CASA Multi-Beam 2D 21.05

The CASA MB-2D application provides a comprehensive tool for the static elastic analysis of two-dimensional concatenated beams within structural or civil engineering contexts. The software enables engineers to construct detailed models of concatenated beam assemblies and derive both numerical outputs and graphical visualizations of deflections and internal forces. Its design emphasizes rapid, accurate modeling through an intuitive graphical interface, allowing interactive exploration of results. Users can dynamically examine force distributions and deflections by sliding markers along members, facilitating a clearer understanding of structural behavior.

A concatenated beam is defined as a series of beam segments connected end-to-end with each end linking to no more than one other element. Examples include multi-span beams and simple portal frames; however, the software does not currently support more complex frameworks involving branches, ties, bracing, or multi-bay and multi-storey configurations.

Additional information about CASA MB-2D is accessible via its integrated help system and on the official website. The application also features "Replay Demonstrations" that illustrate its capabilities and operational procedures.

Technical Features

• Automated analysis routines.
• Extensive built-in section library covering:
  • British, European, American, Canadian, Australian, South African, Japanese, Russian standards.
  • Details of available shapes can be found on the official website.
• Section generator for common structural shapes:
  • Open cross-sections such as I/H beams, channels, Zed profiles, angles, T-sections.
  • Hollow profiles including oval and rectangular tubes.
  • Solid cross-sections in oval and rectangular forms.
  • Calculations for area, moment of inertia, torsional constant, elastic moduli, and mass properties.
• Material library featuring steel, aluminium, concrete, timber, and glass; with the option for users to add custom materials.
• Members can be assigned ends as either rigid or pinned connections.
• Loading options include point loads, couples, and trapezoidal distributions.
• Support for multiple load cases and gravity (self-weight) loading scenarios.
• Ability to generate factored load combinations according to relevant standards.
• Results presentation encompasses graphical and numerical data on reactions, displacements, bending moments, shear forces, bending stresses, with points of interest marked and sufficient detail along members for comprehensive analysis.

User Interface Features

• A versatile application compatible with iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad devices.
• Support for metric and imperial measurement units.
• Four primary interactive screens dedicated to Geometry, Loading, Results, and Utilities for streamlined model management.
• Simplified modeling workflows allowing tap-based selection and editing; geometry manipulation including moving nodes, adjusting spans, splitting members; and duplicating load patterns across segments.
• Graphical controls supporting rotation, panning, zooming via gestures; node repositioning; load adjustments in position and magnitude; marker dragging along members for reading results; tapping on points of interest for detailed data; measuring distances, angles, and areas between selected points.
• Numerical input via double-tap on data points with an integrated calculator for convenience.
• A straightforward section selection interface featuring country standards and shape options with visual diagrams; custom shape editing through dimension adjustments with rotatable axes.
• Comprehensive report generation capabilities:
  • Customizable content layout with graphical previews.
  • Export options including PDF via email or AirPrint functionalities.
• Additional utilities such as document titling; unit system selection; integrated online help; and options to load, save, or export model configurations for continued analysis or reporting purposes.