Nonlinear cyclic symmetry analysis is a new feature in ADINA 8.1 that can be used for static, dynamic and frequency analyses. In static and dynamic analyses, the loads applied to each cyclic part must be identical (when rotated around the cyclic axis). In this case, called periodic symmetry, most nonlinear features available in ADINA can be present (including contact, plasticity, deformation dependent centrifugal loads). Nonlinear cyclic frequency analysis can also be performed after a periodically symmetric static or dynamic analysis. In this case, the frequencies and mode shapes of the deformed structure can be obtained at a fraction of the computational time and storage space used without this option.

The new surface tension option is implemented in the ADINA program, version 8.0. This new option allows the user to assign a surface tension value to selected lines (for 2-D planar and axisymmetric problems) or surfaces (for 3-D problems). The surface tension option can be used even if the boundaries undergo excessive deformation. This feature is useful in accurately modeling viscous materials such as cells, living tissues and heated glass. The effect of surface tension is also significant in MEMS sensors/actuators and other small-sized devices.

One interesting feature in the ADINA 8.0 version is the bolt option. A pre-stress beam (pipe) element with a given constant force creates a bolt element. Constant pre-stressing is assured by imposing an initial iteration scheme, during which (under no other, external or internal load condition) the pre-stressing force remains unchanged even if the structure deforms.