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Accessways PDF
Accessways PDF
Version 11.6SP1
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Revision History
Date November 2003 Version 11.5 Notes The structure of document has been updated in line with other documents in the series. Some of the text has been reworded and up-to-date form illustrations have been included. Updates and corrections
June 2005
11.6SP1
Revision History-i
Revision History
Revision History-ii
Contents
1
1.1
2
2.1 2.2
3
3.1
4
4.1
4.2 4.3
Contents-i
Contents
5
5.1 5.2
6
6.1 6.2
7
7.1
7.2
7.3
8
8.1 8.2 8.3
8.4 8.5
8.6 8.7
9
9.1 9.2 9.3
Appendix A: Setting Drawing Representation Levels .......................................A-1 Appendix B: Other Documentation .....................................................................B-1 Index ................................................................................................................ Index i
Contents-ii
1.1
where to find PDMS on your computer system how to use the Windows operating system installed at your site.
Contact your systems administrator if you need help in either of these areas.
1-1
Exercise begins:
Each interval in the exercise for inclusion of general information, is preceded by a line across the page, like this:
1.2
Text conventions
This guide uses the following text conventions: Serif Bold for the majority of the text. to highlight important information, and to introduce special terminology. to denote internal cross references and citations. to denote keys on your keyboard. for menu names and options, and for the names of forms. for text within a form, including text that you enter yourself using the keyboard.
Serif italic
Sans-serif Sans-serif bold
Typewriter
1.3
Terminology
The following terms are used throughout this guide to describe what action to carry out: Enter Type text into the specified dialogue box, then press the Enter (or Return) key to confirm the entry.
1-2
Click
Place the mouse pointer over a specified point, then quickly press and release the designated mouse button. If no button is specified, use the left-hand mouse button. Click on the required item to select it.
Pick
1.4
1-3
Appendix B
identifies other sources of information that supplement and expand upon the brief details given in this guide.
1.5
1-4
2.1
You can incorporate modifications into your design at any stage without fear of invalidating any of your prior work, because dataconsistency checking is an integral part of the product. PDMS automatically manages drawing production, material take-off reports, and so on, by reading all design data directly from a common set of databases, to prevent errors from being introduced by transcribing information between different disciplines. The applications let you check all aspects of your design as work progresses. This includes on-line interdisciplinary clash detection, so the chances of errors and inconsistencies reaching the final documented design are reduced to an exceptionally low level. The applications are controlled from a graphical user interface. This means that all design, drawing and reporting operations are initiated by selecting choices from menus, and by entering data into on-screen forms. For ease of use, pictorial icons also represent many common actions. On-screen help is available to assist you whenever you need help. modules applications
A module is a subdivision of PDMS that you use to carry out specific types of operation. This guide is concerned with the Design module, which you use for creating the 3D design model. An application is a supplementary program that provides operations that are specific to a particular discipline. The application you will use for structural design work in this guide is Accessways, Stairs and Ladders (ASL).
2-1
2.2
The applications incorporate a number of geometric design aids, such as 3D positioning grids, design pins and 2D routing planes, to make it easy for you to position structural elements accurately within the design model. In most cases you can specify the points at which design items are to be positioned using the pointer to pick the required points in a 3D model view.
Where possible, the Design applications create and maintain connectivity of the structural network automatically.
You can carry out multi-disciplinary clash checks at any stage of the design, thus avoiding spatial conflicts within the overall model which could be expensive to rectify at the construction stage. This is particularly important where different features of the design model are under the control of different designers. At any stage of your work, you can create reports listing specified data from the current database. You can specify a standard report template, so you can derive lists of commonly-required information very quickly, or you can design a one-off report format to suit special needs. The resultant output, which can include data from any design discipline, sorted in any way you require, can be either displayed on your screen or sent to a file (for storage and/or for printing).
2-2
Getting Started
The first part of this chapter is a reminder of the user interface and principles that you utilised during previous sessions with Design. The subject matter covered is:
basic information on how to use the mouse and elements of the windows, menus and forms within the PDMS graphical user interface, how to log in to PDMS, the availability of on-line help, the Design database hierarchy.
The second part of the chapter introduces aspects specific to ASL. The subject matter covered is:
how to start the ASL Modeller application, the parameter default settings.
3.1
Basic information
This section is intended for readers who are unfamiliar with computer practices. It provides information on the use of the mouse and describes the elements that regularly appear in the windows of the graphical user interface.
On a graphical view, clicking the left-hand button with the pointer over a design element results in selection of a graphical item or identification of a position in the 3D model. In a sequence of menus, dragging with the left-hand button activates the command represented by the highlighted menu option when the button is released.
3-1
Getting Started
The middle mouse button or wheel is used primarily to manipulate the graphical view contents. The right-hand button is used to access pop-up menu options specific to the item under the mouse pointer. Note: the right-hand mouse button menu will henceforth be referred to as the shortcut menu.
3-2
Getting Started
To change the setting, click on the down arrow or button face to reveal the full list of available options. Then pick the required option. When the arrow has a bar under it, clicking on the button leads to another form, at which the required option can be selected from a scrollable list.
3-3
Getting Started
Getting Started
Tells PDMS to perform the chosen operation using the current form settings, and leaves the form displayed for further use. Cancels any changes you have made to the form, and leaves the form displayed for further use. Closes the form, keeping the current settings, but without performing the chosen operation. Some forms contain more specific types of control button, which carry out particular command options. The action is indicated by the name of the button (such as Add or Remove).
3.2
Logging in
This is the first step of the tutorial exercise. If you do not know where the PDMS program is stored on your system, you will have to contact your system administrator at this point.
Exercise begins:
1.
Start PDMS by double clicking on the PDMS icon. The following VANTAGE PDMS Login form appears, at which you specify a number of details at the start of your session.
3-5
Getting Started
2.
Click on the VANTAGE PDMS Login form to make it active. Note: The following entries made at this form are specifically for the tutorial. Those required for your own project will be different.
3.
