Steel structure cooling tower modeling method and device, electronic equipment and readable medium
Through precise modeling and optimized design, the safety issues of connection nodes in steel structure cooling towers were resolved, improving the stability and lifespan of the structure and ensuring the safe operation of the cooling tower.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- HUADIAN HEAVY IND CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2026-04-20
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-24
AI Technical Summary
In existing steel structure cooling tower designs, the safety verification of connection nodes is insufficient, leading to stress concentration, potential safety hazards, and affecting the stability and lifespan of the structure.
By acquiring modeling parameters, a finite element model of the target truss system is established, key nodes are segmented, geometric corrections and mesh coupling are performed, a multi-scale coupled model is constructed, node stress is accurately calculated, and the design of connection nodes is optimized.
This improves the reliability of connection nodes and the safety of the overall structure, ensuring the long-term stable operation of the cooling tower and reducing the risk of node damage.
Smart Images

Figure CN122451985A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of cooling tower technology, and more specifically to a method, apparatus, electronic equipment, and readable medium for modeling steel structure cooling towers. Background Technology
[0002] Steel structure cooling towers, as large spatial structures, are mainly composed of numerous rods and connecting nodes. They are widely used in power, chemical, and metallurgical industries, playing a vital role in cooling industrial circulating water. Due to their massive size and complex structure, steel structure cooling towers require tens of thousands of rods. The overall structure must undergo rigorous calculation and analysis to ensure that it meets the design requirements for strength, stiffness, and stability, thus guaranteeing its long-term safe and stable operation.
[0003] In the structural safety of steel cooling towers, connection nodes, as the core of the connection between members, are critical points for force transmission, and their safety and reliability directly determine the load-bearing capacity and service life of the entire cooling tower structure. However, in existing traditional steel cooling tower structural designs, designers often only focus on the rationality of the overall structural system and whether the load-bearing capacity of the members themselves meets the requirements, while neglecting the safety verification of connection nodes. As a critical area where members intersect, connection nodes are highly susceptible to stress concentration due to geometric abrupt changes and complex stresses. Without targeted detailed verification, connection nodes can become weak points in the entire structure, leading to potential safety hazards in the steel cooling tower structure, and in severe cases, potentially causing node failure, structural instability, and other safety accidents.
[0004] The aforementioned traditional methods prevent designers from accurately grasping the stress distribution at connection nodes, making it difficult to identify weak points in the node area. Consequently, it is impossible to optimize the node design accordingly, ultimately causing the connection nodes of the steel cooling tower structure to be prone to damage due to stress concentration during long-term service, affecting the safe and stable operation of the entire cooling tower structure.
[0005] Therefore, how to provide a steel structure cooling tower with stable structure and reliable connection nodes, and solve the problems of lack of node verification and safety hazards in traditional technology, remains a technical problem that urgently needs to be solved by those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention
[0006] This invention provides a method, apparatus, electronic device, and readable medium for modeling steel structure cooling towers, in order to solve the problem of how to provide a steel structure cooling tower with stable structure and reliable connection nodes.
[0007] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a method for modeling a steel structure cooling tower, the method comprising: obtaining modeling parameters corresponding to the steel structure cooling tower to be modeled; establishing a target truss finite element model corresponding to the steel structure cooling tower to be modeled based on the modeling parameters; determining at least one key node from the target truss finite element model; segmenting initial node entity models corresponding to each key node from the target truss finite element model based on each key node; correcting each initial node entity model to obtain a target node entity model; and constructing a target steel structure cooling tower model corresponding to the steel structure cooling tower to be modeled based on each target node entity model.
[0008] The steel structure cooling tower modeling method provided in this application obtains the modeling parameters corresponding to the steel structure cooling tower to be modeled. It clarifies the basic inputs for model construction (dimensions, materials, loads, etc.) to ensure the accuracy and standardization of subsequent modeling and calculation, avoiding model distortion due to missing parameters. A target truss finite element model is established based on the modeling parameters. A simplified model of the overall structure is quickly built, and through iterative optimization of strength, stiffness, and stability, a truss model that meets the overall design requirements is obtained, balancing computational efficiency and overall stress analysis needs. At least one key node is identified from the target truss finite element model. Focusing on the core area with the "maximum stress and most complex structure," indiscriminate modeling of all tower nodes is avoided, significantly reducing the workload of subsequent detailed analysis and improving modeling efficiency. An initial node solid model is segmented based on the key node. Geometric information of the key node and surrounding truss segments is extracted to form an independent initial solid model, preserving the connection relationship between nodes and the truss while controlling the model scale, achieving effective connection between the "overall" and "local" models.
[0009] The initial node entity model is modified to obtain the target node entity model. Through correction operations such as geometric cleanup, construction completion, and mesh coupling, the actual engineering structure of the nodes is restored, solving the problems of mesh misalignment and discontinuity in traditional meshes and improving the accuracy of local stress calculation at nodes. Based on the target node entity model, a target steel structure cooling tower model is constructed. Multi-scale coupling of "overall model of the pole system + detailed node model of the entity" is achieved, which ensures both the efficiency of overall structural analysis and the accuracy of calculation of key nodes, ultimately resulting in a safe, reliable, and economically reasonable engineering-grade target model.
[0010] In one optional implementation, a target truss finite element model is established based on modeling parameters, including: establishing an initial three-dimensional model of the steel cooling tower to be modeled based on modeling parameters; converting the format of the initial three-dimensional model to obtain an initial truss finite element model of the steel cooling tower to be modeled, and defining constraint boundary conditions; and correcting the initial truss finite element model based on the constraint boundary conditions to obtain the target truss finite element model.
[0011] The steel structure cooling tower modeling method provided in this application establishes an initial three-dimensional model of the cooling tower based on modeling parameters. Using precise modeling parameters (dimensions, structural form, etc.), a three-dimensional geometric model consistent with the actual engineering is built, providing an accurate geometric foundation for subsequent finite element analysis and avoiding calculation deviations caused by geometric distortion. The initial three-dimensional model is converted to a format to obtain an initial truss finite element model, and constraint boundary conditions are defined. Format conversion realizes the transformation from a geometric model to a finite element model, endowing the model with mechanical analysis attributes to support subsequent strength, stiffness, and stability calculations. Constraint boundary conditions (such as a fixed hinge at the tower base) are defined to accurately simulate the actual stress boundary state of the structure, ensuring that the calculation results match the real working conditions. Based on the constraint boundary conditions, the initial truss finite element model is corrected to obtain the target truss finite element model. Through calculation analysis and iterative optimization, the strength, stiffness, and stability indicators of the model meet the design requirements, forming an overall truss model that balances safety and economy. This provides a qualified basic model for subsequent key node extraction and significantly improves overall analysis efficiency.
[0012] In one optional implementation, the initial finite element model of the rod system is modified based on the constraint boundary conditions to obtain the target finite element model of the rod system. This includes: calculating the first stress ratio, the maximum displacement of the first node, and the first buckling coefficient corresponding to the initial finite element model of the rod system based on the modeling parameters and constraint boundary conditions; detecting whether the first stress ratio, the maximum displacement of the first node, and the first buckling coefficient meet the corresponding preset requirements; and modifying the initial finite element model of the rod system according to the detection results to obtain the target finite element model of the rod system.
[0013] The steel structure cooling tower modeling method provided in this application calculates the first stress ratio, the maximum displacement of the first node, and the first buckling coefficient. It simultaneously acquires core quantitative indicators of structural strength, stiffness, and overall stability, providing accurate data support for model performance evaluation and avoiding design deviations caused by relying solely on experience. It checks whether the three indicators meet preset requirements. A comprehensive "check-up" of the initial model is conducted according to standards and specifications to identify shortcomings in strength, stiffness, and stability, providing direction for subsequent corrections and ensuring targeted model optimization. Based on the test results, the model is corrected to obtain the target truss finite element model. Through directional adjustments (such as increasing the cross-section and densifying the web members), all performance indicators of the model are made to meet the standards, ultimately forming a qualified overall truss model that balances safety and economy, laying a reliable foundation for subsequent detailed analysis of key nodes.
[0014] In one optional implementation, based on each key node, an initial node entity model corresponding to each key node is segmented from the target truss finite element model, including: performing equal-spacing segmentation on the surrounding trusses corresponding to each key node according to the positional relationship between each key node and the surrounding trusses; and for each key node, forming an initial node entity model based on the key node and the reserved truss segments corresponding to the surrounding trusses connected to the key node.
[0015] The steel structure cooling tower modeling method provided in this application performs equidistant segmentation on the surrounding members of key nodes. This precisely defines the analysis scope of key nodes by reserving fixed-length member segments, preserving the true connection relationship between nodes and members while avoiding redundant geometric interference. This provides clear boundaries for subsequent refined node modeling, improving modeling efficiency. For each key node, an initial node solid model is formed based on the key node and the reserved member segments corresponding to the surrounding members connected to it. Integrating key nodes and reserved member segments into independent model units achieves an effective decomposition from the "overall member system model" to the "local node model." Each node corresponds to an independent model, facilitating subsequent classification and targeted correction while ensuring compatibility between models.
