5 Tips for Better Cable Model Convergence

Catenary cable elements can be difficult to work with. Non-linear catenary cable analysis is very different from linear-static analysis and is not always fully understood or covered extensively at University. The result is based on an iterative-process, giving non-linear analysis a variety of complexities that linear analysis lacks. A common issue is that the structure will not converge due to a range of instabilities. This means a reliable result cannot be produced by the software, often leading to a long and frustrating process. To address this issue, SkyCiv compiled the top 5 tricks you can use to get your cable model to solve! Remember: if the software is not converging to a solution, then either the cables or other aspects of the model are deflecting too much (i.e. the structure is unstable).

1. Check the Cable Diameter

A cable diameter that is too thin may make the structure unstable as it will continue to deflect and diverge. At the same time, a diameter that is too thick will produce a higher self-weight, making it difficult for the software to solve the catenary shape of the cable at every iteration of the non-linear process. Changing the cable diameter can often lead to a faster convergence.

2. Check Cables are Not Over/Under Loaded

This is similar to the point above. Convergence will be difficult if the cables are deflecting too much or if the catenary effect is dominating (not loaded enough).

3. Reduce your Convergence Accuracy

By default, SkyCiv aims for 99% convergence accuracy (in Solver Settings) or a 1% convergence error. If the accuracy is reduced to around 90-95%, then the software may be able to find a "converged" solution. Although this might not be your desired accuracy, the solution can give insight as to why the model is not converging with a tighter convergence tolerance. For example, you may see the deflected shape and realize the source of instability, allowing you to stabilize the model to reach a better convergence accuracy.

4. Add Extra Supports

Adding more supports can properly constrain the model to mitigate instabilities. You can also enable the "Auto Stabilize Model" option in the Solver Settings, which automatically attempts to remove instabilities for you.

5. Check Your Other Members

If the cables are connected to other members then they may be in a state of high-tension, causing the connected members to also deflect too much. Using Point #3 above can give you some insight into how the structure is deflecting. It is possible that the members the cables are connected to may not be able to support the high tension from the cables. We hope the tips above help our users (and any other engineers) solve their cable models. SkyCiv's catenary cable analysis is completely integrated within the SkyCiv Structural 3D Software. If you are having troubles getting your model to solve, please email us at support@skyciv.com or visit our integrated live chat to speak with a qualified structural engineer in real time!

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