Enter, or select using the dropdown list button, the name of the Project in which you want to work. For this tutorial, the project is SAM (in upper case). Enter, or select using the dropdown list button, your Username. For this tutorial, it is SAMPLE (in upper case). Enter your allocated Password, which is SAMPLE (in upper case). The textbox displays an asterisk for each entered letter. Enter, or select using the dropdown list button, the part of the project Multiple Database (MDB) you want to work in. For this tutorial it is SAMPLE. Using the dropdown list, select the name of the module you wish to use. This is Design. Make sure that you leave the Read Only box unchecked, so that you can modify the database as you work. You must specify which files (Load from) to load at startup. The options are the application default settings (Macro Files) or a customised setup saved during an earlier session (Load from Binary Files). For this tutorial select Macro Files. When you have entered all the necessary details, the form looks like this:
4. 5. 6.
7. 8. 9.
10.
Click on the
button.
3-6
Getting Started
3.3
As labelled above, the display comprises the following: Title Bar This shows the current PDMS module, and its sub-application if applicable. Main Menu Bar This is the area you use to make menu selections. Main Tool Bar This has a number of icon buttons and drop-down lists that offer shortcuts to a selection common PDMS operations and standard settings. Design Explorer This shows your current position in the PDMS database hierarchy. To move to a different point in the database, you click on the appropriate item in the list. Note: for full details of the Design Explorer, see the PDMS Design online help.
Accessways, Stairs and Ladders Application User Guide Version 11.6SP1 3-7
Getting Started
3D View This is the window in which you display the design model graphically as you build it. A shortcut menu (which you access with the right-hand mouse button) enables you to control how the model is represented. This window also has its own tool bar. Status Bar This displays information about the current status of your operations. You can reposition or minimise these windows at any time using standard window management facilities.
3.4
On-line help
The standard Help features are available from its submenu, as follows:
Help>On Context
This gives you help on any window currently visible in the display. When you select this option, the pointer changes to a question mark (?). Move the question mark into the window on which you want help and click the left-hand mouse button.
Help>Contents
This displays the Help three-pane window with the Contents tab at the front so that you can find the required topic from the hierarchical contents list.
Help>Index
This displays the Help three-pane window with the Index tab at the front so that you can find all topics relevant to a selected keyword.
Help>About
This displays information about the version of PDMS that you are using. More Info... lists the version numbers of the libraries being used by the displayed version of PDMS. Pressing the F1 key at any time will display the help topic for the currently active window (equivalent to Help>On Context for the current window). Note: For most of the forms in the ASL Modeller Application, on-line help is NOT available. In these circumstances, this guide takes the place of on-line help.
3-8
Getting Started
3.5
Each identifiable item of data is known as a PDMS element. Each element has a number of associated pieces of information, which, together, completely define its properties. These are known as its attributes.
Every element is identified within the database structure by an automatically allocated reference number and, optionally, by a userspecified name. Additional items of information about an element which could be stored as attribute settings include: Its type Its physical dimensions and technical specifications Its physical location and orientation in the design model Its connectivity.
Some attribute settings must be defined by you when you create a new element, others will be defined automatically by PDMS. The vertical link between two elements on adjacent levels of the database hierarchy is defined as an owner-member relationship. The element on the upper level is the owner of those elements directly linked below it. The lower level elements are members of their owning element. Each element can have many members, but it can have only one owner. When you are modifying a database (for example, when you are creating new elements or changing the settings of their attributes), you can consider yourself to be positioned at a specific point within the hierarchy. The element at this location is called the current element (often abbreviated to CE). You can navigate from any element to any other, thereby changing the current element, by following the owner-member links up and down the hierarchy.
3-9
Getting Started
In many cases, commands which you give for modifying the attributes of an element will assume that the changes are to be applied to the current element unless you specify otherwise, so you must understand this concept and always be aware of your current position in the database hierarchy. The Design Explorer will always show you this information.
3.6
Exercise continues:
11.
Start the ASL application by selecting Design from the top-level bar menu, Structures from the pull-down menu and ASL Modeller from the first submenu (Design>Structures>ASL Modeller). When the application has loaded, you will see the applications bar menu, across the top of the window thus:
12.
Before you proceed further, see Appendix A for guidance on the effects of setting different drawing levels.
The following chapters of this guide explain how to select appropriate combinations of options from the various menus, and how to fill in any associated forms, to enable you to carry out specific design functions for adding accessways, stairs and/or ladders to your structural model. The menus and forms have been designed so as to make their use as intuitive as possible. This guide does not, therefore, attempt to explain every command option, only those needed to carry out the principal design tasks. The contents of some forms change interactively to match your choice of options, so that the selections presented to you and the input data requested from you are always directly relevant to the current situation. Because of this, some design functions are easier to use in practice than they are to describe in theory. You will learn to use the applications most rapidly if you experiment with the various menu and form options yourself (remembering to quit without saving your changes if you practise on a real database).
3-10
Getting Started
3.7
The length, width and orientation of the platform The sides along which the handrails are required The thickness of the floorplate The depth of the kickplate The method of construction and mounting for the handrail.
Some of these parameters, such as the length and width, are specific to each individual item and must be defined separately each time a new platform is created. The definition is made either explicitly, by typing values into text boxes, or implicitly, by using the cursor to pick existing design elements relative to which the new item is to be positioned. Other parameters, such as floorplate thickness, handrail design definitions, kickplate depth etc., which are likely to be common to all such structures, have their initial settings derived from the current defaults file. You can change the current default settings at any time, so that they take effect for all subsequent design work, or you can override one or more individual settings by editing the entries in the corresponding text boxes as you create each ASL item.
3-11
Getting Started
Ha n d rail lo c a tio n s
Ha n d rail p o s t ty pe (e .g . jo in te d, flo or m ou n te d)
Le n g th Kic k p la te de p th
Flo o rp la te th ic k n e s s
3-12
Getting Started
The form shows the current setting for each parameter and the name of the defaults file from which the settings have been obtained. When you first enter the ASL application, the defaults file is defined within the initialisation file PDMSUI/DES/ADMIN/SETUP; the file is typically defined as %PDMSDFLTS%/DES-ACCESS. To change any of the parameter default settings, edit the corresponding entries in the ASL Defaults form. Note that three of the settings are defined by using drop-down list, rather than by editing values in text boxes. These are:
3-13
Getting Started
Handrail Joints defining the geometry of the joints (ball, cone or tee) Post Type defining how and where handrail posts are to be attached defining the type of primary/secondary steelwork (Nodal or Nozzle) to which the ASL items are to be added. This option should be set to Nodal. Note: The Nozzle option is only provided for use with data generated by an old PDMS steelwork application called Nozzle Steelwork, which is no longer supplied or supported.