[0016] In one optional implementation, the initial node entity models are modified to obtain target node entity models, including: inputting the initial node entity models into preset finite element software; preprocessing the initial node entity models based on the preset finite element software to obtain candidate node entity models; performing construction and completion operations on the initial node entity models according to the node types corresponding to the key nodes in each initial node entity model to obtain the target node entity shape; integrating and modifying the various components included in the target node entity shape based on Boolean operations to obtain backup node entity models; and obtaining the target node entity model based on the backup node entity models.
[0017] The steel structure cooling tower modeling method provided in this application involves inputting an initial node entity model into a pre-defined finite element software. This enables the model to be loaded into professional analysis software, providing an operational platform for subsequent fine-tuning processes such as geometric cleanup and structural completion, ensuring the professionalism and feasibility of node model analysis. The initial node entity model is preprocessed using the pre-defined finite element software to obtain candidate node entity models. Geometric defects such as broken surfaces, gaps, and interference in the initial model are eliminated, and units and coordinate systems are unified to obtain geometrically clean candidate models, avoiding distortion of subsequent analysis results due to model defects. Structural completion operations are performed according to the key node types to obtain the target node entity shape. Real engineering structures (ribs, intersecting cuts, welds, etc.) are completed according to node type (welded spheres, KT / T type, insert plates, etc.) to ensure a 1:1 match between the model and actual nodes, improving the realism of node stress calculations. Boolean operations are used to integrate and correct the target node entity shape to obtain a backup node entity model. By combining fragmented components into a complete entity through union and difference operations, gaps and overlaps between components are eliminated, ensuring the geometric continuity of the node model and providing a complete and regular solid foundation for subsequent mesh generation. The target node entity model is obtained based on the backup node entity model. Combining mesh generation and coupling processing, a target node model with acceptable mesh quality is finally formed, which can be directly used for multi-scale coupled calculations, effectively connecting high-precision local node analysis with overall structural analysis.
[0018] In one optional implementation, obtaining the target node entity model based on the backup node entity model includes: identifying the backup node entity model and determining the key, easily failed intersection parts in the backup node entity model; generating geometric imprint lines at the key, easily failed intersection parts as forced boundary lines for mesh generation; and generating a solid mesh based on the geometric imprint lines to obtain the target node entity model.
[0019] The steel structure cooling tower modeling method provided in this application identifies key, easily failing intersections in the standby node solid model. It accurately pinpoints core areas of stress concentration and potential damage, allowing subsequent mesh generation to focus on high-risk areas, avoiding the waste of computational resources caused by indiscriminate meshing, and improving analysis efficiency and focus. Geometric imprints are generated at these key, easily failing intersections. These imprints serve as mandatory mesh boundaries, constraining precise matching of mesh boundaries between adjacent components, fundamentally solving the misalignment and discontinuity problems of traditional mesh generation, and ensuring the accuracy of node stress transfer calculations. A solid mesh is generated based on the geometric imprints, resulting in the target node solid model. This generates a highly coupled, high-quality solid mesh, ensuring computational accuracy in key areas while also considering computational efficiency in non-critical regions, ultimately yielding a high-precision target node model that can be directly used for multi-scale model coupling analysis.
[0020] In one optional implementation, a target steel structure cooling tower model is constructed based on the entity models of each target node, including: deleting the initial node entity models corresponding to the entity models of each target node in the target truss finite element model to obtain the remaining truss finite element model; aligning the coordinates of each target node entity model with the remaining truss finite element model and merging the models to obtain the merged steel structure cooling tower model; establishing a 6-DOF fully constrained rigid connection on the merged steel structure cooling tower model to obtain the target multi-scale finite element model; calculating the stress calculation results corresponding to the target multi-scale finite element model, the stress calculation results including at least one of the second stress ratio, the second maximum displacement of the node, and the second buckling coefficient; based on the stress calculation results, determining the maximum stress value of the node region corresponding to each key node in the target multi-scale finite element model under the most unfavorable working condition; checking whether the maximum stress value meets the preset stress requirement; if the maximum stress value of the node region corresponding to a key node does not meet the preset stress requirement, then optimizing the target multi-scale finite element model according to the node type corresponding to the key node that does not meet the preset stress requirement to obtain the target steel structure cooling tower model.
[0021] The steel structure cooling tower modeling method provided in this application deletes the corresponding initial node entity models in the target truss model. It accurately removes the insufficiently accurate initial node regions in the truss model, reserving matching space for the high-precision target node entity model, avoiding model overlap or redundancy, and ensuring the accuracy of subsequent multi-scale model merging. The target node entity model and the remaining truss finite element model are then aligned and merged. This ensures complete spatial matching between the entity nodes and the truss model, achieving a seamless connection between the "overall truss + local entity nodes," forming a merged model that balances overall analysis efficiency and local calculation accuracy. A 6-DOF fully constrained rigid connection is established on the merged steel structure cooling tower model to obtain the target multi-scale finite element model. The translational and rotational degrees of freedom of the docking interface are forcibly constrained to ensure smooth transmission of internal forces between the truss and entity nodes, eliminating interface force transmission errors and improving the computational reliability of the multi-scale model. The stress calculation results corresponding to the target multi-scale finite element model are calculated. Simultaneously, the overall strength, stiffness, and stability indices of the merged model are acquired to verify the impact of refined node modeling on the overall structural performance, providing data support for comprehensive model evaluation. Based on stress calculation results, the maximum stress values of the nodal regions corresponding to each key node in the target multi-scale finite element model are determined under the most unfavorable working conditions. Focusing on the stress peak values of nodes under extreme stress scenarios, weak points in node strength are accurately located, providing clear targets for subsequent optimization. Whether the maximum stress value meets the preset stress requirements is checked. The bearing capacity of the nodes is judged according to the standards and specifications to determine whether the model's qualification boundary is clear, preventing unqualified models from entering the engineering application stage. If the maximum stress value of the nodal region corresponding to a key node does not meet the preset stress requirements, the target multi-scale finite element model is optimized according to the node type of the key node that does not meet the preset stress requirements, resulting in the target steel structure cooling tower model. Differentiated optimization strategies (such as thickening the spherical wall and adding ribs) are adopted to specifically address the problem of excessive node stress, iteratively obtaining a safe, reliable, and economically reasonable final target model.
[0022] Secondly, the present invention provides a steel structure cooling tower modeling device, the device comprising: The acquisition module is used to acquire the modeling parameters corresponding to the cooling tower of the steel structure to be modeled. A module is established to create a finite element model of the target truss system corresponding to the cooling tower of the steel structure to be modeled, based on the modeling parameters. The determination module is used to determine at least one key node from the finite element model of the target truss system; The segmentation module is used to segment the initial node entity model corresponding to each key node from the target truss finite element model based on each key node. The correction module is used to correct the entity models of each initial node to obtain the entity model of the target node. The building module is used to construct the target steel structure cooling tower model corresponding to the steel structure cooling tower to be modeled, based on the entity model of each target node.
[0023] Thirdly, the present invention provides an electronic device, comprising: a memory and a processor, wherein the memory and the processor are communicatively connected to each other, the memory stores computer instructions, and the processor executes the computer instructions to perform the steel structure cooling tower modeling method of the first aspect or any corresponding embodiment described above.
[0024] Fourthly, the present invention provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions for causing a computer to execute the steel structure cooling tower modeling method of the first aspect or any corresponding embodiment described above.
[0025] Fifthly, the present invention provides a computer program product, including computer instructions for causing a computer to execute the steel structure cooling tower modeling method of the first aspect or any corresponding embodiment described above. Attached Figure Description
[0026] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.
[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the first process of a steel structure cooling tower modeling method according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the second process of the steel structure cooling tower modeling method according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the initial node entity model according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a welded ball in a node according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the cross-shaped annular rib plate inside the welding ball according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of geometric imprinted lines according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the imprinted marks on both sides of the overall ring rib according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the target node entity model according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 This is a structural block diagram of a steel structure cooling tower modeling device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation
[0028] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.
[0029] It is understood that before using the technical solutions disclosed in the various embodiments of the present invention, users should be informed of the types, scope of use, and usage scenarios of the personal information involved in the present invention and their authorization should be obtained in accordance with relevant laws and regulations through appropriate means.
[0030] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.
[0031] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a method for modeling a steel structure cooling tower is provided. It should be noted that the steps shown in the flowchart in the accompanying drawings can be executed in a computer system such as a set of computer-executable instructions. Furthermore, although a logical order is shown in the flowchart, in some cases, the steps shown or described may be executed in a different order than that shown here.
[0032] This embodiment provides a method for modeling steel structure cooling towers, which can be used in electronic devices. Figure 1 This is a flowchart of a steel structure cooling tower modeling method according to an embodiment of the present invention, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the process includes the following steps: Step S101: Obtain the modeling parameters corresponding to the cooling tower of the steel structure to be modeled.
[0033] Specifically, the electronic device can receive modeling parameters for the steel cooling tower to be modeled, input by the user, and can also receive modeling parameters for the steel cooling tower to be modeled sent by other devices. These modeling parameters may include: total height of the cooling tower, bottom diameter, top diameter, throat diameter, throat height, inlet diameter, inlet height, expansion platform diameter and corresponding height, steel material (Q235, Q355, etc.), design load information (wind load, live load, temperature effects, seismic effects, etc.), and node types (welded ball joints, KT-type joints, T-type joints, insert plate joints, etc.).
