A PACKAGE USING VISUAL BASIC ON STRUCTURAL DESIGN OF PILE CAP

Abstract

Piles are generally used in groups to support loads transmitted by the super structure. A group of piles is made to behave as a single unit by the presence of a pile cap. Therefore, a well designed pile cap is crucial for the expected safe performance of the foundation. Accordingly, the various aspects of structural design of a pile cap as recommended in the recent literature are compiled and translated into a user friendly computer design package. The package is based on IS code and ACI code provisions and has been developed in VISUAL BASIC (language-windows environment) with graphic features which can be run in any PC system. The features of the package include menu options on analysis, design, detailing and report. Each menu in turn has sub options. The input parameters such as number, diameter and group configuration of piles, grade of concrete and steel and loading details etc. are given through the analysis menu. The design menu checks the depth from bending moment, two-way shear consideration and checks for minimum steel. Then, the shear reinforcement is calculated according to IS code and ACI code specifications. Siniilarly, the detailing menu gives dimensions and reinforcement details of the pile cap and the detailing of reinforcement in the form of drawings.