1-i

Table Of Contents

1 Introduction.................................................................................................................. 1-1
Welcome! ........................................................................................................................... 1-1
What's New........................................................................................................................ 1-2
The Graphical Interface...................................................................................................... 1-3
Main Window................................................................................................................ 1-3
Project Workspace ......................................................................................................... 1-3
Tool bar.......................................................................................................................... 1-4
Menu bar........................................................................................................................ 1-5
Main title bar.................................................................................................................. 1-5
Manual Overview............................................................................................................... 1-7
EsteemPlus Design Flow Chart........................................................................................ 1-10
Working with other programs .......................................................................................... 1-11
CAD Programs............................................................................................................. 1-11
Zip Programs ............................................................................................................... 1-11
Email Programs ........................................................................................................... 1-12
Web browser ................................................................................................................ 1-12
2 Setting up Esteem Plus .............................................................................................. 2-13
Esteem Plus Package........................................................................................................ 2-13
Installation guide.............................................................................................................. 2-14
System Requirement ........................................................................................................ 2-16
3 Menu ........................................................................................................................... 3-17
File Menu ......................................................................................................................... 3-17
Create A New Project .................................................................................................. 3-17
Open Project ................................................................................................................ 3-19
Import Project .............................................................................................................. 3-20
Export to Esteem v5.2.................................................................................................. 3-22
Backup Project............................................................................................................. 3-23
Send Project ................................................................................................................. 3-25
Save All Plans.............................................................................................................. 3-26
Print.............................................................................................................................. 3-27
Print Setup ................................................................................................................... 3-27
Project .............................................................................................................................. 3-28
Reset Project Analysis Result ...................................................................................... 3-28
Check Project Grid Integrity........................................................................................ 3-28
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1-ii
Check Project Integrity................................................................................................ 3-29
Adjust for Datum Distance .......................................................................................... 3-29
Progress Bar................................................................................................................. 3-30
Edit Menu......................................................................................................................... 3-31
Verification ...................................................................................................................... 3-33
Check Plan Integrity .................................................................................................... 3-33
Check Grid Usage........................................................................................................ 3-34
Wall .................................................................................................................................. 3-35
Clean All Walls From Non-existence Grid.................................................................. 3-35
Update Walls From Liftcore Data ............................................................................... 3-35
View Menu....................................................................................................................... 3-36
4 Tools............................................................................................................................ 4-39
Standard Tools ................................................................................................................. 4-39
View Tools....................................................................................................................... 4-40
Properties Tool ................................................................................................................. 4-41
Modify Tool ..................................................................................................................... 4-43
Plan Input Tools ............................................................................................................... 4-44
Run Mode Tools............................................................................................................... 4-45
Input Grid Tools............................................................................................................... 4-46
Input Beam Tools........................................................................................................... 4-47
Input Column/Support Tools............................................................................................ 4-49
Input Slab Tools ............................................................................................................. 4-51
Liftcore/R.C Wall Tools................................................................................................... 4-52
Slab FEM Results Tools................................................................................................... 4-53
3-D View Tools................................................................................................................ 4-55
Shortcut Keys................................................................................................................... 4-56
5 Project Workspace..................................................................................................... 5-59
Activate/Deactivate Project Workspace........................................................................... 5-59
Activating Element........................................................................................................... 5-59
Insert Key Plan................................................................................................................. 5-60
Delete Key Plan ............................................................................................................... 5-60
Restore a deleted key plan................................................................................................ 5-60
Rename key plan.............................................................................................................. 5-61
Resize Project Workspace window.................................................................................. 5-61
6 Parameter Settings..................................................................................................... 6-63
Project Parameters............................................................................................................ 6-65
Project General Parameters.......................................................................................... 6-65
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1-iii
Project Design Parameters ........................................................................................... 6-67
Project Detailing Parameters ....................................................................................... 6-72
Project Quantity Parameters ........................................................................................ 6-76
Design Parameters............................................................................................................ 6-79
Column Parameters...................................................................................................... 6-79
Wall Parameters........................................................................................................... 6-83
Pad Footing Parameters ............................................................................................... 6-87
Pile Parameters ............................................................................................................ 6-91
Plan Design and Detailing Parameters............................................................................. 6-95
Plan Settings ................................................................................................................ 6-95
Plan Beam Settings ...................................................................................................... 6-96
Plan Slab Settings ...................................................................................................... 6-110
7 Creating Gridlines ................................................................................................... 7-115
Drawing Gridlines.......................................................................................................... 7-115
Click grid and drag method............................................................................................ 7-116
Using grid generator....................................................................................................... 7-120
Table input ..................................................................................................................... 7-122
8 Creating Beams........................................................................................................ 8-125
Click and drag method ................................................................................................... 8-125
Beam generator wizard .................................................................................................. 8-127
Beam Table Properties ................................................................................................... 8-128
Input Beam Load............................................................................................................ 8-129
Point load................................................................................................................... 8-129
Uniform Distributed Load ......................................................................................... 8-131
General Variable Load............................................................................................... 8-133
Connecting Beam........................................................................................................... 8-136
Beam Offsets.................................................................................................................. 8-137
9 Creating Columns and Supports ............................................................................ 9-139
Drawing column............................................................................................................. 9-139
Column Generator Wizard ............................................................................................. 9-140
Defining Support Conditions ......................................................................................... 9-141
Column Offset................................................................................................................ 9-143
10 Creating Slabs ........................................................................................................ 10-145
Input Slab..................................................................................................................... 10-145
Using Slab Wizard Generator ...................................................................................... 10-146
Input User Defined Slabs ............................................................................................. 10-147
Input Slab Load............................................................................................................ 10-149
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1-iv
Input Slab Line Load ............................................................................................... 10-149
Input Slab Point load ............................................................................................... 10-151
Input Cantilever Slab Edge Line Load..................................................................... 10-153
11 Creating Liftcore ................................................................................................... 11-155
Input Lift Core ............................................................................................................. 11-155
Create Wall Opening.................................................................................................... 11-157
12 Running Analysis ................................................................................................... 12-161
Generate slab mesh ...................................................................................................... 12-161
Analyze FEM slab........................................................................................................ 12-163
Design slabs ................................................................................................................. 12-166
Slab Design Results ................................................................................................. 12-166
Analyze beam............................................................................................................... 12-168
Beam Analysis Results ............................................................................................ 12-169
Continuous Beam Method Design ............................................................................... 12-170
Continuous Beam Design Control Factors .............................................................. 12-170
Design beam................................................................................................................. 12-172
Beam Results ........................................................................................................... 12-173
Beam Details Display Option .................................................................................. 12-173
Batch process ............................................................................................................... 12-177
3D analysis................................................................................................................... 12-178
3D Analysis Results................................................................................................. 12-178
3D Frame Element ....................................................................................................... 12-180
Run column design....................................................................................................... 12-182
Column Design Results: .......................................................................................... 12-182
Run wall ....................................................................................................................... 12-184
Wall Design Results: ............................................................................................... 12-184
Run pad footing design ................................................................................................ 12-186
Pad Footing Design Results..................................................................................... 12-186
Run pile foundation design .......................................................................................... 12-187
Multiple pile type selection...................................................................................... 12-187
Pile Footing Design Results..................................................................................... 12-188
13 Display Options...................................................................................................... 13-191
3D View....................................................................................................................... 13-191
Layer Settings .............................................................................................................. 13-193
Search Element ............................................................................................................ 13-194
14 View Results ........................................................................................................... 14-195
Textual Files................................................................................................................. 14-195
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Export Drawing as DXF file ........................................................................................ 14-197
15 Tutorials.................................................................................................................. 15-199
Setting Parameter Template ......................................................................................... 15-199
Starting a new project................................................................................................... 15-200
Parameter Settings........................................................................................................ 15-202
Input Grid..................................................................................................................... 15-204
Major Gridlines........................................................................................................ 15-204
Minor Gridlines ....................................................................................................... 15-205
Define slab cut section............................................................................................. 15-206
Insert Liftcore............................................................................................................... 15-207
Input Wall .................................................................................................................... 15-208
Input Beam................................................................................................................... 15-209
Insert Column............................................................................................................... 15-212
Input Slab..................................................................................................................... 15-214
Floor Analysis .............................................................................................................. 15-217
Copy to other floor....................................................................................................... 15-220
Transfer Column .......................................................................................................... 15-221
Input Wall Opening...................................................................................................... 15-222
Running 3D Analysis ................................................................................................... 15-224
Run Element Design .................................................................................................... 15-227
Design Column ........................................................................................................ 15-227
Design Wall ............................................................................................................. 15-228
Design Pad Footing.................................................................................................. 15-228
Design Pile Footing ................................................................................................. 15-229
16 Getting Help ........................................................................................................... 16-233
Contact Info.................................................................................................................. 16-233
Tech Support ................................................................................................................ 16-236
Documentation Feedback............................................................................................. 16-238


1-1
1 Introduction
Welcome!

EsteemPlus is a integrated total solution computer program that offers a
complete package in reinforced concrete design. Now with EsteemPlus, you can
create and edit a model, perform analysis, design, produce calculations and
drawings through a graphic driven interface within Microsoft Windows platform.
With the increasing demands of economical but safe structures, EsteemPlus is a
powerful program that can assists you in achieving that objective.

EsteemPlus with a finite element analysis based engine, is capable of creating
and model a structure in finite element accurately which is difficult to perform
manually. The analysis and design capabilities of EsteemPlus are tested, proven,
and valid based on the latest researches and code of practices.

With the user-friendly graphical interface, EsteemPlus enables you to input the
data with ease and accurately. The graphical interface plus the 3-dimensional
view allow you to see and define how your structure model would look like.

Conventional way of designing a structure is a way of the past. EsteemPlus can
assist you in simplifying and speed up tedious calculations and detailing process.
Together with its design and analysis capabilities, the ability of EsteemPlus to
generate logical CAD output files will significantly increases the efficiency of
drawings production.
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What's New
Now with EsteemPlus, the user data input will be adopting the graphic
driven input method, replacing the manual spreadsheet input method.
You can also define and modify the elements manually in the table
properties.

With new software engine, you can have the options of running your
analysis using Finite Element Method (F.E.M) or the conventional
method. This is just one of our many new features.


Key Features in ESTEEM PLUS:

Structural analysis in 2D/3D.
Finite Element Method (F.E.M.) engine.
Generate R.C. Shear Wall, Lift Core.
Graphic User Interface (GUI) using "click and drag" method..
View model in true 3-D.
Allows opening in slabs, R.C. shear wall and lift core.
Element properties and loading input in a single form.
Full integration of transfer beam to the structure model.
User defined non-orthogonal slab.
Check automatically on model integrity.
Batch run elements for all floors.
Ability to flush and offset elements automatically.
Automatic compilation of project for sending and backup data.
Allows user to check and view project status.
Introduction
1-3
The Graphical Interface
The main layout of the graphic interface with features is shown in
figure below. The main features of the graphic interface are main
window, project workspace, tool bars, menu bar, input bar and main
title bar. The description of each items are shown in this chapter.


Figure 1.1: Graphical User Interface Window
Main Window

The graphical user interface of the program runs under the main
window. Similar to other Windows applications, the window may be
resized, moved, minimized, maximize and closed. For additional
information regarding the Windows operations, refer to Windows
help at Start Menu.

Project Workspace

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The project workspace contains the layout of the structure. The
project workspace comprises of floor plan, column, wall, pad footing
and foundation footing. Double click to select each individual
element. You are then mapped into the selected element active
window. There is a box next to the each element name. The tick in
the box shows that the particular element contains data or has been
edited.

For example, if you have new floor and you want to create gridlines.
Before you input any data into the floor, the box is empty. Creating a
gridline will activate the tick in the box. This shows that the floor has
been edited.

To run column, wall, pad footing and pile footing analysis, double
click on the box next to the element names. Analysis for some
elements will only run after certain analysis have been performed. To
understand the sequence of the analysis, please refer to Esteem Flow
Design Flow Chart. For example, to run wall design, you have to
run the 3D-analysis first. After successfully performing each analysis
and design, box will be tick. You can then proceed to the next
element analysis.

You can close the project workspace window by clicking the cross at
the top right corner at project workspace or right click on the menu
bar deselect the project workspace. To enable project workspace, go
to menu bar, right click once and a menu will be shown. Click on
project workspace to bring up the window.

Tool bar

Tool bar contains buttons that you select to carry out certain
commands. Most of the buttons are associated with the function in
the menu bar. For example, you can open a new project by clicking
on the icon. Alternatively, select File menu > New Project
command performs the same function.
Introduction
1-5

Each buttons carried a brief description of it's function. To display
these functions, move your cursor to the button, hold for a few
seconds without clicking on it and the description will appears. You
can also see the descriptions at the bottom left corner of the window.

The tool bars in the program are not customizable. However, you can
display or hide the tool bar buttons to your preference. Hiding certain
tool bars will not allow you to carried out certain functions which are
not in the menu bar. To display the tool bar, right click on menu bar
and select the tool bar you which to display.

Menu bar

Menu bar contains topics that are divided into groups and categorized
according to the related functions. The menu topics contain related
commands that are relevant and closely associated to the menu topics.
For example, Save command allows you to save the project and this
is a general command. Hence it is categorized into File menu. To
access a menu, left click on the menu and this will slide down a list
of submenu commands. Left click once to select the commands. Each
individual commands are described in latter chapters of this manual.

Main title bar

The main title bar displays the program name and the installed
version. It also displays the active window name and the description
of the tasks. For example, you want to input slabs into the second
floor. You activated second floor named 2b by double left click the
element in project workspace. In main title bar, it will display
"Esteem Structural Software 6.x.x.x - [Plan View 2b]

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Figure 1.2: Main title bar description
Introduction
1-7
Manual Overview

This manual is designed to provide you comprehensive information
regarding the operation of the program. This manual is written to
help you get started with the program. Bundled with tips, notes and
examples, this manual is set to assist you whenever you have any
enquiries.

ESTEEM PLUS Operation Manual is organised as follows:

Chapter 1 Introduction

Introduces the program's key features and identifies what's new in the
release. It describes on how to get started with the program and
provides an overview on how the program actually works.

Chapter 2 Setting Up EsteemPlus

This chapter identifies the package and requirements to run the
program. It also demonstrates on how to install the program into your
computer.

Chapter 3 Menu

Introduces each command allocated in the menu bar. The
descriptions of each command and their functionality is explored in
this chapter.

Chapter 4 Tools

This chapter describes the functions of each tools and explains how
you can use them.

Chapter 5 Project Workspace
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This chapter describes the functions of the project workspace and
demonstrates on how to use these functions.

Chapter 6 Parameter Settings

This chapter provides you the description and the functionality of
each parameters forms in the program.

Chapter 7 Creating Gridline

Gives details and ways to create gridline for your model. It
familiarizes you with three methods of gridline input and shows you
how to get the most out of these methods.

Chapter 8 Creating Beam

Shows how to use each components such as member sizing, beam
offsets and loading input. It provides the descriptions on how to
model your beam with two different sections.

Chapter 9 Creating Column and Support

Provides the methods and ways to generate column and support. It
explains on how to set the support condition at beam intersections.
This chapter also explains on how to apply lateral load to the column
and wall.

Chapter 10 Creating Slab

Explains methods you can define slab using the components in slab
input. It provides the description on how you can input load to the
slab.

Chapter 11 Creating Liftcore and R.C. Wall

Introduction
1-9
Shows you how to create liftcore and wall with explanations of each
of the command functions.

Chapter 12 Running Analysis

Explains the process of the analysis and design of the structure model.

Chapter 13 View Results

Gives details on how to view, search and export results to different
format.

Chapter 14 Display Options

This chapter describes on how to utilize the display options in the
program.

Chapter 15 Tutorials

A sample project that demonstrates the functionality and application
of each commands in the program.

Chapter 16 Getting Help

Provide information on how you can contact us.
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EsteemPlus Design Flow Chart

Introduction
1-11
Working with other programs

EsteemPlus is a stand alone program and does not requires any
compliment software to fully utilize the program. However
EsteemPlus output files can be assessed using other programs. The
file types and the associated programs that uses these files are
described as follows:

CAD Programs

Save as DXF file format: You can transfer the detail drawings into
CAD related programs. DXF format is an AUTOCAD data
interchange file. It is a CAD vector format designed to allow the
exchange of vector information between CAD applications. This
DXF file saved can be open with any Computer Aided Drawing
software such as AUTOCAD and INTELLICAD.

Plan views can be saved as DXF file. You have the options of save as
construction drawing or save as what you see on the screen. Save as
construction drawing selects only layers that are considered as
common practice in the detailing of construction drawing.

Save as what you see on the screen selects layers that are displayed
on plan view. Layers that are hidden or turned off will not be saved
in the DXF file.

Zip Programs

Backup project saves as ZIP file format. Project files are
compressed in ZIP format for the following functions below:

Backup project: Selecting this option allows the program to
compress the relevant project data files into ZIP format and
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saved into your specified location. Refer to topic "Backup
Project" for further information.
Import project: You can open project previously saved in
ZIP format. Refer to "Import Project" for further
information.
Send Project: When you use this command, the current
project file will be automatically compressed as ZIP format
and attached to the email. Refer to "Send Project" for further
information.

You can unzip the project files in ZIP format outside of EsteemPlus
program but requires files compression software such as Winzip and
Pkunzip to extract the files.

Email Programs

Sending your project to us through email would require email
software such as Outlook Express, Eudora and others. Once you click
send project to us, EsteemPlus automatically compress the relevant
project data file into ZIP format and attached to the email addressed
to us.

If your computer is connected to the internet and email enabled, you
can send us directly. Otherwise, you can save the email into floppy
disk and send the email using an email enabled computer.

Web browser

To update the latest version of EsteemPlus, you can either request a
CD from us or directly go to our website at
http://www.esteemsoft.com/download.htm. To access the internet
you would require web browser such as Internet Explorer and
Netscape Communicator.



2-13
2 Setting up Esteem Plus
Esteem Plus Package

Upon receiving your purchased a copy of Esteem Plus, you will
receive the following items:

A EsteemPlus security hard lock.
A CD of the latest version ESTEEM PLUS.
A copy of EsteemPlus Manual.


Should you discovered that one or more items above missing,
damaged or faulty, please contact us and we will replace the item you
reported immediately.

Note :
Please be aware that the software is constantly being updated.
Certain functions may not be reflected properly at the time of
printing this manual.
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2-14
Installation guide

To install Esteem Plus into your computer, please follow the step by
step instructions as below:

1. Before installing EsteemPlus, close other programs running
on the operating system.
2. Place in the hard lock onto the printer LPT parallel port at the
back of your computer. If the printer port is occupied,
remove the existing cable or other hard lock and place the
hard lock onto the port. After that, replace the removed cable
or hard lock onto Esteem Plus hard lock. Note : For USB
lock, you must install the program first before placing the
USB lock into the slot.
3. Insert Esteem Plus installation CD into your CD-ROM. If
your system autorun is enabled, Setup Wizard appears
automatically. Otherwise go to Start menu > Run > Browse.
Select your CD-ROM drive, for example D: and left click
twice on Esteem 6.X Plus folder. Select Setup by
clicking left button twice and Setup Wizard will appears.
4. Select Next button after you have read the instructions.
5. Software license agreement form appears. By selecting YES
button, you have agreed to oblige to the terms and conditions
applicable to the software.
6. Selected Yes will proceed to the directory destination form.
By default, Esteem Plus is copy to C:\EsteemPlus, otherwise
press the browse button to select your preferred destination.
If you have input a non-existing folder, Setup Wizard
automatically create the folder in your specified location.
7. Esteem Plus creates a folder in the Program Folder. Press
Next button if you want to keep the default name, otherwise
change the folder name.
Setting up Esteem Plus
2-15
8. A summary on the setup information will be shown. If you
accept the current settings, select Yes or press Back to edit
the information.
9. Esteem Plus is now copy to your computer. This might take a
few minutes depending on your system.
10. The program will then try to communicate and search for the
security hard lock. If the program successfully finds the hard
lock, select Ok and proceed to the next step. Check the hard
lock connection again if the program fails to find the hard
lock. If problem persisted, please contact us immediately for
our assistance.
11. After the completion of the setup, you will be prompt to
restart the computer. After you have restart your computer,
Esteem Plus is ready to run.
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System Requirement

Esteem Plus supports Windows 9X, Me, 2000 and XP environment.
The minimum and optimum specifications to run this software are
listed as below:

Minimum requirement:

Pentium 1000 Mhz or equivalent
256MB RAM
4x CD-ROM
120 MB hard disk space

Optimum performance:

Pentium 4 1800 MHz or equivalent
512MB RAM
500 MB hard disk space





3-17
3 Menu
File Menu
Create A New Project

Select File menu > New Project command to create a new project.
You can also click the New Project button on the toolbar.

