allowed when the loads of excavated soil were overlapped to more than 1% of the area.

• For imported loads, new option to display the name and path of the appropriate *.lir file, as well as loads imported from *.dxf and *.spf files.

• In the load properties, now it is possible to write a comment.

• New option to organize the load subgroups.

• Unicode is now supported. Previously, the LIRA-FEM program was limited to working only with certain languages and localizations of operating systems. And the VISOR module used ANSI encoding, which could lead to problems with text display when switching between languages or when transferring data between different systems. Now LIRA-SAPR 2024 completely supports operation in any language and with any localization on any operating system. Users can freely switch between languages and interact with the program in their native language without any restrictions. Text and symbols in several languages, including a range of alphabets, special characters, and symbols written in other scripts, are supported by LIRA-SAPR 2024.  

• LIRA-CAD module (user interface) is now available in Polish language as well.

• There is a new option to generate the drawings in Georgian when the working documentation is prepared.

• For the SP RK 1992-1-1:2004/2011, in analysis of "Column" and "Pylon" element types, there may be more intermediate reinforcing items for increasing reinforcement. This option increases the analysis accuracy and makes the selection of reinforcement more efficient. The additional items are located at the edges of cross-sections. The number of such items may be specified as the input data for RC materials.

• For the new reinforcement type "Wall (Bar)", the strength analysis of walls and pylons is implemented based on the linear distribution of strain in the normal section. The new reinforcement type may be assigned to bar elements of the model and bar analogues. The bearing capacity of a normal wall section is determined based on the distribution of normal stresses in the section. The relationship between the normal stresses and relative strains is based on the stress-strain diagram specified for concrete and reinforcement. The position of the reinforcement items depends on the spacing or number of reinforcement bars (rebars) along the length of the wall.

• For the type of reinforcement "Wall (Bar)", the peripheral reinforcement at the ends of walls are computed in earthquake analysis by sect. 5.4.3.4 SP RK EN 1998-1:2004/2012 "Design of structures for earthquake resistance. Part 1. General rules, seismic actions and rules for buildings". This analysis is carried out when the "Plastic Wall" mode is activated.

• New option to compute the percentage ratio of the reinforcement area of selected/defined longitudinal reinforcement along X, Y and XY-axes (total) to the cross-sectional area of the plate.

• It is possible to create a custom steel table with rebars; this table may be used to select required reinforcement.

• The program is updated to support the base edition of EN 1992-1-1:2004 + A1:2014. "Eurocode 2: Design of concrete structures. Part 1-1: General rules and rules for buildings".

• The functionality of the "Large panel buildings" system is expanded. The additional parameter "design resistance of concrete in compression" in the material properties for reinforced concrete is provided. This allows you to calculate the strength of horizontal joints and panel elements of the framework according to various building codes available in the LIRA-FEM software.

• The option "Unloading with initial stiffness" is added for the FE of joint.