Tilt-Up Shear Wall w/ Opening - RAM

[DJYork]

I have run through the numbers on designing a tilt-up wall with a large opening. I want to model the wall in RAM Advanse, but having problems setting up a shell to run the analysis, and designing it as a concrete portal frame does not seem to be giving me the right numbers. Has anyone tried to run RAM Advanse on this type of condition? Any suggestions?

 

[haynewp]

I haven't run Advanse for that specifically but I have for other types of walls. Why is it not running?

 

[DJYork]

If I try to run a shell model there is nothing I see to give the opening. When I run it as a rigid connected frame the stresses in the column do not appear to be transferring into the beam at all.

 

[haynewp]

You have to delete the shell elements to create the opening.

 

[LowLax]

Like haynewp says. You have to make a grid of nodes and make shells between them. Just skip the parts where you want the windows.

 

[DJYork]

I think I finally have it modeled right using shells, but after talking to RAM it appears to be all for not. They do not specify the reinforcement for in plane forces (shear walls). They said that version 8.0 will do it, and it should be out soon.

 

[seattlemike]

Engineers Northwest, Inc (Seattle, WA) do most of the Costco buildings in the United States, and they have developed their own software for concrete tilt-up panels. The software includes slender wall analysis, wall anchorage, seismic forces, wind forces, large openings, etc, etc.

If you inquire at their office, they may sell your office a copy of their program. Engineers Northwest: 206.525.7560

 

[Gilbertl]

Buy yourself the "The Tilt-Up Design and Construction Manual". It's the single most comprehensive design aid on the subject. Hugh Brooks is the Master.

I use my own spreadsheet, which is a modified version our in-house one.