2023 was a busy year in the Structural Analysis group
One of the biggest changes was the switch to a year-based version naming convention for all of our products. Our current products are all version 23.00...The new naming should help you to know when your current product is up to date. Our goal going forward is to launch a major new version in the first half of each year and provide Minor updates as required after that. I assure you, it was just a lucky coincidence that the prior STAAD.Pro release happened to be version 22, with some of the products there was a huge leap in versioning.
Speaking of update notifications, we have heard from some users that the Connection Client - Update Notifications is not working. The Recommended Updates in Connection Client are intended to notify all end users of minor updates as soon as they were released, but major version updated are not included. This was done intentionally to avoid users accidentally updating major versions during critical project stages. We are investigating better ways to inform users about all our latest major versions, but in the meantime I suggest the Announcements Forum and the RSS feeds within most product home screens. The Structural WorkSuite Hub can also be installed to help in downloading and maintaining all the RAM and STAAD products included in that bundle.
STAAD Releases and notable updates
STAAD.Pro had three releases in total. Most notably we updated the Profile Database System in version 2023 which makes it easier to customize and share sections. There is also a new way to create reports that include model images. For more see:
A new generation STAAD Foundation Advanced 2023 was released with a physical modeling environment to provide improved user experience. It includes the latest ACI codes and capabilities to model and design mat foundations and pedestals. This product still works in an integrated way with STAAD.Pro, and users can simultaneously use version 9.7.3 as we build out the codes and compatibilities of the new interface.
STAAD Foundation Advanced 2023
RAM Releases
RAM Concept licensing was simplified so that all users have full access to the post-tensioning features in the software. Post-tensioning continues to improve concrete slab resilience and long term behavior and is a growing trend globally. v23.00.01 was released at the end of the year with an important update to the Australian Code (AS 3600-2018 Amd. #2) and some exciting new ways to optimize your PT structures. Don't forget to use the relatively new Deflection Check lines which can be applied to design strips or other critical deflection spans even based on Load History analysis.
RAM Concept 2023 (v23.00.01) - Release Notes
RAM Connection was updated to include the latest Canadian Design code. We also added new connection types like the Column Cap and Brace type. RAM Conenction and RAM Elements both include an updated report interface making it easier to jump to important sections of long reports.
RAM Connection 2023 (v23.0.0) Release Notes and RAM Elements 2023 Release Notes
RAM Structural System 2023 release was notable for the ability to export an ADINA input file. You might be wondering, "What's ADINA and why would that be helpful?" ADINA is an advanced dynamic non-linear finite element analysis application that is now part of the Bentley structural analysis portfolio. We are excited to leverage the non-linear material and loading for advanced analysis needs like performance based design for seismic loads, blast analysis for plants or critical infrastructure, and much more. ADINA also include Computational Fluid Dynamics for Wind Tunnel simulation or other analysis needs where the fluid and structure interact. We are developing ADINA links from many other products too. For a glimpse into the capabilities of this FEA software, see: ADINA Key Features If you are interested to learn more about our direction with ADINA contact me through Communities or by email.
iTwins
The iTwin Analytical Synchronizer was updated several times in 2023. With frequent releases, we can continue to enhance capabilities like 3D tendons and tapered walls and also provide compatibility with the latest versions of 3rd party products. You can still store your iTwin locally or in the cloud and synchronize changes across products or review model history. Here's just the latest release notes
iTwin Analytical Synchronizer 23.01.03