ADAPT-Builder 2019 New Features Supplement

STRUCTURAL CONCRETE SOFTWARE SYSTEM
ADAPT-BUILDER 2019
NEW FEATURES
SUPPLEMENTAL MANUAL
Copyright © November 2019
[email protected] www.adaptsoft.com
ADAPT Corporation, Redwood City, California, USA, Tel: +1 (650) 306-2400, Fax: +1 (650) 306-2401
ADAPT International Pvt. Ltd, Kolkata, India, Tel: +91 33 302 86580, Fax: +91 33 224 67281
LIST OF CONTENTS Content
LIST OF CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................... 3
1.1 ANALYSIS AND DESIGN IMPROVEMENTS .................................................... 3
1.2 MODELING IMPROVEMENTS ............................................................................ 4
1.3 REPORTING IMPROVEMENTS ........................................................................... 5
2. 2ND-ORDER P-DELTA ANALYSIS ...................................................... 7

2.1 DEFINING P-DELTA COMBINATIONS .............................................................. 7
2.2 P-DELTA COMBINATION RESULTS ................................................................. 8
2.3 THEORETICAL BACKGROUND ....................................................................... 10
2.3.1 Definition of Geometric Stiffness .............................................................. 12
2.3.2 Formulation of Elastic and Geometric Stiffness for Frame Element ......... 12
2.3.3 Description of the Solution Process ........................................................... 14
2.3.4 Prestressing in Conjunction with P-Delta .................................................. 16
2.3.5 P-Delta Analysis Using Load Batches ....................................................... 17
2.3.6 Special Considerations .............................................................................. 19
2.3.7 Selected ACI Design Code Provisions Related to P-Delta Analysis ......... 20
2.3.8 Selected EC2 Design Code Provisions Related to P-Delta Analysis ......... 23
2.3.9 Selected CSA Design Code Provisions Related to P-Delta Analysis ........ 26
2.3.10 Selected NBR Design Code Provisions Related to P-Delta Analysis ........ 27
2.3.11 Selected AS-3600 Code Provisions Related to P-Delta Analysis .............. 28
2.3.12 Design Codes – P-Delta Summary ............................................................ 28
2.4 DRIFT AND MOMENT AMPLIFICATION FACTORS ..................................... 29
2.4.1 Introduction ............................................................................................... 29
2.4.2 Graphical Drift Amplification ................................................................... 30
2.4.3 Graphical Moment Amplification.............................................................. 32
2.5 EFFECTIVE FLANGE FOR BEAM DESIGN IN ADAPT-BUILDER ............... 34
2.5.1 Introduction ............................................................................................... 34
2.5.2 Methodology ............................................................................................. 34
2.5.3 Defining the Effective Flange Option in a Model ..................................... 35
2.6 PUNCHING SHEAR FOR ACI 318-14 ................................................................ 40
2.6.1 Introduction ............................................................................................... 40
2.6.2 Critical Section Outside the Reinforced Zone ........................................... 41
2.6.3 Minimum Reinforcement for Drift ............................................................ 44
2.7 FELT 3D AND LONG-TERM LOSSES ............................................................... 45
2.7.1 Introduction ............................................................................................... 45
2.7.2 Setting Options for Long-Term Loss Calculations .................................... 46
2.7.3 Drawing Editor .......................................................................................... 48
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Content LIST OF CONTENTS
2.7.4 Tendon Shape – Fillet-Radius ................................................................... 50
3. MODELING IMPROVEMENTS.......................................................... 55
3.1 STRIP MODELING – DYNAMIC EDITOR ........................................................ 55
3.2 SPLITTER FUNCTIONALITY ............................................................................ 64
3.2.1 Splitters at Openings ................................................................................. 66
3.2.2 Splitters at Slab Regions Between Openings ............................................ 66
3.2.3 Splitters at Slab or Pit Steps ...................................................................... 67
3.2.4 Splitters at beams ...................................................................................... 67
3.2.5 Splitters at walls ........................................................................................ 68
3.3 RAMPING ............................................................................................................. 70
3.3.1 Modeling Ramps ....................................................................................... 70
3.3.2 Offsetting Connected Components............................................................ 72
3.3.3 Viewing Options for Ramps ...................................................................... 73
3.3.4 Design Strips and Splitters near Ramps .................................................... 75
3.4 BEAM END OFFSETS ......................................................................................... 76
4. REPORTING IMPROVEMENTS ........................................................ 79

4.1 GRAPHICAL LONGITUDINAL REINFORCEMENT ON DESIGN STRIPS ... 79
4.1.1 Calculated (required) ................................................................................. 79
4.1.2 Calculated (provided) ................................................................................ 80
4.1.3 Base ........................................................................................................... 81
4.1.4 Rho ............................................................................................................ 82
4.2 XLS FILE REPORTING FOR DRIFT RESULTS ................................................ 82
4.2.1 Stations ...................................................................................................... 84
4.2.2 Displacements ........................................................................................... 84
4.2.3 Drift at Columns ........................................................................................ 85
4.2.4 Average Drift............................................................................................. 86
4.2.5 Maximum Drift Envelope ......................................................................... 87
4.2.6 Average Drift Envelope............................................................................. 88
4.2.7 Drift Amplification Factor......................................................................... 88
4.3 FELT 3D REPORTS.............................................................................................. 89
ii
Chapter 1
INTRODUCTION
1
INTRODUCTION Chapter 1
1. INTRODUCTION
This supplemental manual provides descriptions and instruction on ADAPT-

Builder’s latest features. These new features have been introduced to meet the
needs for general analysis, design, and reporting capabilities and to increase
productivity and efficiency in program use.
These latest features can be categorized into 3 groups: Analysis and Design
improvements, Modeling improvements and Reporting improvements.
1.1 Analysis and Design Improvements
 2nd-order P-Delta Analysis: The program now includes the

option to run 2nd-order analysis for geometric non-linearity (“big”
P-Delta) based on the compilation of the elastic and geometric
stiffness matrices. A new analysis/design option type for P-Delta
is included in which combinations can be singularly run for 2nd-
order effects or processed as a batch based on a combination used
to obtain the geometric matrix. Graphical analysis results similar
to regular combinations can be obtained for P-Delta combinations.
These results can be utilized for the design of columns.
 Drift and Moment Amplification Factors: With the new P-delta

feature, the program graphically reports drift and moment
amplification factors (2nd/1st order results) for local axes, RR and
SS, as well as the combined global results. The program code
checks against a user-defined value set in the Result Browser.
 Effective Flange for Beams: The program now includes the

option to calculate the effective flange and properties of beams
when the support line is set to Beam criteria. The design of the
beam sections is performed using the effective properties. The
component of stress related to the precompression uses the full
tributary area of the section as does the graphical precompression
result. ACI and EC2 calculations for effective width are
supported.
 Punching Shear Improvements: New improvements have been

made for punching shear according to ACI318-14. These include:
 The option to consider critical sections outside the shear

reinforced zone with either a rectilinear or octagonal-
3
Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION
shaped critical section. ACI318-14 Sections 22.6.4.2,

22.6.6.1
 The option to apply two-way shear provisions for minimum
reinforcement for seismic drift. ACI318-14 Sections
18.14.5.1.
 Application of minimum two-way shear reinforcement at
critical sections is based on the requirement at the first
section d/2 from face of support.
 FELT 3D and Long-Term Losses: When the PT Shop Drawing

module is enabled, the program gives new input and functionality
for the calculation of long-term losses for unbonded tendons and
bonded tendons stressed at the same time. Additional related
features include:
 FELT 3D Report – a compiled PDF report summarizing

tendon loss calculations including graphical views of the
tendons horizontal and vertical profile and the loss
diagrams.
 Drawing Editor Chair Groups – Allows the user to input
on-demand chair bar maximum spacing and chair bar
extensions for graphical output of tendon support bars.
1.2 Modeling Improvements
 Strip Modeling Dynamic Editor: A new and improved Strip

Modeling Dynamic Editor includes tools used to more rapidly
model and modify support lines and design strips. These include:
 Support Line Wizard – creates a support based on a

construction line defined by snap points along the strip
path.
 Support Line Limits – Changes selected support line design
criteria and tributary limits for the design strip.
 Wall – allows the user to set constraints for how walls are
considered for design strip generation.
 Display- Sets the support line display for Direction, Criteria
and Width Limit
 Splitter Functionality: New and improved splitter functionality.