Steelwork Type
You can save the modified settings, or load a new set of defaults from an existing file, by using the File menu options on the ASL Defaults form in the usual way. This is a convenient way for you to build up a library of standard ASL design configurations for use on different types of steelwork structures, or to meet different company standards. Once satisfactory sets of default values have been established, it should not be necessary to change these in normal use, because they will usually represent project-wide or company-wide standards.
3-14
Rectangular platform
Corner platform
Return access
Walkway
Circular platform
This chapter also explains how to insert a penetration into the floorplate of any platform to allow another design element, such as a pipe, to pass through it. Note: You should create platforms at Structure or Substructure level.
4.1
4-1
0
R e c tan gu lar p la tform
R e tu rn ac c e s s p l atform
s h ow s or ig in an d d ir e c t io n
The only data that is not taken from the defaults file is that which defines the position and dimensions of the platform. You may specify such data in either of two ways:
Explicitly, by entering the length/width dimensions, orientation and origin coordinates. Implicitly, by using the cursor to pick four design steelwork elements upon which the platform is to be placed and which will define its boundaries.
Exercise continues:
13.
Make sure that you are at World level in the Design Explorer, then select Create>Site to display the Create Site form:
4-2
14.
Type ASL.SITE in the Name text box, and press the Enter key to confirm the name. The system automatically adds a / prefix to this name so that it conforms with the internal PDMS file naming conventions: /ASL.SITE. The Purpose setting is optional, and is used for selecting particular categories of element for use in compiling reports etc. Identify your Site as one that holds civils modelling data by selecting STLT Tertiary Steelwork. Your settings now look like this:
15.
Click OK to create the Site element. Your first element appears in the Design Explorer as the current element:
4-3
16.
Select Create>Zone. You will let the system name the Zone. On the Create Zone form: Set the Name option to Autoname Set the Purpose to STL Steelwork.
4-4
17.
Click OK to create the Zone element. Again, the new element appears in the Design Explorer as the current element, and it has been automatically named ASL.SITE/STRUC01.
You will see an element creation form similar to this (the precise format depends on the type of platform specified):
19. 20.
Give the new platform a Name, if required. Check that the default settings for Floorplate Thickness, Kickplate Depth and Posts are suitable. Change them if necessary. Enter the coordinates of the new platforms origin (the centre of the rectangle) in the Position text boxes, checking that the Wrt entry refers to the correct reference axis system.
21.
4-5
22. 23.
Enter the platforms dimensions, as required, in the Length and Width text boxes. The default orientation for a newly created platform is with its length pointing North and with the plane of the platform horizontal (these directions are not derived from the defaults file). If you wish to rotate the platform about a vertical axis through its origin, edit the entry in the Direction text box. For a Return Access platform, the specified direction defines the direction of the open end.
24. 25.
OK the form to create the platform, complete with appropriate handrails and kickplates. If you have created a corner or return access platform, you will see the prompt Mirror? This gives you the opportunity to change your mind about the handrail layout by moving the rails to the opposite sides. Select Yes or No as required. An example platform (with Length and Width set to 1000, 1000 respectively, and YES selected for Mirror) is shown below:
4-6
27.
Note that the default type of steel should be set to Nodal. If it is not, you will not be able to pick the elements upon which you wish to install the platform and the application will fail. Select Create>Platform>type>On ID Sections, where type is Corner, Rectangular, Return Access, Walkway or Floorplate. You will see an element creation form similar to this (the precise format depends on the type of platform specified):
28.
4-7
29. 30.
Give the new platform a Name, if required. Check that the default settings for Floorplate Thickness, Kickplate Depth and Posts are suitable. Change them if necessary. Set the Extent option gadget to show how the platforms boundaries are to be related to the datum lines of the sections which will be used to define them. The choices are:
31.
Centreline
Edge
32. 33.
Click the Apply button. You be prompted to Identify section (SCTN) (Most Northerly). Using the pointer, pick the section (i.e. beam) which is to define the north edge of the new platform. (Hint: You may find it useful to have the axes displayed so that you pick the correct direction; use the Model>Axes option from the main menu if necessary.) When prompted further, pick the sections which are to define the south, east and west edges of the platform, in that order. The platform will be created, complete with appropriate handrails and kickplates.
34.
If you have created a corner or return access platform, you will see the prompt Do you want to mirror the ... Platform? This gives you the opportunity to change your mind about the handrail layout by moving the rails to the opposite sides. Select Yes or No as required. An example platform (with NO selected for Do you want to mirror the ... ?) is shown below:
4-8
4.2
4-9
90o round
180o round
Exercise continues:
To create any of the above platform types, reselect PLATFORMS as the current element, remove EQUIPRACK from the display (by selecting it and selecting Remove From Draw List from the shortcut menu) and proceed as follows: 35. Select Create>Platform>Circular>type, where type is Round, Six Sides or Eight Sides. You will see an element creation form similar to the following (the precise format depends on the type of platform specified; the round platform version shown here is the most complex of the three):
4-10
Give the new platform a Name, if required. Check that the default settings for Floorplate Thickness and Kickplate Depth are suitable. Change them if necessary. Enter the coordinates of the new platforms origin (the centre of the circumscribing circle) in the Position text boxes, checking that the Wrt entry refers to the correct reference axis system. For a six-sided or eight-sided platform, enter the platforms dimensions in the Radius to outside of floor and Radius to inside of floor text boxes (setting the latter to zero if you do not want a central penetration in the floorplate). For a round platform, enter the platforms dimensions in the Radius to outside of floor and Floor width text boxes (entering the same value for each if you do not want a central penetration in the floorplate).
39.
40.
For a round platform, enter the Angle subtended by the segment (the default setting of 0 gives a full 360o platform) and the Direction of the starting edge (remembering that the angle is measured anticlockwise), thus:
4-11
An gle
F loor widt h
41. 42.
