Decreasing calculation time
The time it takes RAM Concept to calculate results is dependent upon a number of parameters. You have control over some of these parameters.
| Setting | Description |
|---|---|
| Desired Element Size | The time to analyze the stiffness matrix is a function of the number of finite element nodes. You can speed up the analysis time by using larger finite elements for preliminary work. This means specifying a large Desired Element Size when generating the mesh. |
| Design Strip "Min Number of Divisions" and "Max Division Spacing" | The calculation time is a function of the number of span segment strip cross sections and design sections on the slab. Each span segment strip with "n" internal divisions produces at least "n+1" design cross sections; more if the maximum spacing governs. You can speed up the analysis time by using a small number of divisions and large maximum spacing for preliminary design. |
| Enveloping | Load patterns and alternate envelope factors produce additional calculations. The RAM Concept algorithms for enveloping are quite efficient and so do not slow down the calculations very much. You could, however, speed up the calculation time by eliminating load patterns and setting alternate envelope factors to the same as load factors in the Load Combinations window (Choose to open the Load Combinations window). |
| SSR Design | Stud shear reinforcement design adds significantly to the calculation time. You might consider delaying the drawing of punching checks until most of the design is close to finish. |
| Detailed Section Analysis | A cracked section analysis takes significant time. If you are not interested in these results or they are not appropriate then you can turn the detailed section analysis off. In order to turn off a detailed section analysis, select and then clear the Include detail section analysis check box in each design rule. |
| Load History Deflections | Load history deflection calculation time is affected significantly by the number of cross sections and the convergence tolerance/iterations to use. Calculation time can be reduced by reducing the number of cross sections or increasing the convergence tolerance and/or reducing the iterations to use. |