[0034] Step S102: Based on the modeling parameters, establish the target rod system finite element model corresponding to the cooling tower of the steel structure to be modeled.
[0035] Specifically, electronic devices can input modeling parameters into preset modeling software to establish a finite element model of the target rod system corresponding to the cooling tower of the steel structure to be modeled.
[0036] This step will be explained in detail below.
[0037] Step S103: Determine at least one key node from the target rod system finite element model.
[0038] Specifically, the electronic device can extract the internal forces and stresses of each node and member in the finite element model of the target tower system. Then, utilizing the circumferentially symmetrical force characteristics of the cooling tower, it filters nodes only at representative symmetrical locations. Based on criteria such as maximum stress, complex structure, concentrated stress, and susceptibility to failure, the electronic device identifies the following typical key nodes: welded ball joints of the inner and outer layers of the tower body, circumferential KT-type / T-type joints, vertical KT-type / T-type joints, intersecting welded joints of the chords of the widened platform, and reinforcing ring insert plate joints. This ultimately achieves refined analysis with fewer nodes, high representativeness, and high efficiency, ensuring that no key nodes corresponding to key parts are missed.
[0039] Step S104: Based on each key node, extract the initial node entity model corresponding to each key node from the target rod system finite element model.
[0040] Specifically, the electronic device can segment the initial node entity model corresponding to each key node from the target rod system finite element model based on the position information corresponding to each key node.
[0041] This step will be explained in detail below.
[0042] Step S105: Correct the initial node entity model to obtain the target node entity model.
[0043] Specifically, the electronic device can modify each initial node entity model based on the stress calculation results corresponding to each initial node entity model to obtain the target node entity model.
[0044] This step will be explained in detail below.
[0045] Step S106: Based on the entity models of each target node, construct the target steel structure cooling tower model corresponding to the steel structure cooling tower to be modeled.
[0046] Specifically, the electronic device can merge and splice the entity models of each target node with the remaining finite element models of the target truss system in the finite element model of the target truss system, except for the entity models of each target node, to obtain the target steel structure cooling tower model corresponding to the steel structure cooling tower to be modeled.
[0047] This step will be explained in detail below.
[0048] The steel structure cooling tower modeling method provided in this application obtains the modeling parameters corresponding to the steel structure cooling tower to be modeled. It clarifies the basic inputs for model construction (dimensions, materials, loads, etc.) to ensure the accuracy and standardization of subsequent modeling and calculation, avoiding model distortion due to missing parameters. A target truss finite element model is established based on the modeling parameters. A simplified model of the overall structure is quickly built, and through iterative optimization of strength, stiffness, and stability, a truss model that meets the overall design requirements is obtained, balancing computational efficiency and overall stress analysis needs. At least one key node is identified from the target truss finite element model. Focusing on the core area with the "maximum stress and most complex structure," indiscriminate modeling of all tower nodes is avoided, significantly reducing the workload of subsequent detailed analysis and improving modeling efficiency. An initial node solid model is segmented based on the key node. Geometric information of the key node and surrounding truss segments is extracted to form an independent initial solid model, preserving the connection relationship between nodes and the truss while controlling the model scale, achieving effective connection between the "overall" and "local" models.
[0049] The initial node entity model is modified to obtain the target node entity model. Through correction operations such as geometric cleanup, construction completion, and mesh coupling, the actual engineering structure of the nodes is restored, solving the problems of mesh misalignment and discontinuity in traditional meshes and improving the accuracy of local stress calculation at nodes. Based on the target node entity model, a target steel structure cooling tower model is constructed. Multi-scale coupling of "overall model of the pole system + detailed node model of the entity" is achieved, which ensures both the efficiency of overall structural analysis and the accuracy of calculation of key nodes, ultimately resulting in a safe, reliable, and economically reasonable engineering-grade target model.
[0050] This embodiment provides a method for modeling steel structure cooling towers, which can be used in electronic devices. Figure 2 This is a flowchart of a steel structure cooling tower modeling method according to an embodiment of the present invention, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the process includes the following steps: Step S201: Obtain the modeling parameters corresponding to the cooling tower of the steel structure to be modeled.
[0051] Please refer to the above description of step S101 for details on this step, which will not be repeated here.
[0052] Step S202: Based on the modeling parameters, establish the target rod system finite element model corresponding to the cooling tower of the steel structure to be modeled.
[0053] Specifically, step S202 above may include the following steps: Step S2021: Based on the modeling parameters, establish the initial three-dimensional model corresponding to the cooling tower of the steel structure to be modeled.
[0054] Specifically, electronic devices can establish an initial three-dimensional axial model of the steel cooling tower in general modeling software such as AutoCAD, ZWCAD, and GstarCAD, based on the acquired modeling parameters corresponding to the steel cooling tower to be modeled. The core parameters for modeling include: total height of the cooling tower, bottom diameter, top diameter, throat diameter and height, air inlet dimensions, and expansion platform dimensions. The model adopts a bidirectional oblique truss structure, constructed with the member axes as the core, ensuring accurate component positioning, no overlap, no breaks, and no redundant geometry, forming an initial three-dimensional geometric model that can be used for subsequent finite element analysis.
[0055] Step S2022: Convert the format of the initial three-dimensional model to obtain the initial finite element model of the steel cooling tower to be modeled, and define the constraint boundary conditions.
[0056] Specifically, electronic devices can export the initial 3D axis model of a steel structure cooling tower, which has already been created in CAD software, into a DXF universal exchange format file, enabling the geometric model to be shared between different software. The DXF format can be reliably recognized by Midas / Gen finite element software, ensuring that the model coordinates, member positions, and geometric relationships are not lost or corrupted.
[0057] Then, the exported DXF format model is imported into the Midas / Gen finite element software. The software automatically reads the model's axis information and converts the axes into rod elements, forming an initial rod finite element model. This model consists of a large number of beam elements and can be used for subsequent section assignment, constraint application, loading, and computational analysis.
[0058] Electronic equipment can define the steel material properties for the rod unit in the software, including elastic modulus, Poisson's ratio, density, yield strength, etc., usually using structural steel such as Q235 and Q355 to ensure that the material parameters are consistent with the actual project.
[0059] Next, the electronic equipment can specify the initial cross-section for each member in the initial finite element model of the tower system based on structural design experience and conventional engineering dimensions. The cross-section form is mainly a circular tube cross-section. The corresponding preliminary cross-section dimensions are assigned to the tower chord members, web members, circumferential members, and members of the extended platform, respectively, to complete the cross-section assignment of the model and enable the members to have geometric and mechanical properties.
[0060] The electronic equipment defines constraint boundary conditions at the support positions (connection between the tower base and the foundation) in the initial finite element model of the rod system to simulate the actual stress state of the structure. Fixed hinge constraints are usually used to constrain the translational displacement of the structure in the X, Y, and Z directions, restricting the movement of the tower base and ensuring reasonable force transmission and that the calculation results are consistent with reality.
[0061] Finally, in accordance with design requirements and specifications, all loads required for calculation are applied to the initial finite element model of the truss system. These include: dead loads: structural self-weight and additional self-weight; live loads: platform maintenance live loads; wind loads: wind loads on the tower; temperature loads: heating and cooling effects; and seismic loads: seismic action (applied as needed).
[0062] In accordance with the requirements of steel structure design specifications, various loads are combined with coefficients to form load combination cases for calculation and analysis, including basic combinations, standard combinations, stiffness control combinations, stability control combinations, etc., to provide complete load conditions for subsequent calculations.
[0063] Step S2023: Based on the constraint boundary conditions, the initial finite element model of the rod system is modified to obtain the target finite element model of the rod system.
[0064] Specifically, step S2023 above may include the following steps: Step a1: Based on the modeling parameters and constraint boundary conditions, calculate the first stress ratio, the maximum displacement of the first node, and the first buckling coefficient corresponding to the initial finite element model of the bar system. Specifically, the electronic equipment can first verify the basic parameters of the initial finite element model of the rod system to ensure that the model has the conditions for calculation. The specific verification includes: material parameters: the steel material (such as Q235, Q355) has been correctly defined, including core mechanical parameters such as elastic modulus, Poisson's ratio, density, and yield strength, which are consistent with the material specified in the modeling parameters; cross-sectional parameters: each rod has been assigned a preliminary circular tube cross-section, and the cross-sectional dimensions conform to conventional engineering design experience and match the stress requirements of various components of the cooling tower (tower chords, web members, circumferential members, and expansion platform members); constraint conditions: the tower base support has been correctly set as a fixed hinge constraint, constraining the translational displacement in the X, Y, and Z directions, with no missing or incorrect constraints, simulating the bottom fixed state of the structure under actual stress. After confirming that the initial finite element model of the rod system has no missing parameters and no setting errors, the load application stage can begin.
