The program “ST method” for determining the strut-and-tie models of RC plane members

Abstract

© 2016, Strojarski Facultet. All rights reserved. The paper presents a proposal for determining the Strut-and-Tie models of reinforced concrete plane members using the discrete topology optimization, which involves the truss system for calculation of the stress-strain state of a real member. Strut-and-Tie model can be used for the analysis of both a single part and the entire member, and is particularly suitable for application in cases where an abrupt change of static values and geometrical properties of the member occurs. Based on the presented proposal, the program “ST method” is developed and can automatically determine the final shape of the Strut-and-Tie model, stress control of the model elements and the required amount of reinforcement. Moreover, the reinforcement amount optimization of the Strut-and-Tie models is presented in the paper.