Naming the project

In Project Settings, you can name your project and specify the
location of the project folder into your preferred directory.
EsteemPlus automatically creates a working folder in that directory.

Define number of floors

Number of key plans allows you to define the number of floors.

Insert Floor enables you to add floor manually.

Delete Floor allows you to delete the selected individual floor.

Fill Default automatically names the floor plans by default.

In data table under Floor Name, you can rename the floor to your
preferences. When you have defined the floor properties, click OK to
accept your selections. Clicking Cancel button cancels the changes
you have made. After selecting OK, working folder for each floor
will be created under the main project directory.

Note : You are not allowed have floor name ending with a
number. The reason of this is due to the naming style of the beam
that follows the floor name. For example, if you name a floor to
GF1, then the beams mark would begin from GF11, GF12, GF13
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3-18
etc. This will not be valid if you have two different beams with
the same mark.


Figure 3.1: Create New Project Form
Menu
3-19
Open Project

To open an existing project, select File menu > Open Project
command or Open .prj file button located on the toolbar. Find
the name of the project and click once for the project name to appear
in the File name when the Open Project form appears. Click the
Open button to select the project.

For project that is modeled earlier than the current version 6.x, select
Import Project command to open the project. A prompt will appears
requesting you to import project instead if project earlier than version
6.x is detected. You can open project file from the earlier version 6.x.
A prompt will appears requesting user to backup the project or to
proceed.

Reminder : It is recommended that user backup their project
from the earlier version 6.x. Project file converted to the later
version cannot be open by any previous version of EsteemPlus.

Backup project will be compressed in ZIP format. Opening project
file modeled later than the current version 6.x cannot be performed.
A prompt will appears stating that the operation cannot be performed.
User must update their current version to the latest release in order to
open the project file. For the latest releases and updates, please
contact us. (See Chapter 16 for our Contact Info)

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Import Project

This command enables you to import backup project files from
EsteemWin v5.2 files, Backup files and Auto backup files.

EsteemWin Version 5.2 files

You can specify the location of the EsteemWin v5.2 project file by
clicking the button on the right of the form. Alternatively you can
input the location of the project file manually.

You have the option of renaming the project title or remain the name
unchanged. Save the project to the preferred location in the directory.
By clicking OK, the project files and related folder will be converted
to the current version in the location that your have specified.

Reminder : Do not attempt to save the project file into the
existing Esteem Win v5.2 folder. This will overwrites the data in
the folder and all the data from the previous version will be lost.

EsteemPlus Backup / Auto Backup files

This function is only available for EsteemPlus version 6.2.3.7 and
above. You can only import project files from the current and earlier
version of EsteemPlus. To import the backup file, select File menu >
Import Project command > Import from any Backup Files
command to bring up a form. In this form, click on the top right box
to locate the backup file. After you have located the project
backup file, you have to specify the location of the backup file you
want to extract.

By default, the program creates a new working folder based on the
existing project name followed by dashed "-" and number of backup
Menu
3-21
file extracted. For example, say your project is called "Building A"
and you want to restore a earlier copy of this project. When you
extracted this file, the program creates a backup project folder as
"Building A -1". If you restore the backup file again, the program
creates a project folder as "Building A-2".
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Export to Esteem v5.2

This command is only applicable to user with EsteemWin v5.2.
This command allows user to transfer the beam results to EsteemWin
v5.2. Currently, EsteemPlus v6.X does not support T-beam section
design. However, user can use EsteemWin v5.2 to redesign the beam
section. Valid beams design results will be exported to Esteem Win
v5.2 for analysis.

Reminder : The beams results from EsteemWin v5.2 cannot be
incorporated back into Esteem Plus v6.*. The results and the
details of the beams will be independently generated in Esteem
Win v5.2.
Menu
3-23
Backup Project

User can backup their project using the File menu > Backup Project.
Specify the location and project name in the form and click save
button to backup the project. All relevant files of the project will be
saved and compressed in ZIP format. (To restore the project file, see
Restoring Backup Files)

In each project backup, only the project data and parameters will be
saved. Project analysis results will not be saved during the project
backup. When you have restored the project, you have to reanalyze
the project in order to retrieve the results.

Tips : We suggest that you backup your project often. Your
project might be corrupted or lost due to computer breakdowns,
power failures and unforeseen software performance. Backing up
your project enables user to recover the previous work saved.

Auto Project Backup

You have the option of backing up the project automatically. To
enables auto backup, click Project Design and Detailing
Parameters > Project General Parameters form. The backup
files will be automatically stored into your project folder > backup
folder > auto folder. The program will saves and displays the project
name, date and time of the backup. In the Auto Project Backup area,
you can select the following options:

Backup Interval (minutes): From this pulldown list, you
can select the duration of each project backup. You can
choose to disable this option by selecting Disabled in the
pulldown list.
Maximum Backup Files: This option allows you to select
the number of backup files allowable in the Auto folder. The
program overwrites the earliest backup file if the program
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3-24
detects the maximum allowable backup files in the folder.
The program will continues the cycle of replacing the earliest
backup file with the latest backup file.


Figure 3.2: Auto Project Backup settings
Menu
3-25
Send Project

In any case you experiencing bugs in the software or difficulties
running your project, you can always send your project to us and we
will assist you to solve your problem. Your project will be send to
support@esteemsoft.com by your designated email program such as
Microsoft Outlook, Eudora and Outlook Express. If you don't have
email facility in your computer, you can save the email and transfer
the backup file to other computer with email facility.

To send project via Email, select File menu > Send Project command.
This will brings up a form that allows you to select which account
you want to use to send the project. Click Cancel button to cancel and
message "Fail to send project" will appears. Or else, select your
Email account and press OK to bring up the Email form. Your
project files will be compressed in ZIP format. A copy of the backup
project files will be saved in the backup folder.

In the Email, please include the following information:
Your name, company and contact number.
Description of the problem. If possible, please write
down the exact message of the error displayed.
Type of operating system.
Esteemplus
3-26
Save All Plans

Clicking on File menu > Save All Plans command or icon saves
changes made to all floors. This overwrites your existing project file.
Menu
3-27
Print

The File menu > Print command or toolbar prints contents that
are displayed in the active window. Clicking Print command, a form
will appears. This form contains three sections as below::

Printer selection allows you to select the printer you want to
use to print. Default printer is set if no selection is made. You
can also print the output and save it to a file. This allows you
to convert the file into another file type used by other
program. For example, user can convert it to *.PDF
document file.
Print range allows user to select the pages you want to print.
Copies allows user to specify the number of copies you want
to print.

Print Setup

Clicking the File Menu > Print Setup command enables the Print
Setup form. This form has two section areas:

Printer selection allows user to select the printer. Printer
selection will set to default printer if no selection is made.
Paper properties allows user to select the paper size, paper
orientation and the source of paper.
Esteemplus
3-28
Project
Reset Project Analysis Result

Selecting this command resets all your current project analysis results.
Any analysis results performed will be permanently deleted. You will
not be able to retrieve the results once you selected this command.

Note : This command is useful when you have trouble
assessing the project. When the program performs analysis and
stalls during analysis. The analysis is incomplete and the results
data would become corrupted or invalid. Clearing the corrupted
results would allow you to assess the project.

Check Project Grid Integrity

This command allows you to check the grid integrity of the whole
structure. The program performs integrity check for any grid
discrepancy between each floors of the structure. The program
reports gridlines with any discrepancy.

Grid discrepancy occurs when two or more gridmarks between floors
that do not match. For example gridmark B of floor GB is 4000mm
from gridmark A while gridmark B of floor 1B is 4100mm from
gridmark A. The inconsistency in dimensioning of the same gridmark
B in different floors creates grid discrepancy.

You cannot have different name for the same gridline position in
different floors. The program detects this discrepancy in grid
integrity check. For example, for the same position of gridlines, you
named gridline on floor GB as gridmark A. However on floor 1B,
you renamed the same gridline as gridmark A1. This is not allowed
and the program reports discrepancy in this particular case.

Menu
3-29
Check Project Integrity

Using this command initiates the program to check for the global
structural integrity. Any warnings detected will prevent any further
analysis until problem is resolved. The program highlights the
element that contains error. The program performs checking on the
following area:

Check transfer column: The program checks for valid transfer
column in the model. Transfer column can be supported only by
beam or wall.

Check for column: The program does not allow column offset from
the position out of the column area above or below it. The program
does not consider eccentricity into column design. However in
column design, moment due to minimum eccentricity will be checked
by the program.

Check for wall: Detects any created wall for every floor.

Check for wall opening: Detects any wall opening for every created
wall.

Check rc wall overlap: Detects any overlapping walls.

Check rc wall opening overlap: Detects any overlap opening in the
same location. If wall openings overlapping detected, the program
automatically delete the later created wall opening.

Check wall data for individual floor: Performs checks on the
validity and consistency of data for wall.

Adjust for Datum Distance

Esteemplus
3-30
This is applicable only if you import project from EsteemWin
Version 5.2. With the variation in gridline input between EsteemWin
and EsteemPlus, gridline's dimension from the imported project data
requires adjustment. Click on this command to refresh the imported
gridlines in EsteemPlus. This is due to the different style in creation
of gridlines for both Esteem softwares.

Progress Bar

During analysis, project status bar appears on the window showing
the progress of the analysis. In certain cases after the analysis, the
status bar remained on the window. Click on the progress bar
command to clear the status bar in the window.
Menu
3-31
Edit Menu

Cut
The Cut command, Ctrl-X shortcut key or button
deletes the selected objects in the active window. When
the objects are deleted, it is stored in the Windows
clipboard. You can copy the cut objects into a spreadsheet
or pasted back into the program. This is only applicable to
text format, such as design calculations textual output. To
reverse the cut action, use the Undo command.

Paste
When the objects are cut, you can restore back the objects
to the original state by using Paste command or Ctrl V. In
the graphical input, paste action do not allow cut objects
to be duplicated to other members or sections. You can
paste the text output such as design calculations into a
spreadsheet in text format.

Select all
You can select all objects of the your selected input in the
active window. For example, during editing slab, you can
select all slabs by clicking select all. This tool is useful to
modified the properties of the same members
simultaneously. You can also delete all the selected
members.

Undo
Go back to the very last action you took. You can undo up
to the last ten actions.

Redo
Esteemplus
3-32
If you have decided that you did not want to undo an
action, select Redo to reverse back to the previous action.
You must use Undo command before you can use the
Redo command.
Menu
3-33
Verification
Check Plan Integrity

This option allows you to check the integrity of the active floor.
Warning reported will not perform further analysis.

Check duplidate slabs: Detects any overlapping slabs in the same
location.

Check column offset: Detects for any column position that is out of
the allowable offset. This also checks for column that are too near to
neighbouring column.

Check column overlap: Detects any columns that are too close to
each other. This also checks for columns that are overlapping.

Check support for upper column: This will detects floor for any
unsupported column from the upper floor. The upper column must be
supported either by column, wall or transfer beam.

Check duplicate supports: Detects for multiple supports at any
same grid intersection.

Check beam support condition: Detects for any undefined beam
support conditions.

Check connected beam wall offset: Detects for any out of position
beam-wall connections.

Check beam/beam overlap: Detects multiple beams overlapped on
the same gridline.

Check beam offset: Detects any beam that offset out of position.

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3-34
Check beam/wall overlap: Detects beam and wall overlapped at the
same position along the gridline.

Check grids for transfer column: Detects availability of gridline at
lower floor of the transfer column. The gridline at lower floor must
be in the same position as the gridline where the transfer column is
created.

Check grids/beams for transfer wall: Detects any beams
supporting the transfer wall.

Check beam sequence along all grids:

Check input beam load:

Check slab first point:

Check slab direction:

Check unreferenced column data:

Check unreferenced non-column support data:

Check input wall load: Detects wall loading that is too close to the
wall edge.

Check input slab load: Detects slab loading that is too close to the
slab edge.

Check Grid Usage

Clicking the Check Grid Usage displays the usage of all the gridlines
in the selected active floor. If there is element created on the gridline,
the program reports the gridline as "used" and "unused" if no element
exists on the gridline.
Menu
3-35
Wall
Clean All Walls From Non-existence Grid

The program detects walls that are inconsistent in each of floor
keyplan. Walls must be placed on gridline with the exact position on
each floors. If the gridline dimension varies between floors, the
program will detects inconsistency. Using this command clear all
walls that are incomplete.

If the "incomplete" walls are placed on purpose, you have to redefine
the height of the floor. Refer to Liftcore Properties under Input
Liftcore chapter for further information.

Update Walls From Liftcore Data

When you have deleted a grid, walls that are intersected with this grid
will disappeared from the window screen. Use this option to redraw
the walls.




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3-36
View Menu

You can select the options of displaying views in the key layout plan.
This options will be then incorporated into the output drawings (DXF
format). The following are the display options you can select:

Draw slab edge as dotted line: You have the
option of selecting the line type either as dotted line
or straight line for your the slab edges. This will be
displayed at the plan layout on the screen and in the
DXF drawing.

Single beam mark: For multi span beam, only
one beam mark will be display if this option is
selected.

Show beam dimension: This option will allows you
to enable or disable the beams dimension in the beam
details.

Show upper column: You can see the upper
columns by selecting this option. This option allows
you to check the any column discrepancy.

Differentiate project wide grids: When you
have a grid that is only available to a floor, selecting
this option allows you to differentiate this particular
grid from other common grids. The colour of this
grid is different from the other grids.

Zoom to search element: When you search the
particular element using the search tool, enabling this
Menu
3-37
option will automatically zoom into the selected
element.



4-39
4 Tools
Standard Tools

Below are the descriptions of the command and the functionality of
all the tools available on the Graphical User Interface (GUI). Usage
of each tools are demonstrated in other chapters of this manual.

Command Icon Description

New project

Creates a new project from
scratch.

Open an
existing project

Run project from a saved file.

Save

Save changes to project.

Print

Prints the document in active
window.

Undo

Performs Undo last action.

Redo

Performs Redo last action.

Cut

Delete selected object.

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4-40
View Tools

Command Icon Description

Zoom out

Zooms out one step.

Zoom in

Zooms in one step.

Zoom
window


Zooms in selected area.

Zoom
extents

Zooms in the drawing.

Zoom
previous

Returns back to the
previous zoom.
Pan

Move the view within
window beyond the
original view.
Refresh

Redraws the existing
drawings.

Tools
4-41
Properties Tool

Command Icon Description

Send project

Send project via email.

Save to DXF file

Save detailed drawings as
DXF file.

Select All

Select all members of the
element.

Window select

Select members of the
element inside the window
perimeter.
Show grid mark

Displays grid mark at current
window

Project status

Displays project status.

Layer settings

Open project layer settings
form

Setting parameters

Open project setting
parameters form.
Design parameters

Open project design
parameters form.
Workspace

Enable/disable project
workspace.

3D View

Generates model in 3D.

Batch Analysis

Performs analysis and design
Esteemplus
4-42
to all floors.
3D Frame Element

Builds 3D frame model.

Tools
4-43

Modify Tool

Command Icon Description

Design/Detailing
parameters

Open design/detailing
parameters form.
Show grid mark

Displays grid marks at
current window screen.
Display grid count

Accumulates number of
grid marks
Upper wall and
column

Displays top floor wall and
column members.
Column reaction
from plan

Displays column reactions.

Column and wall
reaction from plan

Displays column and wall
reactions.
Duplicate floors

Copy current floor to other
floor plans.
Search element type

Find element member in
floor plan.

Turn off search box

Disables element highlight.

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4-44
Plan Input Tools

Command Icon Description

Input Grid


Define gridlines.
Input Beam


Create beams.
Input beam loading.

Input Column

Create column.
Define beams support
condition.
Input column loading.
Input lateral loading.
Input Slab

Create slab.
Create cantilever slab.
Input slab loading.
Input Liftcore/R.C.
Wall

Create liftcore.
Create R.C, wall.

Flat Slab

Generate flat slab.


Copy Plan

Copy selected elements to next
gridline. (NOT AVAILABLE)

Mirror Plan

Mirror selected elements at a
point. (NOT AVAILABLE)

Tools
4-45
Run Mode Tools

Command Icon Description

Switch to plan input

Return current command to input
grid command.
Generate slab meshes

Prepares slabs meshes for FEM
analysis.

Analyze using FEM

Performs slabs analysis using Finite
Element Method.
Design Slabs

Runs slabs design.

Analyze Beams

Performs beams analysis.

Design Beams

Runs beams design.

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4-46
Input Grid Tools

Command Icon Description

Batch grids input

Multiple gridline input
generator.

Increase indent

Shift grid mark to right or
down.

Decrease indent

Shift grid mark to left or up.

Grid count

Displays number of gridlines in
the layout.
Cumulative grid distance

Displays distance of gridline
from the initial position.
Tools
4-47

Input Beam Tools

Figure below is the description of each commands under the Input
Beam. Usage of these commands are demonstrated in other chapters
of this manual.

Command Icon Description

Input Beam

Create beams using "Click and drag
method".
Displays beam properties.
Allows to modify beam properties.
Input Beam UDL

Create Uniformly Distributed Load
(UDL) on beam.
Input Beam GVL

Create Triangular Distributed Load
(kN/m)
Create Trapezoidal Distributed Load
(kN/m)
Input Beam Point Load

Create Point Load (kN)

Reorder beam mark

Automatically reorder beams mark from
bottom to top and left to right.
Generate beam on all x-axis

Generate beams to all gridlines on the x-
axis.

Generate beam on all y-axis

Generate beams to all gridlines on the y-
axis.

Offset beam to center of grid (x-
direction)

Offsets beam to center of gridline in the
x-direction.
Offset beam to bottom of grid (x-
direction)

Offsets beam to bottom of gridline in the
x-direction.
Esteemplus
4-48
Offset beam to center of grid (y-
direction)

Offsets beam to center of gridline in the
y-direction.
Offset beam to right of grid (y-
direction)

Offsets beam to right of gridline in the y-
direction.
Offset beam to left of grid (y-
direction)

Offsets beam to left of gridline in the y-
direction.
Connect selected beams

Connects two or more individual beams
on the same gridline.
Disconnect selected beam

Disconnect joined beams.

Reorder Beam Mark

Automatically reorder beams mark from
bottom to top and left to right.
Clear Load

Delete all loadings applied to the beam.

Rearrange Beam Mark

Centralize the beam mark position.

