Pages From Staad Foundation Manual V8i

Section 5
Creating Reports and

Drawings
5.1 Creating Design Reports

STAAD.foundation can output summary of foundation designs, along with
graphics.
Hint: If changes have been made to a job, you will need to re-analyze
and/or re-design the job before printing a report. Otherwise, these changes
will not be reflected in the output.
To add a graphic to a report

1. Select the Geometry tab in the View window.
2. Use the view controls to display the foundation model as you would like
for it to appear in the report.
3. Click the Take Picture tool on the Standard toolbar.
User Manual — 329

4. Select the picture to be included in the Report Setup dialog.
To create a design report

1. Perform an analysis/design on the job for which you wish to create a
report.
2. Click the Report Setup for Printing tool in the Standard toolbar.
The Report Setup dialog opens.

3. Select the job for which you wish to set up a report.
All jobs in the current project file are included in the drop-down list.
The available report items for the selected job are displayed in the
Available list.
4. Use the arrow buttons or double click items to have them included in
the Selected list.
5. (Optional) Change the report look using the Header and Logo tab.
6. Click the OK button.
To print a design report

1. Select the job for which you wish to print a report.
2. (Optional) Click the Print Preview tool on the Standard toolbar
or
Select File > Print Preview
The Print Preview window opens to review the report before creating a
hard copy.
3. Select File > Print…
or
Click the Print… button in the Print Preview window.
The Print dialog opens.
4. Click OK to print the report to the selected printer.
5.2 Creating Detailed Calculations Sheets

STAAD.foundation creates a set of detailed calculations for each design. These
include equations and code references for each check performed. These can be
330 — STAAD.foundation
Section 5 Creating Reports and Drawings
output to hard copy.
Hint: If changes have been made to a job, you will need to re-analyze
and/or re-design the job before printing the calculations. Otherwise, these
changes will not be reflected in the output.
To print a set of calculations

1. Perform an analysis/design on the job for which you wish to print cal-
culations.
2. Click Calculation Sheet tab in the View window.
or
(For Mat foundations only) Select Mat Foundation Job > Mat Slab
Analysis/Design Options > Calculation Sheet in the Main Navigation
pane.
3. Scroll to the bottom of the Calculation Sheet.
4. Click the Print Calculation Sheet button.
The Print dialog opens.
5. Click the OK button.
5.3 Create Drawing Files for use with CAD software

STAAD.foundation can generate construction drawings for use in your
organization's deliverables. These drawing are produced using tools found in
the Main View window Detail Drawing and GA Drawing tabs.
To create a detail plan and elevation drawing for a foun-

dation
1. Create a foundation job.
2. Perform the design.
Hint: You can group isolated footings to control the number of

different designs.
3. Select the Detail Drawing tab in the Main View window.

4. Select the option for Detail Drawing.
5. Select the footing you wish to display (if multiple footings are included in
this job).
6. (Optional) Click the Save Drawing Notes button to customize the Detail
Drawing notes for the foundation type.
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7. Click the Save Drawing As… button.
The Save Drawing As dialog opens.
8. Specify a name for the drawing and select the location where it will be
saved.
9. Click the Save button.
To create a foundation schedule (table) for a foundation

job

different designs.
3. Select the Detail Drawing tab in the Main View window.

4. Select the option for Schedule Drawing.
5. (Optional) Click the Save Drawing Notes button to customize the Detail
Drawing notes for the foundation type.
saved.
To create a general arrangement drawing for a foun-

dation job

different designs.
3. Select the GA Drawing tab in the Main View window.

saved.
Section 6
Integration with
External Programs
6.1 Working with STAAD.Pro

In most cases the forces and moments on the foundation are given by the
analysis of the superstructure. To ensure a seamless and efficient integration
with the analysis software, STAAD.foundation includes an Import facility built
into STAAD.foundation. This option allows you to import the support co-
ordinates and forces/moments on the individual supports from a structural
analysis software program.
Similarly, STAAD.Pro V8i (SELECTseries 2) release 20.07.07 and later include
a Foundation Design mode which can be used to export and update structural
model data into STAAD.foundation. This option can be used to exchange the
same data as the import
User Manual — 333

Note: You must first perform an analysis and design on a STAAD.Pro
model in STAAD.Pro before importing the model into STAAD.foundation.
Things to Consider When Using STAAD.Pro

When a STAAD.Pro model is imported, the reaction signs are as per
STAAD.Pro. STAAD.Pro does not report signs for SRSS method, hence there
is no way for STAAD.foundation to have signs for SRSS load case.
Importing from different STAAD models in one foundation file is possible
providing node numbers for supports are different, once the first model is
imported, use the update model command to import remaining model.
Copy and paste STAAD.Pro load type using Excel

Using Excel is very advantageous as you can drag and drop load type for
multiple loads. 1 in the first column stands for ticked checkbox, you can
simply exclude the load cases by setting the value in first column as 0.
Initiating STAAD.Pro import from the Command Line

If you are programming routines and wish to automate the import of
STAAD.Pro output into STAAD.foundation, you can do so through the
Windows Command Line.
The following syntax is used:
<location of STAAD.foundation executable> <location of the
STAAD.Pro input file>
So, for example, if you STAAD.foundation program is located in
C:\STAAD.FOUNDATION V5.2\ and your STAAD.Pro input file is
C:\SPROV8I\STAAD\EXAMP\US\EXAMP08.STD, the following command
may be used:
C:/STAAD.foundation v5.2/staadfoundation
C:/SproV8i\STAAD\Examp\US\examp08.std
Importing Data from STAAD.Pro

1. Select File > Import STAAD.Pro file.
or
Select the Import STAAD.Pro file tool from the Standard toolbar.
Section 6 Integration with External Programs
Note: You may be asked to save any changes made to the current
STAAD.foundation project.
The STAAD.Pro File Import dialog opens.

2. Select the STAAD input file (file extension .STD) from which you wish to
import data.
3. Click the Open button.
Exporting from Within STAAD.Pro

The following procedure is used to export all supports and load cases to
STAAD.foundation from within STAAD.Pro. Options are available to export
portions of the structure or only select loads.
1. Perform a successful analysis in STAAD.Pro.

