This tab covers how the column or columns are loaded and supported.
Connections and Restraints
You must have at least two restraints per column. All restraints above the bottom most restraint are assumed be unrestrained in the vertical (Y) direction.
Column Type
The user may select between pinned, fixed, vertical roller, or nothing for the bottom most node. Typically the bottom connection for a precast column is modelled as a pin (fixed against translation but not rotation).
Bottom Connection
The user may select between pinned, fixed, vertical roller, or nothing for the bottom most node. Typically the bottom connection for a precast column is modelled as a pin (fixed against translation but not rotation).
Top Connection
The user may select between pinned, fixed, vertical roller, or nothing for the bottom most node. Typically the bottom connection for a precast column is modelled as a pin (fixed against translation but not rotation).
Add Floor Tie
While you could add a floor tie in the restraint table, using this option flags this restraint as the ‘floor restraint’. This essentially adds a new Construction stage (in-between Handling and In-Place stages), if you also select to load pattern the floor tie (see below). Otherwise, it behaves like any other restraint. This restraint is always assumed to be a pinned-roller.
Add restraint
Add a restraint (row) to the restraint table.
Remove restraint(s)
Remove one or more restraints from the restraint table.
Copy restraint(s)
Copy one or more restraints within the restraint table.
Restraint Table
ID
Incremented number assigned to the restraint for identification in the model.
Elevation
Height or vertical position of the restraint.
Type: Restrained
This restraint acts as a pinned-roller, except when it is the bottom most restraint when it will act as a pinned-pinned.
Type: Spring
This restraint will act as a translational spring. When selected, a corresponding stiffness must be entered.
Type: Hinge
This restraint will act as a moment hinge (also referred to as an end release).
Stiffness
Stiffness of the spring restraint.