Tools
4-49

Input Column/Support Tools

Command Icon Description

Input column

Creates column

Input load

Creates point load to
column

Input lateral load

Creates lateral load to
column/wall

Generate column

Applies column to all
gridline intersection
Window select input
column

Creates column within
window area.
Flush column with
beam bottom

Aligns column to bottom
side of beam
Flush column with
beam top

Aligns column to top side
of beam

Flush column with
beam center

Aligns column to center of
beam

Flush column with
beam left

Aligns column to left side
of beam

Flush column with
beam right

Aligns column to right side
of beam

Flush column with
beam center

Aligns column to center of
beam
Esteemplus
4-50

Support at x-direction

Applies support condition
at x-direction
Support at y-direction

Applies support condition
at y-direction

Tools
4-51
Input Slab Tools

Command Icon Description

Input Slab

Creates rectangular slab

Input User Defined
Slab

Creates customize
rectangular slab

Slab Line Load

Input line load

Slab Point Load

Input point load

Cantilever Edge Line
Load

Input edge line load

Generate Slabs

Automatically generate slabs
to key plan
Reorder Slab Mark

Automatically rearrange slab
mark

Group Slabs

Rename selected slabs with
same mark
Slab Mark Prefix

Changes the slab mark prefix

Clear Loads

Clear all loads applied on
slab


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4-52

Liftcore/R.C Wall Tools

Command Icon Description

Liftcore

Creates Liftcore wall/Shear wall.

R.C. wall opening

Creates wall opening.

Point Load

Input point load on wall.

Liftcore properties

Displays liftcore properties.

R.C. wall to grid center

Align wall to center of gridline.

R.C. wall to grid top

Align wall to top of gridline.

R.C. wall to grid bottom

Align wall to bottom of gridline.

R.C. wall to grid center

Align wall to center of gridline.

R.C. wall to grid right

Align wall to right of gridline.

R.C. wall to grid left

Align wall to left of gridline.

Tools
4-53
Slab FEM Results Tools

Command

Icon Description
Show mesh

Displays slabs generated meshes

Toggle mesh node
number

Displays meshes node number

Display nodal value

Displays value of the selected
contour

Moment X contour

Plot contour for X-direction
moment

Moment Y contour

Plot contour for Y-direction
moment

Displacement contour

Displays displacement contour

Bottom stress X
contour

Plot contour for X-direction
bottom stress

Bottom stress Y
contour

Plot contour for Y-direction
bottom stress

Top stress X contour

Plot contour for x-direction top
stress

Top stress Y contour

Plot contour for y-direction top
stress

X top steel area

Draw X-direction top steel area
contour
Esteemplus
4-54

Y top steel area

Draw Y-direction top steel area
contour

X bottom steel area

Draw X-direction bottom steel
area contour
Y bottom steel area

Draw Y-direction bottom steel
area contour
Line contour

Display contour as line

Textual result

Open slab analysis textual results

Slab line load node

Open slab line load assignment
report

Tools
4-55

3-D View Tools

Command Icon Description

Rotate

Allows you to rotate view at any orientation
about the center point.
Orthographic
projection

Displays orthographic view.

Keep scale

Maintains view during window resizing.

Lighting

-

Fly mode

Move view to any point in window.

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4-56
Shortcut Keys

Command

Shortcut key
Select All Ctrl-A

Print Ctrl-P

Import Project Ctrl-I

Parameter Templates Ctrl-T

Copy Ctrl-C

Undo Ctrl-Z

Cut Ctrl-X

New Project Ctrl-N

Redo Ctrl-Y

Zoom In Insert

Zoom Out Delete

Help F1

Close Window Ctrl-F4

Continuous Panning
Ctrl & icon

Tools
4-57
Full UDL on beam (Input beam
load)
Shift & Left click

+/- 10mm (Grid Input) UP/DOWN arrow

+/- 1mm (Grid Input) Hold Ctrl &
UP/DOWN arrow
Search Textual Results (Output
textual results)
Ctrl-F




5-59
5 Project Workspace
Activate/Deactivate Project Workspace

You can close the project workspace to enlarge the graphical
interface area. By default, the project workspace is displayed on the
left side of the graphical interface. To close the project workspace,
click on the close button located on the top right of the project
workspace. Alternatively, you can left click once on the Project
Workspace icon.

To reactivate the project workspace, click on Project Workspace
icon. Alternatively, right click on the toolbar menu and a dialog
appears on the screen. Left click on the project workspace to
reactivate it.


Figure 5.1: Toolbars activation selections

Activating Element

When you have created a new project, the floor plans, column, wall,
pad footing and pile footing are shown in the project workspace. This
project workspace window allows you to activate the floor plan
where you can edit and input data such as gridline, beam, column,
slab and wall. Double left click on the floor plan name to activate the
floor plan. In this window, you can design column, wall, pad footing
Esteemplus
5-60
and pile footing. To design the elements, double click on the element
name.

Insert Key Plan

You can add a floor plan even after you have defined a number of
floor plans. To insert a key plan, move the cursor to the floor plan
name above or below the floor you intend to insert. Right click once
on the floor plan and select Insert Key Plan command. This brings
up a form that requires you to specify the name and position of the
new floor plan.

Delete Key Plan

You can delete a key plan in the Project Workspace window.
Selecting this command will permanently delete the key plan. You
cannot undo the Delete Key Plan command. To delete a key plan,
move the cursor to the floor plan name you want to delete and right
click once. Select Delete Key Plan to delete the floor plan.

Restore a deleted key plan

You can restore the deleted key plan. To restore the key plan, insert
key plan and name the key plan exactly to the deleted floor plan. The
new key plan will be empty. To retrieve the data, you have to update
the program. To update the program, close the project by clicking on
File menu > Close project command. Open the project again and the
new key plan will contains the data from the previously deleted floor
plan.

Project Workspace
5-61
Rename key plan

You can rename floor plan after you have created the floor. To
rename floor plan, please follow the procedures as below:

1. Right click once on the existing floor plan. Click on insert key plan
command.
2. Insert a new floor plan above or below the floor plan you want to
rename.
3. Name the new key plan to your preferences.
4. Double left click on the new floor plan and copy the existing floor
plan to the new floor plan.
5. Then delete the existing floor plan.

Resize Project Workspace window

You can close the project workspace window by clicking the cross at
the top right corner at project workspace or right click on the menu
bar deselect the project workspace. To enable project workspace, go
to menu bar, right click once and a menu will be shown. Click on
project workspace to bring up the window.

You can resize the project workspace dialog to your preferred size.
Double click on the project workspace title and the dialog shrinks to
a smaller window. To resize the dialog, move the cursor to the
window edge and drag the dialog box. Left click on the project
workspace title bar and drag the cursor to move the window. You can
place the dialog box anywhere in the window. Double click on the
title bar to restore the dialog box to its original position.

Esteemplus
5-62

Figure 5.2: Project Workspace Layout



6-63
6 Parameter Settings

Parameter Templates

Parameters in the Setting Parameter Templates are the default
parameters of the project. Therefore when you load the default
parameters, the parameters are reverted to these templates setting.

You can customize the templates and adopt these settings when you
create a new project. The customized parameters will be applied to
all floor plans of the new project. Click on File Menu > Setting
Parameter Template command or press CTRL-T shortcut to bring
up all the project parameter forms. Press Save & Exit button to
confirm changes made on these forms.

Note : If you modify the settings in the parameter templates during
a project, the changes made will not automatically apply to the
current project. However you can adopt the changes made by loading
the default parameters on each parameter form.

Resetting parameters template

You can reset the settings in the parameter templates to EsteemPlus
default settings. The program default settings are located in the
Parameters folder located in the EsteemPlus program directory. The
parameter files in this directory are named with DEF extension. For
example, beam parameters file is named as beam.DEF. Copy these
files in the Parameters folder and replace the existing files in the
main directory of EsteemPlus.

For instance, you have installed EsteemPlus program in
C:\EsteemPlus\. Therefore the default parameters are located in
C:\EsteemPlus\Parameters\. Copy the files in this directory and paste
it to C:\EsteemPlus\. Select Yes to overwrite the parameters in
C:\EsteemPlus\.
Esteemplus
6-64


Figure 6.1: Example of DEF files type
Parameter Settings
6-65
Project Parameters
Project General Parameters

Clicking Project Parameters command and select Project
General Parameters menu brings up the form. In the Project
General Parameters form, you can carry out the following actions:

Company Name: Input your company name to
display on the textual output files including
calculations. Empty the box disables this option
regardless of any name input.

Job Description: You can name your project title to
be display on the textual output files.

Date And Time: Checking this box displays the date
and time of the analysis performed. Empty this box
disables this option.

Autocad Font: You can select the font style for the
drawings to be transfer to CAD software in DXF file.
The font style selected in this option is only
applicable for exporting DXF file. This option does
not change any font styles in the program.

Include full path of the calculation file: Checking
this box displays the location of the calculation file
in the computer. You can browse to that particular
file outside EsteemPlus and open it with Word
program.

Esteemplus
6-66

Figure 6.2: Project Design and Detailing Parameters form
Parameter Settings
6-67

Project Design Parameters

Clicking the Project Design Parameters allows you to define the
code of practice, load factors, steel reinforcement diameters and the
steel characteristic strength. The form includes the following items:

Code of practices that are currently available include:

BS8110 : 1997 Structural use of concrete.
BS8110 : 1985 Structural use of concrete.
CP65 : 1999 Singapore Standard on Code of
Practice for Structural Use of Concrete.

To adopt one of above codes, click once to select the code
from the drop down lists.

Load factor: Specify the dead, live and wind load factors to
define the load combination for the ultimate limit state design.
For example, setting dead and live load factors to 1.2 and 1.6
respectively give a load combination of 1.2G + 1.6Q. This
load combination will then be apply to the ultimate limit state
design for elements such as beam and slab. By default, for
ultimate limit state load combinations are set to the
followings:

Dead (G) and Live Load (Q)
1.4G + 1.6Q

Dead (G), Live (Q) and Wind Load (W)
1.2G + 1.2Q + 1.2W

Characteristic Strength: In this area allows you to specify
the characteristic strength for different types of steel
reinforcement. The types of reinforcement that you can
specify are high yield steel, mild steel and BRC steel.
Esteemplus
6-68

Steel Reinforcement Diameters: You can select the steel
diameter bar to be adopted in the element design with up to
ten different bar size of steel. To change the bar, click on the
bar that you want to change in the form. The figure for the
bar size is highlighted and modify the bar diameter to your
preference. Make sure that your input the bar sizes in
ascending order and from a value of 1 to 100.

Setting minimum main bar diameter: Select the minimum
diameter bar size allowable in the element design from the
pull down list.

Project Symmetry: This option allows you to mirror the
structure to the specific direction. The mirrored structure is
not displayed in the window. The program assumes
continuation of the structure to the selected direction. For
example, you have selected project symmetry along right
grid as shown in figure below. The program mirrors the
structure to the right grid. Now the beam between the two
structures take loads from the original structure and the
mirrored structure. The shaded areas in the figure represent
the loads carried by the supporting beam.

For X-direction, you can set the structure to be symmetrical
along:
bottom grid
top grid
top and bottom grid

For Y-direction, you can set the structure to be symmetrical
along:
Left grid
Right grid
Left and right grid

Parameter Settings
6-69

Figure 6.3: Mirrored structure along right grid.

Live load reduction: You have the options of enabling live
load reduction on the column, wall and foundation.

3-D Analysis Options:

Wind load analysis: Checking the Wind Load Analysis box incorporates notional
load for the 2-D analysis. If programs detects RC wall created in the model, it
automatically enables wind load analysis.

Pin foundation: Checking this option set the all columns bottom condition at
foundation level to be pin restraints during 3-D analysis. This is not applicable for
shearwall that acts as vertically cantilevered beam from the ground. Disable this
option will not create a valid design for foundation designs in later stages. Currently,
this program does not support moment design for foundation.

Esteemplus
6-70
Slab diaphragm effect: Selecting this option considers the slab effect into the frame
analysis. The lateral loads acting on the structure will be transfer horizontally
throughout the floor slab to the main lateral resisting element.

Double precision in analysis: Checking this option allows the program to perform
more iterations in equation solving to provide more precise results. However more
resources are used to perform this analysis and this might affects the performance of
your computer.

Ground Floor Non-Suspended Slab: Enabling this option
assumes that non-suspended slabs at ground floor provide
restraints to the column. The program considers this effect
and determines the effective height of the column. Disabling
this option allows the program to determine the effective
column height based on restraint conditions. This is only
applicable when there are only slabs (without beams)
connected to the column at ground floor.

Note : This option does not affect the slab design at ground floor. For non-
suspended slab on ground floor, simply do not create any slab on this floor.

Default Beam Analysis Setting:

Support moment redistribution: Checking this box allows
the program to apply moment redistribution to the structural
analysis.

Parameter Settings
6-71

Figure 6.4: Project Design and Detailing Parameters form

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6-72
Project Detailing Parameters

In the detailing parameters form, you can specify the settings of the
drawing layout that include the text font and arrowhead styles, types
of scale and bar reinforcement styles. The drawings are automatically
drawn according to the changes made in this form. Following are the
items for which you can edit the detailing parameters in this area of
form:

General Option Drawing

Name: Specify the title of the scale. The scale names are
later selectable from the drop down lists in the Individual
options for drawing.

Scale: The type of scale available for drawing settings.

Small Character: Specify the size for the small font in the
drawings.

Big Character: Specify the size for the large font in the
drawings

Arrow Size: Setting this size will translates the size in the
detail drawings for the scale.

Net physical tracing width for drawing (mm): This option
allows you to set the width of the drawing in actual paper
size. Detailed and scaled drawing generated such as slab cut
section detail is superimposed within this width. If the
drawing exceeded the width defined, the program will cut the
remaining section and continued at the bottom of the drawing.
For example, say you have specify the physical tracing width
to be 300mm. You want to generate the detailing of a
10000mm multispan beam in scale of 1:25. 1 mm on paper
equals 25 mm. The beam spans 400mm on paper. Therefore
Parameter Settings
6-73
the beam will be cut at 300mm on paper and remaining of the
section is continued at the bottom.


Figure 6.5: Definition of net physical tracing width

Ratio of character width to character height: Specify this
figure to set the size of the character based on the width and
height.

Figure 6.6: Typical character height and width dimension

Ratio of arrow width to arrow height:


Figure 6.7: Typical arrow height and width dimension

Full grid for foundation detailing: Checking this option
displays gridlines on the foundation plan.

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Tension bar anchorage coefficient: This figure multiplies
to the bar size in diameter (mm) to provide tension anchorage
length generated in the detail drawings. Refer to Table 3.27
BS8110 Part 1 1985 for the anchorage coefficients. If the
specified value is less than required, the coefficient in the
code governs.

Compression bar anchorage coefficient: This figure
multiplies to the bar size in diameter (mm) to provide
compression anchorage length. Refer to Table 3.27 BS8110
Part 1 1985 for the anchorage coefficients. If the specified
value is less than required, the coefficient in the code governs.

Radius of dot of rebar (mm): Specify this figure set the
radius of reinforcement bar in the concrete section of the
detailed drawings.

Rebar symbol: Option of selecting three symbol types Y, T
and H for detailing purposes. All main reinforcements
generated in the detailed drawings carried these symbol.


Figure 6.8: Beam detailing descriptions

Parameter Settings
6-75

Figure 6.9: Project Detailing Parameters form
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Project Quantity Parameters

Clicking Project Parameters command and select the Project
Quantity Parameters menu brings up the form. Here you specify the
raw materials, placement and excavation costs applicable to the
quantity takeoff calculations. The items in this area you can specify
are:

Construction materials

Concrete ($/m
3
): For each concrete grade used in the design,
specify the concrete price and the placement cost. The
concrete grades specified in the design parameters must
match the concrete grades in this list or else the program does
not provide the quantity. This is due to the price
unavailability of the concrete grades specified other than the
one in the listed.

Mild steel (kg): Specify the material and the placement cost
for the mild steel specified in Project Design Parameters.

High Yield Steel (kg): Specify the material and the
placement cost for the high yield steel specified in Project
Design Parameters.

BRC ($/m
2
): Specify the price of BRC per area of
reinforcement as in Project Design Parameters.

Concrete density: Specify the concrete density in kg/m
3
.

Main steel density: Specify the steel density in kg/m
3
.

Temporary materials

Parameter Settings
6-77
Timber plank: Area of formwork for foundation, column,
pile footing, beam in area m
2
.

Plywood: Area of formwork for beam sides in m
2.


Lean concrete: m
3
for raw material, m
2
for placement cost.

Others

Currency unit: You can select the currency unit from the
drop down list. The currency symbol will appears in the
quantity takeoff report.

Excavation for foundation

Depth : Specify the depth of the foundation excavation. The
excavation volume is calculated based on the area of footing
required multiply by the depth of excavation.

Costs ($/m
3
): Specify the foundation excavation cost. The
price for the foundation excavation is based on volume of
excavation multiply by the cost per m
3



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6-78
.

Figure 6.10: Project Quantity Parameters form
Parameter Settings
6-79
Design Parameters
Column Parameters

This is the section where you can set the column design and the
detailing parameters. Click on Design Parameters command >
Column folder brings up the Column Parameter form. In this form,
you can select the following options:

Main Reinforcement

Minimum diameter (mm): Select the minimum
reinforcement diameter allowable from the pulldown list.
The list is derived from Project Design Parameters
command > Steel Reinforcement Diameters.

Maximum diameter (mm): Select the maximum
reinforcement diameter allowable from the pulldown list.
The list is derived from Project Design Parameters
command > Steel Reinforcement Diameters.

Reinforcement bar (N/mm
2
): Select the steel characteristic
strength for the reinforcement of the column. The pulldown
list is derived from Project Design Parameters command >
Characteristic Strength.

Minimum center to center spacing (mm): Select the
minimum allowable center to center spacing between two
reinforcement bar.

Maximum center to center spacing (mm): Select the
maximum allowable center to center spacing between two
reinforcement bar.

Stirrup Selection
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6-80

Minimum diameter (mm): Select the minimum
reinforcement diameter allowable from the pulldown list.
The list is derived from Project Design Parameters
command > Steel Reinforcement Diameters.

Maximum diameter (mm): Select the maximum
reinforcement diameter allowable from the pulldown list.
The list is derived from Project Design Parameters
command > Steel Reinforcement Diameters.

Reinforcement bar (N/mm
2
): Select the steel characteristic
yield strength for the reinforcement of the column. The
pulldown list is defined from Project Design Parameters
command > Characteristic Strength.

Minimum stirrup diameter: This option allows you to
select the minimum stirrup diameter for the minimum
column dimension.

for minimum column dimension: The selection of
minimum stirrup diameter is based on the minimum column
dimension specified here.

Other parameters

Concrete characteristic strength (N/mm
2
): Allows you to
specify the concrete characteristic compressive strength at 28
days of the column.

Steel percentage of reinforcement bar (%): Set this figure
for the minimum reinforcement provided in the column
section. This figure varies according to the code of practice
adopted. Refer to BS8110: Part I: 1997 Table 3.25 for
minimum percentages of reinforcement. By default the steel
percentage of reinforcement bar is set to 1%.

Parameter Settings
6-81
Concrete cover to longitudinal bar (mm): Specifies this
figure to provide the design depth of concrete cover to
longitudinal bar. By default this value is set to 25mm.

Load allowance (%): Allows you to provide additional
loading on top of the reaction loads from the analysis. This
value will be multiply to the loads from the column reaction.
The program default value is set at 10 percent. Set the value
to zero if you do not want any load allowance. The column
design will be based on the final load (with additional load
allowance).

For example, you have a column reaction dead load
(G) and live load (Q) of 100 kN and 50 kN
respectively. You have set 15% load allowance. For
load combination of 1.4G + 1.6Q,

Ultimate load = 1.4 x 100 + 1.6 x 50
= 220 kN

Load allowance = 15%

Final ultimate load with load allowance = 220 x 1.15
= 253 kN

True Biaxial Column Design: Checking this option allows
the program to analyze the column with true biaxial design.

