Extreme Loading for Structures

Extreme Loading for Structures (ELS) is commercial structural-analysis software based on the applied element method (AEM) for the automatic tracking and propagation of cracks, separation of elements, element collision, and collapse of structures under extreme loads.^[1] AEM combines features of Finite element method and Discrete element method simulation with its own solver capabilities for the generation of PC-based structural analysis.

History

2003

• Research and development related to the software begins with the formation of Applied Science International. The first release of ELS appears in the form of 2D analysis with structures modeled, loading scenarios applied, and results viewed.

2008

• Version 2.0 allows users to perform 3D analysis, though modeling is largely limited to 2D and restricted 3D functionality.
• The United States Department of Homeland Security assigns ELS Designation Status for Anti-terrorism under the SAFETY Act.^[2]

2009

• ELS version 3.0 is released with complete 3D functionality.

ELS Modeler

In the ELS modeler the user has the ability to model using a variety of default structural components such as columns, slabs, walls, windows, steel sections, reinforcement and 8-node objects. Pre-stressing, cables, pre-cracking and holes can also be added to models to reflect the required attributes of structures. To aid the user in modeling, attachments such as *.dxf, *.stl, *.dgn, and *.jpeg can be easily imported. Models can also be imported from several FEM based software programs such as Abaqus, ANSYS, Etabs, Gambit, Ideas, LS-DYNA, Nastran, Patran, SAP2000, and STAAD. ELS is Building Information Modeling (BIM) compatible with a plug-in for Autodesk Revit Structure, allowing users to import previously created structural components.^[3]

ELS Solver

The solver performs multi-stage static and dynamic analysis in 2D and 3D. Static loading types include concentrated loads, displacements, hydrostatic pressures, uniform pressures, moving loads, element removals, and line loads. Available dynamic loading types include concentrated loads, displacements, seismic loads, uniform pressures, element removals, and moving loads. ELS comes with a predefined material library with both linear and non-linear material models that include steel, concrete, reinforced concrete, glass, aluminum, elastic, and tension.^[3]

The AEM solver automatically calculates:

• Crack generation
• Plastic hinge formation
• Element separation
• Buckling, post buckling and large displacements
• Contact and collisions

ELS Output Viewer

Once the AEM solver begins, output can be immediately observed in the ELS viewer. A variety of animated diagrams, charts and files can be created for visual representation of the analysis. The ELS viewer can create the following exportable content:

• Animated diagrams:
  • Internal force
  • Envelope
• Animated stress-strain contours
• Load displacement curves
• Animated charts available:
  • Load
  • Displacement
  • Stress
  • Strain
  • Time
  • Velocity
  • Acceleration
• Eigen modes
• Export to *.avi and *.bmp
• Through additional plug-ins ELS can export animation data to Autodesk 3ds Max and Maya for use in visual effects for television and film.^[3]

Applications

ELS is currently being utilized for structural engineering analysis functions such as structural vulnerability assessment & risk mitigation, progressive collapse analysis, blast analysis, demolition prediction analysis, impact analysis, seismic analysis, forensic engineering, performance based design, glass performance analysis product development and visual effects.^[3]

See also

• Failure analysis
• Physics engine
• Structural engineering
• Earthquake simulation
• Applied Element Method

Academic institutions

More than 20 universities and academic institutions are currently invlolved in research and development projects resulting in the creation of numerous publications on topics related to the Applied Element Mehtod and Extreme Loading for Structures.^[4] Academic institutions working with ELS include:

References

External links

• Applied Element Method
• Extreme Loading for Structures
• Applied Science International, LLC