Flexion Pro 4+

This release is a big milestone that delivers powerful torsional and out-of-plane analysis and lays down the groundwork we need to continue building out the software. It took an extraordinary amount of effort, and we are excited for you to try it out!

• NEW: Torsional analysis based on AISC Design Guide 9, Torsional Analysis of Structural Steel Members. To get started, simply apply a torsional load and a fixed or pinned support (or select an example from the new gallery). Both types of supports currently assume a torsionally pinned connection, but this may change in the future. Relevant torsional and warping constants are computed for any custom or standard shape, and diagrams for torsional angle, torsional shear, torsional warping shear, and torsional normal shear are generated in the analysis. Cross sectional stress profile diagrams show the distribution of these stresses as well as their interaction with bending stresses.

• NEW: Apply out-of-plane loads. The direction of each load is now based on spherical coordinates centered around the beam's axis, so forces, moments, and distributed loads now have 2 inputs for their directional angles. For example, a moment can now apply bending on either principal axis as well as torsion along the beam.

• NEW: Examples gallery in the home screen. Click on the button with a book icon to open it. The examples for flexure, shear, tension, and compression are based on the AISC Design Examples companion volume to the Steel Construction Manual. The examples for torsion are based on the AISC Design Guide 9.

• NEW: Cross section properties screen. In the cross section area of the design editor, click on the expand button in the top-right to open a separate screen in which the dimensions can be edited, and all standard cross section properties are calculated, including bending and torsional properties.

• FIXED: Cross section stress analysis for angles and zees is now performed along their principal axes rather than geometric axes.

• FIXED: Added missing or improved flexure strength calculations for angles, some custom I beam sections, and tees.

• IMPROVED: Numerous performance, accuracy, usability, and styling improvements across entire app.

Thank you for your continued support and positive feedback! We can always be reached at contact@ketchep.com for any questions or comments.

This major release is dedicated to Anne, who sat every Saturday under the tree by the coffee shop with a smile behind her mask, an umbrella even if she did not need it (but don't tell her that), and really cute earmuffs. Anne was a good friend and neighbor who believed in us. Rest in peace, Anne, and may everyone in Heaven buy you a birthday card. May everyone on Earth learn to be more kind and respectful towards each other.