DEVELOPMENTS IN STRUCTURAL DESIGN OF BEAM- COLUMNS: A REVIEW FROM CAD POINT OF VIEW

摘要

The computer aided design of structures composed of beam-column members is supported by three main components such as the constructional design (3D detailing), the finite element analysis (FEA) and the structural design. The paper reviews the developments in structural design of beam-column structures concerning the components of FEA and the structural design. The traditional design methodology follows the simple sequence of global modelling, finite element analysis, cross-section design, member design and joint design. The direct interpretation of the formulas of design codes may results in a 'hand' procedure being an obstacle developing advanced CAD application - phase of member design includes a break point since the global analysis does not provide direct and exact information about member restraints required for the design interaction equations. The paper proves that the traditional method of member design based on the isolation of members can be neglected: the procedure may be divided into two phases. The first phase is implemented into the 3D global elastic analysis, the second phase can be implemented into the cross-section design. The proposed formula turns into a complex automatic computer procedure that keeps the design as well as the safety philosophy of the Structural Eurocodes.