Extreme Loading for Structures

Extreme Loading for Structures
Developer(s)	Applied Science International

Stable release	ELS Version 3.0 / September 3, 2009 (2009-09-03)
Operating system	Windows
Type	Simulation software
Website	www.extremeloading.com

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]

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 Method and Extreme Loading for Structures.^[4] Academic institutions working with ELS include:

Academic Institutions working with ELS^[5]
Auburn University	Carleton University	Concordia University	Dresden University of Technology
École de technologie supérieure	Helwan University	Technical Military Academy of Bucharest	Milwaukee School of Engineering
National Society for Earthquake Technology	National University of Singapore	Northeastern University	North Carolina State University
Pennsylvania State University	Portuguese Military Academy	Purdue University	Royal Military Academy (Belgium)
Rutgers University	Technical University of Cluj-Napoca	Tokyo Institute of Technology	United States Military Academy
University of Bristol	University of Connecticut	University of California	University of Miami
University of Missouri	University of Missouri–Kansas City	University of Oxford	University of Texas at Austin
University of Wollongong

References

↑ Meguro, K. and Tagel-Din, H. (2000). "Applied element method for structural analysis: Theory and application for linear materials". Structural engineering/earthquake engineering. Japan: Japan Society of Civil Engineers. 17 (1): 21–35. F0028A. Retrieved 2009-08-10.
↑ DHS. "SAFETY Act Designation Status Listing". Department of Homeland Security. Retrieved 2009-08-10.
1 2 3 4 ASI. "Extreme Loading for Structures Software - Overview". Applied Science International. Retrieved 2009-08-12.
↑ AEM Website. "Applied Element Method - Publications Library". AppliedElementMethod.com. Retrieved 2009-08-12.
↑ ASI. "Extreme Loading for Structures - Universities". Applied Science International, LLC. Retrieved 2009-08-12.

External links

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