Q:
Do you have metric versions of the programs? A: Most of our programs
are non-dimensional. User can choose any
units for dimensions, forces and other parameters
as long as they are consistent with each
other. User needs to interpret the output
results accordingly. The units will be
noted in the output. Some of the programs
are English only. Their metric versions are
under development. We will send the metric
version to licensed users free of charge when
they become available.
Q:
How do users obtain updated versions? A: We will send the
updated programs to licensed users free of charge
if the revisions are mainly for corrections of
program bugs and typographical errors.
Users have to buy a new program if the revisions
are made for improved or added functionalities.
Q:
Can you provide detailed documentation of the
programs? A: The help text that
comes with the programs contains basic
information to run the programs. Licensed
users will received improved version of the help
documents. The theories behind most of our
programs are very basic. Our examples
contained in the package are taken from
references widely available. Users are
required to verify the results before use.
Q:
Do you accept credit card by fax or by telephone? A: Not by telephone.
But we can accept credit cards through our
secured online payment processing website.
Q:
How long will it take for the programs to be
delivered after payment? A: We need 2 to 3 business
days to process each order and send the programs
by email.
Q:
Do you have any guarantee for the programs? A: We do not provide any
guarantee for the programs. However, if you
are not satisfied for the products, you can
fax us a signed affidavit within 30 days of
purchase, indicating the reasons and declaring
that you have destroyed all the programs, we will
refund your money.
Q:
Can the graphics of the output be transferred to
programs such as MS Word? A: Not directly. But
user can copy the graphics to these programs by
screen shots. Here is how to do it:
1) Place output graphics in the center of the
screen, 2) Press "PrtSc" key, 3) Click
"Start" -> "Programs"
-> Accessories -> "Paint", 4)
Press "CTRL + V" to paste the screen
into MS Paint, 5) Cut the portion of the picture
that you are interested in to documents in
programs such as MS Word, MS Excel, MS
Powerpoint, etc.
Q:
Why does the Beam program sometimes give
inconsistent results? A: In extreme
circumstances, the results may be incorrect due
to truncate errors during matrix inversion.
If a number of beam spans were defined and there
is significant stiffness difference (EI/L) among
the spans, the error is accumulated during the
solution process. The default moment of
inertia (I) for beam sections is 1.0, adjust this
value may eliminate the errors. Another reason
might be that the number of element divisions is
too small (it is done automatically by the
program). Manually divide the beam section into
two will solve the problem. As we have all learnt
in the school, more elements usually lead to more
accurate finite element results.
Q:
For Beam program, do I need to input exact E
& I value? A: No need if the EI is
constant throughout the problem and the
deflection is not desired. Otherwise, you
need to define exactly.
