
June 16, 2022
Spread Footing Design in RISACalc
Learn how to load and design individual concrete spread footings in RISACalc.
Light-framed construction has become increasingly prevalent in mid-rise and modular development, driven by its cost-efficiency, speed of construction, and adaptability. But with flexibility comes complexity. Engineers designing with wood and cold-formed steel (CFS) must navigate a unique set of challenges: diaphragm behavior, segmented shear walls, buckling sensitivity, and code-specific checks that differ from traditional hot-rolled steel or reinforced concrete structures. This article explores practical modeling and design approaches for light-framed buildings, focusing on how structural engineers can balance constructability, analysis clarity, and compliance with governing codes. Diaphragm Behavior: Not Always Rigid In light-framed buildings, flexible diaphragms are often assumed due to the nature of wood sheathing or light-gauge decking. However, as buildings increase in size and irregularity, this assumption deserves scrutiny. Flexible diaphragm assumptions work well in rectangular buildings with regular framing, but irregular load paths or large openings may require semi-rigid modeling to capture torsional behavior. Engineers should consider the influence of diaphragm stiffness when assigning lateral forces, especially in hybrid systems where part of the structure may be stiffer or tied into concrete cores. In projects where semi-rigid diaphragm analysis was warranted, integrating tools like finite element meshing helped visualize how in-plane stiffness impacted overall response—particularly in designs…
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Learn how to load and design individual concrete spread footings in RISACalc.
Learn how Olsson utilized the entire RISA Suite (RISA-3D, RISAFloor, RISAFoundation and RISAConnection) to design the newest addition to the Southeast Community College campus located in Beatrice, NE.
Version 20.0.2 allows users to integrate models between RISA-3D and SDS2, including model geometry, members sizes and end reactions.
RISA-3D now includes the ability to "match properties" between members. For more information about this feature, check out the video below:
ADAPT-Builder Version 21.0.1 is now available and includes integration with RISA-3D, colorization of applied loading as well as other new features. For more information about new features, users can review the related articles below as well as the release notes. Related Articles: Related Articles:...
ADAPT-Builder v21.0.1 includes the option to import reactions from a RISA-3D model. The program will import the superstructure reactions and loading as point and line loads. The B3D Import Wizard allows you to choose which load cases to import and gives you the ability to map the loads to existing...
In ADAPT-Builder v21.0.1 the Colorize Grid has been improved to allow for the coloring of loads. You can colorize point loads, line loads, and area loads. For area loads the colorize grid offers a load intensity map to show the total applied load in a given area per load case. For point loads the...
ADAPT-Builder has historically been hard coded to design reinforcement for strength load combinations to a maximum demand/capacity ratio of 1.0. However, clients have expressed the want to be able to have the program reinforce to a user defined maximum DCR. ADAPT-Builder v21.0.1 includes the option...
Learn how to load and design individual masonry and concrete retaining walls in RISACalc.
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