Design of three-dimensional finite element models

In practice, complex three-dimensional finite element models of an entire structure are used more and more often to design a reinforced concrete building. As daily experience shows, results from computer analysis are often trusted with blind faith. For reasons of time, the required checking of the model as well as a clear documentation of the main results remain undone. This development raises questions regarding the safety of structures in the future. The various problems of a complex 3-d finite element analysis will be demonstrated by a simple structure, an arch bridge. It will be shown, that no software is able to design this bridge, at least in parts. An independent checking of the computer results is always required.