The use of splitters has been simplified to creating a boundary that
the tributary edge extends when the width is required to be limited
to either side. Splitters are no longer required for any other purpose
as the program has been improved to recognize support line nodes
at any location and properly generate strips.
4
INTRODUCTION Chapter 1
 Ramp Modeling: Modeling of ramps is now supported in

ADAPT-Builder. Ramps are considered analytically only without
tendons. Longitudinal and transverse beams can be modeled at
ramps with options to automatically offset the beams as well as
offset walls and columns supporting ramps. Ramps are required to
be modeled in the same plane and the program constrains the
graphical input as 3-point input to enforce planar modeling.
 Beam End Offsets: Beam coordinate definitions now include the

ability to create unique offsets at the beam start and end points
necessary to support inclined beams.
1.3 Reporting Improvements
 Longitudinal Reinforcement on Design Strips: The Result

Browser includes graphical reporting options for design sections to
include the area of steel for provided, required and base (user-
defined) reinforcement as well as the area of steel/section area
(rho).
 Drift XLS Reporting: New XLS reporting is available for lateral

drift. New reports include list of vertical stations arranged top-
down with column coordinates and elevation, X/Y/Global
displacements at top and bottom of columns, drift at columns with
code check, maximum drift data arranged for easy plot, average
story drift, and story drift plot data.
 FELT 3D Reporting: A compiled PDF report summarizing

tendon loss calculations including graphical views of the tendons
horizontal and vertical profile and the loss diagrams.
The following chapters will provide a detailed overview of the new

improvements and describe their use and application. Where appropriate,
theoretical and/or design code background will be added.
5
Chapter 2
ANALYSIS AND DESIGN IMPROVEMENTS
5
ANALYSIS AND DESIGN IMPROVEMENTS Chapter 2
2. 2ND-ORDER P-DELTA ANALYSIS
2.1 Defining P-Delta Combinations
A new design/analysis design option type is definable in the Loading

Combination input window. Combinations designated as ‘P-Delta’ are
processed analytically for 2nd-order effects in one of two ways.
Note that the allowance for analyzing P-Delta combinations is limited to

Multi-Level analysis without springs. The program checks for both and
will filter out P-Delta combinations in the analysis combination window if
either condition is not met.
Batch Processing: A geometric stiffness matrix is produced through an

iterative procedure based on a master combination. This matrix is
combined with a general stiffness matrix for solving subsequent
combinations tagged as P-Delta and having identical load cases and
factors with additional lateral load cases defined in the combination. An
example of this would be the following series of defined combinations:
1.0*SW + 1.0*SDL+ 1.0*LL
1.0*SW + 1.0*SDL + 1.0*LL + 1.0*EQX
1.0*SW + 1.0*SDL + 1.0*LL + 1.0*EQY
In this example, all combinations are defined as ‘P-Delta’ in the Load

Combination input window as shown below. Note that naming of
combinations for ‘P-Delta’ follows the same rules as those for other
combination types. The use of special characters should be avoided,
underscore, space or dash can be used as separators and brackets and
parentheses are permitted.
7
Chapter 2 ANALYSIS AND DESIGN IMPROVEMENTS
Multiple master combinations are automatically considered if they are set

to ‘P-Delta’ and there is at least 1 additional combination that contains the
same root set of load cases and factors.
It is recommended and more common to define a master combination that

includes only gravity loads or loads that will be sustained on the structure
resulting in sustained axial forces in the vertical elements.
Singular Processing: A geometric stiffness matrix is produced through an

iterative procedure for each unique ‘P-Delta’ combination. This matrix is
combined with a general stiffness matrix for the combination solution.
This method requires a significant increase in computation time since each
combination requires multiple iterations for convergence. An example of
this would be the following series of defined combinations:
1.0*SW + 1.0*SDL + 1.0*LL + 1.0*EQX
1.0*SW + 1.0*SDL + 1.0*LL + 1.0*EQY
2.2 P-Delta Combination Results
Similar to other combinations defined in the model, combinations set to

‘P-Delta’ that are solved produce general analysis results are selectable
through use of the Result Browser. In the ‘Loads’ tab, a new option is
shown that lists the solved P-Delta load combinations. If a combination is
selected, the ‘Analysis’ tab can be used produce a graphical analysis
result.
8
It is advised to create combinations set to NO CODE CHECK in order to

obtain direct analysis results comparisons between 1 st and 2nd-order
effects for the same set of applied loads on the structure. The program
does include new Drift and Moment Amplification Factor graphical and
tabular results. These are discussed in Section 2.2. General frame results
(i.e. moments, shears, displacements) reported graphically in the
Results Browser apply only to the 2nd-order solution for combinations set
to the ‘P-Delta’ option.
The processing and design of both automatic and manual design sections
for floor and beam design do not include 2nd-order effects. Combinations
with the P-Delta tag are suppressed when designing sections.
Oftentimes, the need arises to design columns in moment frames and other
sway structures for the effects of P-Delta. The column design procedure in
ADAPT-Builder is allows the user to design columns for any combination
solved for in the program, regardless of the analysis/design option type set
forth in Loads>Load Combinations.
From Column Design>Column Design Settings the user can include P-

Delta combinations in the selection group if a solution for these
combinations is available.
9
2.3 Theoretical Background
This section summarizes the theoretical formulation and the

implementation of PDELTA analysis using ADAPT’s FRAME finite
element solver.
P-Delta analysis is a methodology to compute structures which are prone

to the load-displacement interaction, resulting in second-order effects.
This basically means that the load which is applied to the structure is
parametrically controlling the elastic or inelastic response of the structure.
Such structure cannot be solved using standard (single step) linear elastic
process [KS]*[D]=[F], but instead requires the iterative approach.
There are two types of P-Delta methodologies:
 Large P-Delta (P-Δ)

 Small P-delta (P-δ)
“Large” P-Delta (P-Δ) refers to the second order effect associated with the
lateral translation of the members. The idea of large P-Delta (P-Δ) is
illustrated in the following diagrams:
“Small” P-delta (P-δ) refers to the second order effect associated with the
member curvature. The idea of small P-delta (P-δ) is illustrated in the
following diagrams:
10
The difference between these two methodologies lies in the mathematical

formulation as well as in FE solution approach. On the level of
mathematical formulation (which translates into FE formulation) the
difference can rely in excluding or including higher order terms
(geometric nonlinearity).
On the level of a finite element (FE) solution, the difference between these
two methodologies will also depend on the granularity of meshing as well
as prescribed number of iterations. For refined meshes, the solutions using
both approaches may lead to similar solutions.
The most accurate methodology is when nonlinear 2nd-order FE analysis

is used. In such case the effects of member curvature are covered by high-
order formulation (geometric nonlinearity), and for this reason it is a
(small) P-delta solution.
Linear elastic second order analysis is commonly used in engineering

practice and allowed by design codes (e.g. ACI 318). Linear elastic 2nd-
order analysis which is based on geometric stiffness matrix is considered
sufficiently accurate for engineering applications.
The implementation focus in ADAPT-Builder’s frame solver is that of P-

Delta (P-Δ) 2nd-order, linear elastic, and small displacements calculations
in conjunction of geometric stiffness matrix of frame (beam/column)
element.
11
2.3.1 Definition of Geometric Stiffness
A geometric stiffness matrix KG accounts for the effect of loads

existing in the element on the stiffness of the element. For
example, it is well known that the axial load in a beam-column has
an appreciable effect on the lateral stiffness. The geometric
stiffness matrix KG is an adjustment to the conventional elastic
stiffness matrix to account for such effects.
The adjusted (combined) stiffness matrix of the entire system is

used in the course of finite element computation, to obtain a
solution which incorporates the effects of load on the stiffness of
the system. Such computational process requires iterative or a
pseudo-iterative approach in order to converge to a solution for
which the adjusted (combined) stiffness matrix corresponds well to
the applied loads, and the displacements for two consecutive
iterations are within prescribed tolerance.
The geometric stiffness matrix can be derived for frame (beam and
column) elements as well as for plate shell elements. The
derivation of the geometric stiffness matrix for frame elements is
relatively simple and straight-forward.
The derivation of geometric stiffness for plate triangular and

quadrilateral elements is much more complex, and it presents
multiple mathematical and numerical challenges. The current
implementation in ADAPT-Builder’s frame solver does not cover
the geometric stiffness of plate shell element.
The focus for the current implementation is on geometric stiffness

of frame element, since it plays a prominent role, when computing
structures supported on columns such as unbraced or partially
braced multi-level frames and buildings.
2.3.2 Formulation of Elastic and Geometric Stiffness for Frame

Element
A standard 3-dimensional (Bernoulli-Euler) frame element is

assumed, having the following local coordinate system:
12
The elastic stiffness matrix of such a 3-dimensional frame element

in local coordinates system can be represented by the following
12x12 matrix:
The corresponding geometric stiffness matrix of 3-dimensional

frame element in local coordinates system can be represented by
the following 12x12 matrix:
13
Where:
P – axial force in the element

L – length of the element
I – Ix+Iy – Polar moment of inertia
The combined elastic+geometric stiffness matrix of frame element

as implemented in ADAPT’s Frame can be represented by the sum
of each matrix location entry in from the matrices shown above.
2.3.3 Description of the Solution Process
The combined elastic and geometric stiffness matrices [Ke+Kg] of

individual frame elements are transformed from the local to global
coordinate system and assembled into a stiffness matrix of the
entire system [Ks]. The results are obtained in a similar fashion by
solving the system of finite element equations:
[Ks]*[D]=[F]
Where:
[D] – nodal displacement vector (unknown)

