Version 6.2: Release notes

Updated on 4 May 2025

Release notes MatrixFrame® version 6.2-SP3

Processed in version 6.2-SP3 (May 2025)

This service pack updates MatrixFrame , MatrixTools and MatrixFloor fixing issues and introducing features for better performance.

Bug Fixes

MatrixFrame

  • General:  Fixed an issue where CE certification preset options affected the FEM load combination preset parameters, making them inaccessible.
  • General. Project file conversion:  Fixed an issue where the project conversion server was being called for projects that were not eligible for conversion (e.g., projects created by another program). Now, a message is displayed indicating that such projects cannot be loaded for conversion.
  • Loads calculation. Snow load:  Improved the calculation of the snow load shape coefficient µ1 for roofs adjacent to or near taller structures when solar panels are installed. 
  • Load combinations using Initial imperfection loading:  Resolved an issue where imperfections were incorrectly included in the assessment of serviceability limit state load combinations. Imperfections (such as initial geometric imperfections or residual stresses) are typically considered in the ultimate limit state (ULS) only to ensure safety under extreme conditions.
  • Results. Member deflections: Fixed incorrect representation of inside member detected deflection values.
  • Code check Concrete. Deflections on cantilever: The issue with the deflections of reinforced concrete members in cantilever scenarios has been resolved. The problem arose because, for a specific project, the node rotation value was taken at the free end of the cantilever, rather than at the support position (beginning node) of the cantilever.
  • Code check Concrete. Foundation plan drawing: Resolved an unexpected program termination that occurred when using the 'Delete Dimension' (eraser) tool in foundation plans, such as Pile drawings, Casing drawings, and other instances where the eraser tool is applied.
  • Editable report: Resolved an issue where an editable report was not generated due to the use of complex characters in the file name.

MatrixTools

  • Punching. Data input: Resolved the calculation freezing issue caused by fine-tuning the 'Last reinf. net direction' data input using the Punching calculation and Punching calculation advanced components.
  • Steel joint connections. Universal connection: Invalidated the use of the U-shaped cross-section in universal connections where it is unsuitable.
  • Steel. Cross calculation, Welding calculation: Fixed TAB key functionality problems for the applications of Cross calculation and Welding calculation.

MatrixFloor

  • Reports. Header: The text entered in the Reference field of the Job Info dialogue is now saved in the project file. The report header has also been updated to include a "Reference" text field. If users choose not to utilize additional fields in reports, such as "Reference", they may, at their own discretion, modify the contents of the ..\ProgramData\...\6.2\Reports\header*.html and styleHeader*.docx files to remove any unwanted report fields.

     

Release notes MatrixFrame® version 6.2-SP2

Processed in version 6.2-SP2 (March 2025)

This service pack updates MatrixFrame and MatrixTools fixing issues and introducing features for better performance.

Bug Fixes

MatrixFrame

  • Structure input: Resolved an issue where the definition window appeared empty when using the right mouse button to add properties such as releases, rigid links, elastic foundations, and supports.
  • Code check Steel Joint Connections: Resolved an issue where concrete properties data entry in the Steel Joint Connection Foundation dialogue was hidden from user input.
  • Code check Concrete: Resolved an issue causing the error message 'Encountered an improper argument' to appear during concrete cross-check operations.
  • Fixed Reports issues: 

Where user interface selected load(s) were incorrectly displayed in the reports, representing an unexpected selection.

Where the stress representation chart was displayed without the stresses legend bar at the top of the image.

Where FEM report items representing As;req pictures did not display the correct picture legend text.

Where support spring constraints in report images were displayed with a gap from the structural members.

Also, Improved the representation of distributed load in report images, ensuring all load definition lines are correctly visualised.

MatrixTools

  • Punching drawing: Resolved errors in the side view drawing where stirrup reinforcement locations were displayed outside the drawing boundaries.

 

Release notes MatrixFrame® version 6.2-SP1

Processed in version 6.2-SP1 (February 2025)

This service pack updates MatrixFrame, MxTools, and MxFloor, fixing issues and introducing features for better performance.