Bracing for structure: You can set all the columns bracing
conditions to braced or unbraced. This options only
applicable for 2-D analysis. The program automatically
determines the column bracing conditions if project requires
3-D analysis.

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Figure 6.11: Column Parameters form
Parameter Settings
6-83

Wall Parameters

This is the section where you can set the wall design and detailing
parameters. Click on Design Parameters command > Wall folder
brings up the Wall Parameters form. In this form, you can select the
following options:

Basic Design Parameters

Minimum diameter (mm): Select the minimum
reinforcement diameter allowable from the pulldown list.
The list is derived from Project Design Parameters
command > Steel Reinforcement Diameters.

Maximum diameter (mm): Select the maximum
reinforcement diameter allowable from the pulldown list.
The list is derived from Project Design Parameters
command > Steel Reinforcement Diameters.

Reinforcement bar (N/mm
2
): Select the steel characteristic
strength for the reinforcement of the wall. The pulldown list
is defined from Project Design Parameters command >
Characteristic Strength.

Minimum center to center spacing (mm): Select the
minimum allowable center to center spacing between two
reinforcement bar.

Maximum center to center spacing (mm): Select the
maximum allowable center to center spacing between two
reinforcement bar.

Stirrup Selection

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Minimum diameter (mm): Select the minimum
reinforcement diameter allowable from the pulldown list.
The list is generated based on the Project Design
Parameters command > Steel Reinforcement Diameters.

Maximum diameter (mm): Select the maximum
reinforcement diameter allowable from the pulldown list.
The list is generated based on the Project Design
Parameters command > Steel Reinforcement Diameters.

Reinforcement bar (N/mm
2
): Select the steel characteristic
strength for the reinforcement of the wall. The pulldown list
is defined from Project Design Parameters command >
Characteristic Strength.

Minimum stirrup diameter: This option allows you to
select the minimum stirrup diameter for the minimum
column dimension.

for minimum column dimension: The selection of
minimum stirrup diameter is based on the minimum column
dimension specified here.

Wall Properties

Concrete characteristic strength (N/mm
2
): Allows you to
specify the concrete grade of the wall.

Steel percentage of reinforcement bar (%): Set this figure
for the minimum reinforcement provided in the wall section.
This figure varies depending on the code of practice adopted.
By default the steel percentage of reinforcement bar is set to
0.4%.

Concrete cover to longitudinal bar (mm): Specifies this
figure to provide the design depth of concrete cover to
longitudinal bar. By default this value is set to 35mm.
Parameter Settings
6-85

Load allowance (%): Allows you to provide additional
loading on top of the reaction loads from the analysis. This
value will be multiply to the loads from the wall reaction.
The program default value is set at 10 percent. Set the value
to zero if you do not want any load allowance.

Finishes (kN/m
2
): This option allows you to specify the
finishes (dead load) applicable to the RC wall. By default,
the value is set at 1.0 kN/m
2
.

Bracing for structure

Automatic check based on 3D analysis: Checking this
option allows the program automatically determines the
bracing conditions. Checking on unbraced condition assumes
all walls are unbraced.

Default BRC setting

BRC wall: Checking this option automatically provides
BRC square mesh reinforcement to wall. The program
changes to conventional reinforcement if sizes available do
not satisfy the required reinforcement.

BRCB: Checking this option adopts BRC rectangular mesh
reinforcement.

Default rebar setting

Single Layer: Checking this option provides single layer
reinforcements to wall.

Double Slender Moment:

Plain wall option

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6-86
Plain Wall Design: Setting this option allows the ultimate
axial force to be calculated based on the beams and slabs as
simply supported on the wall.

Minimum Steel (%): You can set the minimum percentage
of reinforcement for plain wall.


Figure 6.12: Wall Parameters form
Parameter Settings
6-87

Pad Footing Parameters

This is the section where you can set the pad footing design and
detailing parameters. Click on Design Parameters command > Pad
folder brings up the Pad Footing Parameter form. In this form, you
can select the following options:

Basic Design Parameters

Minimum diameter (mm): Select the minimum
reinforcement diameter allowable from the pulldown list.
The list is derived from Project Design Parameters
command > Steel Reinforcement Diameters.

Maximum diameter (mm): Select the maximum
reinforcement diameter allowable from the pulldown list.
The list is derived from Project Design Parameters
command > Steel Reinforcement Diameters.

Reinforcement bar (N/mm
2
): Select the steel characteristic
strength for the reinforcement of the pad footings. The
pulldown list is defined from Project Design Parameters
command > Characteristic Strength.

Minimum center to center spacing (mm): Select the
minimum allowable center to center spacing between two
reinforcement bar.

Maximum center to center spacing (mm): Select the
maximum allowable center to center spacing between two
reinforcement bar.

Concrete Properties

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6-88
Concrete characteristic strength (N/mm
2
): Allows you to
specify the concrete grade of the pad footings.

Steel percentage of reinforcement bar (%): Set this figure
for the minimum reinforcement provided in the pad footing.
This figure varies depending on the code of practice adopted.
By default the steel percentage of reinforcement bar is set to
0.3%.

Concrete cover to longitudinal bar (mm): Specifies this
figure to provide the design depth of concrete cover to
longitudinal bar. By default this value is set to 50mm.

Load allowance (%): Allows you to provide additional
loading on top of the reaction loads from the analysis. This
value will be multiply to the loads from the column reaction.
The program default value is set at 10 percent. Set the value
to zero if you do not want any load allowance. The pad
footing design will be based on the final load (with additional
load allowance).

For example, you have a pad footing with column reaction
dead load (G) and live load (Q) of 100 kN and 50 kN
respectively. You have set 15% load allowance. For load
combination of 1.4G + 1.6Q,

Ultimate load = 1.4 x 100 + 1.6 x 50
= 220 kN

Load allowance = 15%

Final ultimate load with load allowance = 220 x 1.15
= 253 kN

Soil bearing pressure (kN/m
2
): Specifies the capacity of the
soil used to determine the footing size.

Parameter Settings
6-89
Minimum thickness of footing (mm): This option allows
you to specify the footing minimum thickness. Footing with
lesser value than this value will automatically set to the
minimum thickness.

Suppose for example, you have set minimum footing thickness to
300mm. The program designs a pad footing that only requires
200mm thick. With the minimum footing thickness set at 300mm,
the pad footing adopts 300mm thick instead.

Incremental dimension figures for footing dimension
(mm): This option allows you to specify the dimension
increments for the next footing size. Footings are
automatically grouped to similar sizes based on the load
capacity. Smaller dimension increments increase the number
of pad footing type.

For example you have 5 pad footings with 1000 x 1000, 1200 x
1200, 1250 x 1250, 1050 x 1050 and 1400 x 1400 respectively. If
you set the incremental dimension to 100mm, the program will
sort into 3 types of footing sizes. The 3 types of footing sizes are
1050 x 1050, 1250 x 1250 and 1400 x 1400. Any footing sizes
within 100mm increment are grouped into the same type of
footing.

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Figure 6.13: Pad Footing Parameters form
Parameter Settings
6-91

Pile Parameters

This is the section where you can set the pad footing design and
detailing parameters. Click on Design Parameters command > Pile
folder brings up the Pile Footing Parameter form. In this form, you
can select the following options:

Automatic main bar selection and spacing

Minimum diameter (mm): Select the minimum
reinforcement diameter allowable from the pulldown list.
The list is derived from Project Design Parameters
command > Steel Reinforcement Diameters.

Maximum diameter (mm): Select the maximum
reinforcement diameter allowable from the pulldown list.
The list is derived from Project Design Parameters
command > Steel Reinforcement Diameters.

Reinforcement bar (N/mm
2
): Select the steel characteristic
strength for the reinforcement of the pile footing. The
pulldown list is defined from Project Design Parameters
command > Characteristic Strength.

Minimum center to center spacing (mm): Select the
minimum allowable center to center spacing between two
reinforcement bar.

Maximum center to center spacing (mm): Select the
maximum allowable center to center spacing between two
reinforcement bar.

Concrete Properties

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6-92
Concrete characteristic strength (N/mm
2
): Allows you to
specify the concrete grade of the pile footing.

Steel percentage of reinforcement bar (%): Set this figure
for the minimum reinforcement provided in the pile footing.
This figure varies depending on the code of practice adopted.
By default the steel percentage of reinforcement bar is set to
0.3%.

Concrete cover to longitudinal bar (mm): Specifies this
figure to provide the design depth of concrete cover to
longitudinal bar. By default this value is set to 50mm.

Load allowance (%): Allows you to provide additional
loading on top of the reaction loads from the analysis. This
value will be multiply to the loads from the column reaction.
The program default value is set at 10 percent. Set the value
to zero if you do not want any load allowance.

For example, you have a column reaction
dead load (G) and live load (Q) of 100 kN and
50 kN respectively. You have set 15% load
allowance. For load combination of 1.4G +
1.6Q,

Ultimate load = 1.4 x 100 + 1.6 x 50
= 220 kN

Load allowance = 15%

Final ultimate load with load allowance = 220
x 1.15
= 253 kN

Pile Properties

Parameter Settings
6-93
Pile type: This option allows you to select either square or
circular pile.

Pile size (mm): Specify the pile sizes to be adopted in the
design.

Pile capacity (tonnes): Specify the maximum capacity of the
pile

Center to center spacing: Specify the distance between two
piles center point

Pile penetration to pile cap (mm): This option allows you
to specify the distance from the soffit of the pile cap to the
end point of the pile.

Pile edge to pile cap edge (mm): The distance from the pile
cap edge to the pile edge.

Minimum thickness of footing (mm): This option allows
you to specify the footing minimum thickness. Footing with
lesser value than this value will automatically set to the
minimum thickness.

Detailing of pilecap top rebar: Checking this option
provides reinforcement for the top side of the pilecap.

Incremental dimension figures for footing dimension
(mm): This option allows you to specify the dimension
increments for the next footing size. Footings are
automatically grouped to similar sizes based on the load
capacity. Smaller dimension increments increase the number
of pile footing type.

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6-94

Figure 6.14: Pilecap layout


Figure 6.15: Pile Footing Design Parameter
Parameter Settings
6-95
Plan Design and Detailing Parameters
Plan Settings

Shear load coefficient from slab: Checking this option enables the
distribution of slab panel load to beam determined by shear force
coefficient as defined in BS8110: Part I: 1997 Table 3.15 or
BS8110: Part I:1985 Table 3.16. Leave the box empty converts the
slab panel load to beam using 45
o
lines of area load method.

Column height of the lower floor (mm): Specify this value to set
the lower floor height. This only applies to the selected floor plan.


Figure 6.16: Plan Design and Detailing Parameters form
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Plan Beam Settings
Plan Beam

This is the section where you can set the beam design and detailing
parameters. Click on Plan Design and Detailing Parameters
command > Plan Beam folder to brings up the form. In this form,
you can select the following options:

Automatic main bar selection and spacing

Minimum diameter (mm): Select the minimum
reinforcement bar diameter allowable from the pulldown list.
This list is derived from Project Design Parameters
command > Steel Reinforcement Diameters.

Maximum diameter (mm): Select the maximum
reinforcement bar diameter allowable from the pulldown list.
This list is derived from Project Design Parameters
command > Steel Reinforcement Diameters.

Reinforcement bar (N/mm
2
): Specify the steel
characteristic strength for the reinforcement bar in the beam
section. The pulldown list is derived from Project Design
Parameters command > Characteristic Strength.

Minimum center to center spacing (mm): This option
allows you to specify the minimum distance between two
center to center reinforcement bars.

Maximum center to center spacing (mm): This option
allows you to specify the maximum distance between two
center to center reinforcement bars.

Automatic stirrup selection and spacing

Parameter Settings
6-97
Minimum diameter (mm): Select the minimum stirrup bar
diameter allowable from the pulldown list. The list is derived
from Project Design Parameters command > Steel
Reinforcement Diameters.

Maximum diameter (mm): Select the maximum stirrup bar
diameter allowable from the pulldown list. The list is derived
from Project Design Parameters command > Steel
Reinforcement Diameters.

Reinforcement bar (N/mm
2
): Specify the steel
characteristic strength for the stirrup bar in the beam section.
The pulldown list is derived from Project Design Parameters
command > Characteristic Strength.

Minimum link spacing (mm): This option allows you to
select the minimum distance of two center to center spacing
links.

Maximum link spacing (mm): This option allows you to
select the minimum distance of two center to center spacing
links.

Other parameters

Concrete characteristic strength (N/mm
2
): Allows you to
specify the concrete grade of the pad footings.

Steel percentage of reinforcement bar (%): Set this figure
for the minimum reinforcement provided for beam. This
figure varies are according to the code of practice adopted.
By default the steel percentage of reinforcement bar is set to
1%.

Top or bottom concrete cover to longitudinal bar (mm):
Specifies this figure to provide the design depth of concrete
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6-98
cover to longitudinal bar. By default this value is set to
25mm.

Side concrete cover to longitudinal bar (mm): You can
specify the concrete cover from the side of the beam to the
center of longitudinal bar.

Vertical clear spacing between two layers of longitudinal
bar (mm): Clear face to face spacing between two layers of
longitudinal bar in millimeter.

Two rebar sizes auto-combination for multi-layer
longitudinal rebar: Checking this option convert two rebar
sizes into one equivalent rebar size.


Figure 6.17: Plan Beam Parameters
Parameter Settings
6-99

Beam Detailing Parameters

You can configure the beam details to your preferences in this form.
The changes made in this form apply only to the selected active floor.
You must save every time you made changes for the configuration in
order to be effective. Refer to the figures 6.18 for the description of
the detailing parameters. Below are the options available in the Beam
Detailing Parameters form:

Minimum length of rebar bent at end of beams (mm):
Length of reinforcement bar starting from end of the bent
until the end of the bar. (Refer to figure 6.22)

Clear gap between section of detailing (mm): The distance
between each cut section of beams. (Refer to figure 6.21)

Position of span's dimension line: Select from the pulldown
list to set the location of each span's dimension either at top
or bottom of the beam.

Bottom bar lapping at support: Selecting this option from
the pulldown list determines the bottom bar lapping type at
beam support.
Crank bar - The lapping length is based on the smaller diameter
reinforcement bar, multiply by 30% of each span.
Straight bar - The lapping length is bade on the smaller
Automatic bar - Selecting this option allows the program to
automatically assign the type of bottom bar lapping. The lapping
length is based on the larger diameter reinforcement bar, multiplay
by 30% of each span.(Refer to figure 6.19)

Underline beam mark for every span mode: Selecting this
option underlines every beam marks of the beam. (Refer to
figure 6.20)

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Beam section cut is looking from left end of the beam:
Checking this option views the beam cut section from the left
of the beam.

Distance of section mark from beam elevation details
(mm):

Ratio of top support bar curtailment as percentage of
span length: This option allows you to determine the
curtailment length of the top support bar as defined in
BS8110: Part 1: Clause 3.12.10. (Refer to figure 6.19)

Maximum length of bottom rebar before continuation at
support (mm): Set this value for the allowable length of
single continuous bottom rebar spanning one support to
another support.

Minimum length of top rebar before continuation at mid-
span (mm): This option overwrites top support bar
curtailment length if the ratio is less than this specified length.

Incremental dimensional figures in rebar curtailment
(mm): Length of bar curtailment increases by this specified
figure.

Maximum size of bar diameter for cranking bar:
Selecting the bar diameter size from the pulldown list. In the
detailing, any bar diameter size more than the allowable size
will be automatically change to straight bar lapping. This
option is only applicable when the lapping type is set to
cranking bar.

Order of beam sizes in beam mark detailing: Selecting
this option to determine the style of beam mark in the detail
drawing. You have the options of choosing (width x depth)
or (depth x width). For example, you have a beam of 230mm
in width and 600mm in depth. Selecting (width x depth) type
Parameter Settings
6-101
displays the beam mark as (230 x 600) in the drawing. (Refer
to figure 6.20)

Arrow line for the link: This option allows you to choose
the type of stirrup links naming style.

Detail of stirrup: Checking this option displays the number
of stirrup links required in the beam detailing.

Detailing of distance with/without or no gap: You can
select whether you want to display the distance of stirrup
links in the beam details.

Symbol of detailing: Select the style of stirrup links in the
beam detailing.

Note : To apply the settings to all floors, set the parameters in File
menu > Setting Parameter Template command before creating a
new project instead.


Figure 6.18: Typical beam details

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Figure 6.19: Section A shows crank bar and ratio of top support bar
curtailment


Figure 6.20: Section B shows options of underlining beam mark and
beam mark order


Figure 6.21: Section C shows clear gap between section of detailing


Parameter Settings
6-103

Figure 6.22: Section D shows the length of rebar at end of beams


Figure 6.23: Beam Detailing Parameters
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6-104

Beam Subframe Design Configuration

The program allows you to select the method of analysis you want to
adopt for your design. In the Beam Subframe Design Configuration
area, you have the option of:

Subframe design for beam: Checking this option allows the
program to analysis the model using subframe analysis
method.

Pin support condition at first and last supports: This
option allows you to set the beam support conditions to pin
fixity at first and last support. For monolithic structure in
frame design, the first and last support carry moment.
However overwriting this condition to pin support allows the
moment to distribute the moments to the mid-span.

Continuous Beam Design Control Factors

You can analyze the structure using continuous beam method.
However the continuous beam method requires to satisfy the factors
below. If any of the factors being exceeded, the program will run
analysis adopting subframe design analysis.

Beam span greater than (mm): This option allows you to
specify the maximum allowable beam span for the
continuous beam method. The program automatically convert
to subframe analysis if beam span is greater than value
specified here.

No: of floors greater than: If any number of floor greater
than the value set here, the program automatically convert to
subframe design analysis.

Parameter Settings
6-105
Relative column/beam stiffness greater than: You have the
option of defining the allowable column/beam stiffness
before the program convert to subframe analysis.

Adjacent span length difference greater than (%) : Any
difference in span length greater than this percentage
specified here automatically convert to subframe design
analysis.

Differential fixed end moments percentage greater than
(%): If the fixed end moments determined using continuous
beam method are greater than the percentage specified here,
the program automatically convert to subframe analysis.


Figure 6.24: Beam Subframe Design Configuration Parameters
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Special Design Parameters

Stirrup bar characteristics strength (N/mm
2
): Specify the
strength of the shear reinforcement links provided for beam
design.

Maximum beam width using the above strength of
smallest stirrup (mm): Specify the allowable width to adopt
the above characteristic strength for stirrup.

Maximum drop for continuous beam analysis (mm):
Specify the maximum allowable drop for the beam to behave
as continuous spans. Drop with more than the maximum
allowable drop be assumed as new beam span.

Maximum difference span's width for continuous beam
analysis (mm): This option allows you to specify the
maximum difference in span's width to consider as
continuous beam. For example, you have set this value to
100mm. You have two adjacent span beams with width of
125mm and 250mm respectively. The difference of beam's
width is 125mm and it has exceeded the allowable difference
width of 100mm. Therefore the program considers these
beams as simply supported.


Figure 6.25: Special Design Parameters for Beam form
Parameter Settings
6-107

Requirement of Code Of Practice

Minimum depth of beam requiring side rebar (mm):
Specify the value for the provision of longitudinal bars near
side faces of the beam.

Maximum spacing anti-crack bar side rebar (mm): This
option allows you to specify the maximum distance between
anti-crack bars at the near side faces of the beam.

Degree of upper/lower end column fixity for subframe
analysis.