For a round platform, set the Inside rail option button to specify whether or not you want a rail round the inner penetration (if any). OK the form to create the platform, complete with appropriate handrails and kickplates. An example Round platform is shown below:
4.3
4-12
Explicitly, by specifying the position and dimensions of the penetration. You could use this method, for example, to allow a stairway or ladder to give access within a platform rather than routing it externally to give access through a gap in the surrounding handrail. Implicitly, by picking an existing piping element which penetrates the floorplate. The position of the floor penetration is determined from that of the picked element and the dimensions of the penetration are derived so as to give a specified clearance around the picked element. You would use this method to create a penetration for a pipe to pass through the platform floor, thus:
Exercise continues:
4.3.1
43.
4-13
44.
Enter the North/South and East/West coordinates for the centre of the penetration. (The Up/Down coordinate will be derived from the position of the floorplate through which the penetration is to pass.) Enter the Diameter for a circular penetration or the Length/Width for a square penetration. Set the Floor type option button to show the shape of the platform (Rectangular or Circular) into which the penetration will be inserted. (This information is needed to ensure that the penetration creation calculations are correctly executed.) Click Apply. You will be prompted to Identify floorplate. Using the cursor, pick the floorplate into which the penetration is to be inserted.
45. 46.
47. 48.
49.
Select Create>Floor Penetration>shape>ID cursor, where shape is Circular or Square. You will see a floor penetration creation form similar to this:
4-14
50. 51.
Enter the minimum Clearance distance required between the pipe or piping component and the sides of the penetration. Set the Floor type option button to show the shape of the platform (Rectangular or Circular) into which the penetration will be inserted. (This information is needed to ensure that the penetration creation calculations are correctly executed.) Click Apply. You will be prompted to Identify floorplate. Using the cursor, pick the floorplate into which the penetration is to be inserted. You will be prompted to Identify penetrating Item. Using the cursor, pick the pipe or piping component around which the penetration is to be created.
4-15
4-16
Creating Stairs
This chapter explains how to create flights of stairs, complete with side rails on one or both sides, between the floor and a platform (a bottom flight) or between two platforms (a top flight). The difference between the two configurations is the shape of the bottom end of the side rails, thus:
Bottom Flight
Top Flight
5-1
Creating Stairs
Left-hand rail
Right-hand rail
Direction
Height
Stringer depth
Of these, Angle, Stringer depth, Stringer thickness and Width between stringers are defined within the defaults file. You can specify the overall dimensions of a stair in one of three ways:
By Height and Angle (Length being implicit) - see Section 5.1 By Height and Length (Angle being implicit) - see Section 5.1 For top flights only, by identifying the p-points on finished floor levels (FFL) at the bottom and top of the stair - see Section 5.2
Exercise continues:
5.1
55.
5-2
Creating Stairs
You will see a Stair Creation form similar to this (the precise format depends on the chosen menu selection):
56. 57.
Give the new stairs a Name, if required. Check that the default settings for Stringer Depth, Stringer Thickness, Width Between Stringers, Landing Floor Thickness, Posts and (for Height & Angle specifications only) Angle are suitable. Change them if necessary. Enter the coordinates for the origin of the stairs (that is, the midpoint of the lower front extremity) in the Position text boxes, checking that the Wrt entry refers to the correct reference axis system. Set the Direction (as viewed when facing up the stairs). Enter the Height and, for Height & Length specifications only, the Length. Note that the specified length refers to the horizontal projection, not the actual length of the stringers. OK the form to create the stairs, complete with appropriate handrails. An example Top Flight stair is shown below:
58.
59. 60.
61.
5-3
Creating Stairs
5.2
Exercise continues:
Before you begin, ensure that both platforms that will be used to define the stairs are shown in the 3D view. 62. 63. 64. Select Create>Stair>Top Flight>FFL to FFL. Give the new stairs a Name, if required. Check that the default settings for Stringer Depth, Stringer Thickness, Width Between Stringers, Landing Floor Thickness and Posts are suitable. Change them if necessary. Click OK.
65.
5-4
Creating Stairs
66.
You will be prompted to Identify P-Point on first floorplate. Using the cursor, pick a p-point on the platform which will determine the bottom of the stair. Hint: The easiest way to do this is to position the cursor anywhere on the required floorplate and hold down the left-hand mouse button as you move the cursor. The p-points will be shown as blobs and the cursor shape will change from . to when it is over a p-point. When you have successfully picked a p-point on the first floorplate, you will be prompted to Identify P-Point on second floorplate. Using the same technique as in Step 5, pick a p-point on the platform which will determine the top of the stair. The stair will be created, complete with appropriate handrails, between the finished floor levels at the p-point locations. Note: The maximum size of any stair is limited to 16 flights (or treads) or to a height of 2.3 m. If your new stair would exceed either of these limits, you will see a message telling you that an intermediate platform is required. If so, create such a platform (as explained in Chapter 4) and then create two stairs linked via the platform.
67.
5-5
Creating Stairs
5-6
Creating Ladders
This chapter explains how to create any of the following types of ladder: A step ladder an inclined ladder with flat treads. A step ladder has handrails on both sides, and top posts where it accesses the upper platform. a vertical ladder with round treads. A front exit ladder has safety hoops, and top posts and rails where it accesses the upper platform. a vertical ladder with round treads. A side exit ladder can have single or double exits, and has safety hoops between its access points.
These configurations are illustrated in Figure 6.1, which shows the origin and direction that you will use to position and orientate each type. The figure also shows the intended access direction(s) from each type of ladder.
6-1
Creating Ladders
Step ladder
6.1
68.
6-2
Creating Ladders
69. 70.
Give the new step ladder a Name, if required. Enter the coordinates for the origin of the ladder (that is, the midpoint of the lower front extremity) in the Position text boxes, checking that the Wrt entry refers to the correct reference axis system. Set the Direction (as viewed when facing up the ladder). Enter the Height to top of platform and select the required angle from the permissible range using the option button. OK the form to create the step ladder, complete with appropriate handrails.
6.2
74.
You will see a ladder creation form similar to this (the precise format depends on the chosen menu selection):
6-3
Creating Ladders
75. 76.