[F] – nodal force (load) vector.
14
Because geometric matrices [Kg] are parametrized by the axial

forces acting in the elements, the solution needs to be calculated
iteratively, and the elements of geometric matrices updated for
each iteration. In the first iteration, the system is solved as a
regular elastic model, without use of the geometric stiffness
matrices. In the subsequent solutions, geometric matrices are
employed. Typically, iterative processing converges quickly,
especially when analyzing multi-level structures, where the
magnitude of axial forces in the elements does not change
significantly from one iteration to the other. For practical purposes
2 or 3 iterations are sufficient to obtain a relevant solution.
Because P-Delta analysis is a pseudo-nonlinear process, the

solutions should normally be obtained using complete load
combinations instead of individual load cases, since the solutions
cannot be linearly combined. This causes the amount of time
needed to obtain the solutions for multiple combinations to be
more significant and computationally consumptive than when
solving individual load cases.
In typical engineering practice, P-Delta analysis is employed in

conjunction with lateral analysis, when wind or earthquake loads
are acting. The purpose is to capture the amplification of the lateral
effects due to P-Delta effects. For such cases, literature suggests
that simplifications are possible in the process, so as to limit the
computation time. For example, when the following load
combination is involved:
U=1.2D + 1.0L + 0.2S + 1.0E
there are typically several variations of it, because the seismic load
can be acting in a few different ways. Literature sources suggest
that the amplification of lateral loads due to P-Delta effects may, in
such situations, be obtained by evaluating the geometric stiffness
matrices based on the vertical and sustained gravity components of
the load combination such as:
U=1.2D + 1.0L + 0.2S
The assumption here is that the lateral loads have negligible effect
on axial forces in vertical elements (columns). Under this
assumption several combinations of the same type can be solved in
parallel using the same iteration process. The first “master” load
case (or vertical combination) may be solved, such as:
15
U=1.2D + 1.0L + 0.2S
This combination is used to evaluate the geometric matrices. The

remaining combinations, such as all the lateral variations of:
U=1.2D + 1.0L + 0.2S + 1.0E
can be solved in parallel using the same set of system matrices.

This performance improvement is implemented in FRAME as part
of batch solutions as described later in the document.
2.3.4 Prestressing in Conjunction with P-Delta
There is limited information with regards to how prestressing or

post-tensioning forces are to be handled when performing P-
DELTA analysis. The comments contained in this section are for
the most part the opinion of the ADAPT and may not be in
agreement with other literature sources.
Prestressing is a source of compressive axial forces in the

elements. Prestressing and post-tensioning tendons are embedded
inside the element (if not external), therefore eccentricity of the
tendon remains unchanged, with regards to the deformed section.
Subsequently there is no amplification effect for the tendon’s
transverse actions as a result of the compressive prestressing force.
Similarly, there is no amplification effect when a prestressing force
acts in conjunction with transverse loads different than PT. An
embedded tendon itself is not a source of buckling (secondary)
effect for the host concrete element.
For this reason, it is unnecessary to account for the axial force due
to prestressing, when evaluating the elements of the geometric
stiffness matrices. The axial forces to be used for evaluating the
geometric stiffness matrices should primarily be based on gravity
load components. The transverse effects of the post-tensioning
(“load balancing” effects) may interact with the axial forces in the
elements due to external loads, such as gravity loads, leading to the
secondary (P-Delta) effects. In other words, the P-Delta effects are
possible, when tendon exerts transverse load on the element in
conjunction with external (non-PT) axial force within the element.
The reason for this is that post-tensioning generates the
deformation of the member, therefore an additional external axial
force acting on the member may lead to the amplification of the
deformation caused by the tendon.
16
Let us assume that we have the following load combination to be

analyzed for P-Delta:
U=1.2D + 1.0L + 0.2S + 1.0P + 1.0E
Based on what was written before in this section, two load cases in
this combination, prestressing “P” and lateral “E”, are the obvious
candidates to be excluded from evaluation of the geometric
stiffness matrices.
The implementation of P-Delta in ADAPT-Builder’s frame solver

automatically excludes the contribution of prestressing force from
the calculation of geometric stiffness matrix. This takes place for
all possible arrangements of load cases (load combinations) in the
INP input file, both in singular and batch processing modes.
2.3.5 P-Delta Analysis Using Load Batches
ADAPT-Builder’s frame solver has the capability to solve multiple

load cases in single solution handling (using the same system
stiffness matrix). In such a case, the right-hand side of the FEM
equation system consists of multiple nodal load vectors, and the
solution consists of multiple vectors of nodal displacements.
Normally these types of solutions are only possible for linear
analysis. The advantage of this feature is a significant reduction of
the computation time, because the system stiffness matrix needs to
be solved only once for multiple load combinations.
Since P-Delta is pseudo nonlinear, it is not possible to obtain fully

accurate P-Delta solutions when using load batches. When analysis
is performed using load batches, the first load set (partial
combination) from the batch will be used to evaluate the combined
stiffness matrix of the system [Ke+Kg], while the remaining load
sets in the batch may include the load components which are
negligible or inappropriate for calculation of the geometric
stiffness.
For the load combination mentioned above, the first load set
(partial combination, or “master” combination) to be used for
evaluating the combined stiffness matrix of the system [K e+Kg]
will be as follows:
U=1.2D + 1.0L + 0.2S + 1.0P
17
In the above combination, the prestressing component will be

ignored by the program, when evaluating geometric stiffness
matrices, but will be considered otherwise.
The remaining load sets for given load batch may represent the
complete combinations such as:
U=1.2D + 1.0L + 0.2S + 1.0P + 1.0E
Typically, there are several variations of the lateral load “E” (or
similarly, “W” for wind), therefore the load batch will produce
several solutions, using single system matrix [Ke+Kg] if those
variations are included as combinations.
Similar multi-load solutions can be obtained when the lateral load

is of wind type.
The usage of batch loads required additional provisions in

BUILDER’s GUI, in order to automate the process of generation
of INP input file. The algorithm developed in the GUI allows for
combinations to be set to the ‘P-Delta” analysis/design option type.
This algorithm performs the following functions:
1. Load Combinations will be internally sorted according to:
 combination category (SLS, ULS etc)

 type of analysis (P-DELTA included or excluded)
 combination factors for each load component (SW,
DL, SDL, LL, PT EQ etc)
2. Load combinations which are selected for P-Delta analysis

will be assigned into groups (batches) based on identical
load factors for vertical (gravity) load factors.
The group (batch) which will be solved together needs to

have all load components and factors identical, except for
the lateral component.
3. For each P-Delta load combination batch, the algorithm

creates a master combination which includes identical load
components. This master load combination is used to
establish the geometric matrix.
18
The algorithm for P-Delta load combination post-

processing, has the ability to switch from batch load
solutions to individual solutions. Although the load batch
approach is oftentimes sufficiently accurate when analyzing
multi-floor buildings with prevailing gravity loads, it may
sometimes be insufficient. The program gives the user an
option to switch from batch load solutions to individual
solutions.
Individual solutions may be computationally more

consuming, but sometimes can be useful for the engineer.
The use of individual solutions is especially justified, when
structural model is fully developed and requires final
results.
If P-Delta load combinations are developed such that there

is no unique set of load cases and factors that is repeated,
each combination is solved independently with a unique
geometric matrix, not shared.
2.3.6 Special Considerations
In ADAPT-Builder’s frame solver, the computations using P-Delta

methodology can only be performed for frame (building)
structures. Currently the frame solver does not support P-Delta
computations for models which are supported on uni-directional
(compression only) springs. The use of uni-directional springs
requires an iterative (pseudo-nonlinear) solution, which would be
in conflict with the iteration process for P-Delta analysis as
currently implemented. ADAPT-Builder’s GUI performs a check
for uni-directional springs, and if present, disables the option to run
P-Delta analysis. In particular P-Delta analysis is disabled, when
analyzing models in MAT or SOG modes of the program.
The FEM analysis which includes geometric stiffness matrices

may on occasions result in non-solvable models. This is possible
when the magnitude of the axial loads in the columns is close to or
above the critical buckling loads. Even if for a single column, the
value of axial load exceeds critical, the resulting combined
stiffness matrix [Ke+Kg] of this element may be singular and
unsolvable. It is advisable that an engineer should perform
preliminary static (non-P-delta) analysis first, in order to evaluate
the magnitude of axial forces in columns, to make sure their
critical loads are not exceeded. Graphical reporting of
19
amplification factors for both moment and drift are available for P-
delta load combinations.
2.3.7 Selected ACI Design Code Provisions Related to P-Delta

