About the project
The Laboratory for Numerical Structural Design (NSD Lab) is a collaborative project between Brno University of Technology (FCE BUT) and IDEA StatiCa, established to advance numerical methods for structural engineering. Focused on techniques like the Component-Based Finite Element Method (CBFEM) for steel and timber structures and the Compatible Stress Field Method (CSFM) for concrete, the lab conducts validation studies, develops advanced models, and integrates artificial intelligence into design processes. By bridging academic research and industry practice, NSD Lab aims to contribute to global engineering standards and support education and innovation in structural design.
Research Focus
The laboratory focuses on the numerical verification of steel structures, analyzing structural connections under various loads. By combining simulations with experimental validation, computational models strive to reflect real-world performance, ensuring both accuracy and reliability.
Key topics include geometric nonlinearity, material behavior, and reliability assessment, driving advancements in engineering methodologies and design standards.
Practical Impact
The laboratory’s findings contribute to the safety of computational models, structural reliability assessment, code development, and the optimization of steel connections.
By integrating automated validation processes and AI-driven modeling techniques, the work supports both theoretical advancements and real-world applications while strengthening collaboration with international institutions and industry experts.
Meet The Team
Ing. Martin Vild, Ph.D.
FCE, IMTS – Assistant professor
Brno University of Technology
Czech republic
Martin Vild is an expert in steel structures and finite element analysis, teaching at the Brno University of Technology.His research focuses on steel connections and advanced analytical methods.
With a background in engineering and a Ph.D. in structural analysis, he explores innovative joint design approaches. Beyond academia, he is dedicated to advancing structural engineering methods while mentoring students and collaborating on research.
Mykola Lastovetskyi
FCE, IMTS – Researcher, BUT Brno
Brno University of Technology
Czech republic
Mykola Lastovetskyi is a researcher at the Institute of Metal and Timber Structures, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Brno University of Technology.
His work focuses on structural analysis and innovative approaches in steel and timber engineering. With a strong academic background, he contributes to research and education, helping to develop advanced design methods. Based in the Czech Republic, he collaborates on international projects.
Academic Partnerships
.png)
.png)
.png)
PUBLICATIONS
Verification book for CBFEM according to the AISC code
Validation and verification
In structural engineering, every design approach must be validated through experiments and verified with analytical models. Since 2014, the Component-Based Finite Element Method (CBFEM) has undergone extensive testing, resulting in numerous verification studies.
Collaborating with universities across the U.S. and Europe, we have ensured CBFEM calculations meet AISC 360 provisions with proven accuracy and reliability.
Join the NSD Lab Team
Are you passionate about advancing the field of structural engineering? NSD Lab is seeking engineers, researchers, and students to contribute to projects in numerical modeling, validation studies, and structural optimization. As a member of our team, you’ll work with leading experts, apply advanced software tools, and engage in research that drives the future of structural design.