Give the new ladder a Name, if required. Check that the default setting for Clearance is suitable. This setting defines the stand-off distance between the ladder and any potential obstructions behind it. Change it if necessary. Enter the coordinates for the origin of the ladder (that is, the midpoint of the lower front extremity) in the Position text boxes, checking that the Wrt entry refers to the correct reference axis system. Set the Direction (as viewed when facing up the ladder). Enter the Height or, for a double exit ladder, the Height to top platform and the Height to first platform. OK the form to create the ladder, complete with appropriate safety hoops and, for a front exit ladder, a top rail.
77.
6-4
7.1
Corner posts consist of a pair of vertical cylinders with incorporated joints, linked by horizontal elbows of handrail. Intermediate posts (referred to in the menus simply as Posts) consist of a single vertical cylinder with incorporated joints.
In both cases, the joints may have any of the following shapes: Ball Cone Tee
7-1
Handrail
A post
A corner post
Ball joints
Cone joints
Tee joints
Figure 7.1 Post and joint types The method of fixture and precise location of any post that is created, are determined by the following settings in the defaults file: Handrail Post Inset from Corners - governs positions of base plates for corner posts relative to the corners of the platform. Handrail Inset from Edge - governs position of base plates for intermediate posts relative to the edges of the platform. Handrail Elbow Radius - determines radius of handrail segments between the uprights of corner post pairs. Post type - determines where and how the posts base is attached to the platform. The options are: Jointed Floor Mounted (as illustrated in Figure 7.1) Jointed Edge Mounted Jointed Kickplate Mounted Welded Floor Mounted Welded Edge Mounted Welded Kickplate Mounted Outside Post Insertion Depth
7-2
Maximum Post Pitch - specifies the maximum permitted distance between adjacent posts, and thus determines the number of intermediate posts created for a given length of handrail. The type of joint which will be included when you create a new post is determined by the Handrail Joints setting in the defaults file. You can, however, change the joint type on any individual post after the post has been created.
At one specified corner of an existing floorplate At all four corners of an existing floorplate At the intersection of two existing handrails
To do so, select the appropriate option from the Create>Corner Posts> menu and then follow the instructions when prompted to pick the item(s) which are to be used to locate the new posts. If you wish to use Create>Corner Posts>At Explicit Corner, your current element must be the floorplate upon which the corner post is to be mounted. You will then be asked to specify the corner (N/W, N/E, S/E or S/W; based on the default orientation) at which the post is to be added. If you use Create>Corner Posts>On Floorplate, you will be prompted use the cursor to pick an existing floorplate. Corner post pairs will be added at all four corners of the plate. If you use Create>Corner Posts>At Intersection of Rails, you will be prompted to pick two top handrails. If the rails do not intersect, an error will result.
If you use Create>Post>At Explicit, you will see a form on which you can enter the coordinates of the point at which the base of the post is to be positioned. If you use Create>Post>At P-Point, you will be prompted to pick a p-point on a floorplate. The easiest way to do this is to position the cursor
Accessways, Stairs and Ladders Application User Guide Version 11.6SP1 7-3
anywhere on the required floorplate and hold down the left-hand mouse button as you move the cursor. The p-points will be shown as blobs and the cursor shape will change from . to when it is over a p-point. Creating a Row of Posts You can create a row of posts between the following pairs of points:
The ends of two existing handrails Two existing posts (which may be corner posts or intermediate posts) One end of an existing handrail and an existing post (which may be a corner post or an intermediate post)
In all cases, the posts will be equispaced and the number of posts will be calculated automatically from the distance between the points and the maximum permitted post pitch (as set in the current defaults file). You will be asked whether or not the new row of posts is to have handrails. If you use Create>Post>Between Handrail Ends, you will be prompted to pick ppoints on the top elbows of two handrails. If you use Create>Post>Between Posts, you will be prompted to pick two posts. Pick the cylinders forming the main uprights in each case. If you use Create>Post>Between End and Post, you will be prompted first to pick a p-point on the top elbow of a handrail and then to pick a post.
To change the type and/or orientation of the joints on an existing post, first select and delete the existing joints and then select Create>Post Joints>type, where type is Ball, Cone or Tee. You will be prompted to Identify posts upright. Using the cursor, pick the post (now just a vertical cylinder) whose joints you are changing. You will then be asked, Rotate joint? Choose No to retain the default joint orientation or Yes to rotate the new joints by 90o.
7.2
Creating Handrails
A handrail may incorporate the following component parts:
Top rail End pad Closure End pad Bottom rail Joint Post base
When you create a handrail, both the top and bottom rails are created as a pair of equal-length cylinders. You can, however, modify each rail independently. (The methods of modifying such items are explained in Chapters 8 and 9.)
End Pads - a circular plate on the end of each rail Closures - a loop linking the top and bottom rails together (an example of this was shown on a bottom flight of stairs in Chapter 5)
7-5
Direction
Length
You will then be prompted to Identify handrail top p-point. Using the cursor, pick the p-point on the top rail at the end at which you wish to add the closure. The complete closure will then be created.
7.3
Creating kickplates
When you create any type of platform, a kickplate is added automatically (if originally specified) to all sides which have handrails. Kickplates are also added round the central hole (if any) on circular platforms and round floor penetrations. The height of the kickplate is derived from the Kickplate Depth setting in the defaults file; you will be asked to confirm (or modify) this height each time you create another kickplate. To add a length of kickplate explicitly to an existing platform, select Create>Kickplate>option, where option gives you the following choices:
Along Floorplate Edge - Adds kickplate along one side of the floorplate
only. You will be prompted to pick first the floorplate and then the edge along which the kickplate is required.
Along Edge with Cut Out - Adds kickplate along one side of the
floorplate only, with a cut-out between two specified handrail posts. You would use this where a stairway or ladder gives access onto the
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7-6
platform. You will be prompted to pick first the floorplate, then the edge along which the kickplate is required, then the two posts between which the cut-out is wanted.
All Around Floorplate - Adds kickplate on all sides of the floorplate. You will be prompted to pick the floorplate. Between Posts - Adds kickplate between two specified posts only (in
effect, the inverse of the cut-out option). You will be prompted to pick the floorplate and then the two posts.