2. Select Mode > Foundation Design.
or
Select the Foundation Design mode tab.
The Foundation page opens.
3. In the Foundation Design Options dialog, select the Use All Supports
option is it is not already selected.
2. Click the Include All button to transfer all Available Load Cases to the
Selected Load Cases List.
3. Click the Start button to open STAAD.foundation and import all
STAAD.Pro support data and results
Note: For additional information on using the Foundation Design mode,

refer to section 6 of the STAAD.Pro Graphical Environment help.
6.2 Working with Microsoft Excel

STAAD.foundation V8i supports Microsoft database format. With this feature,
STAAD.foundation files (file extension .afs) can be linked to various Microsoft
Office components.
Note: This feature requires a copy of STAAD.foundation V8i

(SELECTseries 2), release 5.1, or later.
This also can be used as a means to input data from various CAD programs or
analysis packages. The data can output to those programs and then copy /
pasted into STAAD.foundation.
User Manual — 335

Manually Inputting Data from Excel
STAAD.foundation tables support copy and paste of spreadsheet data. This
provides you with the ability to save commonly used data sets in an external
spreadsheet file for re-use. Spreadsheets also offer greater power in creating
complex relationships between values; thus allowing you to generate data
points based on complex geometrical patterns.
The copied data must have same number of columns as the STAAD.foundation
input table.
To copy and paste data from Microsoft Excel to STAAD.foundation
1. Highlight the extents of the data in the spreadsheet program.
2. Copy the cell contents.

3. Switch to the STAAD.foundation program.
4. Open the form or dialog containing the table where data will be pasted.
5. Select first cell of input table in either the Data Input form or dialog.
Note: Make sure the whole cell is selected (blinking text line should
not appear). Clicking the cell field away from the number
6. Press CTRL+V to paste the data into the table.

Please refer to document for Neutral file format (xml read and write
function) to explore more connectivity options with other software.
The following tables contained in Data Input data or dialogs can be used to
paste data:
User Manual — 337

l Linear grid
l Radial grid
l Column position
l Column dimension
l Add Self Weight - Multiplier values may be pasted from spreadsheet
application.
l Applied Load Safety Factor
l Mat Foundation: Physical Beam table
l Mat Foundation: Pile Position table
l Mat Foundation: Pile Spring table
l Mat Foundation: Polyline region
l Mat Foundation: Edit Meshing region - Once a mat region has been
created, it can then be transformed to any arbitrary shape by pasting
coordinates into the Edit Meshing region dialog.
l Load Combination table - The checkbox column can also be manipulated
by using a 1 to signify selected (checked) and 0 to signify unselected in
the spreadsheet data.
Hint: This facility can be particularly useful when importing a large

number of load combinations from analysis software.
To copy and paste data from STAAD.foundation to Excel
Similarly, output tables generated by a successful analysis/design can be

copied and pasted into a spreadsheet.
1. Perform an analysis/design on the STAAD.foundation job.

Output tables are displayed on one or more tabs in the Output pane.
2. Select the cells, columns, or rows you wish to copy.
Hint: The entire table can be selected by clicking the top-left most
heading cell.
3. Press CTRL+C.
4. Switch to the spreadsheet application.
5. Paste the contents into the spreadsheet.
Import Foundation Input from Excel

STAAD.foundation includes a set of tools which can be used as an alternate
interface to quickly enter in multiple jobs simultaneously for a General
Foundation mode project.
The first part of this feature is an included Microsoft Office Excel 2003
spreadsheet (named MULTIPLE JOBS EXCEL INPUT.XLS) which is used to
enter global and local data for any type of General Foundation mode job. Next,
the program can read the data from this spreadsheet and create a new project
using the new Import from Excel feature.
Warning: It is recommended to save a copy of MULTIPLE JOBS EXCEL

INPUT.XLS to a different location on your computer or network so as the
original may be re-used as a template.
Note: You may download a new copy of the spreadsheet from the Be
Communities site at
http://communities.bentley.com/products/structural/structural_analysis__
_design/m/structural_analysis_and_design_gallery/default.aspx.
This feature can be used as flexible means to import geometry, loads, and
other data from virtually any structural analysis & design software. By creating
macros in Excel, this process can be streamlined for re-use in your
organization.
Input data into the Excel spreadsheet
1. Open MULTIPLE JOBS EXCEL INPUT.XLS in Microsoft Office Excel.

2. (Optional) Save the file in a new location.
Hint: You may wish to save the file under a different name (e.g., the
physical project's name or your companies job number).
3. Select the Units you wish to use on the Units tab.

4. Global data is entered on the first set of spreadsheet tabs:
a. Set the number and location of X- and Z- axis grids on the Grid
Tables tab.
Hint: The correct number of grids will be highlighted in both

tables. Values in gray cells will not be imported into
STAAD.foundation.
b. Node coordinates and column / pedestal data are entered on the

Support Data tab.
c. Load case data is entered on the Load Table tab.
d. Column reaction loads are entered on the Loads tab.
User Manual — 339

5. Enter the local data for all of the job types you wish to add to your
STAAD.foundation project. Data entry is analogous to the type of foun-
dation for each tab:
a. Isolated Foundation
b. Combined Foundation
c. Mat Foundation
d. Pile Cap Job
Hint: Right click and delete tabs for foundation types you won't need
in your project to prevent any unnecessary data being imported.
6. Save the spreadsheet and exit Excel.
Import data from MULTIPLE JOBS EXCEL INPUT.XLS into a

STAAD.foundation project
1. Select Tools > Import from Excel.

A Windows open dialog opens, with the filter set for Excel Files (.XLS
file extension).
2. Navigate to the folder where the copy of the Excel spreadsheet was
saved.
Note: If you have not saved a copy of MULTIPLE JOBS EXCEL

INPUT.XLS, it will be located in the save folder where
STAAD.foundation was installed. The default directory path is
C:\...\STAAD.FOUNDATION V5.2\
3. Click the Open button.

The project data is imported. For each foundation type tab included in
the Excel spreadsheet, a new job is created.
6.3 Working with Neutral Files

STAAD.foundation V8i supports Neutral file (xml) format. With this feature,
STAAD.foundation files (file extension .afs) can be exported to or imported
from neutral file (xml).
This feature requires a copy of STAAD.foundation V8i (SELECTseries 2),
release 5.1, or later.
This feature is developed focusing on integration of STAAD.foundation with
any other program supporting xml format. With some programming help,
STAAD.foundation can be seamlessly integrated with any in-house or third
party package. e.g. Loading and geometry input from a piping software can be
imported to STAAD.foundation using xml technology, batch import is also
possible.
STAAD.foundation V8i (SELECTseries 2), release 5.1 or later supports full
import/export of isolated footing job to xml format, including design
parameters. For other jobs, loading and geometry data can be
imported/exported.
This feature can be further extended based on the user request. Please contact
us through a service ticket at http://selectservices.bentley.com/en-US/
User Manual — 341