[0065] Then, according to the load requirements in the modeling parameters and the current steel structure design specifications, various loads are applied one by one to the initial finite element model of the frame system to ensure that the load type, application location, and load magnitude conform to the actual engineering situation. The specific operations are as follows: Apply dead loads: mainly including the structural self-weight (automatically calculated and generated by the software based on the cross-section and material density of the members) and additional self-weight (such as the weight of tower auxiliary components and fixed equipment). The application range covers the entire tower structure to ensure that the self-weight is evenly distributed and without omissions; Apply live loads: focus on applying the maintenance live load of the expansion platform. According to the maintenance load standard specified in the design specifications (such as 2.5kN / ㎡), it is evenly applied to the members of the expansion platform to simulate the temporary load during personnel and equipment maintenance; Apply wind loads: according to the cold... The wind load level of the tower's location is determined, and the wind load value is calculated according to the specifications based on the tower's height, diameter, and other modeling parameters. The load is applied in segments along the tower's height, taking into account the distribution characteristics of the wind load to ensure that the direction and magnitude of the applied load are consistent with the actual wind conditions. Temperature loads are applied: considering the temperature variation range of the project site, two temperature conditions are set up—heating and cooling—to simulate the thermal expansion and contraction effects of temperature changes on the tower structure, avoiding structural deformation or damage caused by temperature stress. Seismic loads are applied: based on the project's seismic fortification level, the seismic intensity is calculated according to the specifications. The seismic force is transferred to the entire frame model using the software's built-in seismic load application function to simulate the structural stress state during an earthquake (applied as needed; can be omitted if the project has no seismic requirements).
[0066] After each load is applied individually, the electronic equipment combines different loads according to the steel structure design specifications to form load combination cases for calculation and analysis. This ensures that the calculation results cover the most unfavorable stress scenarios that the structure may actually encounter. The specific combination methods are as follows: Basic combination: used for strength calculation, it consists of dead load + live load + wind load (or seismic load) combined according to the load partial factors specified in the specifications. It is the core combination for judging whether the strength of the members meets the standards. Standard combination: used for stiffness calculation, mainly composed of dead load + live load, and wind load can be superimposed in some scenarios. It is used to control structural deformation. Stiffness control combination: focuses on the combined effect of dead load, live load, and wind load. It is used to verify the overall stiffness of the structure and avoid deformation exceeding the limit. Stability control combination: combines dead load and wind load (or seismic load). It is used to verify the overall stability of the structure and prevent structural instability and failure. The partial factors and combination factors of the load combination strictly follow the steel structure design specifications to ensure that the combination results are scientific and reasonable, providing accurate load conditions for subsequent calculation and analysis.
[0067] Finally, the electronic equipment can employ a dual-control analysis method that simultaneously performs "linear static analysis + eigenvalue buckling analysis." The calculation command is initiated in the Midas / Gen software, and the two analysis methods solve simultaneously. The specific process is as follows: Linear static analysis: Based on the applied loads and load combinations, the software performs static analysis on the initial finite element model of the frame system, calculating the axial force, bending moment, and shear force of each member in the initial finite element model, thereby deriving the stress distribution of the members. Simultaneously, the displacement values of each node in the structure are calculated, providing data support for subsequent strength and stiffness evaluations. Eigenvalue buckling analysis: Based on the static analysis, the overall structural stability is calculated simultaneously. The electronic equipment, based on the software, determines whether the structure will experience overall instability under the current load by solving for the buckling modes and buckling coefficients of the structure, providing core data for structural stability evaluation. In the calculation process control, it is necessary to ensure that the calculation parameters of the two analysis methods are consistent with the material, cross section and constraint conditions of the initial finite element model of the rod system, so as to avoid the distortion of calculation results due to inconsistent parameters. At the same time, the calculation process should be monitored to prevent problems such as non-convergence and error reports, and to ensure that the calculation is completed smoothly.
[0068] After the dual-control analysis is completed, the electronic equipment can extract three core indicators from the software calculation results, clarifying the physical meaning and evaluation purpose of each indicator, as follows: First stress ratio: obtained from the ratio of the actual calculated stress of the member to the design stress of the steel. Its core purpose is to determine whether the strength of the member under load meets the design requirements. The smaller the value, the more sufficient the strength reserve of the member. Subsequently, "≤1.0" will be used as the criterion for strength qualification. First maximum displacement of the node: extracted from the displacement calculation results of all nodes. Its core purpose is to determine whether the overall stiffness and deformation of the structure are within the allowable range of the code, reflecting the structure's ability to resist deformation. Subsequently, it will be compared with the displacement limit specified in the code to determine whether the stiffness meets the standard. First buckling coefficient: obtained from eigenvalue buckling analysis. Its core purpose is to determine whether the structure will experience overall instability failure under external load. The larger the buckling coefficient, the stronger the structure's resistance to instability. Subsequently, it will be combined with the code requirements to determine whether the overall stability of the structure meets the design standards.
[0069] After the three indicators are extracted, they are organized into a clear calculation result table, which provides clear data basis for the indicator detection in step a2 and the model correction in step a3.
[0070] Step a2: Check whether the first stress ratio, the maximum displacement of the first node, and the first buckling coefficient meet the corresponding preset requirements.
[0071] Specifically, the electronic device can detect whether the first stress ratio is less than or equal to a preset first stress ratio threshold, thereby detecting whether the initial finite element model of the rod system meets the requirement that the rod strength is qualified. If the first stress ratio is less than or equal to the preset first stress ratio threshold, it is determined that the first stress ratio meets the rod strength qualification requirement corresponding to the first stress ratio. The first stress ratio threshold can be 1.0, 1.1, or other values. This application embodiment does not specifically limit the first stress ratio threshold.
[0072] Electronic equipment can detect whether the maximum displacement of the first node is less than or equal to the displacement limit specified in the standard, thereby determining whether the initial finite element model of the rod system meets the structural stiffness requirements. If the maximum displacement of the first node is less than or equal to the displacement limit specified in the standard, then the initial finite element model of the rod system is determined to meet the structural stiffness requirements.
[0073] The electronic equipment can also detect whether the first buckling coefficient meets the design requirements for the overall stability of the structure, thereby detecting whether the initial finite element model of the rod system meets the stability qualification requirements.
[0074] Specifically, the first buckling coefficient (denoted as λ1) is the smallest eigenvalue obtained in eigenvalue buckling analysis, representing the critical load amplification factor at which the structure will experience overall instability under the current load combination.
[0075] If λ1 > 1.0: This means that the applied load needs to be increased by λ1 times to trigger structural instability, and the structure has stability reserves under the design load; if λ1 = 1.0: This means that the structure is just at the critical state of instability under the design load, and the stability is at the critical value; if λ1 < 1.0: This means that the structure has already experienced overall instability under the design load, and the stability does not meet the requirements.
[0076] The stability assessment criteria are formulated by combining steel structure design specifications and cooling tower engineering design experience, and the assessment thresholds are clearly defined. They are generally divided into two types of working conditions: normal working conditions (dominated by no wind load / seismic load): the first buckling coefficient λ1 ≥ 1.3 is required to ensure that the structure has a stability reserve of more than 30%; unfavorable working conditions (dominated by wind load / seismic load): the first buckling coefficient λ1 ≥ 1.1 is required to balance stability and engineering economy. Note: The specific thresholds need to be adjusted according to the seismic fortification level, wind load level and design document requirements of the project.
[0077] Step a3: Based on the detection results, the initial finite element model of the rod system is corrected to obtain the target finite element model of the rod system.
[0078] Specifically, if the first stress ratio exceeds the standard, it indicates that the strength of the member is insufficient. Electronic equipment can increase the cross-sectional size of the member or increase the wall thickness of the steel pipe to improve the member's own load-bearing capacity.
[0079] If the maximum displacement of the first node exceeds the limit, it indicates that the structural stiffness is insufficient. Electronic equipment can increase the cross-sectional dimensions of the chords and ring beams in areas with excessive deformation, or add reinforcing rings to improve the overall structural stiffness and reduce deformation.
[0080] If the buckling coefficient does not meet the requirements, it indicates that the overall stability of the structure is insufficient. Electronic equipment can adjust the truss arrangement, increase the number of web members, and strengthen circumferential constraints to improve the structure's resistance to instability.
[0081] After the correction is completed, the calculation and analysis of step a1 and the index detection of step a2 are re-executed. The iterative process of "calculation-adjustment-recalculation" is repeated until the first stress ratio, the maximum displacement of the first node, and the first buckling coefficient all meet the preset requirements. At this time, the model meets the design standards in terms of strength, stiffness, and stability, and finally forms a target rod system finite element model that can be used for subsequent detailed analysis of key nodes.
[0082] Step S203: Determine at least one key node from the finite element model of the target rod system.
[0083] Please refer to the above description of step S103 for details on this step, which will not be repeated here.
[0084] Step S204: Based on each key node, extract the initial node entity model corresponding to each key node from the target rod system finite element model.
[0085] Specifically, step S204 above may include the following steps: Step S2041: Based on the positional relationship between each key node and the surrounding members, perform equal-spacing segmentation on the surrounding members corresponding to each key node.
[0086] Specifically, the electronic device can retrieve the marked key nodes in the Midas / Gen software and clarify the number of intersecting members, member types, and member extension directions (such as the connection relationships of chord members, web members, and circumferential members) for each key node.
