LimitState:SLAB announced: yield-line method automated for structural engineers
The yield-line method
For many years structural engineers have known that the yield-line method for reinforced concrete slabs will often identify additional reserves of strength when applied to the analysis of existing slabs, and to highly economic slabs when used in design. However, in recent times the method has eluded systematic automation, reducing its attractiveness in our modern computer age.
Now, finally, the yield-line method has been systematically automated, and incorporated into the LimitState:SLAB software product. This means that busy engineers can once again reap the benefits of the yield-line method. For example, when used in an upgrading or refurbishment project, the software will often indicate that proposed strengthening work to an existing slab is in fact unnecessary, leading to significant cost savings for the client.
Breakthrough technology
LimitState:SLAB uses Discontinuity Layout Optimization (DLO) to automatically identify the critical layout of yield-lines for slabs of any geometry. It obviates the need for engineers to try out a series of potential failure mechanisms manually (or in a simple 'automated hand calculation' software package).
A workshop to describe the new technology, and to launch the LimitState:SLAB software, will be held at the Institution of Structural Engineers HQ in London on February 26th. The event is being organized by the University of Sheffield (where the DLO method was originated) in association with LimitState.