If you wish to receive the software, you can call us at the phone number 0434 857010 or send us an e-mail at info@pontarolo.com

INTRODUCTION
The Cupolex software application is a finite element calculation code for the numeric modelling of lattices made of reinforced concrete beams obtained, according to the schemes, by the simultaneous use of Cupolex and Pontex elements. The programme has graphic functions for entering geometric data, material properties and surrounding working conditions. It is possible to include also perimetrical beams with a rectangular, "T" or "L" cross-section.

After defining the basic load and combination of different loads, the stress parameters and, if required, the envelope thereof are calculated as well. The next stage concerns pre-dimensioning: the programme provides for the quantity of longitudinal reinforcements necessary to pass the resistance tests according to the method of tolerable tensions or limit values. In this context reference is made to the Ministerial Decree 96 and Eurocode (EN) 3. The layout of longitudinal and transversal reinforcements calculated automatically in the pre-dimensioning stage may be modified and adjusted to the designer's requirements. The results are presented in the form of a graphic scheme which, though clear, cannot replace the working drawings. Those schemes may be printed or exported in the Metafile graphic format and used as such as a valuable starting point for the creation of working drawings.

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
The software is designed for Microsoft Windows 95, Windows 98 or Windows NT 4.0 operating systems. A video card with 800x600 screen resolution or higher and at least 256 colours (65536 recommended) is required. Minimum hardware requirements are those necessary for using the Windows applications. No problems have been encountered with respect to the use of computers with the first generation Pentium 90 processors. Software performance improves significantly with second generation Pentium processors (Pentium II, e.g. P350) and at least 64 Mb RAM. The use of a scroll mouse (e.g. IntelliMouse) is recommended. The software does not occupy much space on the hard disk, only approximately 13 MB. Additional space on the hard disk may be required for large numeric models. The Cupolex software application is a finite element calculation code for the numeric modelling of lattices made of reinforced concrete beams.

NOTES
The Cupolex software application is distributed free of charge together with the operating manual by the company PONTAROLO ENGINEERING SRL, Via Clauzetto, Industrial Zone Ponte Rosso, SAN VITO AL TAGLIAMENTO (PN), ITALY, e-mail: info@pontarolo.com. Additional information and software updates may be found on the website http:\\www.pontarolo.com. In spite of the fact that both DUEPIGRECO and the company PONTAROLO ENGINEERING SRL are engaged in supplying the material as detailed as possible concerning the said software application, DUEPIGRECO or PONTAROLO ENGINEERING SRL shall deny liability for any kind of damage or loss resulting from errors occurring in the delivered documentation or software. Therefore, DUEPIGRECO and PONTAROLO ENGINEERING SRL shall not be deemed liable for any damage to persons or property, loss, legal expenses or any other cost or expense. The software is designed for Microsoft Windows 95/98/NT operating systems.

REGISTERED TRADEMARKS
Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows NT are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Microsoft Word is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation. Cupolex is a registered trademark of Pontarolo Engineering. Autocad is a registered trademark of Autodesk.