Stirrup check for compression bar buckling.

Most critical live load reaction mode: Enabling this option
allows the program to determine the most critical load
combinations by applying pattern loading on the beam.
Disable this option allows the beam to be fully loaded with
one loading condition of 1.4G + 1.6Q. This option is defined
in BS 8110 : Part 1: 1985 and 1997 Clause 3.2.1.2.2.

Design moment at column face: This option allows the
program to design beam based on design moment at column
face instead of the support.

Design shear at column face: Enable this option allows the
program to design beam based on design shear force at
column face instead of the support.

Automatic deflection control by increasing compression
bar: With this option, the program automatically increases
the compression bar until the deflection control governs.
With additional reinforcement area provided, the
compression modification factor increases. This enhances the
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allowable span/depth ratio. Additional reinforcement area
provided are shown in the beam result. The compression
reinforcement area allowable is up to 2% of the gross cross-
section area of the concrete. The program displays warning if
compression reinforcement area required more than 2% of
the concrete area for deflection control.

Support moment redistribution: Checking this box allows
the program to apply moment redistribution to the beam
analysis. This option here overwrites the same setting in
Project Design Parameters.


Figure 6.26: Requirement of Code of Practice parameters
Parameter Settings
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Beam Default Modes

In this form you can modify the following options:

T-beam generation modes

Support mark mode

Span mark model


Figure 6.27: Beam Default Modes
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Plan Slab Settings
Plan Slab

This is the section where you can set the slab design and detailing
parameters. Click on Plan Design and Detailing Parameters
command > Plan Slab folder to brings up the form. In this form, you
can select the following options:

Center to center spacing

Minimum spacing: The minimum allowable distance
between bars

Maximum between main bar: Maximum allowable
distance between bars

Maximum between distribution bar: Maximum allowable
distance between longitudinal bars

Automatic bar selection (mm)

Minimum bar: Setting this value allows the program to
determine the minimum bar size to be used in the slab section
design.

Maximum bar: Setting this value allows the program to
determine the maximum bar size to be used in the slab
section design.

Characteristics strength (N/mm2)

Concrete: Specify the slab concrete characteristic strength
for the section design.

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Reinforcement bar: Specify the characteristic strength of
the reinforcement bar.

Design options

BRC slab: Enabling this option adopts BRC reinforcement
type for slab.

Top BRCB: Checking this option adopts BRC rectangular
mesh type for top reinforcement. Uncheck this option alone
adopts BRC square mesh type reinforcement bar for the top
reinforcement layer.

Others

Steel percentage of reinforcement (%): Set this figure for
the minimum reinforcement provided in the pad footing. This
figure varies are according to the code of practice adopted.
By default the steel percentage of reinforcement bar is set to
1%.

Concrete cover to longitudinal bar (mm): Clear cover of
concrete from the slab face to the surface of the main steel
bar in mm.

Maximum drop for continuity over support (mm): This
option allows you to specify the maximum allowable drop
for the slabs between support to be continuous. Any value
greater than this will automatically considered to
discontinuous slabs at that support.

One-way slab moments increment (%): You can increase
the design moments for slabs that are determined as one-way.
By default this value is set to 15%.


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Figure 6.28: Plan Design and Detailing Parameters form
Parameter Settings
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Slab Detailing Parameters

You have the options to configure the slab details in this form.
Changes made in this form apply to the selected active floor only.
You must save every time you made changes for the configuration in
order to be effective. Refer to the figures 6.29 for the description of
the detailing parameters. Below are the options available in the Slab
Detailing Parameters form:

Ratio of top bar support bar curtailment as percentage of
span length (%): This option allows you determine the
length of the support bar curtailment based on the percentage
of the slab span length. Refer to BS8110 1985 Part 1: Figure
3.25 for further explanation.

Clear gap between section of detailing bar (mm): The
distance between each cut section of slabs.

Incremental dimension figures in bar curtailment (mm):
Setting this figure allows the program to increase or decrease
the next suitable bar curtailment length by this value.

Minimum anchorage length at discontinuous edge
support: This option allows you to set the minimum
anchorage length at the discontinuous edge support in
milimeter (mm). By default, the length is set to 600mm.

Position of span's dimension line: Specify the location of
the span's dimension from the pulldown list. You can select
th span dimension position on the top or bottom of the slab.

Underline slab mark for every span mode: Selecting this
option will underline every marking of the slab.

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Figure 6.29: Slab Detailing Parameters form



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7 Creating Gridlines
Drawing Gridlines

You can create the grid lines using the three following methods:

Grid input generator - Defining the grid line using grid
generator wizard.
Click grid and drag method - Graphical interface input in the
active window.
Table input - Editing and modify grid line properties.

The above methods are described in the later sections of this chapter.
The table below describes the function of each icon in the Input
Grid command:

Command Icon Description

Batch grids input

Multiple gridline input
generator

Increase indent

Shift grid mark to right or down

Decrease indent

Shift grid mark to left or up

Grid count

Displays number of gridlines in
the layout

Cumulative grid distance

Displays distance of gridline
from the initial position.

All dimensions are in millimeters,mm.
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Click grid and drag method

This function enables you to create grid lines by using the graphical
interface. To create a grid, point the mouse cursor on the previous
grid line. Note that the cursor will change to a cross once the cursor
is pointed to the grid line as shown in figure 7.1(a). Click on the grid
line to select, drag the grid line to the next grid location and left click
once to create shown in figure 7.1(b) below. Each dimension
increment is by +/- 100mm. To adjust dimension by +/- 10mm, press
UP arrow to increase and DOWN arrow to decrease the dimension.
For increment of +/- 1mm, hold CTRL key and press UP/DOWN
arrow keys. To cancel the grid selection, right click once or press the
ESC key.


a) Cursor changed to cross when at gridline


b) Extending the grid line dimension
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Figure 7.1 : Example of creating gridline

You can create grid line from any reference grids in the same
direction. You can rename the grid to your preference by clicking
twice on the grid label and type in the grid mark. You can also
modify the dimension of the grid by clicking twice on the dimension
label at the bottom grid and type in the new dimension.

Note : If you want to edit the dimension of the major gridline
with minor gridlines in between, you have decrease the indent of the
minor gridlines before editing the dimension. The new dimension
specified actually begins on the previous gridline. The program
cannot differentiate between major and minor gridlines.

For example, you have gridlines labeled A, A1 and B. Grids A1 and
B are located 1000mm and 4500mm respectively from grid A. Grid
A1 is a minor gridline. Refer to figure 7.2 to 7.5 for further
information. You want to change the dimension of Grid B 5500mm
from Grid A. Double click on the dimension at the bottom grid and
specify 4500mm. This is because the dimension of Grid B begins
from grid A1 and not from grid A. If you modify Grid B dimension
to 5500mm, the final dimension of Grid B from Grid A is actually
6500mm from Grid A.



Figure 7.2: Original position of Grid B 4500mm from Grid A

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Figure 7.3: Grid B dimension edited as 5500mm and displayed as 6500mm
instead of 5500mm


Figure 7.4: 5500mm actually begins at Grid A1 instead of Grid A.


Figure 7.5: To achieve Grid B 5500mm from Grid A, the dimension should be
input as 4500mm instead of 5500mm

If you create a new gridline to the left direction from the initial
gridline, the program will name the new gridline based on the last
defined gridline. You have to change the grid mark manually in table
properties if you prefer another grid mark label. For example, starting
y-direction grid line mark is labelled as A and the last gridline you
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have defined is labelled as E. If you create a new gridline to the left
from grid mark A, the grid mark will be label as F.

Tips : Create major grids first and add the minor grids later.
This creates a regular naming to the labels of the grid lines.

Note : The distance between 2 grids must be more than 300mm.
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Using grid generator

Clicking Batch X Grid Input button brings up the multiple grid input
form as shown in figure below where you can specify the number of
grids of your choice. All dimensions are in millimeters,mm.


Figure 7.6: Multiple Grid Input

To enter multiple grids with different dimensions, specify the grid
dimensions followed by the comma. This will generate the grids
based on your specified input.

If the grids are symmetrical, input the dimension followed by 'x' and
the number of grids you which to input. The program will duplicate
the dimension to the proceeding number of grids defined.

You can also use the combination of the above methods to create the
grids.

For example suppose you have 3 grid lines with dimensions of
3500mm,4500mm and 6000mm respectively in the x-direction. Thus
input 3500,4500,6000 in the x-direction grid form. You have 10 grid
lines with dimensions of 4500mm respectively in the y-direction.
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Input the 4500x10 in the y-direction grid form. This will generate 10
grid lines with dimensions of 4500mm for each grid.

Note : You cannot input negative value for the grid dimensions.
This is not a valid input to the program.
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Table input

You can edit the existing grid properties by using the general
properties as shown in figure below when the input grid is activated.


Figure 7.7: Grid Properties Table

The General Properties allows you to modified the following:

Rename grid mark allows you to replace the existing grid mark. You
cannot have multiple gridlines with the same grid mark.

Modified the distance of the specified grid. You can input the
gridline distance with a minimum of 300mm (0.3m) to maximum of
100000mm (100m). Negative values are not allowed in this
component.

Rotate the grid in degree. Positive degree denotes clockwise rotation
and negative degree denotes anticlockwise rotation. The rotation
point is situated at the bottom of y-direction. Note that the slanted
grid cannot intersect with other gridline.

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Selection of cut slab section for detailing view. You can only define
the cut slab section with numerical values.

Hide internal grid allows you to disable the gridline in the key plan.

Defining a cut slab section

Click on the grid mark on the graphic interface and the grid mark will
be highlighted. Specify the slab cut section number on the table input
and left click once or press enter to create the cut section. The slab
cut section is displayed on the plan layout. You can view the slab cut
section only after you have designed the slabs. Click on the slab cut
section number to view the section. You are only allowed to name
the slab cut section with numbers.


Figure 7.8: Slab Cut Section



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8 Creating Beams
Click and drag method

Input beam dimension in the table properties. To create beam, move
the mouse cursor to the grid intersection where the beam starts. Point
to the intersection and beam icon and green box will appear. Click
once on the grid intersection to select the starting point of the beam.
You can see the beam outline when you drag the mouse to extend the
beam. Click on the grid intersection where the end point of the beam
is located.


Figure 8.1: Starting point of beam

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Figure 8.2: Created beam
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Beam generator wizard

You can generate beams in each direction using the beam generator
wizard . Selecting this command generates beams to all the
grids in the respective direction automatically. Generated beams have
the same properties such as size and drop. You can edit each
individual beams using the table properties.

For example, to generate beams on the x-direction gridlines, input the
general beam dimension say 230x450 in table properties located on
the right side of the window. After you have input the beam
properties, click x-dir beam generator command. Beams of
230x450 within the x-direction gridlines will be created.

Note : All previous beams created will be overwrite and replaced
with the generated beams.

Tips: This feature is useful if you have many similar beam sizes in
the plan layout. It is faster and easier to generate beams and
then make changes on the individual beams later.
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Beam Table Properties

In this table properties, you can modify the concrete section, offset
and drop of the beam. Click on the Input Beam icon, to activate the
table properties. Before creating a beam, specify the beam properties.
Left click once to accept changes made. Now create beam using the
methods discussed under topic "Click and Drag Method" and
"Beam Generator Wizard".

You can also modify the beam properties after you have created the
beam. Click on the beam and the current beam properties will be
displayed in the table properties. Specify the new properties of the
selected beam and left click once to amend changes.


Figure 8.3: Beam Properties table
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Input Beam Load
Point load

You can create point load at any point on the beam. The Point Load
command creates a point load on the beam. Clicking the point
load command brings up the load magnitude table on the right side of
the window. In the table, you can input dead load and live load or the
combination of both. The unit for the point load is kiloNewton (kN).

Move the mouse onto the beam you which to add point load and the
cursor changes into an icon. Click on the mouse left button once to
select the beam and the cursor will lock the selected beam. Move the
cursor to the right to specify the position of the point load. Click once
on the mouse left button to create the point load. Once selected, by
default a red dot for the point load will appears on the beam. The
point load position always offsets from the left or bottom of the
gridline.

For example, you have a beam on grid A, B and C spanning 3000mm,
4000mm respectively. You create a point load on the beam, 5000mm
from grid A. Move the cursor towards 5000mm, upon passing
3000mm, the distance begins at the second span from gridline B.
Clicking the mouse left button at 2000mm will give you 5000mm
from gridline A.


Figure 8.4: Moving cursor to the right of beam

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Figure 8.5: Distance starts at gridline B


Figure 8.6: Point load located at 5000mm from grid A

You can edit the created point load on the table properties. Click on
the point load on the beam, when selected the point load will change
from red to green color. To confirm changes made to the point load,
press ENTER or click the mouse left button once.
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Uniform Distributed Load

You can create uniform distributed load at any point on the beam.
Uniform distributed load is a load of constant magnitude applied
along a length of a beam or and area of a surface.

Click Input Beam UDL command brings up the load magnitude
table on the right side of the window. Input dead load and live load in
the specified form. The units for UDL is kiloNewton per meter
(kN/m). Move the cursor to the beam and the cursor changes to UDL
icon. Click on the beam once to lock on the selected beam. An active
box displays the position of the starting point of the UDL either
from the bottom or left of the grid. Move the cursor to select the
UDL starting position. To define the starting point of the UDL, move
the cursor to the specific distance and click once. The active box then
displays the distance for the UDL end point. To select the end point,
click on the left button once.

Note : Uniform Distributed Load, UDL always offsets from the
left or bottom of the grid.

For example, you have a two span beam separated by grid A, B and
C with 3000mm and 4000mm respectively . You want to create a 5
kN/m uniform distributed dead load starting from 2000mm and
ending at 4000mm from grid A. Select Input Beam UDL command
and define 5kN/m dead load in the table properties. On the selected
beam, move the cursor 2000mm from grid A and click once to define
the starting point. Move the cursor 1000mm from grid B to select the
ending point. Click on the left button once to select. Once created,
you can see the UDL magnitudes and positions of the UDL on the
key plan layout. By default, the UDL is indicated as red color hatch
on the key plan layout as shown in figure 3. You can change the
hatch color to your preferences, by selecting layer settings
command.

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Tips : To fully loaded the beam with UDL, hold SHIFT key
and left click on the beam.



Figure 8.7: Defining the starting point 2000mm from grid A..


Figure 8.8: Defining the ending point 1000mm from grid B.


Figure 8.9: Beam with UDL. Starting point is 2000mm from
grid A
while ending point is 1000mm from grid B.
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General Variable Load

You can create non uniformly distributed load such as trapezoidal
and triangular load using General Variable Load, GVL
command. To create general variable load, click GVL command
to activate the load magnitudes table. There are 4 entries in the load
magnitude section as shown in figure 8.10. The first dead and live
load start from the left or bottom of the grids while the second dead
and live load end the loads. You can modify any created loading
positions using the load position table.


Figure 8.10: Load Magnitude Table Input

Warning : You cannot leave load magnitude entries blank. This
generates an infinite value and will create error to the program. Set
the entry to zero instead of leaving it blank.

To create different type of loading patterns, you have to specify the
load magnitudes accordingly as shown in figure x. In the figure
below, X and Y represent the load magnitudes respectively and 0
represents zero/nil. Type 1 and 2 are triangular loads while type 3 and
4 are trapezoidal loads.

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Figure 8.11: Type of variable loadings

For example, you have 2 continuous span beams of 3000mm and
4000mm respectively marked by grid A, B and C. You want to create
a 2000mm triangular load, 4000mm from grid A. From left side, the
triangular dead load increases from 0 to 5 kN/m. Click on the GVL
command and input 0 and 5 in the first dead load and second dead
load entries respectively. Since there is no live load, input 0 to both
first and second live load entries.

Select the beam by clicking once and move the cursor 2000mm from
grid A. Click once to define the starting point of the triangular load.
Move the cursor 4000mm from grid A. Note that when the cursor
moves further than the beam spanning between grid A and grid B, the
dimension display resets and begins at grid B. Now move the cursor
1000mm from grid B and click once to set the load end point.

After creating the load, the load properties are displayed on the key
plan layout. DL and LL denote dead load and live load respectively
while SO and EO denote starting offset and ending offset
respectively.


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Figure 8.12: Defining the load starting point.



Figure 8.13: Defining the load ending point.



Figure 8.14: Triangular Load created.
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Connecting Beam

You can create a continuous beam with different sections and drop.
In order to create a continuous beam, create a set of individual beams
and join them together. Individual beams created will be assumed
simply supported. Select all the affected beams using window select
command and click on connect next beams to create a
single continuous beam. This will be indicated by the beam
connector sign shown as figure below.

For example, suppose you have two continuous span beams consist
of 230x600, 230x450 respectively. You have to create two individual
beams with the respective sizes. Press window select command
to select the beams. Point the cross cursor to the starting of the beam,
left click, hold and drag the cursor. Expand the window until the two
beams are in the window box. Release the mouse left button to select
the window area. The two selected beams will be highlighted. To
connect the two individual beams into one continuous beams, click
on connect next beams command. Now the two individual
beams are connected indicated by the beam connectors on the plan
layout.



Figure 8.15: Beam connector indicator
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Beam Offsets

You can offset the beam to flushes with the column. To offset a beam,
select the particular beam and specify the figure in the Position table
on the right of the window. Left click or press Enter to confirm the
changes made. The beam offset is based on the center of the gridline.
Input negative figure shifts the beam to the left/bottom of the gridline
and positive figure shifts the beam to the right/top of the gridline.

You can offset the beam using the offset wizard. These features can
automatically offset the beam to the left, right, top, bottom and center
of the grid. Figure below shows the description of each offset
commands.


Table 8.1: Beam offset commands

Beam to beam offset

When you offset the beam located perpendicular to a beam, the actual
position of the beam is updated to the perpendicular beam. For
example, you have two beam, primary beam GB1 and secondary
beam GB2. Primary beam GB1 spans 5000mm from Grid A to Grid
C. Secondary beam GB2 is positioned along Grid B. Grid B is
located 2500mm from Grid A. Secondary beam GB2 without offset,
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is 2500mm from Grid A as shown in figure 8.16. If you offset beam
GB2 100mm to the right of Grid B, the program automatically
recognizes GB2 position at 2600mm from Grid A as shown in figure
8.17.


Figure 8.16: GB2 offset 2500mm from Grid A


Figure 8.17: GB2 offset 2600mm from Grid A

Beam to column offset

This option allows you to offset beam from the column. If you have
beam offset from the column, the actual position of the beam is still
located at the center of the column. The program will not
incorporates the offset eccentricity to the column analysis. This beam
to column offset function is merely for graphical purposes only.



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9 Creating Columns and Supports
Drawing column

To create column, click Input column command. Set the
column dimension in the Concrete Dimension table. Move the cursor
to the grid intersection. Upon the grid intersection, the cursor changes
to a column icon. Click on the grid intersection to create the column.

To change column size, select the created column and modify the
dimension in the Concrete Dimension table. Left click or press
ENTER to confirm changes.

To create circular column, specify the column diameter in X input
and set value of -1 in the Y input at the Concrete Dimension table.

To rotate column, click on the column and input the rotation angle of
the column. Positive degree denotes clockwise rotation and negative
degree denotes anticlockwise rotation.

To offset column, click on the column and specify the offset
coordinate. The column offset from the gridline intersection to the
centre of the column. The initial position of the offset (X=0,Y=0) is
at the grid intersection. Refer to the figure below for the coordinate
sign convention. For example, input offset x at -50mm and offset y at
75mm will translate the column position 50mm to the left and 75mm
to the top of the gridline intersection.

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Figure 9.1: Sign convention for offset coordinate

You can select upgrade end condition of the column. This end
condition refers to the K stiffness factor of the column-beam
relationship.