New Features and Improvements

MatrixFrame

  • Visibility options: Enhanced visibility options in FEM design with the following updates: Dimension font size can now be adjusted. Global font settings now apply to all fonts. Fixed text positioning when the color legend is turned OFF. Changes to digits are now immediately reflected in the representation of values. Implemented coordinate axis scaling through Visibility Options -> Structure View -> Axis -> Scale.
  • Generator of loads: Improved accuracy of iterative calculation of rainwater accumulation load.
  • Report picture generation: Enhanced the picture generation order for load cases in reports to follow a logical sequence (LC1, LC2, LC2.1, LC2.2, LC3) instead of the previous order (LC1, LC2, LC3, LC2.1, LC2.2).

MatrixTools

  • An additional check for the column-beam connection: An additional check for the column-beam connection has been implemented. If the acting axial force in the beam exceeds 5% of the beam's tensile plastic resistance, the axial force will be considered in the check of the column-beam connection resistance. This check will be performed according to the following section of the Eurocode: NEN-EN 1993-1-8 (6.24).
  • Introduced ability to define symmetric stiffeners: The ability to define symmetric stiffeners for column bases has been implemented. The buckling of stiffeners and their influence on base plate bending are now accounted for. Stiffeners can reduce the required thickness of the base plate.
  • Strut & Tie.  Design and calculation of nodes: The design and calculation of nodes have been updated, which has affected the foundation block calculation results. These results are consistent with the symmetrical design conditions, ensuring symmetry as intended.
  • Punching: The improved calculations in MatrixFrame V6.2 and  V6.2 SP1 provide a more accurate assessment of these changed column localization conditions, particularly when the column transitions from corner to internal positioning. In contrast, previous versions of MatrixFrame applied a more conservative estimation.

MatrixFloor

  • Hollow core section database improvement: The BRUIL hollow core section database has been updated with the latest data and expanded to include new cross-section series: Type S W1, Type S W2, and Type S W3.

Bug Fixes

MatrixFrame

  • General: Fixed an issue where empty picture content was being ported using the "Take a Picture" functionality and transferring the image via the clipboard.

    Fixed an issue where a newly created project did not reset the creation, update, and print timestamps inherited from a previously loaded project.

  • Solid model in the Solid view: Resolved the issue with the Solid model in the Solid view not updating after structural changes to the model, such as deleting or modifying members, sections, releases, supports, and other elements.
  • Load definition grid table: Fixed an issue with filtering load definition grid table when the selection filter is enabled. Only the filtered fragment of the load definition grid table is displayed now.
  • Results calculation. Stresses calculation using 3D models: Fixed issues appear using rotated cross sections in the 3DFrame results stress calculation part.

  • Dynamic analysis results report change: The equivalent mass per unit length of the fundamental mode, as specified in NEN-EN 1991-1-4#F.4 (F.14), is now included in the report for Dynamic Analysis results. 

  • Code check Steel: The equivalent cross-section can be provided for lateral buckling calculations. This can be found in the 'Steel Code Check' table under the 'General' tab. The properties of this section will be used exclusively for lateral buckling calculations. The lateral buckling report has been extended to include bending design resistance values for the equivalent cross-section.

MatrixTools 

  • Strut & Tie. Interpretation of reinforcement calculation results is updated: The required reinforcement area is represented in the reinforcement grid table as AsReq;x, AsReq;y, and AsReq;z for the X, Y, and Z directions, respectively (if applicable). Key details include: 
    • The required reinforcement area is divided into primary reinforcement and links. 
    • The reinforcement area is further decomposed into components along the global axes based on the reinforcement inclination angle. This decomposition is adjusted by the redistribution factors: dXdL, dYdL, and dZdL, which account for how the reinforcement is distributed across the X, Y, and Z axes. 
  • Total reinforcement area for the global directions (As;Tot): As;Tot represents the total required reinforcement area for the global directions (X, Y, and Z), as shown in the grid table. This total excludes any reinforcement that is specifically allocated to the links.

  • Minimum required reinforcement area (As;min): As;min is the minimum reinforcement area calculated according to the criteria set by NEN-EN 1992-1-1. Notably, the As;min value is only calculated for the X direction, as the requirements do not apply to the Y and Z directions in this context. 

