Hi, can multiple mat foundation deck types and elevations be used in RAM Structural System? I have a mat foundation that is in two halves and one half is elevated circa 500mm above the other. Is it possible to create multiple polygons in RSS with different thicknesses and elevations to achieve the geometry that will be relatively accurate and therefore also have the lateral frames on each mat applying base loads at the correct height?
RAM | STAAD Forum - MAT FOUNDATION IN RAM STRUCTURAL SYSTEMS
Hi Seth,
When I view the model in 3D, it would seem that I have managed to achieve the mat elevation offset over the half which is raised which is good. I struggled to model the concrete fold between the two mats which is where the different thickness would be applied. I have conceded on the fold and believe the effects of not having it will be minimal. For me it was more important to hopefully apply the base shear in the lateral system at the correct elevation in case it had an impact on frequencies and drift etc.
You can use multiple "deck" polygons in Ram Structural System to define areas of different thickness within a single mat perimeter, but elevation offsets apply to the mat as a whole. To achieve steps in the Mat I would export it to Ram Concept and make changes to mesh input there as required.
Thanks Seth I will
Once you have it in Ram Concept, add a beam (or a thickened slab strip) along the fold to get the mesh correct.