Section 7
Quick Tour
The following is a short tutorial on using the General Foundations mode of
STAAD.foundation. If this is the first time you have ever used the program, it
is recommended that you perform this exercise to familiarize yourself with the
program.
This Quick Tour is a set of short example exercises that illustrate how to use
STAAD.foundation to design several different types of foundations. The
procedure for importing support co-ordinates and forces/moments on the
individual supports from STAAD.Pro is also discussed.
7.1 Isolated Footing Example

In this example, you will create a new project to illustrate the process for
designing an isolated foundation.
7.1.1 Creating a New General Foundation Project

1. Start STAAD.foundation, if you have not already done so.
2. Create a new General Foundation project file by:
Selecting File > New > General Setup.
or
User Manual — 343

Click the General button on the Start Page.
or
Press <CTRL+N>, Select General Foundation, and click Open.
The program window opens an empty project file in the General
Foundation mode.
7.1.2 Entering Support Coordinates

1. To enter the coordinates for supports that construct the foundation plan
of a project, click on the leaf called Column Position under Foundation
Plan group in Main Navigator pane.
The Column Position table opens in the Data Area pane.
2. Input the support coordinates (0,0,0), (10,0,0), (10,0,10), (0,0,15),

(14,0,0) and (5,0,5) for position numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, respectively.
The tab key or the arrow keys may be used to move from one cell to the
next in the table.
Section 7 Quick Tour
Hint: Make sure length unit is set as “ft”. To change/set current

length unit, click the Set Input/Output Unit tool found in the Standard
toolbar.
Note: The supports along with their respective node numbers are
displayed in the Graphics Window once you click on a cell outside of
the row you are currently in.
7.1.3 Defining the Loads

This section uses the Loads & Factors leaf in the Main Navigator pane in
conjunction with the Data area for entering load data.
Create a Load Case

1. In order to define loads, please click on the Loads & Factors group in the
Main Navigator pane.
User Manual — 345

The Load Description page opens in the Data Area pane. This page
allows you to define loads for load cases, as well as assign loads.
2. Select Loads & Factors > Create New Load Case entry in Main
Navigator.
A form under the load description area will appear allowing you to
create a new load case.
3. Enter Load Case 1 for Load Title.

The Load Title allows you to give each load case a descriptive name to
help identify between load cases. Leave the Load Type set as Primary.
Note: Three load types are available: Primary, Service, and Ultimate.
Primary loads can be further used to create combination loads.
Service loads are not factored and are used for soil bearing pressure
checks. Ultimate loads are factored and are used for shear and
reinforcement design.
4. While creating a new load case, load items from an existing load case can
be copied. As there are no defined load case yet, leave the Load Case No
field as None.
5. Select No for the Add Self Weight field.
6. Click on the Add button to have the load case created.
The new load case appears in the Load Description Tree in the Load
pane.
7. Repeat Steps 1 through 5 and create a similar load cased titled Live Load.
Specify the loads imposed on our foundation by the col-

umns.
1. Select the Loads & Factors > Add a Column Reaction Load entry in
Main Navigator.
or
Right click on Load Case 1: Load Case 1 entry in the Load Description
Tree and select Add Column Reaction Load from the pop-up menu.
The Load Data pane opens a form for entering nodal load information.
2. Enter a value of 5 for Fx, and a value of –5 for Fy field.

3. Then click on the Add button to accept the load input.
User Manual — 347

Note: Negative and positive values follow the sign conventions of the
axis system. Negative values are downward, compressive forces and
positive values are upward, tensile forces.
The load will now appear under the Column Reaction Loading folder in
the Load Description pane.
4. Repeat steps 1 through 3 to add a column reaction load to the "Live
Load" case with Fz = 10 kip.
Assign the load to all supports

1. Select the new column load in the Data Area pane by clicking on it.
2. Click the Assign button to have the load assigned to all the supports in
the project.
3. Then select Assign To View from the drop-down list as the assignment
method.
The assigned loadings are displayed on the nodes in the graphics
window.
4. Repeat steps 1 through 3 and assign the Live Load case to all supports in
the view.
Note: Alternatively, we could have selected all the supports in the

Graphics window by clicking on them and then selected Assign To
Selection. Or, we could have selected Assign To Edit List and then typed in
the list of nodes for each support.
Load Combinations
If you have multiple load cases and want to combine them, you can use the
Load Combination feature.
1. Click on the Create New Load Combination leaf under the Loads & Fac-
tors group in Main navigator pane.
2. To define serviceability and design factors for each load case in a project,
you may use the Safety Factor Table. To bring up the Safety Factors page,
click on the Safety Factors leaf under Loads and Factors group in Main
Navigator pane.
A table allowing you to input serviceability and design factors for each load
case will be displayed in the Data Area pane.
By default, STAAD.foundation will assign values for the safety factors

depending on the load type. Refer to section 4.3.3.2 for a detailed explanation
of the default values. The default values can be changed by inputting new
values into the table like any spreadsheet. The tab key or arrow keys may be
used to move from one cell to the next in the table. The serviceability factor
will be applied when checking the base pressure of a foundation (geotechnical
design). The design factor will be used for design.
7.1.4 Create an Isolated Footing Jobs

Now that all the global project data has been inputted, you have the ability to
design the foundation using Isolated Supports, Pile Caps, Strip Footing or you
could support the entire structure on a single Mat Foundation. You will not
have to create separate input files for entering all this information. All you
have to do is to create separate jobs under the same project.
Use the following procedure to create a job:
User Manual — 349

1. Click on Job Setup > Create a New Job in the Main Navigator pane.
The Job Info and Loading forms open in the Data Area pane.
2. Enter the following values in the Job Info form (top half of the Data
area):
3. Enter Job1 for the Job Name.

