Thoughts: RISA 3D/Dlubal RFEM

[Nulukkizdin]

We're looking at switching from our current FEA software (RAM suite) to another analysis program altogether. Considering the full RISA suite and also currently considering the Dlubal RFEM suite. Looking for pros/cons regarding these suites to replace the full line of Bentley products. Things to consider are:
[ul]
[li]We'll be using the full set of American codes. We do a lot of work in steel, concrete, masonry, light frame wood, and heavy timber construction.[/li]
[li]Hoping to maintain a solid library of connection capabilities to replace RAM Connection.[/li]
[li]Hoping to maintain a good option for composite beam design and flat plate design to replace RAM SS.[/li]
[li]Link to Revit would be a plus - not necessarily a deal breaker, though.[/li]
[li]Wood shear wall design would be a bonus as well.[/li]
[/ul]

Any major pros/cons that you have on either product would be greatly appreciated! Especially if you have any comments on Dlubal - haven't heard of too many people in the states using them.

Thanks!

 

[ShellsPlatesMeshes]

If your set of requirements to FEM software is rather specific (individual), you may consider development of a customized product that would have exactly the set of features that you need. The advantage would be full control over the software codes, so making amendments and updates would be easier. One thing you would need with such approach is an efficient FEA-engine, based on some quality implementation of plate and beam elements (like the following, for example:

http://members.ozemail.com.au/~comecau/quad_plate.htm

)