Analysis
ACI-318 code defines the requirements for structural analysis of

concrete member design and permits the 1st order analysis with
moment magnification, and/or, elastic second 2 nd analysis. Other
methods included are inelastic 2nd-order and non-linear FEM.
Stability Limit
Starting from the 2008 edition of ACI 318 code, a unified stability
requirement was introduced on compressive members (primarily
columns) which limits the moment amplification due to P-Delta to
1.4 as a ratio of 2nd/1st order moments. This provision was
presented in this edition of the code as follows:
When structural model satifies this requirement for each of its

columns, its stability is is assured both globally and locally.
The funtionality for P-Delta analysis inside ADAPT-Builder’s

frame solver includes new procedures for calculation of the
following amplification factors:
 MAF – moment amplification factors at the ends of frame

elements.
 DAF – drift amplification factors.
20
These values are stored in ADO output files for P-Delta solutions
and are used as the source files for producing both graphical and
XLS output for moment, drift and displacements.
In the previous editions of the ACI code, the basic measure of

stability was based on the so-called “stability index.” ADAPT-
Builder’s frame engine does not support this particular calculation
and stability is reported in the aformentioned method.
Section Stiffness Reduction
The 2008 edition of the ACI318 code sets forth the following
requirements regarding elastic 2nd-order P-Delta analysis:
In lieu of more precise determination of the properties of cracked

sections, the following simplified stiffness reductions are
permissible:
21
The above stiffness reductions are primary prescribed for non-

prestressed members. For prestressed members ACI318 states the
following:
Assuming that structural floors and beams are prestressed, the

reductions of stiffness included in section 10.10.4.1 are at least
applicable to columns and walls. This means that PT structural
models should, at the very minimum, be executed using flexural
stiffness reduction factors equal to 0.7 for all vertical support
elements (columns and walls). In case it is hard to determine the
state cracking in structural walls, the more appropriate flexural
stiffness reduction factor equals 0.35.
22
ADAPT-Builder allows users to define ‘Usage Cases’ to set

modifiers for the structural components. A user is able to define,
store, and obtain solutions for various usage cases. Refer to the
ADAPT-Builder 2019 User Manual and the ADAPT-Builder
2019 Tutorial for additional information regarding Usage Cases
and Stiffness Modifiers.
2.3.8 Selected EC2 Design Code Provisions Related to P-Delta

Analysis
Eurocode 2 Section 5.8.2 states that global 2 nd-order effects may be

ignored if they are less than 10% of the first order effects. As an
alternative, if the slenderness (l) is less than the slenderness limit
(llim), then second order effects may be ignored. The main
provision for this is as follows:
Essentially, this is a definition of a threshold between a non-sway

and sway structure.
The above limitation frees an engineer from more detailed

slenderness design. The most adequate verification of this criterion
can be obtained as a result of 2nd-order P-Delta analysis.
In case the 10% limits for standard analysis are exceeded and
second order analysis is needed, Eurocode 2 specifies the
following general requirements:
This practically stipulates, that when analysis is based on

assumption of linear materials and geometric nonlinearity, the
reduced stiffness approach needs to be taken, similarly to the
requirements of ACI code. Even though the detailed requirements
may be different, the general ideas are similar in nature. From the
standpoint of implementation in ADAPT-Builder’s frame solver,
23
the most interesting aspect is employing the use of usage cases

with defined stiffness modifiers following code recommendations.
Eurocode 2 presents the provisions for 2nd-order analysis of

individual isolated members and for entire structures (global
analysis). With regards to the calculations performed by ADAPT-
Builder’s frame solver, provisions for isolated members are of no
particular interest. The provisions for global analysis are of
importance here.
Eurocode 2 mentions the following methods of analysis of

slenderness effects:
The general method is based on non-linear analysis, including

geometric non-linearity i.e. second order effects. The provisions
for general method (5.8.6) stipulate that both material and
geometrical nonlinearity should be used. In case software does not
handle material nonlinearity, these effects need to be accounted for
by means of stiffness reductions, as was mentioned before, and
should be based on requirements nominal stiffness method of
section 5.8.7. The nominal stiffness method is primarily meant for
global analysis. The nominal curvature method (5.8.8) is primarily
to be used for isolated members, and therefore it is not useful in
application within ADAPT-Builder.
The nominal stiffness method (5.8.7) presents the following

requirements regarding calculations of stiffness reductions of
slender elements:
24
The provisions of 5.8.7(4) are the most relevant from the

standpoint of the implementation of P-Delta in ADAPT-Builder.
This means that the stiffness reductions prescribed in eq. 5.27
(which are constant factors) are sufficient to satisfy the
requirements of the EC2 code, for typical multi-story frame
buildings. The value of effective creep ratio ef should be
determined based on requirements of sections 3.1.4 and 5.8.4.
Additional requirements regarding global 2 nd-order analysis are

presented in Annex H of EC2 code. In this annex, further
simplifications are given as follows:
25
Two stiffness reduction factors are mentioned here:
 0.4*EcIc – for cracked elements

 0.8*EcIc – for uncracked elements.
The use of these stiffness reductions is further elaborated in

“Eurocode 2 Commentary” as follows:
In conclusion, the approach of reduced stiffness presented in EC2

is similar to the approach in ACI code, except for detailed values
of reduction factors.
2.3.9 Selected CSA Design Code Provisions Related to P-Delta

Analysis
The Canadian design code (CSA) is similar to ACI code with

regards to 2nd-order effects.
The values of stiffness reduction factors to be used in conjunction

with P-Delta analysis are as follows:
26
CSA code imposes the following limitation of displacement

amplification factors (DAF):
These limitations are reported graphically and in XLS format

within ADAPT-Builder’s GUI for all design codes where P-Delta
is used.
2.3.10 Selected NBR Design Code Provisions Related to P-Delta

Analysis
Brazilian code defines non-sway and sway frames in a similar way

to EC2, as follows:
27
The following stiffness reduction factors are adopted for the

purpose of elastic, 2nd-order analysis:
2.3.11 Selected AS-3600 Code Provisions Related to P-Delta Analysis
Australian code AS-3600 presents the following requirements

regarding 2nd-order P-Delta analysis:
Stiffness reduction factors for this code are similar to EC2.
2.3.12 Design Codes – P-Delta Summary
In summary, based on the above, when performing global 2nd-order

analysis based on ACI or EC2, NBR, AS-3600, it is permissible to
account for material nonlinearity (cracking, creep etc) using
28
simplified stiffness reduction factors. The basic reduction factors

for non-prestressed elements are as follows:
ADAPT-Builder gives the user the capability of defining

customized, user-imposed “Usage Cases” where stiffness
modifiers are introduced and imposed at a component level.
While some design codes don’t impose an explicit limitation on the

amplification factors obtained in the course of P-Delta analysis
(stability limit), ADAPT-Builder reports a ratio of 2nd/1st order
drifts and moments. The default limit in ADAPT-Builder is set to
1.4 but can be modified by the user. The program checks this and
graphically reports the outcome. XLS data is also presented for
drift results.
2.4 Drift and Moment Amplification Factors
2.4.1 Introduction
With the new P-Delta feature, the program graphically reports drift
and moment amplification factors (2nd/1st order results) for local
axes (RR and SS) as well as the combined global results. The
program code checks against a user-defined value set in the Result
Browser. The default value is described in the section above.
Some design codes require an explicit limitation on drift

amplification for the purpose of ensuring a stability limit. The
following sections describe how the drift and moment
amplification factors (DAF and MAF) are used. The prerequisite to
these results is to have completed a global FEM solution with the
presence of P-Delta combinations included.
29
2.4.2 Graphical Drift Amplification
To invoke the graphical drift amplification values and code check,

the user must select a P-Delta combination result in the ‘Results
Browser’ as shown below. Note that selection of the master P-
Delta combination is usually not required or typical for drift
amplification since it serves only as the driver for the geometric
stiffness generation.
Once the combination has been selected, the ‘Analysis’ tab can be
used to produce the result. Select ColumnDrift and the
amplification factor options are selectable for Combined, X, or Y
directions. Once selected the program will produce a Green or Red
colored column to indicate if the value is less than or greater/equal
than the user-defined value. This value is set to 1.4 by default.
The user can change this setting in the ‘Display’ tab from the
Result Browser.
30
The image belows shows the code check for the combined drift
amplificaton factors at the top level of a structure. Note the legend
in the upper corner of the window reports the result, combination
and type, allowable value and the max/min values.
To produce this result, the program calculates the drift for both the
1st and 2nd order results. Drift is taken as the differential
displacement from the top node of the upper frame element of the
column to the bottom node of the bottom frame element of the
column, divided by story height. The ratio is then taken between
the calculated drifts for 2nd to 1st order results. Note that if a
situation is modeled where multiple columns extend over multiple
floors and don’t connect to slabs at each column break-point, the
31
drift is still reported per column and the height used is that between
the top and bottom of column.
Displacements used for the drift calculations are those relative to

the result selection made: X, Y or combined. For combined the
program uses the global displacements.
2.4.3 Graphical Moment Amplification
To invoke the graphical moment amplification values and code

check, the user must select a P-Delta combination result in the
‘Results Browser’ as shown below. Note that selection of the
master P-Delta combination is usually not required or typical for
moment amplification since it serves only as the driver for the
geometric stiffness generation.
Once the combination has been selected, the ‘Analysis’ tab can be
used to produce the result. Select ColumnAction
(Combination)Moment Amplification Factor about rr or ss. The
amplification factor options are selectable for moments about rr or
ss local axes for columns. Once selected the program will produce
a Green or Red colored column to indicate if the value is less than
or greater/equal than the user-defined value. This value is set to
1.4. The user can change this setting in the ‘Display’ tab from the
Result Browser.
32
The image belows shows the code check for the moment
amplificaton factor about the local rr axss at the top level of a
structure. Note the legend in the upper corner of the window
reports the result, combination and type, allowable value and the
max/min values.
To produce this result, the program calculates the moments at the

top and bottom of columns for both the 1st and 2nd order results.
The ratio is then calculated for the top and bottom locations for 2 nd
33
to 1st order results. The maximum ratio is reported and checked

against allowable.
2.5 Effective Flange for Beam Design in ADAPT-Builder
2.5.1 Introduction
The program now includes the option to calculate the effective

flange and properties of beams when the support line is set to
‘Beam’ criteria. The design of the beam sections is performed
using the effective properties. The component of stress related to
the precompression uses the full tributary area of the section as
does the graphical precompression result. ACI and EC2
calculations for effective width are supported.
2.5.2 Methodology
The program includes effective flange formulation for two design

codes: ACI318-14 and EC2. All design codes will default to the
ACI methodology expect for EC2 and NBR codes. The user can
also manually generate splitters or use max tributary offset input
for the design strip to create user-defined flange widths.
The implementation for ACI uses the following expressions from