[0087] Then, the electronic equipment sets equal-spacing segmentation rules for the surrounding members of each critical node. Using the geometric center of the critical node as a reference point, a length of 300mm to 500mm is extended to both sides along the member's extension direction as the length of the reserved member segment after segmentation. If the member length is less than 600mm to 1000mm, the entire length of the member is used for segmentation. Using the member segmentation function of Midas / Gen, all intersecting members of each critical node are cut at equal intervals according to the set reserved member segment length. The cutting surface is perpendicular to the member axis, ensuring a flat cross-section after cutting. Each member is cut only once on the side closest to the critical node, forming a combined unit of "critical node + single-sided reserved member segment". After segmentation, the segmented critical node and reserved member segment are retained, while the remaining distant member segments are temporarily hidden or deleted to avoid interfering with subsequent operations.
[0088] Finally, the electronic equipment can verify the status of each key node after segmentation: confirm that the length of the reserved pole segment meets the requirement of 300mm to 500mm, the connection relationship between the key node and the reserved pole segment has not changed, and there are no omissions or miscuts of poles.
[0089] Step S2042: For each key node, an initial node entity model is formed based on the key node and the reserved rod segments corresponding to the surrounding rods connected to the key node.
[0090] Specifically, for each key node that has been segmented, the electronic device can select the key node and all its connected reserved pole segments to form an independent local modeling unit; each key node corresponds to an independent modeling unit, and the modeling units of different key nodes do not interfere with each other.
[0091] Then, each local modeling unit is converted from the Midas / Gen truss model to a solid geometry model and exported as a common SAT or DXF format. During the conversion, the cross-sectional dimensions, material properties, and spatial location information of the trusses are preserved. The geometry of key nodes is initially generated according to the node type in the truss model (such as ball nodes and intersecting nodes) to ensure consistency with the foundation shape of the actual structure.
[0092] Each exported SAT / DXF format file is the initial node solid model for the corresponding critical node. This model contains the basic geometry of the critical node and surrounding reserved segments, providing the basic conditions for subsequent geometric cleanup and structural completion. The number of initial node solid models is the same as the number of critical nodes, and each model has a unique number (e.g., welded ball node-1, KT type node-2) for easy subsequent classification. For example, ... Figure 3 The image shown is a schematic diagram of the initial node entity model.
[0093] Finally, the electronic device stores all initial node entity models according to node type, establishes a model list, and records information such as node type, reserved segment length, and export format for each model, providing a clear input basis for subsequent initial node entity model correction work.
[0094] Step S205: Correct the initial node entity model to obtain the target node entity model.
[0095] Specifically, step S205 above may include the following steps: Step S2051: Input the initial node solid model into the preset finite element software.
[0096] Specifically, the electronic device can input the initial node solid model into a preset finite element software. The preset finite element software is FEANX (or ANSYS / Abaqus), which supports the import of solid models in common formats such as SAT / DXF.
[0097] Specifically, the electronic device can launch the FEANX software, select the target initial node solid model file through the "Import Geometry" function, and set the import precision to engineering level (0.01mm) to ensure that the model coordinates and geometry are not distorted. After importing, check the integrity of the initial node solid model to confirm that the connection between key nodes and reserved segments is not broken, the cross-sectional dimensions of the members are consistent with the truss model, and there are no geometric missing or redundant parts, thus forming the initial node solid model file to be processed.
[0098] Step S2052: Preprocess the initial node entity model based on the preset finite element software to obtain the candidate node entity model.
[0099] Specifically, the electronic device can invoke the geometry cleanup tool in the preset finite element software to automatically identify and delete redundant geometry such as broken surfaces, isolated surfaces, repeated edges, and redundant control points in the initial node solid model, simplifying the model structure. It detects the connections between key nodes and reserved rod segments in the initial node solid model and automatically repairs minute gaps smaller than 0.1mm. For interference problems such as component overlap and interpenetration, the "geometric correction" function adjusts the component positions to ensure complete contact surface fit.
[0100] Next, the electronic device can unify the units of the initial node solid model to "mm" (or the units specified by the project), and keep the coordinate system consistent with the overall truss model (e.g., the center of the tower base is the origin, and the height direction is the Z-axis) to avoid coordinate misalignment during subsequent multi-scale coupling. By using the "geometric quality inspection" function in the preset finite element software, the initial node solid model is verified to have no free edges, no overlapping surfaces, and no non-manifold geometry, and a candidate node solid model is output. This model is a geometrically clean and defect-free basic solid.
[0101] Step S2053: Based on the node type corresponding to the key nodes in each initial node entity model, perform a construction and completion operation on the initial node entity model to obtain the shape of the target node entity.
[0102] Specifically, for each candidate node entity model, the electronic device can identify the node type of the key nodes corresponding to the candidate node entity model. Among them, the node types include welded ball nodes, circumferential KT / T type nodes, vertical KT / T type nodes, widened platform chord intersection nodes, and reinforcing ring insert plate nodes.
[0103] Then, the electronic device can call the preset construction module library according to the node type to complete the corresponding detailed structure.
[0104] Specifically, for welded spherical joints, a hollow welded spherical body, internal cross ribs, and annular stiffening ribs are added, with the rib thickness matching the spherical wall thickness according to engineering design values. For example, such as... Figure 4 The diagram shown is a schematic of the welded sphere in the node. Figure 5 The diagram shows a cross-shaped annular rib plate inside the welded ball.
[0105] For KT / T type intersecting joints, supplement the intersecting cut of the main pipe and branch pipe (designed according to the actual processing bevel angle) and welding area (simulating weld reinforcement and fusion zone).
[0106] For the insert plate node, supplementary insert plates, lateral stiffening plates, and welded structures between the insert plate and the chord are added. The size of the stiffening plate is determined according to the stress requirements.
[0107] In addition, the electronic equipment needs to ensure that the geometric positions of the supplementary structural components are precisely aligned with those of the candidate node solid model, such as the center of the rib plate coinciding with the center of the ball node, and the intersection cut aligning with the branch pipe axis, to form the shape of the target node solid, which matches the actual engineering node 1:1.
[0108] Step S2054: Based on Boolean operations, integrate and correct the various components included in the shape of the target node entity to obtain the backup node entity model.
[0109] Specifically, the electronic device selects all components (node body, reserved rod segments, ribs, stiffening plates, etc.) in the target node's solid shape and performs a "union" operation to merge multiple independent entities into a continuous whole, eliminating gaps in the contact surfaces between components and ensuring the continuity of structural force transmission. Then, the merged model is locally optimized. For overlapping areas of components (such as the overlapping part of the rib and the ball joint) and redundant structures (such as redundant material at the intersection), a "difference" operation is performed to remove redundant entities and correct the geometry of the intersection position, making the intersection smooth and accurate.
[0110] Finally, the electronic equipment checks that the integrated model is free of interference, gaps, and geometric distortions, and that the morphology of key parts (such as welds and rib connection points) conforms to the actual engineering conditions. It then outputs a backup node solid model. This model is a geometrically complete and realistically constructed entity that can be directly used for subsequent mesh generation.
[0111] Step S2055: Based on the backup node entity model, obtain the target node entity model.
[0112] Specifically, step S2055 above may include the following steps: Step a1: Identify the standby node entity model and determine the key, easily failed intersection parts in the standby node entity model.
[0113] Specifically, the electronic device can import the standby node solid model, which has been integrated through Boolean operations, into the FEANX (or ANSYS / Abaqus) finite element software to confirm that the standby node solid model is geometrically complete, without interference or gaps, and has been given the same steel material properties as the overall rod system model.
[0114] Electronic equipment can identify four types of critical, easily failed intersections by combining the stress characteristics of steel structure nodes with engineering failure cases. These areas exhibit significant geometrical abrupt changes and strong stress concentration effects, making them high-risk locations for node failure. These include: intersections between members and welded spheres; intersections between ribs; intersections between ribs and welded spheres; and intersections between members and ribs.
[0115] The electronic device can visually mark the four types of key intersections identified in the software, and define the processing range of each part (such as extending the intersection area outward by 50mm) to ensure that subsequent mesh processing covers all stress concentration areas.
[0116] Step a2: Generate geometric imprint lines at key, easily failed intersection locations as forced boundary lines for mesh generation; Specifically, electronic devices can use the "Auto Connect" tool in the FEANX software to select all marked critical, easily failing intersecting parts, and set the connection accuracy to engineering level (0.01mm) to ensure that the software can accurately identify the contact surfaces and intersections of each component.
[0117] FEANX software automatically performs topology analysis on critical, potentially faulty intersecting areas, generating geometric imprints at the contact interfaces of each component. These geometric imprints are mandatory boundary lines for mesh generation, perfectly conforming to the intersecting interfaces, enabling precise constraints on the mesh boundaries of adjacent components. For example, ... Figure 6 The image shown is a schematic diagram of geometric imprinted lines. Figure 6 As shown, through automatic connection, the rods leave engraving marks on the welded ball, and the internal annular ribs leave engraving marks on the inner side. For example... Figure 7 The diagram shows the engraving marks left on both sides of the ring ribs in the overall ring rib design.
[0118] Finally, the electronic equipment checks whether the imprinted lines of all critical and easily failed intersecting parts are complete, continuous, and without breaks or offsets; for local substandard areas, the position and shape of the imprinted lines are manually adjusted to ensure that the imprinted lines completely cover the intersecting interface, laying the foundation for subsequent mesh coupling.
