Revolutionizing
Connection Design
Explore the fundamentals of the Component-Based Finite Element Method (CBFEM), a trusted calculation approach for structural connection design. Adopted by IDEA StatiCa and HILTI PROFIS Engineering Suite, CBFEM enables precise analysis and design of steel and concrete connections, ensuring reliability and efficiency in structural projects.
The Origin of the CBFEM Method
CBFEM is an original method by IDEA StatiCa, developed in cooperation with leading Czech technical universities, and uniquely designed for accurate and safe steel connection design.
Although some software tools, such as CYPE and Dlubal, have incorporated elements inspired by CBFEM, as they were not involved in its creation, these implementations often lack the same depth of scientific validation, academic engagement, and up-to-date code compliance.
In May 2024, a Czech court issued a preliminary injunction ordering Dlubal Software to cease offering, licensing, or promoting their steel joint module based on CBFEM principles. This court measure reinforces that Dlubal Software has no authorship or license rights over the CBFEM method, confirming IDEA StatiCa as the sole legitimate originator.
See the table below for a clear comparison of origin, validation, solver, academic backing, and innovation.
IDEA StatiCa Connections | CYPE Connect | DLUBAL RFEM 6 Steel Joints |
|---|---|---|
Verification and validation of results | ||
Verifications of CBFEM analysis results done by external authorities (universities, experts) | No | No |
Model examples published | No | No |
Verification published book | No | No |
Theoretical background | Yes | No |
Full explanation of the method used | ? | No |
Solver | ||
Dedicated FEM solver | General, open-source FEM solver | RFEM 6 ADD-ON |
Quad FE mesh | Only triangular FE mesh | Yes |
Geometrically and Materially non-linear analysis | Yes | No |
Dedicated FE model for welds | ? | Yes |
Advanced solver features (deplanation-warping) | ? | No |
Analysis type | ||
Overall check (Stress/Strain) | Yes | Yes |
Stiffness analysis | Yes (only rotation stiffness) | Yes |
Capacity design | No | No |
Joint Design resistance | No | No |
Buckling | Yes | only with Structure stability Add-On |
Fire design | No | No |
Horizontal Tying | No | No |
Fatigue | No | No |
Modeling operations | ||
Lateral-torsional restraint | No | No |
Gusset plate for timber members | No | No |
Design Codes | ||
EN | Yes | Yes |
AISC | Yes | Yes |
CISC | No | No |
HKG | No | No |
AS | No | No |
IN | Yes | No |
CHN | No | No |
Other (not implemented) | EAE (Spanish), ABNT NBR (Brasil), BS (UK) | No |
Results | ||
Plastic strain | No | Yes |
Stress in contacts | No | No |
Bolt forces | No | Yes |
Anchor forces | Yes | No |
Report export | ||
Word docx | Yes | No |
IFC export | No | No |
FAQ
Who developed the CBFEM method?
The Component-Based Finite Element Method (CBFEM) was developed by a team of researchers from the Czech Technical University in Prague and the Brno University of Technology in cooperation with IDEA StatiCa.
Who can use the CBFEM method?
The CBFEM method is available to structural engineers, educators, and students around the world. It is used for accurate analysis and verification of steel and concrete connections in compliance with international design standards such as Eurocode and AISC.
Is the CBFEM method verified?
Yes. CBFEM has undergone extensive verification and validation through academic research, experimental testing, and comparison with real-world results. Studies have been conducted by CTU Prague, BUT Brno, and published in international journals and books.
What is the relationship of Dlubal Software with CBFEM?
Dlubal Software is not affiliated with the original development of the CBFEM method. The method is protected intellectual property of IDEA StatiCa and its academic partners.
Can Dlubal software use the CBFEM method?
No. Dlubal software does not have access to the original CBFEM source or methodology officially licensed by IDEA StatiCa.
Is Dlubal or CYPE legally allowed to use the CBFEM method?
No. Neither Dlubal nor CYPE were involved in the development or scientific validation of the CBFEM method. They do not hold any license or authorship rights. In fact, in May 2024, the Prague Municipal Court issued a preliminary injunction prohibiting Dlubal Software from offering, licensing, or promoting their RFEM 6 Steel Joints module in the Czech Republic. This measure was issued due to suspected infringement of IDEA StatiCa's intellectual property rights related to the CBFEM method.
Did Dlubal or CYPE develop CBFEM independently?
No. CBFEM was developed as part of a structured academic–industrial project. Neither Dlubal nor CYPE participated in this process, nor have they published validated research on this method.
Has Dlubal copied IDEA StatiCa’s CBFEM method?
Yes. The court confirmed that Dlubal unlawfully copied key aspects of CBFEM. They have since been ordered to stop using or marketing the method.
How does IDEA StatiCa protect the CBFEM method?
Through formal intellectual property rights, exclusive software implementation, scientific transparency, and legal enforcement. Any unauthorized use is pursued via legal action.
When was the CBFEM method introduced?
The Component-Based Finite Element Method (CBFEM) was developed by a team of researchers from the Czech Technical University in Prague and the Brno University of Technology in cooperation with IDEA StatiCa.
Who uses the CBFEM method today?
Thousands of engineers, design offices, and universities in over 100 countries. It’s the standard for accurate and code-compliant connection design.
What is the relationship between Dlubal/CYPE and CBFEM?
None. Neither company contributed to its development or holds legal rights to the method. Any such claims are misleading and unfounded.
What is CBFEM?
The Component-Based Finite Element Method (CBFEM) is an advanced approach for analyzing steel connections. By merging finite element precision with modular component modeling, CBFEM enables accurate simulations of joint behavior under complex loading scenarios. Rooted in academic research, it bridges the gap between theoretical analysis and real-world application, offering engineers and researchers a reliable tool for understanding structural performance.