7-7
7-8
8.1
Explicit Positioning
You can position an element explicitly at a given position in the following ways:
By entering specific coordinates for the elements origin By using the cursor to identify the point at which the element is to be positioned By specifying another element or a design pin which is already at the required position
Exercise continues:
8-1
82.
Enter the required coordinates for the elements origin. For more detail on the use of these forms, see the Explicit Position form help topic in the Design online help:
8.2
8-2
Exercise continues:
83.
84.
Enter the distance by which you wish to move the origin in each direction. Use the CE option on the drop-down list box at top left to position the element relative to its current position. Use Pick to select a member of the current element to move. List will move the current element relative to a List. The Positioning Control form controls the use of event-driven graphics for positioning. For more information, see the Positioning Control form help topic in the Design online help:
8-3
8.3
Moves the item by a given distance in a given direction Moves the item in a given direction through a given point Moves the item in a given direction to a point with a given clearance from another item Moves the item a given distance towards a given point
Exercise continues:
8-4
86. 87.
Set the distance and direction for the move. Select how you wish to define the position of the moved element relative to the reference point, using the first option button: Only Infront Behind Onto Under From To Positions the item the given distance and direction from the previous item. Can be used for any direction in a plan view; that is, N, S, E and W, and any angles in between. Used as if you are looking in the direction specified. Used with any direction in an elevation view; that is, U and D, and any angles in between. Used with directions N, S, E and W. Used to position item the given distance from the given point. Used with directions N, S, E and W. Used to position item the given distance from its present position in the given direction.
88.
Select how you wish to identify the reference point using the second option button: Cursor A cursor-identified 3D position ID Cursor The origin of a cursor-identified item ID P-point A cursor-identified p-point Coordinate ... A given coordinate Name ... The origin of a named element Pin ... The position of a construction pin
89. 90.
If you have chosen one of the cursor options, pick the corresponding item when prompted to do so (in a plan or elevation view). If you have chosen Coordinate, Name or Pin, enter the required details on the resulting form.
8-5
92. 93.
Set the direction for the move. Note that the current direction of the component is displayed in the Direction box. Select how you wish to define the Through point from the following options: Cursor A cursor-identified 3D position ID Cursor The origin of a cursor-identified item ID P-point A cursor-identified p-point Coordinate ... A given coordinate Name ... The origin of a named element Pin ... The position of a construction pin
94. 95.
If you have chosen one of the cursor options, pick the corresponding item when prompted to do so (in a plan or elevation view). If you have chosen Coordinate, Name or Pin, enter the required details on the resulting form.
8-6
The OBST setting shows that it is the obstruction box of the current element, rather than its detailed geometry, which is used to calculate clearances. 97. 98. 99. Set the direction for the move. Note that the current direction of the component is displayed in the Direction box. Set the required clearance distance. Select how you wish to define the position of the moved element relative to the reference point, using the first option button: Infront Can be used for any direction in a plan view; that is, Behind N, S, E and W, and any angles in between. Used as if you are looking in the direction specified. Used with any direction in an elevation view; that Under is, U and D, and any angles in between. Used with directions N, S, E and W. Used to position item the given distance from the given point. Used with directions N, S, E and W. Used to position item the given distance from its present position in the given direction.
Onto From To
100.
Select how you wish to identify the reference point using the second option button: Cursor A cursor-identified 3D position ID Cursor The origin of a cursor-identified item ID P-point A cursor-identified p-point Coordinate ... A given coordinate Name ... The origin of a named element Pin ... The position of a construction pin.
8-7
101. 102.
If you have chosen one of the cursor options, pick the corresponding item when prompted to do so (in a plan or elevation view). If you have chosen Coordinate, Name or Pin, enter the required details on the resulting form.
104. 105.
Set the required distance for the move. Select how you wish to define the Towards point from the following options: Cursor ID Cursor ID P-point Name ... Pin ... A cursor-identified 3D position The origin of a cursor-identified item A cursor-identified p-point The origin of a named element The position of a construction pin
106. 107.
If you have chosen one of the cursor options, pick the corresponding item when prompted to do so (in a plan or elevation view). If you have chosen Coordinate, Name or Pin, enter the required details on the resulting form.
8.4
8-8
geometry of the Structure or Substructure. In this case, the origin remains at the same co-ordinates relative to the system axes, but the element moves relative to its original origin. The difference is illustrated in the following diagram:
or igin a l elem en t or igin redefined a t corn er of elem en t
Exercise continues:
To redefine an origin in this way, proceed as follows: 108. Select Modify>Origin>Structure (or Substructure)>option, where option gives you the following choices:
ID P-Point Explicit
Defines the origin as the position of an existing p-point within the Structure. Allows you to move the origin by specified distances in specified directions relative to its current position within the Structure.
109. 110.
If you selected ID P-Point, use the pointer to pick the required p-point when prompted. If you selected Explicit, enter the required distance(s) on the resulting form.
8.5
These options allow you to position an element relative to a projected plane through a specified position. The available options are:
Distance Through Clearance
Moves the item by a given distance in a given direction Moves the item in a given direction to a plane through a given point Moves the item in a given direction to a point with a given clearance from a plane through another item
Exercise continues:
8-9
112.
Set the direction for the move (Direction), the direction of the plane (Through), and distance for the move (Distance). Note that the current direction of the component is displayed in the Direction box. Select how you wish to define the position of the moved element relative to the reference plane, using the first option button: Only Infront Behind Onto Under From To Positions the item the given distance and direction from the previous item. Can be used for any direction in a plan view; that is, N, S, E and W, and any angles in between. Used as if you are looking in the direction specified. Used with any direction in an elevation view; that is, U and D, and any angles in between. Used with directions N, S, E and W. Used to position item the given distance from the given point. Used with directions N, S, E and W. Used to position item the given distance from its present position in the given direction.
113.
114.
Select how you wish to identify the reference point which will determine the plane using the second option button:
8-10
Cursor A cursor-identified 3D position ID Cursor The origin of a cursor-identified item ID P-point A cursor-identified p-point Coordinate ... A given coordinate Name ... The origin of a named element Pin ... The position of a construction pin 115. 116. If you have chosen one of the cursor options, pick the corresponding item when prompted to do so (in a plan or elevation view). If you have chosen Coordinate, Name or Pin, enter the required details on the resulting form.
