Current standards and guidelines only cover the design of 3x3 anchor groups with rectangular anchor configurations in all load directions, while tension loaded anchorages require the use of a sufficiently stiff base plate. There are insufficient definitions and regulations to determine sufficient base plate stiffness, however. The application of spring models combined with the Finite Element Method (FEM) allows the limitations of these current procedures to be overcome. This innovative method is now particularly quick and easy to use with the fischer FiXperience C-FIX Online module. Spring models take into account the stiffness of the anchors and base plate of realistic fixing scenarios and allow the realistic force distribution of individual anchors within a group to be calculated. The behaviour of the entire fastening system can be represented on this basis.
Non-linear spring models are a particularly innovative design method, enabling the direct calculation of the resistance of an anchor group taking into consideration the base plate geometry and the non-linear load-displacement behaviour of each individual anchor in any anchor layout. Using the non-linear spring model does not require any additional verifica-tion of stiffness and the force distribution between the anchors of a group can be determined directly via analysis. Non-linear spring models can be used for the purpose of optimising applications for which there are otherwise no current design rules.
The FiXperience suite allows planners to design entire projects and individual applications with ease, flexibility and reliability. The FiXperience design software has been available as a browser version in addition to the established desktop version for some time. The featured C-FIX Online module
(www.fixperience.online) for designing steel and bonded anchors in concrete now allows planners to assess the stiffness of the base plate and calculate realistic anchor forces with a linear spring model in combination with the FEM.
The FEM model can be activated in various design conditions in terms of staticand seismic. In order to optimise the base plate stiffness, the software allows to calculate the minimum required base plate thickness at the touch of a button. The software also lets users increase the base plate thickness or change the connected profile, add stiffeners or select a different anchor system for improved load distribution. Multiple loading cases can be defined and calculated. Planners can generate verification of sufficient base plate stiffness and thereby carry out the design in line with procedures regulated by standards. The software displays the deformation profile of the anchorage, stresses and anchor forces for the decisive or selected loading cases in a realistic way. Additionally, it is possible to perform the base plate design by checking the steel stresses, weldings, hole bearing and concrete compression below the base plate.
The fischer FiXperience software undergoes continuous development to meet current design standards and require-ments of planners and structural engineers. The new EN 1992-4 standard has already been fully integrated into C-FIX Online. As a result, the verification is valid across Europe in terms of current design standards, including European Application Documents.
The FiXperience Online version offers planners flexibility with software that is available on the go and at all times. The online platform provides quick, user-friendly calculations, as well on mobile devices like tablets. Elaborate downloads and software component updates are a thing of the past.
The FEM module in the C-FIX Online software can be tried out free of charge from May 2022 onwards. The fixing specialist keeps planners and other target groups up to date with fixing solutions, innovative design methods and applicable regulations through the online and in-person training sessions at the fischer Academy. Participants of the design innovation seminars can learn about the advantages and applications of spring models as well as the simple use of the FEM module in the C-FIX Online software of the fischer FiXperience Suite.