ACI318-14 Section 6.3.2, excluding point (c).
The implementation for EC2 uses the following expressions from

EN 1992-1-1:2004 Section 5.3.2.1 (3).
34
2.5.3 Defining the Effective Flange Option in a Model
When the effective flange option is used, the program uses

effective properties in performing the following calculations:
 Calculation of reinforcement for minimum and strength

requirements of the design section
 Calculation of flexural stresses for PT design sections.
That component of the stress calculation, My/I, is based on
the centroid of the effective section and moment of inertia
of the effective section. That component of the stress
calculation, P/A, uses the area based on the full design
section as modeled for the design strip. Note that the P/A as
reported graphically is based on the full tributary area, not
the effective area.
Actions for the design of effective sections are those as calculated

per the Nodal Integration Method (see ADAPT-Technical Note
TN302 – Design Section Values) over the full tributary width of
the design section.
To define use of the effective flange in the ADAPT model, use the
following sequence of instructions:
1. Set the support line to the ‘Beam’ design type from double-
clicking on the support line, selecting ‘Design’ and set the
criteria to ‘Beam.’
35
2. Set the ‘Design Section Options’ for the support line.

Use the options in ‘Design Width Limits’ to enable the
option for effective flange. Two additional options are
shown for exlusion of tendons and rebar outside of the
effective flange. If these options are selected, the
program will ignore the area of prestressing or
reinforcement that fall within the the modeled tributary
but outside effective flange, for calculation of
reinforcement for the design section.
36
3. Select the green checkbox at the top left corner of the

Support Line property box.
4. Generate the design sections from Floor

DesignGenerate Design Sections. Note for the image
below the generated design strip is taken as the full
tributary of 13.5 ft (162 in). The design actions at the
centroid of the design section is based on nodal
integration of the actions over the full width of the
generated design strip.
37
Use of full design strip

width for calculation of
deign actions
The image below shows the properties of a design section with

consideration of effective flange properties. While the generated
design strip width is 162in., the effective flange width as used in
the calculation of reinforcement and flexural stress is taken and
calculated as 122.9in.
The window below shows two images. The first is the physical
section cut and the second is the idealized section cut which uses
the effective flange.
38
39
2.6 Punching shear for Aci 318-14
2.6.1 Introduction
New improvements have been made for punching shear checks in

ADAPT-Builder according to ACI318-14. The first improvement
is the option to consider the least critical section as an octagonally-
shaped section at a distance of d/2 outside the last line of
reinforcement. The applicable code sections being 22.6.4.2 and
22.6.6.1.
The second improvement is the option to consider minimum

reinforcement up to a distance 4*slab thickness to satisfy a
minimum strength of 3.5*f’c^1/2. This requirement is found is
Section 18.14.5.1 and is applied to satisfy adequate ductility of
members not part of a lateral-resisting system in seismic design
categories D, E, and F.
The program provides the user the option to consider the preceding
two features from Floor DesignShear Options. The options can
be considered in tandem (as shown below) or separate.
40
The third improvement applies to the application of minimum

reinforcement at critical sections as dictated in ACI318-14 Section
22.6.8.3. The critical section used to determine the minimum
amount of reinforcement is that of the section located d/2 from
face of support. In previous versions of the software, the critical
section length as based on the section being checked. In other
words, the amount of reinforcement necessary to meet minimum
became larger each critical section (layer) that was checked. Upon
a formal review of the program source code and the interpretation
of design code, this was modified and improved.
The following sections provide more detailed description of the

first two features described above.
2.6.2 Critical Section Outside the Reinforced Zone
The option to consider critical sections outside the shear reinforced

zone with either a rectilinear or octagonal-shaped critical section is
given in the program. ACI318-14 Sections 22.6.4.2, 22.6.6.1
apply. The following images show the octagonal-shaped section
introduced in ADAPT-Builder 2019 for compliance with ACI318-
14. Note this section shape can now also be used for designs
performed using all ACI318 versions supported by the program.
41
When this option is selected the program determines the critical

section, based on a rectilinear shape, where no reinforcement is
required. Each critical section is located at d/2 from the previous.
At the critical section where no reinforcement is required (As = 0),
the program rechecks the same location but with a reduced critical
length and area. This is calculated using an octagonally-shaped
section and is checked until the stress is less than code specified.
The user can specify the edge distance between the edge of column
and stud rail or shear stirrups. This value affects the critical section
length.
42
The location where at which the octagonally-shaped critical section

begins being checks is evident in the XLS output for punching
shear in ADAPT-Builder. This can be viewed from
ReportsPunching ShearXLS ReportsPunching Shear
Report. There are two sheets within this report that dictate the
location the of the section shape change. These include the
‘Critical Section Geometry’ and the ‘As Required’ sheets. An
example is presented below for an interior column located at Grid
D-2. The first image is a graphical indication that this column
requires reinforcement. Continuing into the details of the XLS
report, the 2nd image below shows the location at which the critical
section area reduces. Note between critical sections 1 and 5 the
area increases. Between sections 5 and 6 there is a decrease in area
from 1424.8in2 to 1226.9in2. This indicates that section 6 is the
first section checked as an octagonal section. Additional sections
(8-14) are required to be checked with the same shape.
43
The image below shows the required area of steel for the same
column at Grid D-2. Note that at critical section 5, where the
rectilinear shape is used, the required As is calculated as zero. The
next critical section and all remaining in sequence are those
checked for the octagonally-shaped section.
The user can also review the ‘Stress Check’ sheet to review the
allowable stress reported and there is clear indication given where
the maximum stress of ϕ*2*f’c^1/2 is reported. See table 22.6.6.1
for reference.
2.6.3 Minimum Reinforcement for Drift
The option to apply two-way shear provisions for minimum

reinforcement for seismic drift as found in ACI318-14 Section
18.14.5.1 is now included in ADAPT-Builder 2019. The
referenced provision is found in the excerpt below. Note that the
provision is conditional upon a check of the interstory drift ratio at
the support location. However, the program does not check this
but gives the user the option to directly enforce the minimum shear
strength as given as 3.5*f’c^1/2.
44
The current expresssions used to calculate As for two-way shear is

shown below as taken from ADAPT-Technical Note TN504. If
the new minimum reinforcement for drift requirement is selected,
the program checks that the quantity in the parentheses is ≥
3.5*f’c^1/2 for all critical sections with a distance 4*slab thickness
from face of the support. Additional checks with respect to
Av,min still apply as shown below.
2.7 FELT 3D and Long-Term Losses
2.7.1 Introduction
When the PT Shop Drawing module is enabled in the splash screen

of ADAPT-Builder 2019, the program enables new input and
45
functionality for the calculation of long-term losses for unbonded

tendons and bonded tendons stressed at the same time.
Explicit calculation of long-term losses related to elastic

shortening, creep, relaxation, and shrinkage can now be performed
for all modeled tendons in ADAPT-Builder. This can be performed
in addition to friction loss and elongation calculations. The
program retains the ability to enter lump-sum long-term loss
estimates as an alternate method. Detailed loss calculation
examples and background can be found in ADAPT-Technical Note
TN-T9-04-Prestresssing Losses and Elongation Calculations.
The program provides detailed tabular and graphical report data for
FELT 3D. The reporting options are located in a later section of
this document.
Additional features have been added to a new Drawing Editor.

This option is also invoked when the user enables the PT Shop/3D
FELT module in the program splash screen. The option can be
found from TendonsShop DrawingDrawing Editor. The
information below provides more detail about each of these
features including a new tendon shape for modeling and
representation of tendons with in-plane sweep.
2.7.2 Setting Options for Long-Term Loss Calculations
The option to calculate long-term losses for modeled tendons can

be set individually or by selecting a group of tendons. Remember
that unless the option for the PT Shop/3D Felt is enabled, long-
term losses can only be entered as lump sum values.
Individual Tendon: Double-click on a tendon to open the Tendon

Properties dialog. In the ‘Stressing’ tab the option checked for
‘Calculate force’ will enable the long-term loss options. Selecting
‘Calculate long-term loss’ will enable the user to input the long-
term loss parameters as shown in the image below.
46
Multiple Tendons: Select a group of tendons and go to

ModifyModify Item PropertiesTendon. In the ‘Stressing’ tab
select CalculatedLong-Term StressCalculatedProperties.
This will enable the user to input the long-term loss parameters as
shown in the image below and apply these to the selected group of
tendons.
47
2.7.3 Drawing Editor
To invoke the Drawing Editor, select the icon shown below from
TendonShop Drawing.
The Shop Drawing Editor contains 3 primary tabs as shown below:

