How to define plate in Facade module

Summary

Defining the plate allows PROFIS Engineering to model how loads from the supported element are transferred into the fastening system and the base material. This article guides you on how to define plate in Facade module.

Prerequisites

Make sure you:

Are logged in to your PROFIS Engineering account
Have opened the Facade module
Have selected the Application type and Fastening technology

If needed, refer to the article How to access the Facade module in PROFIS Engineering.

Step‑by‑step instructions

Open the Plate design section
In your Facade design workspace, navigate to the Plate tab on the left-hand side of the screen.
Select the number of fastening groups (for Anchor channels)
Under Fastening groups, choose one of the following:
- One group – Single group of fasteners acting together
- Two groups – Two independent fastening groups acting on the plate
  Note: To enable this option, go to Load type → Load definition and select Loads per plate.
This choice affects load sharing and interaction between anchor channel rows.
Select the plate design geometry
Under Plate design, choose the plate configuration that best matches your connection geometry.
Available options include:
- Flat plates with different fastener layouts
- Angle‑type or bracket‑type plates including extended shapes
Once selected, PROFIS Engineering displays the plate width (W), length (L), and thickness (T) below the icons.
Click on the box (W, L, T) to modify and click Save.
Define the stand‑off condition
Open the Stand‑off section and select the applicable stand‑off type:
- No stand‑off – Plate placed directly against the concrete surface
- Stand‑off with grouting – Plate spaced off and grout‑filled
- Stand‑off with bracket support – Plate supported by a bracket system
Clicking a stand‑off option opens the Stand‑off Type window for selection.

Depending on the stand‑off type, additional input fields appear:
- Distance – Stand‑off distance from the concrete surface
- Rotational restraint – Defines rotational stiffness of the plate
- Mortar strength (for grouted stand‑off)
Select values based on project specifications and installation details.
Enable slotted holes (if applicable)
Under Calculation Options, enable Display slotted holes if the plate includes slots.
Note: To enable this option, go to Load type → Load definition and select Loads per plate.

When selected, additional input fields appear:
- Calculate bolt bending in the slotted hole
- Height of the serrated washer
Define plate eccentricity (if applicable)
Use the Eccentricity section to enter offsets between the applied load and the plate centroid:
- X‑direction eccentricity
- Y‑direction eccentricity
Use the + / – buttons or type values manually.