By default, columns bracing conditions are automatically determine
by the program. You can overwrite the column bracing condition by
checking the boxes on the respective bracing direction.

You can set the column sizes to match the beam sizes by selecting
the Fix column to beam size command. For example, the width for
x-direction and y-direction beams are 150mm and 230mm
respectively. Creating column at the beam intersection automatically
set the column size to 150x230 if this option is enabled.

Column Generator Wizard

You can generate columns using Generate Columns command. To
generate columns, specify the dimensions in Concrete Dimension
table. Left click Generate Columns to create columns at grids
intersection. All the columns generated using this command have the
same properties.

Note : Using column generator command will overwrites the
existing column defined in the key plan.
Creating Columns and Supports
9-141
Defining Support Conditions

You have to define support condition when you have primary beam
supporting secondary beam. The support conditions are indicated by
arrows. The beam is defined as primary beam if it is parallel to the
direction of the arrow. To insert a support, click on Input Column
command. Point the cursor near the beam intersection. If primary
beam is located at X-direction, move the cursor along the x-direction
grid near the beams intersection until an arrow parallel to the beam
appears. Similarly for Y-direction primary beam, move the cursor
along the grid direction until an arrow parallel to the beam appears.
Hold on to the arrow icon position and left click to inset support.

You can create column at the beam intersection and modify the
column to become a support. Left click to add column to the beam
intersection. Select the column again and click on the support
conditions icon on the Concrete Dimension table as shown in figure
9.2. See example in figure 9.3 for the support conditions
interpretation.

Note : You can check whether all beams support have been
defined by selecting Verification menu > Check Plan Integrity.
Undefined support condition on beam intersections generates
warning in the plan integrity checking.


Figure 9.2: Support condition definitions

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Figure 9.3: Beams Layout


Table 9.1: Beams Support Condition

If two or more beams are not connected, you cannot define a support
at the intersection of two individual beams. In order to define a
support at that intersection, the two individual beams have to be
connected. Refer to Chapter Creating Beams > Connecting Beams
for further information.

If you have beam that offsets out of the column, supports are not
required as the beam are considered to be supported by the column.
The beam offset on column is for graphical representation only. Refer
to Chapter Creating Beams > Beam Offsets for more explanations.
Creating Columns and Supports
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Column Offset

Position table located on the right side of the window allows you to
offset column to beam. To offset a beam, select the column and
modify the column properties in the Position table and left click to
confirm selection. The offset initial point starts from the center of the
gridline.

You can offset the column to beam using the wizard generator. This
feature can automatically offset column to the top, bottom, left, right
and center of the beam. Figure below shows the description of each
offset commands.


Table 9.2: Column offset commands



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10 Creating Slabs
Input Slab

Select Input Slab command to create rectangular slabs. This
command can only be use with defined beams and walls. You can
only create slabs using this command if the slabs are bounded by
beams or walls.

You can modify slab properties to the following items:

Thickness of the slabs in mm
Finishes such as flooring and plastering (Dead Load) (kN/m
2
)
Live Load (kN/m
2
)
Drop in slab (mm): Positive value denotes drop while negative value
denotes raise level.


Figure 10.1: Slab properties table

Click on Input Slab command and input the slab properties.
Move the cursor to the slab area you want to create. The cursor
changes to slab icon if the slab input for that particular area is valid.
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Left click to select the area. Slab mark and the properties of the slab
are displayed on the slab. This input is only valid if the slabs four
corner are bounded by beams or walls.

You can edit slab mark prefix to your preferences. By default, the
slab mark is assign as "FS". Use the command to bring up the
Slab Mark Prefix form. In this form, input the new prefix name and
click OK to confirm selection. The new slab mark prefix applies only
to the selected or current floor.

To rename each individual slab mark, double click on the slab mark
until the mark is highlighted. Modify the slab mark and left click to
confirm selection.

You can reorder the slab mark using the program automatic wizard.
The slab mark arrangement starts from left to right and bottom to top.
Click reorder slab mark command and the program will
automatically arranges the slabs mark.

Using Slab Wizard Generator

Clicking the Generate Slabs command generates slabs to all the
defined boundaries of beams and walls. Using this command
overwrites the existing slabs created. All slabs created using this
command have the same properties.

Tips: Generate floor slabs first and modify each individual slabs
later. For floor plan with many similar properties slabs, it is
faster and easier rather than creating slabs individually.
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Input User Defined Slabs

For Input Slab command, you can only create slabs that are
within the beams or walls boundaries. Selecting Input User Defined
Slab command allows you to create and customize rectangular
slabs at any gridline. You can also create cantilever slab using this
command. You have to create four gridlines where the slab is placed
on.

Click Input User Defined Slab button and move the cursor to the
first corner of the slab. Upon the first corner grid intersection, the
cursor changes to cross icon. Click once to define the first point.
Move the cursor to the second corner of the slab and click on the grid
intersection. You can see on display that the two corners selected are
joined by a line. Select the grid intersection either in clockwise or
counterclockwise direction. Proceed to the third and fourth corner to
complete the four intersections. This will form a customize
rectangular slab.

For example, you want to create a 1000mm cantilever slab with
125mm in thickness. The slab will be placed on grid 5,6,C1 and C2
as shown in figure XXX. Click on Input User Defined Slab
command and specify the properties. Move the cursor to grid 6/C1,
on the intersection the cursor changes to cross icon. Click once to
define grid 6/C1 as the first corner of the slab. Now click on grid
5/C1 to define the second corner. The two corners are joined by a line.
Proceed to grid 5/C2 and grid 6/C2 to complete the slab. Once the
slab has been created, you can see the properties displayed on the
window.

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Figure 10.2: First corner of cantilever slab


Figure 10.3: Cantilever Slab
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Input Slab Load
Input Slab Line Load

Use Input Line Load command to define linear load such as wall.
Click Input Line Load command to activate the load magnitude
table. The position of the line load input is based on coordinate
system. The initial coordinate (X,Y=0,0) is located at lower left
center of the gridline or beam. Left click to select the slab and the
slab icon changes to "x1" icon. Specify the starting point of the line
load x1, y1 by moving the cursor and then left click to confirm. Then
specify the end point of the line load x2,y2. You can modify the line
load coordinates using the input table on the right side of the window.
Right click to cancel input line load at anytime.



Figure 10.4: Coordinate system

Warning : Internal line load must be defined at least 300mm from
the slab edge.

Tips: Convert the 300mm missing load line load to equivalent
point load acting to the beam.

Note : If the slab is supported by the beam with offset, the initial
coordinate is located at the center of the beam instead of the center of
the gridline.
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For example, you want to create a 1500mm line load on a 4500mm x
4500mm slab. The starting point and ending point are (2000,1000)
and (3500,1000) respectively. Click on the Input Line Load
command and select the slab. To specify the starting point, drag the
cursor to X-direction of 2000mm and then Y-direction of 1000mm
from the lower left center of the slab. Then drag the cursor to X-
direction of 3500mm and Y-direction of 1000mm for the ending
point. This will create a line load as shown in figure below.



Figure 10.5: Example of line load position
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Input Slab Point load

You can create point load acting on the slab by clicking on the Point
Load command. This will activate the load magnitude table. The
point load position on the slab is based on the coordinate system. The
base point (X,Y = 0,0) is located at the lower left center of the
gridline or beam. Left click to select the slab and the slab icon
changes to "x1" icon. Specify the coordinate of the point load (x1,y1)
by moving the cursor and left click to confirm. You can modify the
point load properties using the input table on the right side of the
window. To cancel the input, click on right mouse button.


Figure 10.6: Coordinate system

Warning : Internal point load must be defined at least 300mm from
the slab edge.

Tips: Convert the 300mm missing load line load to equivalent
point load acting to the beam.

Note : If the slab is supported by the beam with offset, the initial
coordinate is located at the center of the beam instead of the center of
the gridline.

For example, you want to create a point on a 4500mm x 4500mm
slab. The coordinate of the point load is (2000,800). Click on the
Input Point Load command and select the slab. Drag the cursor to
X-direction of 2000mm and then Y-direction of 800mm from the
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lower left center of the slab. To confirm coordinate, left click once.
This will create point load as shown in figure below.


Figure 10.7: Example of point load position
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Input Cantilever Slab Edge Line Load

You can input edge load on the cantilever slab. Use Cantilever Edge
Line Load command to create edge line load. This will activate
the load magnitude table. Specify the load magnitude in kN/m and
click on the slab. At the selected cantilever slab, click on the edge
where the line load is located. You cannot specify the starting and
ending point of the edge line load. The program applies the line load
throughout the selected edge. You can modify the edge line load
magnitude using the table located at the right side of the window.

For example, you want to apply brickwall load of 4kN/m on the 1m
cantilever slab. Click on the Cantilever Edge Line Load
command and specify 4 kN/m in the dead load form. Select the
cantilever slab and click once on the slab edge. This will create edge
line load on the cantilever slab. In the window, dead load and live
load are identified as DL and LL respectively.



Figure 10.8: Cantilever Edge Line Load



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11 Creating Liftcore
Input Lift Core

Use Input Lift Core command to define liftcore and shearwall.
The command brings up the wall properties form. In this form, you
can set the following options:

Dimensions (mm): You can specify the wall thickness of the wall.
The measurement unit for the wall is in millimeter (mm)

Position (mm): You can offset the wall from the center of the
gridline. Positive figure offsets the wall to top or right of the gridline
and negative figure denotes offset to bottom or left of the gridline.

BRC setting: You have the options of selecting the type of steel
reinforcement for the wall. You can either select BRC or non-BRC
steel reinforcement.

Rebar layer: You have the options of selecting single or double
layer of steel reinforcement for the wall.

Apply to other floors: You can copy the wall properties to other
floors. Clicking this button overwrites wall properties from top and
bottom floors to this setting.

To create wall, click on Input Lift Core command. Specify the wall
dimensions at the Dimension (mm) table. Move the cursor to the
grid intersection of the wall starting point. When a square box
appears on the grid intersection, left click once to select that point.
Right click once to cancel at anytime. Then move the cursor to the
wall ending point. You can see the outline of the wall while moving
your cursor. Left click once to define the wall.

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Point Load : You can input point load on the wall. Specify the
point load in the load magnitude table. Left click once to select the
wall. The active dimension appears when you move the cursor. The
reference point of the load is based on the left or bottom of the
gridlines. Move the cursor to the load position and left click once to
apply the load.

Liftcore properties : In this command, you can modify overall
height of the walls, liftpit depth and the wall mark. Left click on the
wall to display the wall properties. To edit the wall height, specify
the beginning and ending floors of the wall.

Align wall to grid line: You can offset the column using the offset
wizard. These features can automatically offset the column to the left,
right, top, bottom and center of the grid. Figure below shows the
description of each offset commands.


Table 11.1: Offset wall alignment command
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Create Wall Opening

This command allows you to create opening on the wall. Click on the
Create Wall Opening command and point the cursor to the wall.
Left click once on the wall after the cursor changes to "WO" icon.
The elevation view of the selected wall will appears on the window.

On the properties table, specify the wall opening dimensions. Click
once on the wall and the opening appears on the wall. To cancel at
anytime, click the right button. The reference point of the wall
opening is located at the bottom left corner of the wall. Move the
wall opening to the position you want to place and click once to
confirm.

You can also modify the position after you have created the wall
opening using the properties table. Close the window to return to the
keyplan layout by clicking the cross button on the top right corner of
the window.

For example, you want to create a 1200mm x 2200mm opening on
the 4230mm x 3000mm wall. Use Create Wall Opening command
and click on the wall. The wall elevation appears on the window.
Specify the width and the height of the opening and left click on the
wall. The opening layout appears on the wall. To position the
opening at the bottom center of the wall, move the cursor until the X
and Y coordinates are set to 1515mm and 0mm respectively. Left
click to confirm the coordinate of the opening. Alternatively, set the
opening to any point of the wall, click on the opening again and
modify the X and Y coordinates to the exact location.

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Figure 11.1: Active layout of wall opening


Figure 11.2: Created wall opening

Alternatively, you can use the alignment wizard to set the wall
opening position. Refer to the Table 11.2 for the description of each
alignment command.


Table 11.2 : Description of lift alignment icon

Apply to all floor: This button allows you to duplicate the wall
opening to other floors. Click on the button brings up the Wall
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Opening Assignment form. Select the floors you want to duplicate
and click OK to confirm selection.



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12 Running Analysis
Generate slab mesh

Clicking the Generate Slab Mesh command activates a dialog
that controls the mesh generation settings. In this dialog you can
specify the maximum mesh size and the mesh type. By default, the
mesh size is set to 1000mm. The accuracy of your results increases
with smaller mesh sizes as more unknown displacements are
involved. However smaller mesh sizes take longer to analyze due to
more equations involved. This requires more resources from your
computer.

In the dialog, you can also select the type of mesh you want to adopt
in your analysis. You can select either triangular, mixed or
quadrilateral mesh in your slab mesh generation. Click OK to
generate slab mesh.

Slab Internal Column Model Options

You can set the number of nodes available at the column during mesh
generation. Check on either model as single node at the column
center or model as 8 nodes along the column edges. Selecting model
as 8 nodes along the column edges option provides nodes at the
column edges and middle column faces. The program automatically
applies the additional nodes to the column supporting slabs only.

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Figure 12.1: Mesh Properties Dialog
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Analyze FEM slab

Click on the Analyze FEM slab command to run slab analysis. In
this command, the program analyze the slabs based from the
generated mesh using Finite Element Method (FEM). You have the
option to analyze the slab as plate or shell. It is recommended that
you analyze the slab as plate.

From the post-analysis, you can view the following components as
below:

Show mesh : Displays generated slabs mesh from
previous Generate Mesh command.

Toggle mesh node number : Selecting this option
displays all the slabs mesh nodes.

Display nodal values : This option shows the node
values based on the current result selection.

Plot contour for x-direction moment : The program
plot contours for slabs x-direction moment. Contour changes
from light to darker colour denote increasing moment from
negative to positive value.

Plot contour for y-direction moment : The program
plot contours for slabs y-direction moment. Contour changes
from light to darker colour denote increasing moment from
negative to positive value.

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Plot contour for displacement : This option displays
the displacement contour of the slabs. Contour changes from
light to darker colour denote incremental in displacement.

Plot contour for x-direction bottom stress

Plot contour for y-direction bottom stress

Plot contour for x-direction top stress

Plot contour for y-direction top stress

Draw x-direction top steel area contour : This is the
required area of reinforcement based on x-direction moment.

Draw y-direction top steel area contour : This is the
required area of reinforcement based on y-direction hogging
moment.

Draw x-direction bottom steel area contour : This is
the required area of reinforcement based on x-direction
sagging moment.

Draw y-direction bottom steel area contour : This is
the required area of reinforcement based on y-direction
sagging moment.

Display contour as line : This option enables results for
the floor slabs to be displayed as line contour.

Open slab analysis textual result : In this area, you can
view the slabs moments and shear forces, slab loadings
assignment to the beams.
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Slab line node assignment verification : Selecting this
option allows you to view the converted user input line loads
into point loads assigned on the slabs.

Cut section to display moment : This option allows you
to view slab moment at defined cut section. To define a cut a
cut section, click on Cut Section icon to activate this
command. Then click on the nearest gridline to the cut
section position and move the cursor to the cut section
position. Click once to create a cut section.
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Design slabs

Clicking Design slabs command activates a menu that control the
slab design parameters. In this menu, you can specify the concrete
and steel characteristic strength, type of reinforcement, concrete
cover and bar spacing. Refer to Chapter 6 Parameter Settings for
the explanation of each parameter. Click on detailing parameters
button brings up a form to set the slab detailing properties. Click on
Save & Exit button to run design slabs or Cancel button to exit
without running.

Slab Design Results

Brief Calculation : Summary of the design calculation which
includes slab properties, design moment, area of reinforcement
required, reinforcement provided and deflection check.

Detailed Calculation : Displays detail design calculation which
includes slab properties, design moment, area of reinforcement
required, reinforcement provided and deflection check.

Quantity measurement : Displays the cost and quantity of
materials which include concrete volume, reinforcement tonnage,
formwork areas and the total cost for the slab of the selected active
floor.

Slab top bar reinforcement : Displays generated top
reinforcement bar on slab based on the design calculations. To save
the top reinforcement layout plan, click on Save as DXF
command.

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Slab bottom bar reinforcement : Displays generated bottom
reinforcement bar on slab based on the design calculations. To save
the bottom reinforcement layout plan, click on Save as DXF
command.

Save all slab cut section into single DXF file : Click on this
button to save all the slab cut section into a file.

Display slab failure report : In the post-analysis, if any slab
failure, the program displays the slab failure report. You can view the
report again by clicking this button. This button is not available if
there is no slab failure found.
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Analyze beam

This command will only be available if you have structure model
that requires 3D analysis. This process performs preliminary
checking for the beams. It involves distribution of loading from slabs
and secondary beams to the beams. This process checks beams for
bending, shear and deflection based on continuous beam method or
subframe analysis. If you have a 2D model, this command will be
disabled as you can analyze and design beam using Beam Design
command.

To run beam analysis, click Analyze beams command. This
brings up Plan Beam form for which you can specify the design and
detailing parameters.

Slab loading transfer option

In this option, you can select to type of loadings assignment to the
beams. You can either choose point loads from FEM slabs,
conventional slab load assignment or combination of both. If you
have any slab that requires FEM analysis, the conventional slab loads
assignment only will be disable. However you have the options of
selecting the combination of point loads from FEM slabs and
conventional slabs or only point loads from all slabs derived from
FEM analysis.

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Figure 12.2.: Beam Analysis Loading Options

Beam Analysis Results
After the analysis, you can click on each individual beam. Clicking
on the each individual beam allows you to display the following area:

i) Loading: This will displays the loading assigned to the beam
including beam self weight.

ii) Calculation: Displays the load assignments and summary of
preliminary beam results.

iii) Checking: Detailed beams checking.

Plan Load Summation Report: This report displays the summary of
beam's loading and reaction. The program checks for the distribution
of loading to the beam and from the beam to the support. If the
difference between dead load's loading and reaction load is almost
negligible, there is no missing load observed. The difference might
varies for live load due to pattern loading distribution on the beams.

Beam Failure Report: This report displays any beams that failed to
comply with the analysis. The failed beams will be highlighted in red
colour.
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Continuous Beam Method Design

By default, for two dimensional structure (2D); the program analyzes
the model using sub-frame analysis. You have the option of using
continuous beam method design instead of sub-frame analysis. To
switch to continuous beam method design for the current active plan
layout, click on Design and Detailing Parameters icon > Plan
Beam folder > Subframe Design Configuration button and a form
appears. Untick the box for "sub-frame design for beam". Notice that
the continuous beam design control factors option is now enabled.
The settings for this option will govern the continuous beam method
design.

Warning : Any value exceeding the design control factors
automatically switch the analysis method to sub-frame analysis. After
performing beam design, verification of the beam conditions based
on the control factors can be view in the brief calculation for
each individual beam.

Note : This setting is only applicable for the current active floor.
This option is not applicable for three dimensional (3D) structure as
the program automatically performs frame analysis.

