GGU-SLAB: Preface
- Matthias Jusko
The GGU-SLAB program can analyse slabs using the subgrade reaction modulus and the constrained modulus methods. The finite-element method using triangle elements is employed to solve the differential equation. The subgrade modulus profile can be varied as required with almost no constraints. The constrained modulus distribution can be defined via stratigraphic profiles and an interpolation mesh. This allows any imaginable stratigraphy to be generated. The influence of vibrodisplacement compaction after Priebe can be investigated.
Further important capabilities include:
limiting depth analysis to DIN 4019 for constrained modulus method,
any type of slab boundary including with holes,
linearly variable subgrade within an element,
beam elements for modelling footing beams, for example,
single springs, perpendicular to slab, e.g. for modelling piles.
The program system includes a powerful mesh generator and easy-to-use routines for comfortable evaluation of the analysis results (contours, 3D graphics, etc.).
The program includes convenient data input. The system is permanently displayed on the screen. Every change to the data is displayed on the screen, so that optimum control of the input data is guaranteed.
There are "?" and "Info"’ buttons in the dialog boxes for many technical and program-specific questions. Click on the "?" buttons or "Info" buttons to obtain the necessary information.
The graphic output supports the true type fonts provided by WINDOWS, so that an excellent layout is guaranteed. Colour output and numerous graphic formats (BMP, TIF, JPG etc.) are supported. PDF and DXF files can also be imported via the integrated Mini-CAD system (see "Mini-CAD" manual).
The program has been extensively tested. No errors have been found. Nevertheless, liability for completeness and correctness of the program and the manual, and for any damage resulting from incompleteness or incorrectness, cannot be accepted.
It is not the aim of this manual to offer an introduction to the finite-element method. For details of the finite-element method, please see O. C. Zienkiewicz, "Methode der Finiten Elemente" ("Finite-Element Methods") , Carl Hanser Verlag Munich, Vienna, 1984.