In the Plate Reinforcement tab, you define the upper and lower reinforcement layer for the foundation slab of a reinforced stepped foundation. The input is divided into the 'Top' and 'Bottom' categories.
Top
Two options are available in the list for the top reinforcement.
With the Define option, you can specify a reinforcement in the upper area of the foundation slab. Perform the input as described in the Bottom section for the bottom reinforcement.
The None option deactivates the top reinforcement.
Bottom
The 'Bottom' category allows for the complete definition of the lower reinforcement layer. The selection field for the Primary direction lets you determine which direction represents the governing reinforcement direction (e.g., main reinforcement 'In x-direction').
Mat
If you check the 'Mat' control field, you can execute the bottom reinforcement with a reinforcing mat. Via the
button in the 'Name of mat' input field, you can access the library of reinforcing steel mats where you can select the suitable mat (see chapter Mats).
Bar
Check the 'Bar' control field if you want to define the bottom reinforcement via a rebar diameter and a bar spacing. This activates the settings for both directions (x and y).
In x-direction / In y-direction
You can define the reinforcement separately for the x-direction and the y-direction. The concept is identical for both directions.
In the 'Distribution areas' list, select the number of zones into which the foundation is divided in the respective direction:
- 1: The reinforcement bars are evenly distributed over the foundation slab.
- 3: The bars are arranged in two equal edge zones and in an inner area (thirds strips each).
With three distribution areas, you can configure the zones:
- I. area: Distribution zone for foundation edge area
- II. area: Distribution area in the middle third of the foundation slab with option 'Different' for specific configuration
- III. area: Distribution zone for other edge area with identical parameters as for I. area (non-editable)
The following fields are available for the reinforcement definition of distribution areas I and, if applicable, II.
| Field | Symbol | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Reinforcement area per meter | ρs,x,bottom / ρs,y,bottom | Reinforcement area per meter calculated from diameter and spacing in [cm²/m] (output value) |
| Width | wl. | Calculated width of the distribution zone in m (output value) |
| Diameter | ds,I. / ds,II. | Rebar diameter of reinforcement in [mm] |
| Spacing | sI. / sII. | Axial spacing of reinforcement bars in [m] |
The 'Define anchorage' control field allows for manual input of the anchorage length for the bars of the respective zone.