Continuous Beam Design Control Factors

Beam span greater than (mm): If any beam span greater
than the span length specified here, the program
automatically switch to sub-frame analysis. By default the
value is set to 6500mm.
No. of floors above greater than: You can specify the
number of floor allowable for the continuous beam method.
Number of floors greater than the value specified here will
automatically switch to sub-frame analysis.
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Relative column/beam stiffness greater than: The program
checks for the relative stiffness of column/beam before
adopting continuous beam method. If the stiffness greater
than the value specified will automatically revert to sub-
frame analysis. By default, the ratio is set to 0.5
Adjacent span length difference greater than(%): With
the variation of length difference greater than the value
specified here, the program adopts sub-frame analysis design.
Differential fixed end moment percentage greater
than(%): The program detects any differential fixed end
moment between and within span greater than this value,
switches to sub-frame analysis.
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Design beam

Selecting Design Beam command performs design, assigns
reinforcement and details beams for the selected active floor. Click
on Design Beam command brings up a form, which you can specify
the beam analysis and design parameters. Refer to Chapter 6
Parameters Setting > Plan Design and Detailing Parameters >
Plan Beam for explanations of each items. The parameters changed
here overwrites the previous settings and design is based on these
settings. Click Save & Exit button to accept changes. This brings up
Beam Analysis form that allows you to specify the slab loading
transfer method to the beam.

Quantity Measurement : Here you can view the quantity take-
off for the beam concrete, steel and formwork of the selected floor.
The price per unit is determined from the parameters specified in
Project Design and Detailing Parameters command > Project
Quantity Parameters form.

Save all to single DXF file : Selecting this option will combine
and save all your selected beam details into a single file.

Summation Load : This report displays the summary of beam's
loading and reaction. The program checks for the distribution of
loading to the beam and from the beam to the support. If the
difference between dead load's loading and reaction load is almost
negligible, there is no missing load observed. The difference might
varies for live load due to pattern loading distribution on the beams.

Unstable Beam: Displays any unstable beam highlighted in red.

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Beam Failure : This report shows the beam failure and the
description of the failure. This option will be disable if there is no
beam failure detected.

Beam Results

Click on the beam on the floor plan layout to view the beam design
results. You can view the beam details, loading, moment and shear
force diagram, calculation and beam check. Following is the
description of each these items.

Beam details: The program automatically generates beam
reinforcement based on the calculations.

Loading: Diagram of loads distribution to the beam is plotted.

Moment and Shear Force diagram: Selecting this option displays
the moment and shear force envelopes diagram. You can adjust the
text values sizes by setting the zoom percentage.

Calculation: You can view the beam design summary that includes
beam properties, loading, moment, shear force and reinforcement
provided.

Check: You can view the detail beam design calculation in this
section. The calculation complies with BS8110:1985 Part 1. You can
open the calculation report outside of EsteemPlus under *.001 file
type.

Beam Details Display Option

You can view a particular beam by selecting the beam from the
pulldown list. Click on the arrow button and select beam you want to
view. In the beam detailing, you can control the layers of the beam
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detailing to your preferences. The following items that you can
control are:

Cut one section for every span : Selecting this option creates
one cut section in every span

Cut three section for every span : Selecting this option creates
three cut section in every span. If you enabled this option, the above
layer will be disabled.

Show beam front shadow : Selecting this icon allows you to
display the section of the front crossing beam.

Show beam back shadow : Clicking on this icon displays the
section of the back crossing beam. This beam section will be shown
as dashed line.

Show concrete profile : This option allows you to disable/enable
the concrete layer. This includes the beam, slab and column profiles.

Show main bar : This option displays the top and bottom main
reinforcement bars.

Show link detailing : This option allows you to turn on/off the
shear link reinforcement layer with this icon.

Show beam span's dimension line : This option allows you to
disable/enable the span's dimension.

Show grid mark : This option displays the grid marks.

Show span mark : This option displays the span mark of the
beam. Disabling it, reverts the span mark to the actual position of the
beam.
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Figure 12.3: Span mark enabled


Figure 12.4: Span mark disabled

Show beam reaction : You have the option of enable/disable the
beam reactions.

Single beam mark : By default, beam mark will be shown on
each span. Enabling this option will only display one single mark for
the entire beam.

Go to next beam : Proceed to view next beam.

Go to previous beam : Return to previously viewed beam.


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Figure 12.5: Pulldown list


Figure 12.6: Beam detailing description

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Batch process

Click on Batch Process command brings up a form that allows
you to select the elements you want to perform analysis to all the
floors simultaneously. In this form, you have the options of running
slab analysis, slab design, beam analysis and beam design. Check on
the box to select the analysis and click on the Options button to
specify the analysis parameters.

Analysis option

Slab Analysis
Slab Design
Beam Analysis
Beam Design

Note : If you check on overwrite existing valid slab design
result check box and accept option by click OK button, previous
results will be overwrite.


Figure 12.7: Batch analysis options
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3D analysis

Click the Analyze button to bring up the 3-D analysis option form.
You can choose to perform analysis with pin or fixed foundation. It is
recommended that you select pin foundation for your analysis.

Warning : If you unchecked the check box, the program assumes
fixed foundation for the structure. Pad and pile footing design will
not be applicable if you assume this condition. The footing design do
not check for moment at this moment.

3D Analysis Results

After analysis, you can view the behaviour of the structure based on
the selected load combination. Click on Click to View button to
generate the deflection based on this load combination. You can
choose the type of data you want to be displayed in the textual output.
Before you generate the model, click on the ticked box to exclude the
data in the output.
Once you click on Click to View, the output report will be displayed.
You can open this file with Word document. To find a particular
output result, press CTRL + F to bring up the search dialog.

You can create a new load factor combination to your preferences.
Click on the load factor column and specify the value for each factor.
Click on Click to View button for the user-defined load combination
to view the results. The selected load factor combination will be
highlighted in yellow colour.


Figure 12.8: Load combination table

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Notional load results : This program automatically considers
notional load into the analysis. To view the notional load results,
click on Notional load textual results button.

2D view: You can view the structural behaviour in plane view. Click
on Open 2D View button to display the structure in plane form.
In this view, you can select X-Y view (plan view), X-Z view
and Y-Z view . From the pulldown list, you can choose to view
the plane frame from the selected gridline.

Show deflection : You can choose to disable or enable the
deflection of the structure using this option.

Show original element : You can disable the original element
when the deflection model is enabled. The program automatically
show the original element if the deflection model is disabled.

Animate deflection : Click on this button animates the deflection
of the model based on the selected load combination.


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3D Frame Element

Click the 3D Frame Element icon brings up Mesh Generation
form. Click OK button to generate the frame elements. The following
items describe each of the areas on this form.

Lift Core Mesh Size: This option allows you to specify the
maximum and minimum mesh size for the liftcore and shear
wall. The smaller the mesh sizes defined, the more precise
the results is. However this will also take up more of the
computer resources and might affect the overall performance.

Slab Diaphragm Mesh Size: If only Project Design
Parameters > 3-D Analysis option > Slab Diaphragm
Effect check box is checked, you can specify the slab mesh
size. Otherwise this option will be disabled. lab diaphragm
effect: Selecting this option considers the slab effect into the
frame analysis. The lateral loads acting on the structure will
be transfer horizontally throughout the floor slab to the main
lateral resisting element.

Mesh Types: You have the option to select the type of
meshes to use in the analysis. It is recommended that you use
triangular mesh for the analysis.

Check project integrity: If this check box is checked, the
program automatically checks for the structure integrity
before generating frame element.

Gradient effect:


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Figure 12.9: Mesh Generation form
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Run column design

Click on the column command in the Project workspace to design
column. This brings up the column parameters form. Specify the
parameters setting and click OK button to perform columns design to
all floors.

Column Design Results:

Warning appears if column does not meet the design requirements.
When column design is completed, column schedules and elevation
view are displayed. You can save the column detailing as DXF
format by clicking on Save To DXF icon. Following are the
information that you can view:

Brief Calculation : Summary of the design calculation which
includes column properties, design moment, area of reinforcement
required, reinforcement provided and deflection check.

Detail Calculation : Displays detail design calculation which
includes columnb properties, design moment, area of reinforcement
required, reinforcement provided and deflection check.

Quantity Measurement : Displays the cost and quantity of
materials which include concrete volume, reinforcement tonnage,
formwork area and the total cost for the column of all the floors.

Sway Checking : Displays sway calculation for the
determination of column's bracing condition.

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Elevation View : You have the option of displaying the elevation
view on the screen. Disabling this option will not save the elevation
view in the DXF format.

Column Design Report : Displays the column end conditions
and percentage of live reduction adopted if any.
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Run wall

Clicking on the Wall command in the Project workspace brings up
the wall parameters form. Click OK button to perform wall design to
all floors.

Wall Design Results:

Warning appears if column does not meet the design requirements.
When column design is completed, column schedules and elevation
view are displayed. You can save the column detailing as DXF
format by clicking on Save To DXF icon. Following are the
information that you can view:


Toggle plan detail view : This option allows you to display the
plan view of the wall.

Toggle liftcore detail view : This option allows you to display
the elevation view of the wall.

Toggle liftcore slab cut section view : This option allows you to
display the cut section view of the wall.

Brief calculation : Summary of the design calculation which
includes wall properties, design moment, area of reinforcement
required, reinforcement provided and deflection check.

Detail calculation : Displays detail design calculation which
includes wall properties, design moment, area of reinforcement
required, reinforcement provided and deflection check.

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Quantity measurement : Displays the cost and quantity of
materials which include concrete volume, reinforcement tonnage,
formwork area and the total cost for the wall.

Sway checking: Displays sway calculation for the determination of
wall's bracing condition.

Elevation view: You have the option of displaying the elevation
view on the screen. Disabling this option will not save the elevation
view in the DXF format.

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Run pad footing design

Double click on pad footing command in the project workspace to
design pad footing. Pad footing parameter form will appears on the
screen. Specify the parameters and click on Save & Exit button to
run design. Refer to Chapter 6 Parameters Setting for information
on Pad Parameters Setting. You can save the pad footing detailing
in DXF format by clicking on Save To DXF icon.

Pad Footing Design Results

On the key plan layout, the service loads (kN) for each column are
displayed on the footing. Below are the following areas which you
can view:

Brief calculation : Summary of the design calculation which
includes footing properties, design moment, area of reinforcement
required and reinforcement provided.

Detail calculation : Displays detail design calculation of every
individual footings.

Quantity measurement : Displays the cost and quantity of
materials which include concrete volume, reinforcement tonnage,
formwork area and the total cost for the pad footing.

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Run pile foundation design

Double click on pile footing command in the project workspace to
design pile footing. Pad footing parameter form will appears on the
screen. Specify the parameters and click on Save & Exit button to
run design. Refer to Chapter 6 Parameters Setting for information
on Pad Parameters Setting. You can save the pad footing detailing
in DXF format by clicking on Save To DXF icon.

Multiple pile type selection

You can adopt multiple pile types in your pile footing design. You
can assign for each pile to carry the specific column loading. When
you press Save & Exit button in the Pile Footing Parameters Setting
form, Pile Type Configuration form will appears. The following is
the description of each items in this form:

Capacity (tonne): This is the allowable working load each
pile can carry.

Size (mm): Specify the size of the pile to be adopted in the
design.

Spacing (mm): You can specify the center to center spacing
between each pile.

Penetration (mm): Specify the distance measured from the
soffit of the pilecap to the end of the pile.

Thickness (mm):

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Edge (mm): This is the distance measured from the side of
the pile to the edge of the pilecap.

MinBarSize (mm): You can select the minimum
reinforcement bar size allowable in the design. This list is
derived from the Project Design Parameters.

MaxBarSize (mm): You can select the maximum
reinforcement bar size allowable in the design. This list is
derived from the Project Design Parameters.

Column Load (kN): Specify the total service load that the
pile can carry. The program assigns the pile type based on
this load. If the column load exceeding this value, the
program adopts the next pile type configuration. When the
actual column load exceeded the allowable column load, the
program adopts the pile size with the highest allowable
column load.


Figure 12.10: Pile Type Configuration settings

Pile Footing Design Results

On the key plan layout, the service loads (kN) for each column are
displayed on the footing. Below are the following areas which you
can view:

Brief calculation : Summary of the design calculation which
includes footing properties, design moment, area of reinforcement
required and reinforcement provided.

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Detail calculation : Displays detail design calculation of every
individual footings.

Quantity measurement : Displays the cost and quantity of
materials which include concrete volume, reinforcement tonnage,
formwork area and the total costing for the pile footing.



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13 Display Options
3D View

You can view your model in three dimensional view. Below is the
description of each elements shown in the 3-D view. Additionally
you can use the zoom functions to view the 3-D structure. For each
zoom functions, refer to View Tools under Tools chapter.


Figure 13.1: Description of element in 3D view

Rotate

This option allows you to rotate the model at any angle. To rotate the
model, click on the model and drag to the direction you want to view.

Orthographic projection

This allows you to change the perspective views into orthographic
views. The model appears to be projected from infinity on three
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planes perpendicular to each other giving you the true dimensions
representation.

Keep Scale


Fly

This option allows you to shift the 3D model to any position in the
screen. Click once on Fly icon, move the model to your
preference. To maintain at that position, right click once.

Change display layers

You have the option of modifying each layers properties. You can
change the layer color, hide layer and set layer transparency.
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Layer Settings

Click the Layer Settings command to bring up the form where
you can set the display colors for items in the model. You can
separately specify color for screen display and color output for
exporting drawing. In this layer settings form, you can specify the
layer name, DXF layer no., Screen Color and DXF color. The
following items describe the areas in that form:

Layer Name: Each layer name represents the item in the screen
display. Untick the box next to the layer name turns off the item in
the screen display.

DXF Layer No: This is the layer number for the drawing in DXF file
type. When you open the DXF file under CAD software, the layer is
labelled according to the number specified here.

Screen Color: This is the color selection applies to the item in the
screen display. The colour specified will not be exported to the DXF
file.

DXF color: This is the color selection applies to the line object and
fill color for the drawing in DXF file type.
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Search Element

Use the Search Type command to search element in the floor
plan layout. You can search beam, column, slab, wall and grid
intersection on the selected floor. To use the command, left click on
the Search Type command and select the element you want to search.
The pulldown list displays all the members of the selected element in
the layout. Click on the button and select the member from the list.
The selected member twinkles on the window. If you have enable
View menu > Zoom to Search Element command, the program
zooms in to the selected element. To disable the twinkling, left click
on Turn Off Search Box command.



Figure 13.2: Search element buttons


Figure 13.3: List of search element



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14 View Results
Textual Files

When you have run design for each element, you can view the output
text files associated with EsteemPlus. The result textual files can also
be accessed outside of this program. You can open the file using
Word related programs. The location of each files can be observed at
the header of each textual files. This path is only enabled if you
checked on the box under Project Design and Detailing
Parameters > Project General Parameters > Beam
calculation output files > Include full path of the calculation file.


Figure 14.1: An example of the location of beam result file

The following is the file extensions for respective elements that you
can accessed with Word program:

Beam
*.OO1 - Design calculation for most critical pattern loading
*.OOA - Design calculation for full loading
*.BQV - Quantity takeoff report

Slab
*.SCD - Detailed design calculation report
*.SIP - Design summary report
*.SQV - Quantity takeoff report

Column
*.CLN - Design summary report
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*.CCD - Detailed design calculation report
*.CRR - Design report
*.CQV - Quantity takeoff report

Wall
*.WLN - Design summary report
*.WCD - Detailed design calculation report
*.WQV - Quantity takeoff report

Pad footing
*.PCD - Pad footing design summary report
*.FTP - Pad footing detailed design calculation report
*.FQV - Quantity takeoff report

Pile footing
*.FTG - Pile footing design summary report
*.GCD - Pile footing detailed design calculation report
*.GQV - Quantity takeoff report

Note : If you modified the textual file in the existing location,
the data will be permanently edited until you rerun and
overwrite the existing design.
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Export Drawing as DXF file

You can export your drawing layouts and members details to CAD
programs in DXF format. This command is used to save your
drawings in the DXF folder created in the project working folder.

The drawing scales in the DXF imported files are determined by the
settings in the project detailing parameters. The selected items are
exported to the DXF files as lines. Text is exported to the DXF file as
text.

Save as construction drawing

Selecting this option will save the key plan layouts as construction
drawing. Detailing such as concrete sizing, dimensions, steel
reinforcement layout are shown in the output. Data that are
considered not relevant to construction drawings such as loading,
member color fills are not shown in the output.

Save what you see on screen

Selecting this option will save all the details of the layouts as on the
screen. This option allows you to customize the drawings before
transferring to DXF by controlling the detailing layer.


Figure 14.2: Saving Options form

Single DXF export
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Selecting this option will save your selected individual member only.

Group DXF export

Selecting this option will combine and save all your selected
members into a single file.




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15 Tutorials
Setting Parameter Template

Before creating a new project, specify the parameters to be adopted
in the design. You have the options of setting the parameters at the
start or during the project. If you specify the parameters in this
template, all the default parameters will be based on this template.

Click on File Menu > Setting Parameter Template command or
press CTRL-T shortcut to bring up all the project parameter
forms. In this case, specify the beam concrete characteristic strength
to 30 N/mm
2
for all the floors. Click on Plan Beam menu and change
the concrete characteristic strength value to 30 as shown in the figure
below. Click on Save & Exit button to apply changes to all the floors.

This applies concrete characteristic strength of 30 N/mm
2
to all floors.
Next time when you create a new project, beams for all floors adopt
to this value unless you change it otherwise.


Figure 15.1: Parameter templates
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Starting a new project

In this tutorial, we are going to show you on how to model a 3-storey
reinforced concrete structure. Start a new project by selecting File
menu > New Project command or click on Create A New
Document tool to bring up the project setting form.


Figure 15.2: Create a new project icon

Name the Project title, in this case the project is called tutorial.
Specify the location of the project in your computer. Since we have a
4-floor structure, select the number of key plan to 4. Click on Fill
Default button to automatically name the floor. In this case, name the
floors as below by clicking on each floor name in the floor name
column:

Ground Floor - GB
First Floor - 1F
Second Floor - 2F
Roof Floor - RF


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Figure 15.3: Create New Project Form

Tips : You can name your floor to your preferences but not
exceeding 4 characters. Click on the floor name and rename the floor.

Click OK to create project. The program creates a new project folder
at C:\EsteemPlus\. In the project folder, the program creates
individual subfolders for every floor respectively. Data input and
analysis results are stored in each of the individual folders. At the
window interface you can see the floor plan you have created in the
project workspace.


Figure 15.4: Floor plans in the project workspace
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Parameter Settings

Setting Floor height

For GB floor, specify the column (stump) height to 1500mm. Double
click on GB floor name at the project workspace to activate the floor.
Clicking Design and Detailing Parameters icon > Plan
command brings up the form. Change the column height to 1500 and
press Save & Exit button to continue. This change is only applicable
for GB floor.


Fig 15.5: Plan form

Note : Customizable parameter setting for each floor is only
applicable to the forms located in the Design and Detailing
Parameters only. All other settings are general parameters
applicable to the model structure.

Change steel reinforcement strength

You want to use main bar with steel characteristics strength of 410
N/mm
2
instead of 460 N/mm
2
. Click on the Project Parameters
icon > Project Design Parameters form and change the value to
410. Click Save & Exit to apply changes. Now in the project, all the
element designs will adopt the new steel characteristics strength.

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Fig 15.6: Project Design Parameters form
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Input Grid

Major Gridlines

Next we will create gridlines for GB floor. Double left click on GB
located at the project workspace to activate the GB floor. This will
bring up the graphic user interface. Click on Input Grid icon >
Batch Input Grids icon to create gridlines.

We have 5 major grid marks on the x-direction with dimension of
4000mm,4000mm,4000mm,4500mm,5000mm respectively. On the
y-direction, we have 4500mm,4500mm,4500mm,4500mm and
6000mm respectively.

In the Batch Input Grids form input 4000x3,4500,5000 for x-
direction grid and 4500x4,6000 for y-direction grid. Click OK to
generate gridlines. We have now created major gridlines for GB floor
plan as shown in figure 15.7.