[0119] Step a3: Based on the geometric imprint lines, generate a solid mesh to obtain the target node solid model.
[0120] Specifically, electronic devices can use geometric marking lines as forced boundaries to set mesh generation parameters. These parameters include: mesh element type, prioritizing hexahedral elements or high-quality tetrahedral elements to ensure computational accuracy; and an adaptive mesh size strategy, setting smaller mesh sizes (e.g., 5mm-10mm) in stress concentration areas (welds, intersections, spherical walls, rib connections) and larger mesh sizes (e.g., 20mm-30mm) in non-stress concentration areas (middle of the shaft) to balance computational accuracy and efficiency.
[0121] Electronic devices can initiate mesh generation commands. The software strictly follows the constraints of the imprinted lines to generate one-to-one mesh nodes and unit boundaries at the intersection of adjacent components, achieving seamless mesh coupling and completely avoiding problems such as mesh penetration, misalignment, and discontinuity, ensuring continuous transmission of internal forces at the interface.
[0122] Electronic devices can use software mesh quality inspection tools to check the aspect ratio, warpage, distortion rate, and other indicators of the elements to ensure that the quality of all elements meets the requirements of finite element calculation; local meshes that do not meet the quality standards can be refined or reconstructed until the quality of all meshes meets the standards.
[0123] After mesh generation and optimization, the target node entity model is obtained. This model is geometrically accurate, structurally realistic, mesh-coupled, and of acceptable quality, and can be directly used for subsequent multi-scale model merging and computational analysis. For example, ... Figure 8 The image shown is a schematic diagram of the target node entity model.
[0124] Step S206: Based on the entity models of each target node, construct the target steel structure cooling tower model corresponding to the steel structure cooling tower to be modeled.
[0125] Specifically, step S206 above may include the following steps: Step S2061: Delete the initial node entity models corresponding to each target node entity model in the target finite element model to obtain the remaining finite element model of the finite element model of the finite element system.
[0126] Specifically, the electronic device can accurately locate all initial node entity models corresponding to the target node entity model (i.e., the nodes and reserved segments segmented in step S2042 that have not undergone fine-tuning) in the target truss finite element model based on node numbers and location information. Then, the located initial node entity models are deleted in batches to ensure that the deletion range only includes the corresponding nodes and reserved segments, without involving other truss elements, thus avoiding damage to the integrity of the overall truss model. The remaining truss finite element model after deletion is checked to confirm that the target node positions form precise vacancy spaces, and that the connection relationships and geometry of the remaining truss elements have not changed. Finally, the remaining truss finite element model is obtained, reserving matching space for the subsequent merging of entity node models.
[0127] Step S2062: Align the coordinates of the entity models of each target node with the finite element models of the remaining rod system, and merge the models to obtain the merged steel structure cooling tower model.
[0128] Specifically, the electronic device can check the coordinate system of the target node solid model and the remaining rod system finite element model, taking the tower base center as the origin and the height direction as the Z-axis, and unify the coordinate system of the two to ensure that the spatial position of the node model is completely matched with the empty space of the rod system model, without offset or rotation.
[0129] Electronic devices can use the "model merging" function of Midas / Gen software to import all high-precision target node solid models into the remaining rod system finite element model, so that the target node solid models are accurately embedded into the corresponding empty spaces, forming a merged steel structure cooling tower model.
[0130] Finally, the electronic equipment was used to visually inspect the merged steel structure cooling tower model to confirm that the connection interface between the target node solid model and the remaining rod system finite element model was flat, without gaps or overlaps, and that the spatial positional relationship between the node and the surrounding rod system fully conformed to the actual engineering situation.
[0131] Step S2063: Establish a 6-DOF fully constrained rigid connection on the merged steel structure cooling tower model to obtain the target multi-scale finite element model.
[0132] Specifically, the electronic equipment can determine the docking section (i.e., the end section of the reserved rod segment) between the target node solid model and the remaining rod system finite element model. Each docking section is the force application position of the rigid connection. At each docking section, a 6-DOF fully constrained rigid connection is set, that is, constraining the translational degrees of freedom in the X, Y, and Z directions and the rotational degrees of freedom about the three axes, forcing the rod system elements at the docking section to have completely consistent displacements with the solid node model.
[0133] This rigid connection ensures that the internal forces of the overall merged steel cooling tower model are smoothly, losslessly, and without misalignment transmitted to the solid node model, achieving strong coupling between the rod elements and the solid elements, ultimately resulting in the target multi-scale finite element model. It combines the computational efficiency of the rod model with the computational accuracy of the solid model.
[0134] Step S2064: Calculate the stress calculation results corresponding to the target multi-scale finite element model.
[0135] The stress calculation results include at least one of the second stress ratio, the maximum displacement of the second node, and the second buckling coefficient.
[0136] Specifically, the electronic equipment can restart the dual-control calculation of "linear static analysis + eigenvalue buckling analysis", and the software simultaneously solves the stress state of the rod element and the solid element, and outputs the stress calculation results: Second stress ratio: The updated stress ratio of the rod element, which reflects the strength state of the rod system after merging solid nodes; Maximum displacement of the second node: the updated maximum deformation value of the structure, reflecting the overall stiffness of the multi-scale model; Second buckling coefficient: The overall stability coefficient of the multi-scale model, reflecting the ability to resist instability.
[0137] The electronic equipment categorizes and organizes the calculation results according to load combinations, forming a multi-scale model of stress, displacement, and stability coefficient data tables.
[0138] For a detailed explanation of this step, please refer to the description of step a1 above; it will not be repeated here.
[0139] Step S2065: Based on the stress calculation results, determine the maximum stress value of the nodal region corresponding to each key node of the target multi-scale finite element model under the most unfavorable working condition.
[0140] Specifically, the electronic equipment can select the most unfavorable load condition for the node stress from all load combinations (usually the basic combination or the combination dominated by wind load / seismic load), under which the stress value in the node area is the largest.
[0141] For the solid model region of each critical node, the Von Mises stress distribution contour map under the most unfavorable working condition is extracted, and the stress peak point in the contour map is located. Then, the stress value of the peak point is read as the maximum stress value of the node region corresponding to that critical node, and recorded according to node type to form a node stress checklist.
[0142] Step S2066: Check whether the maximum stress value meets the preset stress requirement.
[0143] The preset stress requirement is the design stress value of the corresponding steel (e.g., the design stress of Q235 steel is about 215MPa), and this value must comply with the provisions of the steel structure design code.
[0144] Specifically, the electronic device can compare the maximum stress value of each key node with the preset stress requirement: if the maximum stress value is less than or equal to the preset stress requirement, the node is deemed to have a qualified bearing capacity; if the maximum stress value is greater than the preset stress requirement, the node is deemed to have a substandard bearing capacity and needs to enter the optimization process.
[0145] The electronic equipment summarizes the test results of all nodes, clearly marking the number, type, and stress exceeding limit of qualified and unqualified nodes.
[0146] Step S2067: If the maximum stress value of the node region corresponding to a key node does not meet the preset stress requirement, then the target multi-scale finite element model is optimized according to the node type of the key node that does not meet the preset stress requirement to obtain the target steel structure cooling tower model.
[0147] Specifically, electronic devices can take targeted optimization measures based on the type of non-compliant nodes to avoid blind adjustments.
[0148] For example, for welded ball joints: increase the wall thickness or diameter of the welded ball to improve the load-bearing area and deformation resistance of the joint; if stress is concentrated in the rib plate, the cross rib plate or the annular stiffening rib can be thickened.
[0149] For KT / T type intersecting joints: increase the wall thickness of the main pipe or branch pipe, optimize the bevel angle of the intersecting cut, and reduce stress concentration; or add a reinforcing pad in the intersecting area.
[0150] For the insert plate joint: increase the thickness of the insert plate, increase the contact area between the insert plate and the chord, or add lateral stiffening plates to enhance the shear and bending resistance of the insert plate.
[0151] For the unqualified nodes, adjust the parameters of the solid model and regenerate the optimized target node solid model. Repeat steps S2061 to S2066 to merge, calculate, and verify the optimized node model with the rod system model. Repeat the closed-loop process of "optimization → merging → calculation → verification" until the maximum stress value of all key nodes meets the preset stress requirements, and the second stress ratio, the second maximum displacement of the second node, and the second buckling coefficient of the rod system model all meet the standards. When all indicators meet the design requirements, the final target steel structure cooling tower model is obtained, which can be directly used for engineering design and construction guidance.