4. Select Isolated for the Job Type.
5. Select Assign to all support for the Support Assignment method.
6. Click the Select All ( ) button to move all the load cases over to the
Selected Load Cases list on the bottom of the page.
7. Click the Create Job button.
A new leaf is added to the Main Navigation pane for the Isolated Footing
job.
Note: When there are multiple jobs and load cases in a project, you can
quickly switch between jobs or loads using the tools in the Standard
toolbar. Job settings of the selected job may be edited by clicking the ‘Edit
Current Job’ leaf under job setup group in Main Navigator pane.
7.1.5 Entering Design Parameters

When you begin a new project, only the Project Info, Foundation Plan, Loads
and Factor and Job Setup groups will appear in the Main Navigator pane. The
first three groups allow you to specify the physical model upon which the
foundation design is to be performed. This data is global to all jobs which are
created within a single project file.
A fourth group (Job Setup) allows you to create a new job or edit an existing
job. It is only when you create a New Job (a set of constraints for the program
to use in performing a foundation design) that groups related to the current
design process will appear.
Now that you have created a job, a new group called “Isolated Footing Job” is
created in the Main Navigator pane. This group allows you to enter design
parameters like footing geometry, concrete cover, soil parameters etc. The data
contained within this job is local to this isolated footing, but will make use of
the common global data available to all jobs in the project file.
For the purposes of this example, you can use the default values provided for
all design parameter sections. The parameter sections are explained in detail in
the General Foundation section.
User Manual — 351

Note: STAAD.foundation gives the user flexibility to check an existing
foundation by specifying footing geometry like Length, Width and
Thickness or design a new foundation where the program will calculate
footing dimension.
7.1.6 Performing an Isolated Footing Design

1. Click on the “Design” leaf under “Design Parameters” group in Main
Navigator pane to design the footing.
A warning dialog opens to confirm you wish to proceed with the design.
2. Click Yes.
The progress of the foundation design is displayed in the Output pane.
The Status bar also provides feedback on the progress of each step.
Once the process is complete, the program will automatically display a

Design Summary table in the Output pane and the detailed design
calculations in the Calculation Sheet tab of the View window.
3. Select File > Save As…
or
Press <CTRL-S>
to save the project. Provide a file name and locate the file where you
would like it stored before clicking Save.
7.2 Mat Foundation Example

Note: STAAD.Pro must be installed on your computer before proceeding
with this exercise.
You will use STAAD.Pro US Example No. 8 for this example.

STAAD.foundation will use the imported geometry and support reactions to
design a mat foundation for the structure.
You can only import a STAAD.Pro model that has been successfully analyzed,
because you will want to have the support reactions available for the
foundation design. So, if you have not already run the analysis for STAAD.Pro
U.S. Example No. 8 open the example in STAAD.Pro
(C:\SPRO2007\STAAD\EXAMP\US\EXAMP\ EXAMP08.STD), run the
analysis, and then return to this Quick Tour.
7.2.1 Creating a New Job for a Mat Foundation

User Manual — 353

2. Enter a job name, choose Job Type as Mat, and Design Code as US.
3. Click the button to include all the Load Cases.

The new Mat Foundation job is added to the Main Navigator pane.
7.2.2 Defining the Mat Boundary

Now we would like to define the boundary of the mat.
1. Select Mat Foundation Job > Mesh Generation > Add Meshing region >
Add a rectangular region in the Main Navigator pane.
The Rectangular Boundary form opens in the Data Input pane.

2. Set Unit as “inch” and input X1,Z1 as -30,-30. Enter a Length of 515
inches and Width of 345 inches. Leave the Y level as 0.0 as our support
columns are all at the same elevation.
3. Click the Add Region button to create the mat boundary.
User Manual — 355

Note: To make the rectangular boundary easier to see, you may want to
toggle off the grid if it is currently displayed. Use the Toggle grid tool in
the Standard toolbar or the Linear Grid setup form.
Hint: Now it would be a good idea to save your model, since you have
done a substantial amount of work to get to this point. Select File > Save
or press CTRL+S.
7.2.3 Creating a Mesh

Now we are ready to add the boundary and create the mesh.
1. Select Mat Foundation Job > Mesh Generation > Meshing Setup in the

The Meshing Setup form opens in the Data Input pane.
2. In the Main View window, select the rectangular boundary region created
in the previous step.
The boundary is highlighted in red.
3. Select the Boundary option and specify a title for the boundary as the
Region Identifier.
Note: In this example project we will not create any holes in the
mesh.
4. Click the Add Region button to add the rectangular region as a meshing
User Manual — 357

boundary.
5. Select the Region Identifier name you entered from the Meshing setup
tree.
6. Specify a maximum element size of 12 inches.
7. Click the Generate Mesh button.
The Meshing Options dialog opens.
8. Select the option for Quadrilateral Meshing since our boundary is rec-
tangular. Leave other options as their default.
9. Click OK.
The mesh is automatically generated.
7.2.4 Specifying Slab Thickness

As this is a physical modeling system, slab thickness and soil properties are
automatically assigned to the slab with default values.
1. Select Mat Foundation Job > Analysis Properties > Slab Thickness in

the Main Navigation pane.
The Slab Thickness form is displayed in the Data Input pane.

2. Specify an Analysis Thickness of 1.0 ft and a Design Thickness of 0.9167 ft
(12 inches).
3. Select Mat Foundation Job > Mesh Generation > Soil Property in the
The Soil Property form opens in the Data Input pane.

4. Select the option to Use Soil Spring. Leave the default value for the Sub-
grade Modulus.
7.2.5 Analyzing the Slab

We are ready to analyze the slab.
Hint: Save your work one more time.
User Manual — 359

1. Select either:
Mat Foundation job > Mat Slab analysis/design options > Analyze in
the Main Navigator pane.
or
The Analyze / Design tool in the Standard toolbar.
The progress of the analysis process is displayed in the Status Bar along
with the steps being performed by the program in the Design Progress
Report of the Output pane.
The analysis engine opens to display the progress of the finite element
analysis.
Once the analysis process is complete, the deformed shape of the slab is
displayed.
2. By default the deformed plates showing the node displacements appear in

the graphics display window.
User Manual — 361

If the slab’s deformed shape is not apparent in your graphics display, you
may need to change the scaling values. Click on the toolbar for changing
scale which will bring up Scale Setup page in data area pane.
3. Under the Result Scales category, decrease the Displacement value to

increase the amount of deflection shown.
Hint: Why do you decrease it to increase the deflection? The

Displacement value in the dialog box is the actual displacement of the
structure per unit distance on the graphic diagram. Therefore, if you
reduce the amount of actual structural deflection required to display
a unit distance of deflection on the diagram, you will see a larger
apparent displacement on the diagram.
After a successful analysis, the program will add several tables in the
output pane below.
4. Click on the Displacement tab to view nodal displacement for current
selected load case.
This table lists the node displacement for the three translational and
three rotational degrees of freedom.
5. Click on “Disp Summary” tab to view node displacement summary for all
six degrees of freedom among all load cases.
Note: Maximum positive displacement in Y direction is 0.049418 in

and maximum negative displacement is .792751 in.
6. Click on the ‘Support Reactions’ tab to view soil pressure for the current
load case. To view the maximum reaction among all load cases please
click on “Reaction Summary” tab.
User Manual — 363

7. To view soil pressure contour, please click on the “Output View Options”
leaf under “Mat slab design options” group in main navigator pane.
The Output View Options form opens in the Data pane.