    Fixed As,min calculation according NEN-EN 1992-1-1#9.2.1.1

  • Decisive required reinforcement area (As;Req): The final required reinforcement area, As;Req, is determined as the larger of the two values: As;Tot (the total required reinforcement area) and As;min (the minimum required reinforcement area).

MatrixFloor

  • Shear Check bw Value Definition: Improved the definition of the \(b_w\) value for shear check according to NEN-EN 1992-1-1#6.2. The \(b_w\) value is now taken from the cross-section DB or used as the minimal width of the cross-section if not defined in DB.

  • Reports setup: Resolved issues with loading previously saved settings in the Reports setup, which were not being applied correctly.
  • Concrete code check for shear: In calculating the shear capacity of hollow-core slabs, the contribution of the top compression layer is disregarded.

 

Release notes MatrixFrame® version 6.2

Processed in version 6.2 (December 2024)

These updates MatrixFrame, MxTools, and MxFloor, fixing issues for better performance

New and Improved Features

MatrixFrame

  • Visibility properties for member(s) representation: An additional setting, “Highlight non-active members" was implemented in the Visibility properties/Layers/Structure view. If this setting is “On,” the nonactive members will be presented with system lines.
  • New structure import option: Implemented the capability to import grillage structures using Technosoft XML files in .TSXML format.
  • Structure geometry. Member rotation angle: The definition of the member rotation angle γ is the subject of the member definition part. The member rotates counterclockwise around its local X' axis by specifying the rotation angle, γ [degrees], in the Member definition grid table. The member rotation angle γ is available only in the 3DFrame, 1.5D, and 2.5D packages. When the member is rotated by angle γ, all properties related to its local axes, such as the cross-section and local loads acting on it, are also rotated. The member rotation angle does not affect the member's geometric characteristics but influences the computational system's overall stiffness. When interpreting the analysis results, consider the member’s local coordinate system, rotated by angle γ, as the results are presented relative to this rotated system. The member rotation angle γ differs from the initial cross-section rotation angle. The initial rotation angle of the member’s cross-section, assuming γ is equal to 0 (γ = 0), can be defined in the Section definition part. For detailed information, look: https://knowledge-base.matrix-software.com/help/matrix-frame/structure-input/structure-geometry/rotation-of-members
  • Supports definition. Eccentrically placement of support(s): The eccentricity of the support refers to a shift in the member axis placement of the support position on the local Y' coordinate of the member. The analysis calculation of the member-located supports is aimed at accounting for the appearance of torsional force because of the eccentrically placed support. With the eccentric supports defined, the advanced analysis option of the reduced torsion is neither meaningful nor encouraged. Detailed information about the eccentricity of the support is presented in the KB under: https://knowledge-base.matrix-software.com/help/matrix-frame/structure-input/supports/supports-definition.
  • Loads definition. Eccentrically placement of load(s): An eccentrically applied load describes the shift of the loading axis relative to the axis of the cross-section in the direction of the local Y-axis of a member. The eccentric shift of the loads is implemented only under the 2D-Grillage package. Only Z-direction loads (distributed or concentrated) can be applied eccentrically.
  • Wind load generation for Multispan roofs: Implemented under NEN-EN 1991-1-4#7.2.7 requirements, roofs can be classified as Multispan if the building has at least two spans. The Multispan roof structure must consist of regularly repeating Monopitch or Duopitch roof types. A mix of Monopitch and Duopitch roof types is prohibited within the same structure. Variations in rooftop or roof-bottom altitudes are not allowed in the same structure. Multispan roofs are detected automatically, requiring no user intervention.
  • Snow load generation modification because of solar panels: Implemented snow load calculation modification because of solar panels. The snow load generator solar panel placement choice can be manually selected/deselected on the member by pressing the "Solar panel" button. Using the member-applied solar panel, the snow load shape coefficient µ1 for the tilted solar panel arrangement is taken as limit value µ1 = µp = 1. Affected calculations are presented in the loads calculations table for the snow load.
  • Loads definition: Added the ability to sort loads by a member in the load cases within the load's definition grid table. This can be done by clicking the Member/Node column header.
  • Loads combination generator options: The introduced load combinations situation generates load combination(s) for the favorable permanent load acting in combination with wind action(s). Combination situation choice is introduced as an additional wind combination rule called Favourable permanent+wind. By default, the newly introduced rule is set to off.
  • Results. Support reactions: If a support is defined at an angle, the support reactions aligned with the support rotation angle are presented using bracket notation. The report displays the rotation-aligned support reactions when selecting the detailed report option.
  • Reports Setup. Style parameter: It is now possible to disable CSS fonts override in reports setup, page 'Style'. Thus, customers are always sure that CSS fonts are used.

