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Concepts

Dove is an application that simplifies the reinforcement design of column, wall and spandrel elements based on loads exported from analysis packages such as Etabs. This page outlines the fundamental concepts users should make themselves familiar with prior to using the software.

Definitions

  • Column – A column as defined within this document, and more broadly within Dove, is a load-bearing structural member that exists at a single level only, running from the level at which it is defined (the top of the column) to the level below. Columns are created from imported vertical frame elements within the Etabs model
  • Wall - A wall as defined within this document, and more broadly within Dove, is a load-bearing structural member that exists at a single level only, running from the level at which it is defined (the top of the wall) to the level below. Walls are created from imported piers within the Etabs model
  • Spandrel - Spandrels are horizontally spanning beam elements, usually used to couple together shear walls. Spandrels are created from imported spandrels within the Etabs model. Multi-level spandrels are not supported in Dove.
  • Chains - Unlike in Tribli, chains in Dove are merely a means of grouping elements across multiple levels to facilitate easier editing of element properties. An example would be a stack of individual column elements passing load down to ground. Only one element may be assigned to each chain per level. Chains are automatically assigned on model import based on the location of the column, wall or spandrel.
  • Orphans – A Column, Wall or Spandrel element that is not assigned to any chain is referred to as being ‘Orphaned’.

Column and Wall Graphics

Column, wall nd spandrel elements displayed in Dove are colour-coded to easily identify key information about each element. All elements under are displayed with a grey fill, whereas elements over are displayed with a blue fill. A red outline indicates that the element is the lowest element in the chain to which it is assigned. A green outline means that there are elements within the same chain at levels below the current level.

Column Colour-Coding

Wall and Spandrel element colours are the same as columns, however the outline is dashed.

Design Codes

Although other codes are intended to be supported in future, Dove currently only supports design operations in accordance with the Australian concrete standard AS3600:2018.