Tools, Chair Groups, and Colors.
Tools – This option allows the user to convert the all tendons from
straight or spline representation to fillet-radius representation.
This is described in section 2.5.4. The user can also remove non-
auto swerve points for tendons set to spline mode using this option.
By selecting ‘Apply’ the program will remove the points for all
tendons set to spline meeting this condition.
Chair Groups – This option allows the user to input on-demand

chair bar maximum spacing and chair bar extensions for graphical
output of tendon support bars and chair heights. To remove the
bars and chair heights, use the ‘Clear’ option and select the desired
tendons.
48
In the 2nd image below, max bar spacing is set to 48” with the bar
extension each side set to 8 inches. The example shows distributed
tendons. Where the support bars overlap, the bars are represented
as continuous with the applicable chair height.
Colors – This option provides input for grouping tendons into

user-defined colors and defining tendon labels per the color group
assigned to the tendon. The program combines tendons of the same
installation length into groups for based on the user-defined colors.
New graphical tendon properties related to colors, groups, labels
and lengths can be found from TendonDisplay Manager.
49
2.7.4 Tendon Shape – Fillet-Radius
The program now includes the option to geometrically and

analytically represent the tendon as ‘Fillet-Radius’ input. This
combines straight tendon segments with curves represented as
fillets based on user-input for the radius. The option allows the
user to control in-plane deviation at control points without auto-
correction of adjacent spans similar to how spline tendons are
treated.
Individual Tendon: Double-click on a tendon to open the Tendon

Properties dialog. In the ‘General’ select the ‘Fillet’ option and
input the radius from the ‘Mode’ selections. The radius is
measured from the an origin of the control point that has been
deviated in-plane.
Multiple Tendons: Select a group of tendons and go to

TendonTendon Editor. This will open the Dynamic Tendon
50
Editor. In this dialog window select the ‘Mode’ tab to change to

the Fillet option. This will apply this mode to all selected tendons.
51
Chapter 3
MODELING IMPROVEMENTS
53
MODELING IMPROVEMENTS Chapter 3
3. MODELING IMPROVEMENTS
3.1 Strip Modeling – Dynamic Editor
A new and Strip Modeling Dynamic Editor includes tools used to more
rapidly model and modify support lines and design strips. This new tool is
found at Floor DesignStrip Modeling. Manual creation of support lines
is still available in v2019 as it has been done in previous versions through
use of the Create X and Create Y Support Line tools.
The image below shows the Dynamic Editor dialog window. Note the
option is given to ‘Pause’ or ‘Resume.’ This allows the user to keep the
window open and work in the main User Interface if needed.
Tools included are in the Dynamic Editor are described below.
55
Chapter 3 MODELING IMPROVEMENTS
 Support Line Wizard – Creates a support based on a construction

line defined by snap points along the strip path. Rules included in
placement of construction line vertices include:
1. The first snap point defines the start point (vertices) of the
support line.
2. Select ENTER or right-click and select Close/End/Accept

to complete the construction line.
3. Upon completion of a construction line, the program works

in continue mode and the next snap dictates the start of the
next construction line. This happens until the use exits the
Dynamic Editor or moves to a different tool tab in the
window.
4. Beginning and end construction line snap points that start

or terminate outside of a slab edge will be auto-trimmed
back to the slab edge.
5. Snap points are not required to click on the centroid of a

column for the program to create a vertex at that point. The
construction line only be required to pass through a
column.
6. The construction line can pass through multiple columns in

a single segment of the construction line. A construction
line vertex allows the construction line to change direction.
In the image below the construction line begins at point 1
and passes through the first column. The segment between
points 2 and 3 also pass through the 2nd column. In both
cases, because the segments intersect the column, the
program places support line vertex at these support
locations. The 2nd image below shows the created support
line.
7. The construction line vertices should snap near end-points

of the wall for the auto-generation of support line nodes at
the wall ends. The first image below shows the points
placed near wall end and the outcome includes the nodes at
the wall endpoints.
56
8. If the construction line vertex snaps in the middle half of a

wall, only a single node is added at that snap point.
9. If the construction line does not snap on a wall at any

location, no vertices are added to the wall.
57
10. For walls oriented perpendicular to a support line or at an

angle < 45° relative to a line perpendicular to the support
line, it is common to snap a single point at the wall so as to
create a “span” where the wall is at the start/end of adjacent
spans. See the images below. Note the same rule applies if
the snap point is near the wall end, the program places the
support line node at the wall endpoint.
11. Placement of construction line snap points are similar to

walls. If the snap point is near the end of a beam, the
program places the support line nodes at the beam
endpoints. In addition the program isolates the support line
over the beam and changes the design criteria to ‘Beam’
criteria.
58
12. For beams oriented perpendicular to a support line or at an

angle < 45° relative to a line perpendicular to the support
line, it is common to snap a single point at the beam so as
to create a “span” where the beam is at the start/end of
adjacent spans. Note the same rule applies if the snap point
is near the beam end, the program places the support line
node at the beam endpoint.
13. The start and end span of a support line created from the
wizard follow the same path as the construction line.
Therefore, the user may need to re-align the endpoints of
the support lines to maintain perpendicularity to the slab
edges.
 Support Line Limits – Changes selected support line design

criteria and tributary limits for the design strip. When this tab is
selected, the current design criteria and limits will be displayed on
all support lines. Set the desired criteria and snap or window
support lines to modify to the desired setting.
59
The option to change Tributary Limits allows a user to set the

maximum tributary width for a design strip. If ‘None’ is selected,
the program’s algorithm will determine the tributary with
proximity to adjacent support lines. The image below shows the
outcome of the limit set to none for a partial length support line.
Let us assume we want to limit the tributary to 5’ each side and we

input this as the limit and regenerate the strips. The 2 nd image
below displays the outcome. Note that the tributary extents of the
design strips above and below don’t change. To extend these strips
to the limited tributary, splitters can be added. See the 3 rd and 4th
images below.
Options for tributary limits can also be modified per support line
by double-clicking the support line and using ‘Design Section
Options.’
60
61
 Wall – This tool allows the user to set boundary conditions for
how walls are considered for design strip tributary generation. The
default conditions are set to automatically consider walls as X and
Y boundaries. Options are given for the user to manually define
how walls are treated. Select ‘User Def’ and select the boundary
option and then click on the wall to set the boundary. User-defined
boundaries remain until the option is set back to ‘Auto’ or until the
manual boundary is set to another option. The link below contains
an instructional video that illustrates more detailed use of wall
boundaries.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vbY5_tec9vo
62
 Display- Sets the support line display for Direction, Criteria and
Width Limit per the selection of checkboxes. The ‘Update
Drawing’ is used to reflect the current selections and label support
lines with those selections. The 2nd image below gives and
example of how the information is presented on a support line.
63
3.2 Splitter functionality
The use of splitters has been simplified in the 2019 version. In earlier
versions of the software, the splitter was used to create a virtualized
boundary for termination of a tributary region for the design strip.
Oftentimes, splitters were required when a support line start and/or end
point was located within the perimeter of the slab region. Other cases
where splitters were required were limiting tributaries extending through
or into openings, support line nodes that shared a common point and one
support line was continuous while the other was discontinuous to the
shared node.
Splitters were also used to manual generate a boundary that resulted in an

uneven distribution of tributary between two adjacent support lines. In the
first image below, without use of a splitter, the program generates an even
distribution of tributary to Support Lines 3,4 and 5. The bay length is 33’
between columns in the Y-direction, therefore the distribution is 16.5’ as
shown. If a splitter is added 8.25’ above Support Line 4, the program
treats this as a delimiting boundary for the program-generated design
strips. The outcome is shown in the 3rd image below.
64
65
New splitter functionality in ADAPT-Builder 2019 is approached in a

similar manner. Splitters are only required to limited the tributary width
of a strip in the direction of the splitter and over the splitter length. In
other words, splitters can be used to create a boundary that the tributary
edge extends when the width is required to be limited to either side of a
support line. Splitters are no longer required for any other purpose as the
program has been improved to recognize support line nodes at any
location and properly generate strips. Below are a few other cases and
descriptions of new splitter use.
3.2.1 Splitters at Openings
The X-splitters below were added to the side of an opening to limit

the tributary from extending into the opening.
3.2.2 Splitters at Slab Regions Between Openings
The X-splitters below were added to both sides of the support line
between the openings so as to limit the section cuts extending into
the opening.
66
3.2.3 Splitters at Slab or Pit Steps
With the new P-Delta feature, the program graphically reports drift
and moment amplification factors (2nd/1st order results) for local
axes (RR and SS) as well as the combined
3.2.4 Splitters at beams
Splitters were added to each side of the beam below to limit the
beam flange tributary. This version of the program also includes
the option to use the effective flange and properties. If the
calculated effective flange to either side is less than the modeled
flange (with use of the splitters), the program will use the effective
flange in section calculations, otherwise the “physical” tributary
and associated properties is used. See Section 2.3 for more
information regarding effective flange.
67
3.2.5 Splitters at walls
Section 3.1 defined the use of a new wall boundary conditions

