RC Column Designer

(Code:RC Column Designer)

RC Column Designer is a software application for the analysis and design of reinforced concrete columns. RC Column Designer allows users to design or check a new job, read an existing column created by CADS8110, or import a new column via `drag-n-drop´ from CADS Analyse3D and other frame analysis applications. Once completed, the design data, results and diagrams are printed on headed calculation sheet style pages and can be detailed and scheduled automatically in AutoCAD by the CADS RC Column Detailer macro. Customers wishing to compile reports from various CADS design programs can now export a special formatted text file. This text file contains all the formatting information/controls necessary to enable the new CADS <`Word-Macro´> to create a new Microsoft Word document. Automatic design or check mode - RC Column Designer designs an optimum reinforcement arrangement that can also be checked for other column locations within the building. The software may be used in two ways. Design mode finds a choice of bar arrangements which will resist specified axial loads and moments, whereas check mode determines the load and moment that a column with specified arrangement of bars will resist.
Fast and easy data input - input of column properties, end conditions (fixed, partial, nominal or free), and clear column height automatically produce the effective height and slenderness ratio. Concrete and reinforcement properties, such as concrete strength, aggregate size/weight, maximum, minimum and preferred diameters for hot rolled mild or high tensile main bars and links can also be entered. A cover calculator automatically assesses cover required according to fire and durability parameters.
Data import from analysis software - file import feature or `drag-n-drop´ dynamic link saves time and eliminates errors by reducing the need for repetitive keyboard input.
Loads and moments - any number of load cases may be applied and the software supports uniaxial and biaxial bending cases. When a column is both slender and unbraced its deflection may be constrained by other columns in the building. CADS RC Column Designer allows the user to specify limiting deflections, for each unbraced axis, to be used for the calculation of the additional moments.
Automatic detailing in AutoCAD - using the CADS RC link to AutoCAD, finished column designs can be detailed and scheduled in seconds, either individually or by tabulation.
On screen results - the program is best used interactively and displays a summary of results for all the bar diameters within the range specified, highlighting the most economical main bar and link reinforcement solution in a diagram. A notes panel below the bar arrangement diagram displays the basis of the design, e.g. slender or uniaxial. The users preferred bar arrangement may be selected with the mouse and the bar details button opens a display which gives the full reinforcement data.
Integrated analysis, design & detailing solution - CADS RC Column Designer is a popular stand-alone application that can also be purchased and used as part of the CADS Structural Engineering Suite. By using the dynamic Windows linking from CADS Analyse3D, all of the data for the column design can be imported by dragging the column from CADS Analyse3D onto CADS RC Column Designer. Detailed AutoCAD drawings and bar bending schedules are produced automatically by CADS RC from the design results. Printed results - by simply clicking on the appropriate items, user defined A4 titled and numbered calculation style sheets will display the required input data, results and diagrams. A header block is at the top of every page and, to give a professional finish, can be customised with a bit image, such as company name or logo. The header can also include details such as, date, job number and reference, designed/checked by, and revision number.