[0152] The steel structure cooling tower modeling method provided in this application establishes an initial three-dimensional model of the cooling tower based on modeling parameters. Using precise modeling parameters (dimensions, structural form, etc.), a three-dimensional geometric model consistent with the actual engineering is built, providing an accurate geometric foundation for subsequent finite element analysis and avoiding calculation deviations caused by geometric distortion. The initial three-dimensional model is converted to an initial finite element model of the support system, and constraint boundary conditions are defined. Format conversion realizes the transformation from a geometric model to a finite element model, endowing the model with mechanical analysis attributes to support subsequent strength, stiffness, and stability calculations. Constraint boundary conditions (such as a fixed hinge at the tower base) are defined to accurately simulate the actual stress boundary state of the structure, ensuring that the calculation results match the real working conditions. The first stress ratio, the maximum displacement of the first node, and the first buckling coefficient are calculated. Core quantitative indicators of structural strength, stiffness, and overall stability are simultaneously acquired, providing accurate data support for model performance evaluation and avoiding design deviations caused by relying solely on experience. The three indicators are checked to see if they meet preset requirements. A comprehensive "check-up" was conducted on the initial model according to the specifications and standards to identify its shortcomings in strength, stiffness, and stability, thus pointing the way for subsequent modifications and ensuring that model optimization was targeted. Based on the test results, the model was modified to obtain the target finite element model of the rod system. Through directional adjustments (such as increasing the cross-section and densifying the web members), all performance indicators of the model were made up to meet the standards, ultimately forming a qualified overall rod system model that balances safety and economy, laying a reliable foundation for subsequent detailed analysis of key nodes.
[0153] Then, the surrounding members of the key nodes are divided into equally spaced segments. This precisely defines the analysis scope of the key nodes. By reserving fixed-length segments, the true connection relationship between the nodes and members is preserved while avoiding redundant geometric interference. This provides clear boundaries for subsequent refined node modeling and improves modeling efficiency. For each key node, an initial node solid model is formed based on the key node and the reserved segments corresponding to the surrounding members connected to it. Integrating the key nodes and reserved segments into independent model units achieves an effective decomposition from the "overall frame model" to the "local node model." Each node corresponds to an independent model, facilitating subsequent classification and targeted corrections while ensuring compatibility between models.
[0154] Next, the initial node solid model is input into the preset finite element software. This loading of the model into the professional analysis software provides an operational platform for subsequent fine-tuning processes such as geometric cleanup and structural completion, ensuring the professionalism and feasibility of the node model analysis. Based on the preset finite element software, the initial node solid model is preprocessed to obtain candidate node solid models. Geometric defects such as broken surfaces, gaps, and interference in the initial model are eliminated, and units and coordinate systems are unified to obtain geometrically clean candidate models, avoiding distortion of subsequent analysis results due to model defects. Structural completion operations are performed according to the key node types to obtain the target node solid shape. Real engineering structures (ribs, intersecting cuts, welds, etc.) are completed according to node type (welded spheres, KT / T type, insert plates, etc.) to make the model match the actual nodes 1:1, improving the realism of node stress calculations. Boolean operations are used to integrate and correct the target node solid shape to obtain a backup node solid model. Through union and difference operations, scattered components are merged into a complete solid, eliminating gaps and overlaps between components, ensuring the geometric continuity of the node model, and providing a complete and regular solid foundation for subsequent mesh generation. Identify key, easily failing intersections in the backup node solid model. Precisely pinpoint the core areas of stress concentration and potential failure in the nodes, ensuring that subsequent meshing focuses on these high-risk areas, avoiding the waste of computational resources caused by indiscriminate meshing, and improving analysis efficiency and focus. Generate geometric imprints at key, easily failing intersections. Use these imprints as mandatory mesh boundaries to constrain precise matching of mesh boundaries between adjacent components, fundamentally solving the misalignment and discontinuity problems of traditional meshing and ensuring the accuracy of node stress transfer calculations. Generate a solid mesh based on the geometric imprints to obtain the target node solid model. Generate a highly coupled, high-quality solid mesh that ensures computational accuracy in key areas while also considering computational efficiency in non-critical regions, ultimately resulting in a high-precision target node model that can be directly used for multi-scale model coupling analysis.
[0155] Finally, the corresponding initial node entity models in the target truss model are deleted. Precise removal of insufficiently accurate initial node regions in the truss model reserves matching space for the high-precision target node entity model, avoiding model overlap or redundancy and ensuring the accuracy of subsequent multi-scale model merging. The target node entity models and the remaining truss finite element models are then aligned and merged. This ensures complete spatial matching between the entity nodes and the truss model, achieving a seamless connection between the "overall truss + local entity nodes," forming a merged model that balances overall analysis efficiency and local calculation accuracy. A 6-DOF fully constrained rigid connection is established for the merged steel structure cooling tower model, resulting in the target multi-scale finite element model. Forced constraints on the translational and rotational degrees of freedom at the docking interface ensure smooth transmission of internal forces between the truss and entity nodes, eliminating interface force transmission errors and improving the computational reliability of the multi-scale model. The stress calculation results corresponding to the target multi-scale finite element model are calculated. Simultaneously, the overall strength, stiffness, and stability indices of the merged model are acquired to verify the impact of refined node modeling on the overall structural performance, providing data support for comprehensive model evaluation. Based on stress calculation results, the maximum stress values of the nodal regions corresponding to each key node in the target multi-scale finite element model are determined under the most unfavorable working conditions. Focusing on the stress peak values of nodes under extreme stress scenarios, weak points in node strength are accurately located, providing clear targets for subsequent optimization. Whether the maximum stress value meets the preset stress requirements is checked. The bearing capacity of the nodes is judged according to the standards and specifications to determine whether the model's qualification boundary is clear, preventing unqualified models from entering the engineering application stage. If the maximum stress value of the nodal region corresponding to a key node does not meet the preset stress requirements, the target multi-scale finite element model is optimized according to the node type of the key node that does not meet the preset stress requirements, resulting in the target steel structure cooling tower model. Differentiated optimization strategies (such as thickening the spherical wall and adding ribs) are adopted to specifically address the problem of excessive node stress, iteratively obtaining a safe, reliable, and economically reasonable final target model.
[0156] This embodiment also provides a steel structure cooling tower modeling device, which is used to implement the above embodiments and preferred embodiments; details already described will not be repeated. As used below, the term "module" can refer to a combination of software and / or hardware that performs a predetermined function. Although the device described in the following embodiments is preferably implemented in software, hardware implementation, or a combination of software and hardware, is also possible and contemplated.
[0157] This embodiment provides a modeling device for steel structure cooling towers, such as... Figure 9 As shown, it includes: Module 301 is used to obtain the modeling parameters corresponding to the cooling tower of the steel structure to be modeled. Module 302 is established to create a finite element model of the target truss system corresponding to the cooling tower of the steel structure to be modeled, based on the modeling parameters. Module 303 is used to determine at least one key node from the finite element model of the target truss system; The segmentation module 304 is used to segment the initial node entity model corresponding to each key node from the target rod system finite element model based on each key node. The correction module 305 is used to correct the entity models of each initial node to obtain the entity model of the target node. Module 306 is used to construct the target steel structure cooling tower model corresponding to the steel structure cooling tower to be modeled, based on the entity models of each target node.
[0158] In some optional implementations, module 302 is specifically used to establish an initial three-dimensional model corresponding to the cooling tower of the steel structure to be modeled based on modeling parameters; to perform format conversion on the initial three-dimensional model to obtain an initial finite element model of the bar system corresponding to the cooling tower of the steel structure to be modeled, and to define constraint boundary conditions; and to modify the initial finite element model of the bar system based on the constraint boundary conditions to obtain the target finite element model of the bar system.
[0159] In some optional implementations, module 302 is specifically used to calculate the first stress ratio, the first maximum displacement of the first node, and the first buckling coefficient corresponding to the initial finite element model of the bar system based on modeling parameters and constraint boundary conditions; detect whether the first stress ratio, the first maximum displacement of the first node, and the first buckling coefficient meet the corresponding preset requirements; and correct the initial finite element model of the bar system according to the detection results to obtain the target finite element model of the bar system.
[0160] In some optional implementations, the segmentation module 304 is specifically used to perform equidistant segmentation of the surrounding members corresponding to each key node according to the positional relationship between each key node and the surrounding members; for each key node, an initial node entity model is formed based on the key node and the reserved member segments corresponding to the surrounding members connected to the key node.
[0161] In some optional implementations, the correction module 305 is specifically used to input the initial node entity model into a preset finite element software; preprocess the initial node entity model based on the preset finite element software to obtain a candidate node entity model; perform a construction and completion operation on the initial node entity model according to the node type corresponding to the key nodes in each initial node entity model to obtain the target node entity shape; integrate and correct the various components included in the target node entity shape based on Boolean operations to obtain a backup node entity model; and obtain the target node entity model based on the backup node entity model.
[0162] In some optional implementations, the correction module 305 is specifically used to identify the standby node entity model, determine the key failure-prone intersection parts in the standby node entity model; generate geometric imprint lines at the key failure-prone intersection parts as forced boundary lines for mesh generation; and generate an entity mesh based on the geometric imprint lines to obtain the target node entity model.
[0163] In some optional implementations, the construction module 306 is specifically used to delete the initial node entity models corresponding to each target node entity model in the target truss finite element model to obtain the remaining truss finite element model; to align the coordinates of each target node entity model with the remaining truss finite element model and merge the models to obtain the merged steel structure cooling tower model; to establish a 6-DOF fully constrained rigid connection on the merged steel structure cooling tower model to obtain the target multi-scale finite element model; to calculate the stress calculation results corresponding to the target multi-scale finite element model, the stress calculation results including at least one of the second stress ratio, the second maximum node displacement, and the second buckling coefficient; based on the stress calculation results, to determine the maximum stress value of the node region corresponding to each key node in the target multi-scale finite element model under the most unfavorable working condition; to check whether the maximum stress value meets the preset stress requirement; if the maximum stress value of the node region corresponding to a key node does not meet the preset stress requirement, then the target multi-scale finite element model is optimized according to the node type corresponding to the key node that does not meet the preset stress requirement to obtain the target steel structure cooling tower model.
