ETABS is sophisticated, yet easy to use special-purpose analysis and design program developed specifically for building systems. Although quick and easy for simple structures, ETABS can also handle the largest and most – complicated building models, including a wide range of Geo-Metrical non linear behaviors, making it the tool of choice for structural engineers in the high rise building Industry. However, it has always been recognized that a continuum model based upon the finite element method more appropriate and desirable.
New developments in ETABS using object based modeling of simple and complex wall systems in an integrated single interface environment has made it very practical for structural engineers to use finite element models routinely in their practice.
The accuracy of analytical modeling of complex wall systems has always been of concern to the structural engineer. The computer models of these systems are usually idealized all line elements instead of continuum elements. Single walls are modeled as Cantilever and walls with openings are modeled as pier and spandrel systems for simple systems, where lines of stiffness can be defined, these models can give a reasonable result.
However it has always been recognized that continuum model based upon the finite element methods more appropriate and desirable nevertheless this option has been impractical for the structural engineer to use in practice primarily because such models have traditionally been costly to create, but more importantly, they do not produce information that is directly, use able by the structural engineer however new developments in ETABS using object based modeling of simple and complex wall systems in an integrated single interface environment, has made it very practical for structural engineers. To use finite element models routinely in their picture.