Fig 15.7: Multiple Grid Input form

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Figure 15.8: Created gridlines

Minor Gridlines

Now we would like to add some minor gridlines to the plan. There
will be 2 cantilever slab at 1000mm right of Grid F located between
Grid 2-3 and Grid 4-5. To create additional gridline, move the cursor
to Gridline F and click once. Drag the cursor 1000mm from Grid F
and click once to create a new grid.

Add another gridline 2555mm from Grid 5. Click on Gridline 5 and
drag the cursor to 2500mm. Hold the mouse position. To increase
50mm, press the UP arrow key. To increase additional 5mm, while
holding CTRL key; press the UP arrow key. Click once to create the
new gridline.

Next to indent the grid, click on the grid mark and when the grid
mark colour changes to green, clickg on the Increase Indent
icon.

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Define slab cut section

To define slab cut section, click on Grid mark 2. When the grid
mark changes to green colour, specify the slab cut section number as
1 at the properties table. Left click once or press Enter key to define
the cut section. Create more slab cut sections 2 and 3 at Grid mark
B and Grid mark D respectively.


Figure 15.9: Final floor grid layout
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Insert Liftcore

To insert liftcore wall, click on the Input Liftcore icon. Specify
the wall thickness to 125mm at the table properties. To create wall at
Grid C/4-5, point the cursor to grid intersection C/4 and left click
once the green box appears. Then move the cursor to grid intersection
C/5 and noticed that an imaginary blue line appears to illustrates the
liftcore. Left click once to create the liftcore. Using the same method,
create liftcore walls at Grid 5/C-D ,D/4-5 and 4/C-D.


Figure 15.10: Created liftcore wall

Tips : To cancel an active command or actions, click on the
mouse right button. Use Undo to return to previous
command.
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Input Wall

To activate wall graphical interface, click on Input Liftcore icon.
Firstly, to create wall at Grid F/1-6, specify the wall thickness to
125mm at the table properties. Then, click on the grid intersection
F/1 to define the wall beginning point. Then drag the cursor to the
ending point at Grid F/6 and click once to create the wall.


Figure 15.11: Wall created at Grid F/1-6
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Input Beam

Click and Drag Method

Next we will create beams on the gridlines. Click on Input Beam
icon to activate beam input interface. At the concrete dimension table,
specify the width and depth of the beam to 230 and 600 respectively.
To create beam at x-direction, click on grid intersection 1/A and drag
the cursor to grid intersection 1/F. Point to the intersection and left
click once. Repeat this procedure to Grid 2/A-F, 3/A-F, 4/A-C, 4/D-F,
5/A-C and 5/D-F. Change the beam 3/A-F concrete section to
230x750. Select beam 3/A-F and at the table change the width and
depth to 230 and 750 respectively. Press Enter or left click once to
make changes.

Generate beams

At the table properties, change the size of beam to 230 x 600.
Generate the beams at y-direction by clicking on Generate Y-
direction beam icon. Notice that beams are created to all
gridlines at y-direction. Delete beam G/1-6 by selecting the beam and
click on the Cut icon. Alternatively, use Window Select icon,
click and hold the cursor at outside of the beam and drag the cursor
until the window covers the beams area. Press Delete key or click on
Cut icon to delete the highlighted beams.

Connecting beams

Create a secondary beam located at grid 5A/C-F. Beam 5A/C-F has
two different section 230x450 and 230x600. Create two individual
beam 5A/C-E (230x450) and beam 5A/E-F (230x600). To connect
these two beams, select the beams by using Window select icon.
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Once the selected beams are highlighted, click on Connect Next
Beam icon to connect the beams.


Figure 15.12: Created beams on plan layout


Figure 15.13: Connected beams sign indicator

Input Line Load on Beams

Click on Input UDL icon and at the Load Magnitude properties
table, specify 5 kN/m for the dead load. To apply line load on Beam
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1/A-F, hold SHIFT key and move cursor to the beam. When an icon
"audl" appears, click on the beam to apply full load on the beam.

For Beam B/1-6, create a 6 kN/m line load from grid B/2 to B/4.
Input the load in the load magnitude table and select the beam. Move
the cursor to grid intersection B/2 and click once to define the load
starting point. Next, to complete the line load, move the cursor to
grid intersection B/4 and click once.

Input Point Load on Beams

Click on Input Point Load icon and specify 10 kN live load at
the Load Magnitude properties table. Select Beam 3/A-F, move the
cursor to 2500mm from Grid 3/B and click once to create the point
load. Make sure that you click onto the beam and not near the grid
intersection to prevent selection on the wrong beam.


Figure 15.14: Line load on Beam B/1-6 and Point Load on Beam 3/A-F
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Insert Column

Generate Column Wizard

To create column, click on Insert Column icon to activate the
column graphical interface. Specify the column dimension x and y to
300 and 300 respectively. Make sure in the Input Options, "Fix
column to beam size" and "Input grid at intersection" boxes are
empty. Click on Generate Column icon to apply columns to all
beam intersections.

Create Individual Column

Click on column B/1 and click on cut icon to delete the column. To
input circular column, at the concrete dimension; specify x and y to
300 and -1 respectively. Now click on grid intersection B/1 to create
the circular column.

Alternatively click on the original column B/1. When the magneta
colour box appears, modify the concrete dimension x and y to 300
and -1 respectively and click once to make changes.

Define Beam Support

Delete all the columns along Beam 5a/C-F. To delete individual
column, select the column and click on Cut icon or press Delete
key. To delete columns, hold CTRL key and click on the columns.
Press Delete or click on Cut icon to delete the selected columns.

Beam 5a/C-F is a secondary beam supported by Beam C/5-6, Beam
D/5-6. Beam E/1-6 and Wall F/1-6. To define support, move the
cursor towards below of grid intersection 5a/C. When the arrow
appears, click once to create a support at the grid intersection. The
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beam parallel to the arrow direction represents primary/main beam.
Repeat the procedure above to column 5a/D.

Similarly, create a column at Grid intersection 5a/E. Select the
column again, click Create support at y-direction icon on
the properties table to change the column to support.


Figure 15.15: i) Column Layout
ii) Support at Grid 5A/C, 5A/D and 5A/E
iii) Circular column at Grid 1/B
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Input Slab

Generate Slab

To create slabs to plan layout, specify the slab dimension to 150mm
at common slab properties table. For finishes and live load, input 1
kN/m
2
and 1.5 kN/m
2
respectively. Then click on Generate Slabs
icon to apply slabs to plan. Delete the slab inside the liftcore.

Change the properties of slab bounded by Grid D/2, E/2, E/3 and D/3.
Select the slab and on the common slab properties table, specify the
drop to be 50mm.

Create Customize Slab

To create partial slab bounded by Grids B/5a, C/5a, C/5 and B/5,
delete the existing slab first. Select the slab at perimeter grid B/5, B/6.
C/5 and C/6 and press Delete or click on Cut icon to delete. Click on
Input User Define Slab icon and move the cursor to the Grid
intersection B/5. When the cross appears and click once to define the
beginning point of the slab. Next move the cursor to Grid intersection
C/5 and click once when the cross appears. Repeat the procedure to
Grid C/5a, Grid B/5a and return to starting point Grid B/5 to create
the customize slab.

Create Cantilever Slab

Click on Input User Define Slab icon, specify the slab dimension
to 125mm and move the cursor to the first point at grid intersection
F/4. Continue defining the slab by clicking at Grid intersection G/4,
G/5 and F/5. Repeat this procedure to create cantilever slab at Grid
intersection F/2, G/2, G/3, F/3 and finally return to initial point F/2.

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Click on Reorder Slab Mark icon to automatically arranging the
slab marks.


Figure 15.16: Slab layout

Input line load on slab

To apply a line load on slab FS18 bounded by Grids B/4, C/4, C/5
and B/5, click on Input User Defined Slab icon. Specify live
load magnitude to 5 kN/m and click on the slab once. Move the
cursor to initial point X
1
at 1000 and click once. Then move the
cursor to initial point Y
1
at 2500 and click once. Define the ending
point (X
2
,Y
2
) at (3500,2500).

Input point load on slab

To apply point load on slab FS8, click on Input Point Load On Slab
icon. Specify dead and live load to 3 kN/m and 4 kN/m
respectively. Select the slab and move the cursor to coordinate (1500,
2500). Left click once to confirm each coordinates.

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Input cantilever edge line load

Click on Cantilever Edge Line Load icon and specify dead load
to 4 kN/m at the load magnitude properties table. Select slab FS11
and click on the edge G/2 and G/3. Then select the slab again and
click on the side of the slab. Repeat the following to slab FS21.



Figure 15.17: i) Line load on slab
ii) Cantilever edge line load on slab
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Floor Analysis

Before copying GB Floor to other floors, ensure that the elements on
the current GB Floor are adequate. To do so, run analysis on each
elements.

Generate Slab Mesh

Click on Generate Slab Mesh icon. Set the slab mesh to
1000mm. Click once on OK to create meshes based on the loading on
the slabs.


Figure 15.18: Generated Mesh

Analyze FEM slab

Use Finite Element Method (FEM) due to customized slabs for slabs
analysis. Click on Analyze FEM Slab icon and select analyze as
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plate when the form appears. Left click OK to perform analysis. By
default, the deflection contours appear on the window.


Figure 15.19: Slab deflection contour

Design Slabs

After the slab analysis, design the slabs by clicking on Design Slabs
icon. This will bring up the Slab Design Parameters form. Specify
the steel percentage of reinforcement to 0.13%. Click on Save & Exit
button to accept changes and run design. Click on the slab cut section
name to view the cut section.

Run Analyze Beams

Click on Analyze Beams icon to bring up Beam Analysis/Design
Parameters form. Click on Save & Exit button to accept changes. In
the Beam Analysis form, select "Use point load for non-
conventional slabs, conventional method for conventional slabs"
under Slab Loading Transfer Option. Click OK to perform analysis.

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Summary of loading and reaction from beams are displayed. Close
the load summation report and return to floor plan. Once you have
return to floor key plan, you can save all the slab cut sections in one
DXF file. Click on Group DXF button to save all slab cut
sections into single DXF file.
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Copy to other floor

Now that the elements on the floor have been checked. To confirm
this, click on Project Status icon to view the progress of the
project. All the elements design and analysis are satisfied for GB
floor.

To copy to other floor, double click on Floor 2 (1F) and this brings
up Copy Plan form. From the pulldown list, select key plan GB and
click Copy button to confirm. Since the floor height of GB floor is
1500mm, change the floor height of floor 2 (1F). To modify the floor
height, click on Plan Design/Detailing Parameters icon > Plan
menu. In the Plan menu, edit the column height of the lower floor
(mm) to 3500mm.

To duplicate Floor 2 (1F) to other remaining floors, click on
Duplicate Floors icon. A form appears for the floor selection
duplications. From the pulldown list, select Floor 4 (RF) and click
OK to confirm changes. A message appears on the screen prompting
any data on the duplicate floors will be overwrite. Click OK to
duplicate floors.


Figure 15.20: Floor plans in Project Workspace
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Transfer Column

Now we would like to create a transfer column. Beam 5A/C-F from
Floor 4 (RF) is supported by a transfer column at grid 5A/D. On floor
plan RF, click on Input Column icon and specify the column
size to be 230 x 230. Click on grid intersection 5A/D to create the
column. Now the transfer column is supported by Floor 3 (2F) beam
D/5-6.


Figure 15.21: Transfer column on partially shown beam 5A/C-F


Figure 15.22: Transfer column in 3D view
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Input Wall Opening

Shear Wall Opening

Activate floor RF by double clicking on the floor name in the Project
Workspace. To create wall opening, click on Input Liftcore/Wall
icon. Then click on RC Wall Opening icon and select Wall
F/1-6 to bring up the wall elevation. Specify the door opening width
and height of 1500mm and 2200mm respectively at the dimension
table. Click on the wall to insert a wall opening. Move the cursor
until the position is set at (X,Y) coordinate at (5415,0) and click once
to place the opening.

Repeat the above procedures with the following dimensions:
1) Opening with width and height of 1500mm and 2200mm at
(13615,0)
2) Opening with width and height of 1000mm and 1200mm at
(1500,1000)
3) Opening with width and height of 1000mm and 1200mm at
(18500,1000)


Figure 15.23: Openings on RC Wall

Click on Apply to Floor button to copy the openings to all other
floors.

Liftcore Opening

On RF plan, click Input Liftcore/Wall Opening icon and select
liftcore wall 4/C-D. Specify the wall opening width and height with
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1500mm and 2200mm respectively. Then click on the wall elevation
twice to create the opening. Select the wall and click on horizontal
center and vertical bottom icons to automatically align the
opening to center bottom of the wall.

Click on Apply to Floor button to copy the openings to all other
floors.


Figure 15.24: Opening aligned at center bottom of the wall

To view structure model in three dimensional (3D) view, click on 3D
View icon.



Figure 15.25: Model in 3D view
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Running 3D Analysis

Use Batch analysis function to run all floors simultaneously. Click on
Batch Process icon and check boxes on Slab Analysis, Slab
Design and Beam Analysis. Select OK to all options to run analysis
using default settings. Click OK to run batch analysis. Now click on
Project Status to view the progress.


Figure 15.26:Batch Analysis Options

Generate 3D Frame Elements

In order to run 3D analysis, click on 3D Frame Element icon to
generate 3D model frame. Mesh generation form appears for the
mesh sizes selection and type of mesh to be adopted in the analysis.
Use default settings and click OK to run analysis.

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Figure15.27 : Generated Frame Element

Run 3D analysis

After generating 3D Frame Element, analyze the model by clicking
Analyze icon. Click OK when the analysis options appears to
begin analysis.

View the structural behaviour in terms of deflection by selecting
different the load combination. Add new load combination by
specifying dead load, live load and wind load as 1.0, 2.0 and 1.0
respectively. Click on "Click To View" for the new combination to
generate the structure deflection based on the new load combination.
Close the window to return to floor plan layout.


Figure 15.28: Add new load combination

Design Beams

Noticed that after you have run 3D analysis, the design beam
command will be activated. Click on the Batch Analysis
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command and check on Beam Design box. Click Ok button to
simultaneously run beam design for all floors.

After analysis, go to GB floor, click on Design Beam command and
when program prompt for redesign beam, select no button. Then
click on Beam 5a/C-F to display the beam details as shown in
figure ....

Save the single beam details by clicking on Save to DXF
command. Select the location of the file you want to save and
click on Save button. This will only save beam details GB13B. Close
the beam detailing by clicking on the button and return to floor
key plan.

Once you have return to floor key plan, you can save all the beams
details in one DXF file. Click on Group DXF button to save all
beam details into single DXF file.




Figure 15.29: Beam Detailing
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Run Element Design

Design Column

Double click on column element in the project workspace. This will
bring up the design column parameter form. Specify the steel
percentage of reinforcement bar to 0.4 %. Click Save & Exit to run
column design.


Figure 15.30: Column parameters

Save the column schedule in DXF format. Click on Save DXF
icon to bring up the Save As form. Rename the file to Column
Schedule and click OK to save drawing.

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Figure 15.31: Partially shown column schedule generated

Design Wall

Double click on wall element in the project workspace. This will
bring up the design wall parameter form. Click on Save & Exit
button to run wall design.
Figure 15.32: Example of wall detailing generated

Save the column schedule in DXF format. Click on Save DXF
icon to bring up the Save As form. Rename the file to Column
Schedule and click OK to save drawing.

Design Pad Footing

To run pad footing design, double click on pad footing element in the
project workspace. This will bring up the design pad footing
parameter form. Specify the soil bearing pressure to 75 kN/mm
2.

Click Save & Exit button to run pad footing design.
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Figure 15.33: Pad Footing parameters form


Figure 15.34: Pad footing plan layout

Save the column schedule in DXF format. Click on Save DXF
icon to bring up the Save As form. Rename the file to Pad footing
and click OK to save drawing.

Design Pile Footing

Double click on pile footing element in the project workspace. This
will bring up the design pile footing parameters form. Click on Save
& Exit button to bring up Pile Type Configuration form. In the pile
footing design would have 2 types of pile size configuration, 150mm
and 250mm square piles with pile capacity of 30 tonne and 45 tonne
respectively. However specify the ultimate column load for 150mm
pile and 250m pile to 250kN and 400kN respectively. This enables
the program to allocate the number of pile according to the column
load permissible.
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Figure 15.35: Pile Design Parameters


Figure 15.36: Pile Type Configurations

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Figure 15.37: Pile foundation layout plan



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16 Getting Help
Contact Info

Malaysia

Main Office

Address: 7A Jalan Kenari 10,
Bandar Puchong Jaya,
47100 Puchong,
Selangor, Malaysia

Telephone: +603 8076 2788

Fax: +603 8076 2677

We are situated off Lebuhraya Damansara Puchong (LDP), opposite
of IOI Shopping Mall. You can find us in Rinman International /
UBD Kuala Lumpur & Klang Valley Street Directory 3rd Edition at
Map 426 Reference P14.


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Singapore

Address: Level 30, SIX Battery Road,
Singapore, 049909

Telephone: +65 6320 8381

Fax: +65 6320 8383

World Wide Web WWW

Website: www.esteemsoft.com

Email: support@esteemsoft.com
www.info@esteemsoft.com

For patches, upgrades and additional info, please visit our website:

www.esteemsoft.com/download.htm

SALES

Our professional sales team are ready to answer your sales questions
Monday to Friday from 8:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. Contact our sales
representative to hear about the latest products, training, upgrade
options and prices, and more.

Esteem Sales Representative:

Name: Richard Ting
Telephone: 012-216 9507
Email: richard@esteemsoft.com
Sales Information: info@esteemsoft.com

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Please include your company name, contact number, city, and state to
ensure your request is handled promptly.
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Tech Support

Our technical support is available via email, telephone, fax and on-
line help. At Esteem work hard to provide you with intuitive
technical supports. Additionally, we try to provide superior online
and print documentation to enable you to work independently. If you
have a technical question that you cannot answer with the available
tools, please contact our Technical Support department. All of our
Technical Support representatives are eager to answer your questions
and help you create the best Help systems possible.

As a registered user, you can access our web based support on our
website. Esteem Innovation Support Services are subject to term and
conditions.

Help Us In Helping You

Our technical support team are readily to assist you

We understand that engineers requesting our assistance on the
software are constantly working under tight deadline and need to
receive answers to their questions as soon as possible. To increase
our efficiency, whenever you have any technical support question,
please provide us the following informations below if possible. Your
information provided are valuable to us. Using the information you
have provided, we can understand and eliminate the possibilities
better and faster.

Your name, company name, and contact number

Your Esteem version number

Your computer operating system (e.g., Windows 95)

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Description of the problems

Exact wording of any messages displayed when you encountered the
problem

All previous email threads with Esteem about the issue, if any.

We might encountered the same questions previously from other
users. Matching your information and theirs can related us to the
same questions and in terms provide you with a solution that is
proven from previous users.
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Documentation Feedback

At Esteem, we strive to produce the highest quality documentation
products and welcome your feedback. If you have comments or
suggestions about our online Help or printed guides, please email to
us at documentation@esteemsoft.com.

Together with your feedback, please include the following
information:

Product name and version number
Printed manual or online Help version (Manual version is located at
the bottom of page 1)
Topic title (for online Help)
Page number (for printed manual)
Brief description of content (for example, are you reviewing step-by-
step instructions that are inaccurate, grammatical errors in a specific
paragraph, information that requires clarification or more details, etc.)
Your suggestion for how to correct/improve documentation

This email address specially cater is for documentation feedback. We
acknowledged and appreciated your feedback and if necessary, we
will contact you. If you have any technical question, please contact
Technical Support.