 

MatrixTools

  • Punching advance major improvements: The following significant additions have been made to the Punching Advanced module:

1. New types of parametrically defined columns have been introduced: 

  1.1 Rectangle Arc (RA ###x###) 
  1.2 Polyhedron (P###x#) 

  1.3 T-Shape (T ###x###x###x###x###) 

For more details, refer to the Matrix Frame Knowledge Base: : https://knowledge-base.matrix-software.com/help/matrix-frame/structure-input/cross-sections/parametric-cross-sections 

2. The definition of the edge contour for corner column panels has been improved by allowing the specification of reference rotation angles for the first and second edges, labeled as "Edge Angle 1" and "Edge Angle 2." 

3. The universal punching calculation method, Beta (EN-NEN 1992-1-1#6.4.3), has been implemented, as outlined in "CT23 Ponsberekening nader beregarding (Normbesef 1)," page 58.

  • M-N-Kappa improvements: The MatrixTools component M-N-kappa now has a new functions. The application Results table now allows you to provide a value for the acting bending moment and get the corresponding stiffness EI.

     

    The results grid for the M-N-Kappa diagram calculation now represents the stiffness value of EI calculated as M'Ed / Kappa.

     

    The MatrixTools M-N-Kappa diagram module can represent the combined state of M-N-Kappa diagrams for ULS and SLS.

     

  • Steel Joint Connections improvements: column baseplate code check for anchors has been improved. According to CUR 10, a plastic concrete cone failure check is not required if the load on the anchors is significantly smaller than the concrete failure strength (UC ≤ 1/1.7 ~ 0.588). Under these conditions, the UC value with Ft;Rd will be skipped, and the user will see a UC value of 0.

     

  • MatrixFloor

  • Front view drawing with the prestress strands in it: A front view representation of the cross-section has been implemented to display the actual state of the applied pattern of strands. The strand pattern is shown 'as calculated,' meaning it accounts for the natural placement of hollows, applied gaps, and cover. Any strand within a defined hollow applied gap, or the cover area will remove the strand bar(s) in those locations.
  • Rib plates. Exceptional setting is added:  An exceptional setting for Rib Plates has been added to support two-bar reinforcement, where the first bar diameter is user-specified, and the second bar can be any diameter with the condition that it cannot exceed twice the diameter of the first bar (e.g., 1R10 + 1R24 is not allowed)

Bug Fixes

MatrixFrame

  • General. Optional/Miscellaneous setting: Optional/Miscellaneous setting for renumbering load labels in the Loads generator has been relocated to the System tab of the Loads wizard.
  • General. Loading of project files: Warning messages are displayed when loading projects that contain unsupported codes (NEN). The analysis calculations disregard the code information and treat the project as codeless.
  • RTF import: Improved RTF report import by supporting loading import when values are printed without space.

  • Visibility options: The unity check precision preset for visualization has been relocated alongside other digit settings (length, forces, etc.) in the visibility dialog and added to report options. 

     

    The possibility of switching on/off gridline labels was added to Visibility properties/ Gridlines and Dimension lines. 

     

    Implemented additional settings in load visibility options-> Concentrated load arrow head-> Distributed load arrowhead.

