FStr - Finite Strip Computer Application 1.4.0

Finite Strip Method Computer Application: Elastic Buckling Analysis of thin-walled structures

FStr

Elastic Buckling Analysis of Thin-Walled Structures.

Web Site 1: https://sites.google.com/coc.ufrj.br/fstr

Web Site 2: https://joaoadelazzari.github.io/FStr/

The FStr computer application program is based on the Finite Strip Method and gives to the user an easy and intuitive elastic buckling analysis, allowing access to the buckling mode shape of thin-walled structural member. Besides the generation of the 2D and 3D buckling modes illustration, the user is able to obtain the critical buckling load and its related member length.

What is FStr?

• FStr Computer Application is a software developed on the basis of the Finite Strip Method formulation;

• The formulation uses trigonometric functions in longitudinal direction in series, with the purpose of interpolate the solution inside the strip, and form a shape suitable to any type of end boundary condition;

• Signature curves are one type of analyze the results, through a set of longitudinal lengths. Then, the user can analyze the critical modes in any critical length;

• 3D buckling modes, with colorful plots, helps the user to identify the critical buckling mode easily.

Easy and intuitive interface

• The Graphical User Interface (GUI) is implemented in the MATLAB App Designer (MATHWORKS, 2000). The purpose of the GUI is to make it easier to the user to set up the data input and to analyze the data output.

• The FStr has an accessible and easy graphical user interface, and is conceived to attend research activities as well as engineering design of thin-walled structures with arbitrary cross-sections.

Installing PC .EXE file:

To install the FStr application in Windows, proceed according to the following steps:

1 - Download the newest .EXE file in the releases (https://github.com/joaoadelazzari/FStr/releases/);

2 - Execute the downloaded file;

3 - Follow the steps and wait for installing the MATLAB Runtime;

4 – A shortcut will be placed in desktop;

5 - Once installed, you may run the FStr program and enjoy elastic buckling analysis.

Note 1: In case of uninstalling, go to “Add or Remove Programs” or “Programs and Features” or “Apps & Features”, and search for “FStr” and “MATLAB Runtime”. You must uninstall both applications for completely remove the FStr;

Note 2: In case the program is not running properly, try to uninstall the MATLAB Runtime and install again;

Note 3: In case the program reports some unusual bugs, please contact Joao Alfredo de Lazzari ([e-mail]);

Note 4: Using another type of software that requires a MATLAB Runtime, may be compromising the usage of the FStr Computer Application.

Installing MATLAB APP .mlappinstall file:

To install the FStr app in MATLAB, follow these steps:

1 - Download the newest .mlappinstall file in the releases (https://github.com/joaoadelazzari/FStr/releases/);

2- Open MATLAB 2017b or a later version (earlier versions may also work);

3- Click the "APPS" tab;

4- Click the blue "Install App" button in the upper left corner of the screen;

5- Select the "FStr 1.4.0p.mlappinstall" file;

6- Select "Install" for a new installation, "Update" for an update, "Downgrade" for a downgrade, or "Re-install" for a re-installation;

Once installed, the FStr app will be displayed alongside your other apps and default MATLAB apps. To run the program, click on the app icon.

To uninstall the app, right-click on the app icon and select "Uninstall".

Developed by:

Joao Alfredo De Lazzari

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3176-3006

Eduardo de Miranda Batista

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6317-6789

• Links:

LabEST - Laboratory of Structures and Materials Professor Lobo Carneiro

COPPE - Alberto Luiz Coimbra Institute for Graduate Studies and Research in Engineering

PEC - Civil Engineering Program

IST - Instituto Superior Técnico

CERIS - Civil Engineering Research and Innovation for Sustainability

CORE Group - Composites Research Group

For any inquiries, please contact Joao Alfredo De Lazzari at [e-mail].