[0164] The steel structure cooling tower modeling device provided in this embodiment of the invention can execute the steel structure cooling tower modeling method provided in any embodiment of the invention, and has the corresponding functional modules and beneficial effects of the method. Further functional descriptions of the various modules and units are the same as in the corresponding embodiments described above, and will not be repeated here.
[0165] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present invention.
[0166] The following is a detailed reference. Figure 10 The diagram illustrates a structural schematic suitable for implementing an electronic device according to embodiments of the present invention. The electronic device may include a processor (e.g., a central processing unit, graphics processor, etc.) 01, which can perform various appropriate actions and processes according to a program stored in a read-only memory (ROM) 02 or a program loaded from a memory 08 into a random access memory (RAM) 03. The RAM 03 also stores various programs and data required for the operation of the electronic device. The processor 01, ROM 02, and RAM 03 are interconnected via a bus 04. An input / output (I / O) interface 05 is also connected to the bus 04.
[0167] Typically, the following devices can be connected to I / O interface 05: input devices 06 including, for example, touchscreens, touchpads, keyboards, mice, cameras, microphones, accelerometers, gyroscopes, etc.; output devices 07 including, for example, liquid crystal displays (LCDs), speakers, vibrators, etc.; memory devices 08 including, for example, magnetic tapes, hard disks, etc.; and communication devices 09. Communication device 09 allows electronic devices to communicate wirelessly or wiredly with other devices to exchange data. Although Figure 10 Electronic devices with various devices are shown, but it should be understood that it is not required to implement or have all of the devices shown, and more or fewer devices may be implemented or have instead.
[0168] In particular, according to embodiments of the present invention, the processes described above with reference to the flowcharts can be implemented as computer software programs. For example, embodiments of the present invention include a computer program product comprising a computer program carried on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the computer program containing program code for performing the methods shown in the flowcharts. In such embodiments, the computer program can be downloaded and installed from a network via communication device 09, or installed from memory 08, or installed from ROM 02. When the computer program is executed by processor 01, it performs the functions defined in the steel structure cooling tower modeling method of the embodiments of the present invention.
[0169] Figure 10 The electronic device shown is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting the functionality and scope of use of the embodiments of the present invention.
[0170] This invention also provides a computer-readable storage medium. The methods described above according to embodiments of the invention can be implemented in hardware or firmware, or implemented as computer code that can be recorded on a storage medium, or implemented as computer code downloaded via a network and originally stored on a remote storage medium or a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium and then stored on a local storage medium. Thus, the methods described herein can be processed by software stored on a storage medium using a general-purpose computer, a dedicated processor, or programmable or dedicated hardware. The storage medium can be a magnetic disk, optical disk, read-only memory, random access memory, flash memory, hard disk, or solid-state drive, etc.; further, the storage medium can also include combinations of the above types of memory. It is understood that computers, processors, microprocessor controllers, or programmable hardware include storage components capable of storing or receiving software or computer code. When the software or computer code is accessed and executed by the computer, processor, or hardware, the steel structure cooling tower modeling method shown in the above embodiments is implemented.
[0171] A portion of this invention can be applied as a computer program product, such as computer program instructions, which, when executed by a computer, can invoke or provide the methods and / or technical solutions according to the invention through the operation of the computer. Those skilled in the art will understand that the forms in which computer program instructions exist in a computer-readable medium include, but are not limited to, source files, executable files, installation package files, etc. Correspondingly, the ways in which computer program instructions are executed by a computer include, but are not limited to: the computer directly executing the instructions, or the computer compiling the instructions and then executing the corresponding compiled program, or the computer reading and executing the instructions, or the computer reading and installing the instructions and then executing the corresponding installed program. Here, the computer-readable medium can be any available computer-readable storage medium or communication medium accessible to a computer.
[0172] Although embodiments of the invention have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and such modifications and variations all fall within the scope defined by the appended claims.
Claims
1. A method for modeling a steel structure cooling tower, characterized in that, The method includes: Obtain the modeling parameters corresponding to the cooling tower of the steel structure to be modeled; Based on the modeling parameters, a finite element model of the target rod system corresponding to the cooling tower of the steel structure to be modeled is established; Identify at least one key node from the finite element model of the target pole system; Based on each of the key nodes, the initial node entity model corresponding to each key node is segmented from the target pole system finite element model; The initial node entity models are modified to obtain the target node entity model; Based on the entity models of each target node, construct the target steel structure cooling tower model corresponding to the steel structure cooling tower to be modeled.
2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of establishing a finite element model of the target truss system corresponding to the cooling tower of the steel structure to be modeled based on the modeling parameters includes: Based on the modeling parameters, an initial three-dimensional model of the steel cooling tower to be modeled is established. The initial three-dimensional model is converted to obtain the initial finite element model of the bar system corresponding to the cooling tower of the steel structure to be modeled, and the constraint boundary conditions are defined. The initial finite element model of the rod system is modified based on the aforementioned constraint boundary conditions to obtain the target finite element model of the rod system.
3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The step of modifying the initial finite element model of the rod system based on the constraint boundary conditions to obtain the target finite element model of the rod system includes: Based on the modeling parameters and the constraint boundary conditions, calculate the first stress ratio, the first maximum displacement of the first node, and the first buckling coefficient corresponding to the initial finite element model of the bar system. Detect whether the first stress ratio, the maximum displacement of the first node, and the first buckling coefficient meet the corresponding preset requirements; The initial finite element model of the rod system is corrected based on the test results to obtain the target finite element model of the rod system.
4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of segmenting the initial node entity model corresponding to each key node from the target truss finite element model based on each key node includes: Based on the positional relationship between each key node and the surrounding members, the surrounding members corresponding to each key node are divided into equal-spacing segments; For each of the key nodes, an initial node entity model is formed based on the key node and the reserved rod segments corresponding to the surrounding rods connected to the key node.
5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of revising each of the initial node entity models to obtain the target node entity model includes: Input the initial node solid model into the preset finite element software; The initial node entity model is preprocessed using the preset finite element software to obtain the candidate node entity model. Based on the node type corresponding to the key node in each initial node entity model, the initial node entity model is constructed and completed to obtain the target node entity shape. Based on Boolean operations, the various components included in the shape of the target node entity are integrated and corrected to obtain the backup node entity model; Based on the backup node entity model, the target node entity model is obtained.
6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The process of obtaining the target node entity model based on the backup node entity model includes: The backup node entity model is identified to determine the key, easily failed intersection parts in the backup node entity model; Geometric imprint lines are generated at the critical, easily failed intersection locations to serve as forced boundary lines for mesh generation. Based on the geometric imprint lines, a solid mesh is generated to obtain the target node solid model.
7. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The construction of the target steel structure cooling tower model corresponding to the steel structure cooling tower to be modeled, based on the entity models of each target node, includes: Delete the initial node entity model corresponding to each target node entity model in the target finite element model of the target truss system to obtain the remaining finite element model of the truss system. Align the coordinates of each target node entity model with the remaining rod system finite element model, and merge the models to obtain a merged steel structure cooling tower model. A 6-DOF fully constrained rigid connection was established for the combined steel structure cooling tower model to obtain the target multi-scale finite element model; Calculate the stress calculation results corresponding to the target multi-scale finite element model, wherein the stress calculation results include at least one of the second stress ratio, the second maximum displacement of the node, and the second buckling coefficient; Based on the stress calculation results, the maximum stress value of the nodal region corresponding to each key node of the target multi-scale finite element model is determined under the most unfavorable working condition. Detect whether the maximum stress value meets the preset stress requirement; If the maximum stress value of the node region corresponding to the key node does not meet the preset stress requirement, then the target multi-scale finite element model is optimized according to the node type corresponding to the key node that does not meet the preset stress requirement, so as to obtain the target steel structure cooling tower model.
8. A modeling device for steel structure cooling towers, characterized in that, The device includes: The acquisition module is used to acquire the modeling parameters corresponding to the cooling tower of the steel structure to be modeled. A module is established to create a finite element model of the target rod system corresponding to the cooling tower of the steel structure to be modeled, based on the modeling parameters. A determination module is used to determine at least one key node from the finite element model of the target pole system; The segmentation module is used to segment the initial node entity model corresponding to each of the key nodes from the target pole system finite element model based on each of the key nodes; The correction module is used to correct the initial node entity models to obtain the target node entity model. The construction module is used to construct the target steel structure cooling tower model corresponding to the steel structure cooling tower to be modeled based on the entity models of each target node.
9. An electronic device, characterized in that, include: A memory and a processor are interconnected, the memory stores computer instructions, and the processor executes the steel structure cooling tower modeling method according to any one of claims 1 to 7 by executing the computer instructions.
10. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores computer instructions for causing the computer to execute the steel structure cooling tower modeling method according to any one of claims 1 to 7.