Automated Optimum Cost Building Design

A computer program that automatically designs and details an optimum-cost, one-way solid slab, reinforced concrete building is presented. Skip-loading, lateral loads (including consideration of torsional stiffness of the building frame), and live-load reductions are all considered. The program is completely automatic, and no preliminary member sizing or dead-load estimates are required. Special attention is paid to simplicity and minimization of input data. Output is selective and in a readily understood format. Problem formulation is presented in relation to the basic considerations of synthesis i.e., requirements, technology, and criterion. Attention is paid to important aspects of decentralization of, and iteration through, various parts of the program such as gravity frame, lateral-load frame, detailing, costing, etc. All analysis and design is in accordance with the Uniform Building Code and the ACI Building Code. Detailing is in accordance with the Manual of Standard Practice for Detailing Reinforced Concrete Structures. The inherent advantages include moderate cost, practical flexibility, improved design, complete details, reduced errors, and readily checked output.