8. Select the Show Soil Pressure option to view the soil pressure contour in
the View window.
A soil pressure legend will be displayed at the left of the view pane along
with the soil pressure contour. Please note, the maximum soil pressure
for load case 1 is 4.556 kip/ft2. Also, minimum soil pressure is 0.0 which
means that some part of the mat has lost contact with the soil and the
program has distributed the pressure of that portion to the rest of the
mat slab.
User Manual — 365

9. We can easily verify the slab’s loss of contact with the soil by reviewing
“Contact Area” table. Please note for both load cases more than 80% of
total area is in contact with the soil.
To review plates stresses please click on the “Plate Stress” and “Plate
Stress Summary” pages. Please note that the stress summary page
displays a maximum value 68.636 kip-ft/ft. Please note that all plate
stress values are based on plate local axis system.
10. To view plate stress contours please click on the “Output View Options”
leaf under “Mat slab design options” group
A form will appear at data area pane. Please select “Show Plate Stress”
radio button and then choose “Global Mx” stress type.
User Manual — 367

The screen will look like the following figure. Please note that this
contour is based on the global X axis.
7.2.6 Slab Design

Now we go for designing the slab. Slab design in STAAD.foundation has three
distinct parts.
First step is to generate moment envelope. Next step is to design the slab and
the last step is to create reinforcement zones for reinforcement layout.
1. Select Mat Foundation job > Mat slab analysis/design options >

Moment envelope generation in the Main Navigator pane.
User Manual — 369

The Moment Envelope Generation form opens in the Data Input pane.
2. Define the longitudinal axis of the slab by specifying Starting X / Z
coordinates of 0,0 and Ending X/ Z coordinates of 100, 0.
3. Select Use all load cases for the Select load type list.
4. Click the Generate Moment Envelope button to generate moment
envelope.
The program generates a finite number of discrete points which are used
as design points.
5. Select Mat Foundation job > Mat slab analysis/design options > Design
Parameters in the Main Navigator pane.
7.3 Pile Cap Example

In this example, you will create a new job inside this same project to illustrate
the process for designing a pile cap.
7.3.1 Create a New Pile Cap Job

2. Enter a job name, choose Job Type as Pile Cap, and Design Code as US.
User Manual — 371

3. Select support node 1 in Main View window.
Support assignment type will be automatically switched to Assign to
selected support.
The new Pile Cap Foundation job is added to the Main Navigator pane.
The new job name also appears in the Job selection list in the Standard
toolbar.
7.3.2 Entering Pile Data

To create pile arrangement please click on the “Pile Layout(Predefined)” leaf.
1. Select Mat Foundation Job > Mesh Generation > Add Meshing region >
Add a rectangular region in the Main Navigator pane
The Pile Arrangement Predefined form opens in the Data Input pane.
User Manual — 373

2. Select support number 1 as the Support for Pile Arrangement
3. Input the following values for Pile Capacity:
vertical = 60 kips, lateral = 40 kips, and uplift = 40 kips.
4. Input the following values for pile geometry data:
pile diameter = 10 inches, Spacing = 36 inches, and Edge Distance = 24
inches
Hint: The total loading on the support is shown if we click on the

Show Loading On Support button.
5. Select Auto Arrangement and click the Calculate button.

A pop-up list opens containing all possible regular pile arrangements
which satisfy pile capacity criteria.
6. Choose 4 Pile Arrangement in the list and click OK.

The pile arrangement table is populated with the selected pile
arrangement.
User Manual — 375

7. (Optional) Click the Show Pile Reactions button to review the reaction
on each pile.
8. Click the Select Arrangement button to select the arrangement for the
design of this support's foundation.
7.3.3 Enter Pile Cap Design Parameters

1. Select Pile Cap Job > Design Parameters in the Main Navigator pane.
The Design Parameters form opens in the Data Input pane.

2. Enter the following design parameters in the form, ensuring that the
correct units are displayed for each:
l Strength of Concrete: 4 ksi
l Yield Strength of Steel: 60 ksi
l Minimum Bar Size: 6
l Maximum Bar Size: 11
l Side cover (Cs): 4 in
l Bottom Cover (Cb): 3 in
l Pile in Pile Cap (Cp): 4 in
l Initial thickness: 18 in
7.3.4 Performing a Pile Cap Design

Now that the design parameters are entered, we are ready to perform the
design.
Hint: Now is a good time to save your work, if you haven't already done
so.
1. Select either:
Pile Cap Job > Design in the Main Navigator pane.
or
Once the analysis process is complete, a results table appears in the
Output pane showing the pile cap dimensions and the bar size and
spacing in the longitudinal and transverse directions.
Note: The results are for only one of the six supports in the project
because pile arrangements were selected for only support 1.
The Calculation Sheet opens in the Main View window for reviewing the
detailed code checks.
7.4 Strip Footing Example

In this example, you will create a new job inside this same project to illustrate
the process for designing a strip footing.
7.4.1 Creating a Strip Footing Job

Now let us create a new job inside this same project to illustrate the process
for designing a combined footing.
The Job Info and Loading forms open in the Data Input pane.
2. Enter job name as “Strip1”.
3. Choose Job type as “Combined” and design code as US.
User Manual — 377

5. Click the Create Job button to create a new combined footing job.
The new Strip Footing job is added to the Main Navigator pane. The new
job name also appears in the Job selection list in the Standard toolbar.
Additionally, strip footing controls appear in the Job Info form.
6. Select node 2 and 3 in Main View window.
Nodes will be shown as selected as shown below.
7. Click the Create from Selected Node button in the . A tree view showing
the support assignment will appear.
The strip footing is graphically added between the two selected supports.
7.4.2 Entering Strip Footing Design Parameters

Now we need to input suitable design parameters. The input for both Concrete
& Rebar and Cover, Soil, & Safety are as same as the previous isolated footing
example. We will use the default parameters included in the program
1. Select Combined Footing Job > Design Parameters > Footing Geometry

in the Main Navigator pane.
The Footing Geometry form opens in the Data Input pane.
User Manual — 379

2. Select Calculate Dimensions for the Design Type.
3. Specify other footing dimensions as follows:
l Minimum Left over hang length = 36 in
l Minimum Right over hang length = 36 in
l Minimum Width = 48 in
l Minimum Thickness = 12 in
l Maximum Length = 400 in
l Maximum Width = 400 in
l Maximum Thickness = 36 in
7.4.3 Performing a Strip Footing Design
Hint: Now is a good time to save your work, if you haven't already done
so.
1. Select either:
Combined Footing Job > Design Parameters > Design in the Main
Navigator pane.
or
Once the analysis process is complete, a results table appears in the