118.
Set the direction for the move (Direction) and direction of the plane (Through). Note that the current direction of the component is displayed in the Direction box. Select how you wish to identify the reference point which will determine the plane: Cursor A cursor-identified 3D position ID Cursor The origin of a cursor-identified item ID P-point A cursor-identified p-point Coordinate ... A given coordinate Name ... The origin of a named element Pin ... The position of a construction pin
119.
120.
If you have chosen one of the cursor options, pick the corresponding item when prompted to do so (in a plan or elevation view).
8-11
121.
If you have chosen Coordinate, Name or Pin, enter the required details on the resulting form.
123.
Set the direction of the move (Direction), the direction of the plane (Through), and the required clearance distance from the plane (Clearance). Select how you wish to define the position of the moved element relative to the reference plane, using the first option button: Infront Behind Onto Under From To Can be used for any direction in a plan view; that is, N, S, E and W, and any angles in between. Used as if you are looking in the direction specified. Used with any direction in an elevation view; that is, U and D, and any angles in between. Used with directions N, S, E and W. Used to position item the given distance from the given point. Used with directions N, S, E and W. Used to position item the given distance from its present position in the given direction.
124.
125.
Select how you wish to identify the reference point that will determine the plane, using the second option button:
8-12
Cursor A cursor-identified 3D position ID Cursor The origin of a cursor-identified item ID P-point A cursor-identified p-point Coordinate ... A given coordinate Name ... The origin of a named element Pin ... The position of a construction pin. 126. 127. If you have chosen one of the cursor options, pick the corresponding item when prompted to do so (in a plan or elevation view). If you have chosen Coordinate, Name or Pin, enter the required details on the resulting form.
8.6
Exercise continues:
To use the above technique, proceed as follows: 128. 129. Ensure that your current element is the stair/ladder whose position is to be adjusted and then select Position>Reference Point. You will be prompted to Identify floorplate. Using the cursor, pick the floorplate to which the top of the stair/ladder is to give access. You will then be prompted to Identify P-Point to position structure. Pick any p-point on the side of the platform against which the stair/ladder is situated. Unless you happen to want the stair/ladder exactly at the p-point position (only likely if this is at the centre of one side rather that at a
8-13
130.
131.
corner), use the Position> Relatively (By) option to move the stair/ladder along the side of the platform by the required distance.
8.7
Orientating Elements
By default, the orientation of a Structure or Substructure is: X is East, Y is North and Z is Up. You can redefine this local axis system in one of two ways:
If you specify the direction of one axis only, the other axes will try to retain their default directions where possible. For example, if you specify X is North, then the Y direction (which was North) will also change but the Z direction remains Up. Thus, although you only specify a new direction for one axis, the directions of at least two axes will be changed. If you specify the directions of two axes, then you define the orientation of the element completely.
You can also re-orientate an element by rotating it through a specified angle about a specified axis.
Exercise continues:
133.
Select the axes that you wish to define, and enter the required orientations.
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8-14
For more information on the use of this form, see the Orientate Form help topic in the Design online help.
For more information on the use of this form, see the Rotate Form help topic in the Design online help.
8-15
8-16
Stretching (increasing) or trimming (decreasing) one or more dimensions of a primitive by specified amounts or such that its ends are at specified locations. Sliding a primitive (moving it along one of its axes) such that one end is at a specified location. Changing the direction of the handrail joints on stairs and ladders such that they align with platform handrails.
9-1
Stair (STRU) hierarchy: SUBS1 2 stringers SUBS2 11 treads SUBS3 L.H. rails and posts SUBS4 R.H. rails and posts SUBS5 Obstruction box
9.1
Exercise continues:
135.
Ensure that your current element is the primitive whose dimensions you want to modify. Select Modify>Stretch/Trim> option, where option gives you the following choices:
All Sides... - Changes all dimensions of the current primitive by a
specified distance. On the resulting form, enter a positive value to increase the dimensions or a negative value to decrease the dimensions. Remember, when using this option on, say, a floorplate (BOX), that the height (i.e. the plate thickness) will be changed as well as its length and width.
a specified p-point moves by a given distance. On the resulting form, enter a positive value to increase the dimension corresponding to the
9-2 Accessways, Stairs and Ladders Application User Guide Version 11.6SP1
p-point or a negative value to decrease this dimension. You will be prompted to Identify P-Point to Stretch/Trim. Using the cursor, pick the p-point to be moved (which must belong to the current element).
cu r r en t pr im it ive Tr im (-va lu e) Or igin a l posit ion of p-poin t St r et ch (+va lu e)
To P-Point - Brings a selected p-point on the primitive to coincide with a target p-point on another design element which you will pick using the cursor.
cur r ent pr im it ive Or igina l posit ion of p-point p-point on second pr im it ive
To Pline - Brings a selected p-point on the primitive to coincide with a target p-line on another structural design element which you will pick using the cursor.
specific distance from a target p-point which you will pick using the cursor. You can specify a positive or negative clearance, depending on which side of the target p-point the clearance distance is required.
cu r r en t pr im it ive Or igin a l posit ion of p-poin t clea r a n ce t o p -poin t on secon d pr im a t ive
specific distance from a target p-line which you will pick using the cursor. You can specify a positive or negative clearance, depending on which side of the target p-line the clearance distance is required. 136. 137. When prompted, use the cursor to pick the p-point on the current primitive that you will use to define its new length. If you have chosen one of the cursor options, pick the corresponding target item to be used to define the new position of the p-point.
As a simple example of the stretch/trim concept, we will consider here the adjustment of a length of handrail (remembering that a complete handrail contains two separate cylinder primitives). The situation shown in Figure 9.2 is typical of those occasions when you might use the Stretch/Trim facility. A platform has been created, complete with handrails, and a step ladder has then been added to give access to the platform. The problem here is that a post and part of the
Accessways, Stairs and Ladders Application User Guide Version 11.6SP1 9-3
platform handrail block the exit from the ladder, as shown in the enlarged view.