feature. This feature is intended to automatically created
boundaries for which a design strip tributary extends to near walls.
The use of the boundary condition feature is not required. The
user can impose splitters near walls to also manually generate a
boundary where the tributary terminates.
In the 1st image below there are walls 1 and 2. Note that the
support line in the view is located over wall 2. It is typical for the
support line to extend over wall that is oriented in the same
direction as the wall is a support for the slab. Wall 1 does not have
a support line along its path. Therefore, it is often desirable to
extend to the design cuts only to the face of the wall. If a design
cut extends over a wall by any length, the program only designs
the sections for minimum reinforcement and does not produce a
graphical stress result when the wall is part of a two-way slab. The
2nd image below shows the inclusion of splitters and tributary
outcome.
68
The link below contains instructional videos that illustrate more

detailed use of splitters.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GZpvL0r5s-I
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=moznFUczO3Y
69
3.3 Ramping
Modeling of ramps is now supported in ADAPT-Builder 2019. Ramps are

considered as other analytical components and meshed and utilized FEM
solutions. Longitudinal and transverse beams can be modeled at ramps
with options to automatically offset the beams as well as offset walls and
columns supporting ramps. Ramps are required to be modeled in the same
plane and the program constrains the graphical input as 3-point input to
enforce planar modeling. Note that the program meshes the ramp as part
of pre-processing when the user Analyzes the model. Meshing of slabs
using AnalysisMeshing continues to only mesh slabs prior to the
analysis. The mesh of ramps and walls is similar in that they are both
meshed as part of the general analysis algorithm.
Limitations of ramps in the software include no tendon modeling at ramps,

no consideration of ramp elements in the generation of design sections, no
design of ramps utilizing design strips and sections, automated or manual.
A user can model and offset tendons for beams supporting ramps in the
transverse direction.
3.3.1 Modeling Ramps
The function used to model ramps is located from

ModelStructural Components. When selecting this option, the
program will prompt the user to enter the ramp corners. Note that
the 1st and 2nd ramp corners define the start of the ramp. The 3 rd
and 4th corners represent the end (bottom) of the ramp. Note after
the 3rd point is selected, the ramp construction line will be locked
orthogonally so as to ensure the ramp is planar and not warped.
In the image below, the first 3 points are input and the ramp outline
is shown in orange color. the start of the ramp is at the left edge
and the end of the ramp is at the right edge. The 2nd image below
shows a 3d view of the modeled ramp. The slabs shown in the
image wrap around the ramp, however, if the slab is located over
the ramp, model an opening in the same space.
70
Ramps can be copied or moved vertically in a multistory structure

through use of ModifyCopy/MoveVertical. Applying this to
the same model, a second ramp is added to the level above as
shown below. The user can modify any of the 4 vertices that define
a ramp. Upon selecting a point, the ramp entity will auto-adjust so
as to maintain the planarity of the surface.
The start and end of a ramp always references a modeled story or

plane. If there is a need for the user to model a twisting ramp or
ramps at different slopes within the same level, the user is required
to created as many planes allow for a multi-sloped or multi-
segmented ramp.
71
3.3.2 Offsetting Connected Components
Connected components like beams transverse to the ramp

direction, oriented in the same direction as the ramp, or columns
located at the edge of a ramp can be automatically offset and
aligned with the ramp at their modeled position. To do this, use
the tool found from ModelPreprocessingConnect with Ramp.
The component/s required to be offset should be selected first and
then use the tool.
In the image below columns and several beams are selected. By

default, the offset of the top and bottom (for columns) and start and
end (for beams) is set to zero. When using the ‘Connect with
72
Ramp’ tool, the offsets are adjusted to connect the components

with the ramp as shown in the 2nd image.
3.3.3 Viewing Options for Ramps
By default, ramps are shown in Top View when modeled. From

HomeZoom/Camera, any other 2D view will show the ramp. If
73
the views ‘Top-Front-Right’ or ‘Top-Back-Side’ are invoked, the

program will present the following warning.
Selecting ‘Yes’ will continue to the selected 3D view. The user can
invoke the rendered view, referenced in the warning, from
VisibilityRender Model. The 3D rendered view is shown below
with the modeled ramp.
Other tools used for viewing ramps include:
ModelIsolateShow Ramp Components: Isolates the

graphical view to show only ramps in the model. Use
VisibilityDefault Display, VisibilityView Settings, or
ModelVisibility to restore the view of other components.
VisibilityView SettingsStructural Components: This

displays On/Off the ramps in the model view.
74
ModelVisibilityRamps: This displays On/Off the ramps in

the model view.
3.3.4 Design Strips and Splitters near Ramps
The current implementation of ramps in ADAPT-Builder does not

include the design of sections cutting through ramps. In other
words, while a physical design cut may intersect a ramp, the ramp
itself and associated offsets are not included in the idealized design
section that the program processes for design of floor sections.
It is recommended to model design strip such that the design cuts

do not extend into ramp regions. This will aid the user in avoiding
confusion and clearly demarking that portion of the slab that the
program properly handles for design. The image below shows an
example of ramps at the top-center and bottom-center of the slab
region. In this example, the support lines are modeled to the start
and end edge of the ramp. Note the program treats the long,
interior edges of the ramp as a boundary and the design strip does
not extend into the ramp. The user can also add splitters to limit an
outcome where a tributary extends into the ramp space.
In the image shown below, notice the support line was modified to
extend continous through the ramp. This being improper and non-
recommended input leads to a tributary portion including ½ of the
ramp. In this scenario, even if a tributary is created in this ramp
75
space, when the design sections are generated and design for this
strip, the sections in the ramp are automatically removed.
3.4 Beam End Offsets
Beam coordinate definitions now include the ability to create offsets at the
beam start and end points. This was a necessary improvement to support
inclined beams at edges of ramps. Beams not associated with ramps can
also be offset with different values at each end. Double-click on a beam to
open the beam properties and use the ‘Location’ tab to enter the offset. If
the option ‘Connect Ramp’ is selected, different offsets can be modeled.
If this button is not selected, the program will use the same offset at both
ends.
76
Chapter 4 REPORTING IMPROVEMENTS
Chapter 4
REPORTING IMPROVEMENTS
78
REPORTING IMPROVEMENTS Chapter 4
4. REPORTING IMPROVEMENTS
4.1 Graphical Longitudinal Reinforcement on Design Strips
The Result Browser includes new graphical reporting options for design
sections reporting the area of steel for provided and required
reinforcement per program calculation and base (user-defined)
reinforcement. In addition, the value of ‘rho’ is reported as the total area
of steel (base + provided) divided by the section area.
These new options are available after the design of sections has been
completed from Floor DesignSection DesignDesign/Investigate the
Sections. Note if the option to ‘Investigate’ is used, the ‘Calculated’
options below will report zero on design strips as these are intended for
the ‘Design’ option. These options shown below are found in the
‘Analysis’ tab of the Results Browser from Design Sections-
Reinforcement (longitudinal).
4.1.1 Calculated (required)
Selecting this option will report the total reinforcement required as

calculated rebar at the top and bottom of the design sections. The
graphical presentation is shown for the combination or Envelope
selected from ‘Loads’ tab in the Results Browser. It is not required
to produce the rebar plan prior to selecting this option.
The image below shows a presentation of the output. The green

graph reports the required top reinforcement and the blue graph
reports the required bottom reinforcement. The values are shown in
in2 and mm2 as defaults, depending on the selected unit system.
79
4.1.2 Calculated (provided)
Selecting this option will report the total reinforcement provided as

calculated rebar at the top and bottom of the design sections. This
is a function of the user-defined bar sizes for the system criteria
type for top and bottom longitudinal bars. These options can be
defined from CriteriaRebar Size/Material. The graphical
presentation is shown for the combination or Envelope selected
from ‘Loads’ tab in the Results Browser. It is required to produce
the rebar plan prior to selecting this option. If the rebar plan for the
selected Load Combination or envelope type has not been
produced, a warning will appear as shown below.
The rebar plan is produced from Floor

DesignRebarCalculated Rebar Plan or from
RebarGenerateCalculated Rebar Plan.
The image below shows a presentation of the output. The green

graph reports the provided top reinforcement and the blue graph
reports the provided bottom reinforcement. The values are shown
in in2 and mm2 as defaults, depending on the selected unit system.
80
4.1.3 Base
Selecting this option will report the total base (user-defined)

