For cross‑laminated structures with large spans, downstand beams or hybrid structures are often used. They can be modeled in RFEM 5 by using surfaces and member cross‑sections. In both structural systems, curved downstand beams are also possible without any problems. In the case of the curved surface, the member is always appropriately generated by means of the automatic member eccentricity with the thickness distance of the surface and the member. The downstand beam can also be connected flexibly by means of a line release.
KB 000606 | Modeling Downstand Beams in Cross-Laminated Structures




You can define built-up timber cross-sections, for example, channel, T, I, and box girders. Single elements are connected by rigid or semi‑rigid connections. Furthermore, hybrid cross-sections are available. In this case, a submenu provides an option to assign different materials to the individual cross‑section parts.

In the material library of RFEM, you can find plywood materials according to the US and Canadian standards ANSI/APA PRG 510 Plywood (USA/CAN).

For the fire resistance design of timber surfaces, you can display a charring diagram depending on the time of fire exposure.
It is also possible to print this charring diagram into the printout report.

In RFEM, the oriented strand board (OSB) material is available for the USA and Canada. The material parameters are taken from the "Panel Design Specification manual".