Post 1
Post 3
Post 4
Redundant post
Post 3
Exercise continues:
A procedure for correcting this problem is as follows (it assumes that both a 3D View similar to Figure 9.2 and the Members List are visible on screen): 138. Pick any primitive which forms part of the redundant post. In the Members List, move up to the owning Structure (i.e. the complete post/joint assembly). Use the Delete>CE option to delete the complete post. The result is shown in Figure 9.3a. Pick the upper handrail (which is a single cylinder running from the top of Post 1 to Post 2). Select Modify>Stretch/Trim>To P-Point. When prompted, pick that p-point on the current cylinder which is at Post 2
139.
9-4
and then pick, as the trimming reference, the p-point at the top of Post 3 (the top of Post 3s vertical cylinder). Hint: The easiest way to pick a specific p-point is to position the cursor anywhere on the required primitive and hold down the lefthand mouse button as you move the cursor. The p-points will be shown as blobs and the cursor shape will change from . to when it is over a p-point. Zoom in closer to the view if you cannot see enough detail. The upper handrail length will be trimmed so that it now runs from Post 1 to Post 3, as shown in Figure 9.3b. 140. 141. Repeat the previous Step to trim the lower handrail back to Post 3, as shown in Figure 9.3c. Use the Create>Handrail>Only option (as explained in Section 7.2) to fill in the missing length of handrail between Post 2 and Post 4. (This option will add both the upper and lower rails in a single operation.) The result is shown in Figure 9.3d.
Figure 9.3 The modification stages Note: At each step you will have the opportunity to undo the change after you have seen its effect in the 3D View.
9-5
9.2
Exercise continues:
142.
Ensure that your current element is the primitive that you want to move. Select Modify>Slide>option, where option gives you the following choices:
To P-Point - Moves the primitive in the direction of a selected p-point
on the primitive to align with a target p-point on another design element which you will pick using the cursor.
To Pline - Moves the primitive in the direction of a selected p-point on the primitive to align with a target p-line on another design element which you will pick using the cursor.
143.
When prompted, use the cursor to pick the p-point on the current primitive which you will use to define its direction of movement and its new position. Pick the corresponding target p-point to be used to define the new position of the primitives p-point. Note: The axes through the two p-points need not be collinear. If not, the primitive will move until the two p-points are aligned, thus:
Or igin a l posit ion of pr im it ive F in a l posit ion of pr im it ive Or igin a l posit ion of p-poin t p-point on secon d pr im it ive
144.
9.3
9-6
If you wish to connect the stair/ladder rails to handrails which run in the same direction as the stair/ladder, you can change each of these joints from a torus to a cylinder, as illustrated in the following diagram:
Exercise continues:
145. 146.
To make this change, select Modify>Stair Top Joint>Torus to Cylinder. When prompted, pick the torus that is to be changed. To reverse the change, select Modify>Stair Top Joint>Cylinder to Torus. When prompted, pick the cylinder that is to be changed.
9-7
9-8
The following illustrations show the effect of changing the Structure drawing level for some typical ASL items.
A-1
Appendix A
A-2
Appendix A
Figure A.2 Drawing levels for a circular (round) platform with a central hole and inner rail
A-3
Appendix A
A-4
Appendix A
Level 4
Level 5
A-5
Appendix A
A-6
Other Documentation
This guide serves purely as an introduction to those parts of PDMS most relevant to the accessways, stairs and ladders application of structural design. Therefore, it describes only the main concepts needed to get you started. Documents that can provide you with further information are listed below.
B.1
Accessways, Stairs and Ladders Design Using VANTAGE PDMS HVAC Design Using VANTAGE PDMS Industrial Building Design Using VANTAGE PDMS Pipework Design Design Using VANTAGE PDMS Structural Design Design Using VANTAGE PDMS Support Design Design Using VANTAGE PDMS Introduction to PDMS Design Templates Drawing Production Using PDMS Reporting from PDMS
Introduces the range of facilities available in the Draft module.
Introduces the database reporting utility available from within most PDMS applications, including the use of expressions to select relevant data.
B.2
B-1
Appendix B
which can be used to control PDMS directly (should you wish to bypass the forms and menus interface). Reference manuals particularly relevant to structural design work include:
Design Reference Manual ISODRAFT Reference Manual DRAFT Reference Manual PARAGON Reference Manual SPECON Reference Manual
Covers concepts and commands for all design disciplines. Explains how to create customised piping isometric plots. Explains the PDMS 2D drafting facilities. Explains how to set up a PDMS Catalogue. Explains how to create tabulated specifications.
B.3
General guides
The following guides are intended for use only by experienced PDMS users who want to write their own applications:
Explains how to write your own application macros using PML (AVEVAs Programmable Macro Language) and how to design your own forms and menus interface.
Plant Design Software Customisation Reference Manual Supplements the Customisation Guide.
Includes a list of PML 2 Objects, Members and Methods. For Forms and Menus objects, the command syntax relating to the objects is included.
B-2
Index
3D view, 3-8 Alert Forms, 3-5 Application definition, 2-1 Attribute definition, 3-10 Buttons, 3-5 Check boxes, 3-4 Current element definition, 3-10 Database hierarchy, 3-9 Design Explorer, 3-8 Drop-down lists, 3-3 Element definition, 3-10 F1 Key, 3-9 Forms, 3-2 Framework (FRMW) definition, 3-9 Graphical view, 3-8 Help, 3-8 Logging In, 3-5 Member definition, 3-10 Menu bar, 3-8 Menus, 3-2 Module definition, 2-1 Mouse, 3-1 On-line help, 3-8 Option buttons, 3-4
Accessways, Stairs and Ladders Application User Guide Version 11.6SP1 Index-i
Appendix B
Owner definition, 3-10 PDMS, 2-1 Radio buttons, 3-4 Representation, 3-11 Scrollable lists, 3-4 Site definition, 3-9 Status bar, 3-8 Structure (STRU) definition, 3-9 Subframework (SBFR) definition, 3-9 Text boxes, 3-3 Title bar, 3-8 Tool bar, 3-8 Tutorial Exercise Conventions, 1-1 Start, 3-5 View 3D/graphical, 3-8 World definition, 3-9 Zone definition, 3-9
Index-ii