Orthotropy of shape

A new tool Orthotropy of shape is mentioned to determine and the elastic properties for structurally orthotropic plates of various configurations. The functionality covers a wide range of slab types including:

• slabs with single- and double-sided unidirectional ribs;
• slabs with single-sided bi-directional ribs;
• unidirectional and bi-directional box-shaped slabs;
• beam system;
• corrugated plate (trapezoidal or wavy);
• slab on corrugated plate taking into account the steel material;
• hollow slab (with round or oval holes).

Structural orthotropy is used in finite element design models in order to more correctly represent the behaviour of real structures while accounting for their anisotropic features. This is especially important for the design of bridges, metal structures, and other complex engineering objects where optimisation of stiffness and strength is required.