reinforcement modeled in the slab and/or beam at the top and
bottom of the design sections. The user must Design or Investigate
the sections prior to producing the result. The graphical
from ‘Loads’ tab in the Results Browser.
The image below shows a presentation of the output. Both top and
bottom graphs are reported as orange. The values are shown in in2
and mm2 as defaults, depending on the selected unit system.
81
4.1.4 Rho
Selecting this option will report total area of base rebar plus
calculated required rebar for the selected load combination,
divided by the total area of the design section. Prestressing steel
area is not included in this calculation. The user must Design or
Investigate the sections prior to producing the result. The graphical
from ‘Loads’ tab in the Results Browser. The value presented is
shown as %.
4.2 XLS File Reporting for Drift Results
The program now includes the option to produce a .XLS report with
multiple data sheets for lateral drift results. These results can include or
exclude P-Delta combinations or only 1st order lateral results. The new
reporting feature is invoked from ReportsAnalysis DataXLS
ReportsDrift Report. Prerequisite to producing the report, the model
should be run in Multi-Level mode and contain at least a single
combination with lateral loads included, although this is not required.
When you select the option to produce the drift report, the following
dialog window will appear, allowing the user to customize the report. This
dialog includes a list of design combinations for which a global FEM
solution has been generated. The user can custom-select which
combination/s to produce the report for.
82
In addition, the user can enter the allowable drift % as well as the P-Delta
Maximum Drift Amplification Factor to check against. Note that the
allowable drift is that entered by the user. It is the users responsibility to
apply any displacement amplification factor (Cd) within the value
entered as allowable. Note these two inputs within this dialog are
separate and do not affect those located in the ‘Settings’ tab of the Result
Browser, which are intended for graphical code check of drift and
amplification due to P-Delta.
The user can also select which direction to produce the report for. Options
include global X and Y as well as the combined drift.
Upon selection OK, the program will produce a message showing the path
location ot the XLS file and prompt the user to open the file automatically.
The file will open to the default application compatible with XLS files.
This is typically Microsoft Excel® or other equivalent application.
83
The XLS file will generate 7 unique sheets of data. These include
Stations, Displacements, Drift at Columns, Average Drift, Max Drift
Envelope, Average Drift Envelope, and Drift Amplification Factor. Each
sheet is described briefly below with an illustrative example.
4.2.1 Stations
This report sheet lists all columns in the model starting at the
upper-most plane and working down. The column label, global
coordinates and height are shown.
4.2.2 Displacements
This report sheet shows the displacements for all columns at the
selected coordinates for the top and bottom location of the column.
The selected combinations for the produces results are listed along
with the combination analysis/design option type. The columns
are reported by plane listed top-down.
84
4.2.3 Drift at Columns
This report shows the inter-story drift values (in or mm) for each
column, at each plane for the selected combinations and directions.
The combination analysis design/design option type is listed.
Additional results shown on this sheet are for code check against
the maximum allowable drift %. The % drift for the selected
directions are shown as well as the allowable %. If any of the
direction values (X, Y or combined) exceed the allowable the
program will flag this row (indicating a single column for a single
load combination result) as NG. If the values are less than
allowable the row will be flagged as OK.
85
4.2.4 Average Drift
This report shows the average inter-story drift values (in or mm)
for all columns at a plane and for each selected combination and
direction. The combination analysis design/design option type is
listed. To produce the values, the program sums the drift for all
columns and divides by the number of columns. This is done for
each direction and combination.
Additional results shown on this sheet are for code check against
the maximum allowable drift %. The % drift for the selected
directions are shown as well as the allowable %. If any of the
direction values (X, Y or combined) exceed the allowable the
program will flag this row (indicating a single column for a single
load combination result) as NG. If the values are less than
allowable the row will be flagged as OK. Note that for each plane
86
and combination, the program will bold the text for those drift %
values that exceed the allowable.
4.2.5 Maximum Drift Envelope
This sheet reports the maximum drift % against the maximum

allowable drift % for all combinations and all columns at a plane.
The % drift for the selected directions are shown as well as the
allowable %. If any of the direction values (X, Y or combined)
exceed the allowable the program will flag this row (indicating a
single column for a single load combination result) as NG. If the
values are less than allowable the row will be flagged as OK.
87
4.2.6 Average Drift Envelope
This sheet reports the maximum average drift % against the

maximum allowable drift % for all combinations and all columns
at a plane. The % drift for the selected directions are shown as well
as the allowable %. If the any of the direction values (X, Y or
combined) exceed the allowable the program will flag this row
(indicating a single column for a single load combination result) as
NG. If the values are less than allowable the row will be flagged
as OK. Note that the program will bold the text for those drift %
values that exceed the allowable.
4.2.7 Drift Amplification Factor
This sheet reports the directional drift amplification % for selected

P-Delta combinations. Results are shown for each column at every
plane in the structure and code checked against the user-defined
maximum allowable. %. If any of the direction values (X, Y or
combined) exceed the allowable the program will flag this row
(indicating a single column for a single load combination result) as
NG. If the values are less than allowable the row will be flagged as
OK. The ratio can be taken as the 2nd order drift/1st order drift.
The program calculates drift values at the top and bottom of each
column. The program calculated drifts at both locations and uses
the maximum ratio for this report.
88
4.3 Felt 3D Reports
When the ‘PT Shop/FELT 3D’ module is selected in the program splash
screen, additional features are added to the Tendon ribbon in the ‘Shop
Drawing’ panel. These are shown below and were described in more
detail in Section 2.5 of this document.
If modeled tendons have been set to use the Calculated Long-Term Loss
option, the program will generate a compiled PDF report summarizing
89
tendon loss calculations including graphical views of the tendons

horizontal and vertical profile and the loss diagrams. The ‘Friction and
Elongation’ calculation option should be processed before producing the
report.
The report can be produced for a selected tendon/s or all tendons if none
are selected. Depending on the number of tendons being processed, the
report can take several minutes to produce and is done so as a .PDF
document. The reports are saved in the model solution folder in a sub-
folder called “FeltDesign.” Select the button called ‘FELT 3D Report’
from the panel shown above or use ReportsTendonPDF
ReportsFelt 3D Report or FELT 3D-Single Strand Report. Note the
pull-down arrow on the panel button allows the Single Strand option to be
selected. When using the Single Strand option the program produces the
report for a single tendon if the modeled tendon contains multiple strands.
If this option is not used, the calculations will be based on the total of all
strands for the modeled tendon. In this context a “strand” refers to a
single tendon or cable. An example of a completed FELT 3D report is
shown below.
90
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STRUCTURAL CONCRETE SOFTWARE SYSTEM

Copyright © November 2019

2. 2ND-ORDER P-DELTA ANALYSIS ...................................................... 7

2.7.4 Tendon Shape – Fillet-Radius ................................................................... 50

4. REPORTING IMPROVEMENTS ........................................................ 79

This supplemental manual provides descriptions and instruction on ADAPT-

1.1 Analysis and Design Improvements

 2nd-order P-Delta Analysis: The program now includes the

 Drift and Moment Amplification Factors: With the new P-delta

 Effective Flange for Beams: The program now includes the

 Punching Shear Improvements: New improvements have been

 The option to consider critical sections outside the shear

shaped critical section. ACI318-14 Sections 22.6.4.2,

 FELT 3D and Long-Term Losses: When the PT Shop Drawing

 FELT 3D Report – a compiled PDF report summarizing

1.2 Modeling Improvements

 Strip Modeling Dynamic Editor: A new and improved Strip

 Support Line Wizard – creates a support based on a

 Splitter Functionality: New and improved splitter functionality.

 Ramp Modeling: Modeling of ramps is now supported in

 Beam End Offsets: Beam coordinate definitions now include the

1.3 Reporting Improvements

 Longitudinal Reinforcement on Design Strips: The Result

 Drift XLS Reporting: New XLS reporting is available for lateral

 FELT 3D Reporting: A compiled PDF report summarizing

The following chapters will provide a detailed overview of the new

ANALYSIS AND DESIGN IMPROVEMENTS

2. 2ND-ORDER P-DELTA ANALYSIS

2.1 Defining P-Delta Combinations

A new design/analysis design option type is definable in the Loading

Note that the allowance for analyzing P-Delta combinations is limited to

Batch Processing: A geometric stiffness matrix is produced through an

1.0*SW + 1.0*SDL+ 1.0*LL

1.0*SW + 1.0*SDL + 1.0*LL + 1.0*EQX

1.0*SW + 1.0*SDL + 1.0*LL + 1.0*EQY

In this example, all combinations are defined as ‘P-Delta’ in the Load

Multiple master combinations are automatically considered if they are set

It is recommended and more common to define a master combination that

Singular Processing: A geometric stiffness matrix is produced through an

1.0*SW + 1.0*SDL + 1.0*LL + 1.0*EQX

1.0*SW + 1.0*SDL + 1.0*LL + 1.0*EQY

2.2 P-Delta Combination Results

Similar to other combinations defined in the model, combinations set to

It is advised to create combinations set to NO CODE CHECK in order to

From Column Design>Column Design Settings the user can include P-

2.3 Theoretical Background

This section summarizes the theoretical formulation and the

P-Delta analysis is a methodology to compute structures which are prone

There are two types of P-Delta methodologies:

 Large P-Delta (P-Δ)

The difference between these two methodologies lies in the mathematical

The most accurate methodology is when nonlinear 2nd-order FE analysis

Linear elastic second order analysis is commonly used in engineering

The implementation focus in ADAPT-Builder’s frame solver is that of P-

2.3.1 Definition of Geometric Stiffness

A geometric stiffness matrix KG accounts for the effect of loads

The adjusted (combined) stiffness matrix of the entire system is

The derivation of geometric stiffness for plate triangular and

The focus for the current implementation is on geometric stiffness

2.3.2 Formulation of Elastic and Geometric Stiffness for Frame

A standard 3-dimensional (Bernoulli-Euler) frame element is

The elastic stiffness matrix of such a 3-dimensional frame element

The corresponding geometric stiffness matrix of 3-dimensional

P – axial force in the element

1.0SW + 1.0SDL+ 1.0*LL

1.0SW + 1.0SDL + 1.0LL + 1.0EQX

1.0SW + 1.0SDL + 1.0LL + 1.0EQY

1.0SW + 1.0SDL + 1.0LL + 1.0EQX

1.0SW + 1.0SDL + 1.0LL + 1.0EQY