Output pane showing the pile cap dimensions and the bar size and
spacing in the longitudinal and transverse directions.
Note: The results are for only one of the six supports in the project
because pile arrangements were selected for only support 1.
The Calculation Sheet opens in the Main View window for reviewing the
detailed code checks.
2. Click the Graphs tab in the Main View window to display both Bending
Moment and Shear Force diagrams.
7.5 Conclusion
We hope you have enjoyed this Quick Tour of STAAD.foundation. If you would
like additional assistance in learning how to use STAAD.foundation, there are
many resources available to you. Within the Online Help facility, you will find
User Manual — 381

documentation describing the program theory and a detailed description of
every command in the program. You may also view a number of animated
movie files that demonstrate how to perform various tasks.
Additional STAAD.foundation learning resources are available at Bentley
Systems, Inc. web site at http://www.bentley.com/en-
US/Products/STAAD.foundation/.
Finally, we strongly encourage you to take advantage of Bentley’s technical
support service. Our support staff is most eager and willing to help you learn
to use the program correctly.
You may contact our STAAD.foundation technical support staff by visiting
http://www.bentley.com/serviceticketmanager
We hope you enjoy using the program and hope that it adds value and
efficiency to your engineering endeavors. If you have any comments regarding
the program, or suggestions on how it could be improved to better serve your
needs, we would very much like to hear from you.
Section 8
Technical Reference
8.1 Introduction to Finite Element Analysis

If you want to model a surface entity like a wall, a roof or a slab, where the
load is distributed in more than one direction, you need a surface entity to
carry that kind of loading. The kind of entity that is used to model a beam or a
column cannot be used to model a slab. We need to use another kind of
structural entity known as a finite element. In a finite element analysis, you
take a wall or a slab and subdivide it into smaller parts consisting of triangles
or quadrilaterals.
Finite elements are often referred to as plates. In our discussion, we may use
these two words interchangeably.
The difference between a beam and a plate is a load that is applied to a beam
can only go in two directions: towards one end, or the other, or both.
User Manual — 383

In a plate, there is more than one path for the load to flow.
8.2 Element Load Specification

The following load specifications are available:
l Joint loads at element nodes in global directions.

l Concentrated loads at any user specified point within the element in
global or local directions.
l Uniform pressure on an element surface in global or local directions.
l Partial uniform pressure on a user specified portion of an element
surface in global or local directions.
l Linearly varying pressure on an element surface in local directions.
8.3 Theoretical Basis

The STAAD plate finite element is based on hybrid finite element
formulations. A complete quadratic stress distribution is assumed. For plane
stress action, the assumed stress distribution is as follows.
Complete quadratic assumed stress distribution:
Section 8 Technical Reference
Where:
a1 through a10 = constants of stress polynomials.
8.4 Element Local Coordinate System

The precise orientation of local coordinates is determined as follows:
l The vector pointing from "A" to "B" is defined to be parallel to the local
X-axis.
l The cross product of vectors "AB" and "AC" defines a vector parallel to
the local Z-axis, i.e., z = AB x AC.
l The cross product of vectors z and x defines a vector parallel to the local
Y-axis, i.e., y = z x x.
l The origin of the axes is at the center (average) of the 4 joint locations (3
joint locations for a triangle).
Figure - STAAD plate element orientation for both Quatdrilateral and

Triangular elements
The sign convention of output force and moment resultants is illustrated in
Section 2.6.
8.5 Output of Element Forces

ELEMENT FORCE outputs are available at the following locations:
l Center point of the element.

l All corner nodes of the element.
l At any user specified point within the element.
The following is a list of the items included in the ELEMENT STRESS output:
User Manual — 385

l SQX, SQY Shear stresses (Force/ unit len./thk.)
l SX, SY, SXY Membrane stresses (Force/unit len./thk)
l MX, MY, MXY Bending moments per unit width (Moment/unit len.)
l SMAX, SMIN Principal stresses (Force/unit area)
l TMAX Maximum shear stress (Force/unit area)
l ANGLE Orientation of the principal plane (Degrees)
l VONT, VONB Von Mises stress, where
l TRESCAT, TRESCAB Tresca stress, where

TRESCA = MAX[ |(SMAX-SMIN)| , |(SMAX)| , |(SMIN)| ]
Note: Note:
l All element stress output is in the local coordinate system. The direction
and sense of the element stresses are explained in Section 2.6.
l To obtain element stresses at a specified point within the element, the
user must provide the coordinate system for the element. Note that the
origin of the local coordinate system coincides with the center node of
the element.
l Principal stresses (SMAX & SMIN), the maximum shear stress (TMAX),
the orientation of the principal plane (ANGLE), the Von Mises stress
(VONT & VONB), and the Tresca stress (TRESCAT & TRESCAB) are also
printed for the top and bottom surfaces of the elements. The top and the
bottom surfaces are determined on the basis of the direction of the local
Z-axis.
8.6 Sign Convention of Element Forces
Figure - General sign conventions of element forces
Figure - Bending moments Mx and My

Mx is the Bending moment on the local x face. the local x-face is the face
perpendicular to the local x-axis.
My is the Bending moment on the local y face. the local y-face is the face
perpendicular to the local y-axis.
User Manual — 387

Figure - Stress caused by Mx
Figure - Stress caused by My
Figure - Stress caused by Torsion (Mz)
Figure - Membrane stresses Sx and Sy
Figure - In plane shear stresses Sxy and Syx
Figure - Out-of plane shear stresses SQx and SQy
User Manual — 389

8.7 STAAD.foundation Program Theory
STAAD.foundation performs structural design of foundations in accordance
with the ACI 318-05, IS 456-2000, BS 8110-97, AS3600 – 2001, or CSA
A23.3.-04 Code based on user preference. The available foundation types are:
isolated spread footing, pile cap, strip footing, mat foundation, vertical vessel
octagonal foundation on soil, vertical vessel octagonal soil on piles, vertical
vessel square footing on soil, vertical vessel square footing on piles,
stacked/single heat exchanger combined footing, stacked/single heat
exchanger isolated footing, stacked/single heat exchanger strap beam footing,
guyed tower foundation, drilled pier foundation, ribbed beam foundation.
These footings are further explained in following topics in help file.
8.8 Isolated (Spread) Footing Theory