  • Using cross-section material: Concrete code checks can be performed on projects that contain specific concrete materials, even if they are not stored in the local database, as long as they were created on computers where the materials are actively used.
  • Load combinations generator: Updated the load combination generator for NEN-EN 1991-1-1 and NEN8700: the Characteristic and Frequent load combination scenarios under Rules (B) and (C) in the Columns and Foundations group will now apply pairwise extreme values to live load floors. Quasi-Permanent scenario under Rules (B) and (C) in the Columns and Foundations group will now follow the same rule sets as those under Rule (A).
  • Results. Support reactions: Solved problem with support reactions envelope values presentation in GUI.
  • Results. Envelopes. New UI functionality is introduced: A 'Sum of loads for members' button has been added to the Results Envelopes structure view toolbar. This button is disabled when an envelope is selected from the dropdown but is enabled for any load combination or load case selection.
  • FEM. UI option for moving objects: A new option has been introduced to conveniently move or delete FEM objects, such as supports, loads, etc. To facilitate this, a context menu with 'Move' and 'Delete' options has been added to all FEM region object definition grids within the 'Smart Sense Navigator' browser window.
  • Concrete options: Options for concrete beams and slabs that affect bar positioning have been moved to the Bar Positioning branch within the concrete options.
  • A global optional setting has been introduced under 'Concrete Options -> Bar Positioning -> Supporting Member on Release' allowing the release positioning of the supporting concrete beam's connectivity to be specified as Left, Right, or None.
  • Concrete check. Validation of the placement of stirrups:  Fixed the problem with the necessary additional information about stirrup placement. For example, if basic stirrups are R8-300 and additional R8-70, additional reinforcement will be shown in red in the grid table, and a tooltip will inform that reinforcement must be symmetric. For R8-300 can be used such combinations of additional reinforcement: R8-150; R8-100; R8-75...

  • Report setup: Conditional splitting of "Internal Forces & deflections" report into separate reports of "Internal Forces" and "Internal Deflections" is introduced.

     

    The checkbox "Group support reactions by load case type" in the Reports Options tab allows customers to get extreme support reactions for load cases.

     

    When dealing with larger report files (.pdf), an issue may occur where the header and/or footer sections are not displayed on all generated report pages. To avoid this, the user should adjust the "Reports Setup -> Page -> More time for header/footer to load:" parameter to a value that resolves the issue. This value depends on the size of the report and the computer's performance, and it is recommended to set it within the range of 100-1000 milliseconds. Note: Changing this parameter will affect the speed of report generation and should only be increased if necessary.

     

    The dialog for presenting stress calculations results in the report was extended. The type of stress diagram presented as a picture can be selected in the tab Images in the Report Setup dialog.

     

    The Code check layer preset in reports affects the structural member definition image in the report.

     

    Reports extreme deflections table added additional information regarding extreme global deflections

  • Report presentation: Solved problem with the same multiple pictures in concrete crosscheck report in case of internal release in a structural member.

     

    Fixed an issue with the incorrect representation of loads in reports when the "Report Setup -> Options -> Split per each member (Load Cases)" option is enabled. Additionally, images showing no loads are no longer displayed.

     

    Improved extremum tables sorting order. Now sorting appears in this order: Member -> Field -> Lcase/LComb

 

MatrixFloor

  • Calculation of the self-weight: The calculation of self-weight has been updated when the "Total weight [kN/m²]" value is provided in the ProductTable database. If this value is present, the product's weight (full or partial) is calculated without considering the uneven distribution of material, such as cavities in the cross-section. If the "Total weight [kN/m²]" value is not provided in the ProductTable, the self-weight of the product is calculated by taking into account the uneven distribution of material across the product's surface, including cavities and other irregularities.
  • Reinforcement temperature: Solved problem with reinforcement temperature at the position of gaps in solid concrete floor.

  • Additional verifications/limitations were added: under NEN-EN 1168, Article 3.1.4 states that a fitting plate must be at least 250 mm wide and contain a minimum of two strands. Additionally, per Article 4.2.1.2.1, a fitting plate with a width of ≤ 600 mm must have at least two strands, while a width greater than 600 mm requires a minimum of three strands.

     

    If a gap, fitting, or any other plate body removal element is closer to the reinforcement bar than 0.5 times the bar diameter plus cover, the bar is excluded from the calculation and removed from the cross-section side view.

     

    The overview of the highlights of the key updates in MatrixFrame® version 6.2 can be found here: Highlights