The program uses the following criteria:
Soil bearing capacity,
Shear and flexural strength of footing (no shear reinforcing assumed),
1. Determine footing plan geometry based on loading and bearing

resistance of the soil.
Self weight of footing, self weight of pedestal is automatically considered
in foundation design. The final thickness of the footing is considered for
the design self weight. Soil self weight, overburden pressure, buoyancy
effect is calculated based on user input specified in design parameters.
Stress distribution under the footing is assumed to be linear. For
eccentrically loaded footings, the stresses may become tensile under part
of the foundation. In such cases the program sets stress values in uplift
zones to zero and calculates new values elsewhere for the revised
equilibrium condition.
The program is also capable of handle biaxial moments with footing
subjected to uplift. The program uses Finite Differential Method to
calculate portion of footing in contact with the soil.
The program does check the footing for sliding and overturning in both
orthogonal directions for all service load cases. Coefficient of friction is
used to calculate sliding resistance. Passive pressure resistance for
sliding will be considered in future versions.
The final plan dimensions of the footing are established iteratively from
the condition that the maximum stress should not exceed the factored
bearing resistance of the soil and foundation should be stable in sliding

and overturning.
2. Development length is checked for straight rebars. If development
criterion is not met by the footing geometry a warning message is
displayed in the calculation sheet, user can go for other detailing options
like bent bars. Future release of STAAD.foundation will take bent up bars
into consideration.
3. Calculate footing thickness based on structural capacity in shear and
bending.
Structural design of the footing consists of the following:
l Punching shear check, in accordance with ACI 318 Section 11.12.2
(for US Job), at a distance of d/2 from the pedestal. The critical sec-
tion comprises four straight-line segments, parallel to the cor-
responding sides of the pedestal.
l One-way shear (beam action), in accordance with ACI 318 Section
11.1 through 11.5 (for US Job), at a distance of d from the face of the
pedestal, in both orthogonal directions. The critical plane is
assumed to extend over the entire width/length of the footing.
l Bending, in accordance with Sections 15.4.2 and 10.3.4 (for US code),
with the critical planes located at both orthogonal faces of the ped-
estal and extending across the full width/length of the footing.
l Design output displays applicable code sections used for foundation
design for all codes.
Biaxial Moment Distribution

The program uses Finite Differential Method to calculate resultant eccentricity
and calculates soil pressure based on:
P/A(1±(6e_x)/L_x ±(6e_y)/L_y )
The program results are verified against Biaxial moment (including loss of
contact) with ASCE research paper Bearing Pressures for Rectangular Footings
with Biaxial Uplift
8.9 Pile Cap Theory

The program produces the following design output:
Required pile quantity and layout to satisfy loading applied to the footing and
self weight of pile, based on bearing, uplift and lateral pile capacity. Moments
are also being considered for lateral loads applied at top of pile cap. Moment
User Manual — 391

arm used in case of lateral loads is (Pedestal height + Pile cap thickness). Pile
reactions are calculated based on Bolt Theory.
Geometry of the pile cap based on shear and bending strength requirements at
critical sections of the footing.
1. Pile Arrangement
The user provides the following pile properties: capacity (bearing, uplift,
and lateral), diameter, spacing, and edge distance. Based on these
parameters, the program determines the required pile configuration as
well as plan dimensions of the footing from the condition, that the force,
along with the self weight of pilecap, transferred to any pile should not
exceed its capacity. For a general case of vertical and horizontal forces,
and bending moments acting on the cap, that stipulation is equivalent to
satisfying the following two equations:
Hpile >= Happl / N

Vpile >= Vappl / N + Mxappl * Ry / Ixg + Myappl * Rx / Iyg
Where:
Hpile - Single pile horizontal capacity

Vpile - Single pile vertical capacity
Happl - Total horizontal load applied
Vappl - Total vertical load applied
N - Total number of piles in footing
Mxappl - Applied bending moment about X-axis
Myappl - Applied bending moment about Y-axis
Rx - Distance from Y-axis to the farthest pile
Ry - Distance from X-axis to the farthest pile
Ixg - pile group moment of inertia about X-axis
Iyg - pile group moment of inertia about Y-axis
Note: X and Y-axes above are centroidal axes of the pile group, Ixg
and Iyg are calculated treating each pile as a unit, and are equal
Σ(1*yi2) and Σ(1*xi2), respectively.
The program includes a library of possible pile layouts for quantities

from 2 to 25 piles. Based on the user input, the program recommends
the most economical (least number of piles) layout. The user may select
any other layout/quantity if desired, however. In addition, changing the

coordinates of individual piles may modify the selected pile layout.
Alternatively, the user may input the entire configuration by hand.
The layout recommended by the program is guaranteed to satisfy the
load/capacity ratio for all piles. Should the user-modified or manually
input layouts result in pile overstressing, the program will flag this
deficiency in the design output.
2. Design of Pile Cap
Proportioning of the pile cap involves satisfying the shear (one and two
way) and bending requirements at applicable critical sections, in
accordance with Chapter 15 of ACI 318-02 (for US job).
One way shear is checked in two areas:
l At outer piles, with the critical section located at a min. distance d
from the face of a corner pile or faces of a pile group along the edge
of the footing,
l At the distance d from two orthogonal faces of the pedestal.
The critical shear plane is assumed along a shortest straight line

connecting free edges of the footing. The design is then performed for the
total pile reaction force on one side of the shear plane, in accordance with
Sections 11.1 through 11.5.
Two way shear is checked in three areas:
l At outer piles, with the critical section located at a min. distance
d/2 from the face of a corner pile or faces of a pile group along the
edge of the footing. The critical plane is assumed to be positioned
along a straight and curved line, so that the total section length is
minimized.
l At the distance d/2 around the pedestal. The section comprises four
straight-line segments, parallel to corresponding sides of the col-

umn.
l At the distance d/2 around a pile.
The design is performed for the total pile reaction force acting within the
perimeter of the critical section, in accordance with ACI 318 Sections
11.12.2 through 11.12.6 (for US job).
Development length is checked for straight rebars. If development
criterion is not met by the footing geometry a warning message is
displayed in the calculation sheet, user can go for other detailing options
like bent bars. Future release of STAAD.foundation will take bent up bars
into consideration.
User Manual — 393

Flexure is checked for critical planes located at both faces of the
pedestal. The bending moment is calculated as an aggregate of moments
due to pile reactions on one side of the plane.
Determination of an individual pile contribution to the forces at a
critical section is based on whether the pile is outside this section (full
reaction value assumed), inside the section (reaction ignored), or at an
intermediate location (partial reaction assumed), as per Section
15.5.4(for US job).
Pilecap design through IS Code
l 3 Pile Combination
Design method in IS code is not similar with other combinations.
The design philosophy followed in STAAD.foundation is explained
below-
Pile cap module is following rigid method.
Pile Reaction calculation is done using Bolt Theory. For
combinations other than 2/3 pile, Moment is calculated at column
face in both direction (Considering each pile reaction and pile
location. If any pile area is intersected by section line taken for
moment calculation, partial reaction of the respective pile is
considered). Same thing is done for shear but at a dist of d-
effective from column face.
For 3 piles, although pile reactions calculation are done using bolt
theory but shear force & bending moment calculations are slightly
different for IS code. Instead of considering whole triangular slab,
two beams are considered; one beam extends from one pile to
another pile and another beam extends from third pile to centre of
first beam. In plan these beams make T shape. These beams are
named as BASE BEAM & ALTERNATE BEAM.
l Two Pile Combination

Designed only for axial load and Moment along longitudinal
direction; program does not consider transverse moment in design.
Two Pile reactions are calculated from Rivet theory, pilecap design
is done as a beam (shear force and bending moment along
longitudinal direction)
Only minimum steel is provided in transverse direction.
Design output displays applicable code sections used for foundation
User Manual — 395

8.10 Mat (Raft) Foundation Theory
Analysis and design of mats is based on finite element method (FEM)
coupled8.10 Mat (Raft) Foundation Theory with slab-on-elastic-subgrade
principles. First, you will create a finite element model of the proposed mat
foundation. This may be accomplished in many ways:
Importing a STAAD file of the superstructure, thus providing reference points
for initial mat set-up and load information, and defining boundaries of the
mat, or by creating the foundation slab from scratch and inputting loading
information manually or copy-pasting coordinates from MS Excel.
Any shape of mat (raft) can be modeled in STAAD.foundation. Various
methods to create mat (raft) model are explained in Quick Tour and
STAAD.foundation graphical environment. Any shape of hole or control region
can be added to the mat (raft boundary).
STAAD.foundation follows physical modeling concept for mesh generation. By
which you only have to specify the boundary for mat (raft) and program will
generate plate mesh based on boundary geometry, loading, pile locations etc.
Program will also convert finite elements analysis results to global axis
irrespective of plate orientations.
Modeling of foundation involves choosing meshing meshing type
(quadrilateral, triangular or mixed), Internal Nodes Spacing Factor,
Optimization Level.
As with any FEM project, the denser the grid (smaller elements), the more
precise results will be obtained. In addition to the slab, the raft may include a
number of beams between the column locations. Since the beams would
normally be part of the foundation, the slab polygonal meshing algorithm
accounts for the presence of the beam and ensures that they become
continuously integrated with the slab. New nodes are purposely created on the
centerline of the beam and the beam is split between those points into a
number of segments.
Meshing setup can be further refined using Optimization Level and Internal
Nodes Spacing Factor. Higher optimization level implies program will try to
precise the mesh with higher number of iterations. For larger mats higher
optimization level will lead to substantially large computer processing time.
Internal Nodes Spacing Factor is inversely proportional to node density inside
the mesh.
Once the mat is defined and all material/soil properties are input, the
program may proceed with the analysis of the structure. It is performed by
the state-of-the-art STAAD Analysis Engine. Realistic soil response is achieved
by employing non-linear (compression only) spring supports to model

subgrade reactions. Pile reactions, if present, are proportional to linear
displacements of the supported node and include both compression and tension
(uplift).
Using control regions different soil properties can be assigned a single mat
model. Also mat can be partially resting on soil and pile supports.
The program calculates internal forces and deflections for all slab and beam
elements of the foundation. This information is then used in the design stage of
the program to:
Establish the required top and bottom flexural reinforcing in two orthogonal
directions, check punching shear capacity at column locations.
The flexural design is done in accordance with ACI 318 Chapter 10 of the Code
(for US jobs). The reinforcement areas are computed for a notional band one
unit of length wide.
The program allows the designer, as an option, to use the Wood-Armer
equations for reinforcement calculations, as follows:
Mx, My, and Mxy are fetched or calculated, as described above. They are used
to compute the values of design moments, Mxd and Myd.
For top reinforcement, the program computes:
Mx1 = Mx + abs(Mxy)
My1 = My + abs(Mxy)
Mx2 = Mx + abs(Mxy2 / My)
My2 = My + abs(Mxy2 / Mx)
If both Mx1 and My1 are positive, Mxd = Mx1 and Myd = My1.
If both Mx1 and My1 are negative, Mxd = 0 and Myd = 0.
If Mx1 is negative and My1 positive, Mxd = 0 and Myd = My2.
If My1 is negative and Mx1 positive, Mxd = Mx2 and Myd = 0.
For bottom reinforcement:
Mx1 = Mx - abs(Mxy)
My1 = My - abs(Mxy)
Mx2 = Mx - abs(Mxy2 / My)
My2 = My - abs(Mxy2 / Mx)
If both Mx1 and My1 are positive, Mxd = 0 and Myd = 0.

If both Mx1 and My1 are negative, Mxd = Mx1 and Myd = My1.
User Manual — 397

If Mx1 is negative and My1 positive, Mxd = Mx2 and Myd = 0.
If My1 is negative and Mx1 positive, Mxd = 0 and Myd = My2.
Mxd and Myd are then used in lieu of Mx and My for calculations of the
required reinforcing. Use of the modified bending moments brings about more
accurate distribution of the reinforcing, better matching critical areas of the
slab.
Note: Notes:
Flexural design notes (for US jobs):

Reinforcement calculations for slab panels are based on Chapter 10
of ACI 318-02. The minimum-reinforcing ratio complies with the
limits prescribed for shrinkage and temperature reinforcement in
Section 7.12. Maximum spacing of rebar is 18 in. The maximum
reinforcing ratio corresponds to the net tensile strain at nominal
strength equal to 0.004 (Clause 10.3.5). Strength reduction factor is
established in accordance with Section 9.3.2.
Punching shear design notes (for US jobs):
Design for two-way shear is carried out in accordance with Section
11.12. The unbalanced moment transfer by eccentricity of shear is
based on Clause 11.12.6. Shear strength of concrete is based on
Clause 11.12.2.1. Strength reduction factor used is 0.75, in
accordance with Section 9.3.2.
The program computes shear stress values at four corners of the
rectangular critical section located at the distance of d/2 from
edges of a column. The calculations include the unbalanced moment
transfer effect, if applicable, in accordance with 11.12.6.2.
Design output displays applicable code sections used for foundation
8.11 Combined (Strip) Footing Theory

The program uses the following criteria:
Soil bearing capacity,
Shear and flexural strength of footing (no shear reinforcing assumed),
Compressive and flexural strength of pedestal
1. Determine footing plan geometry based on loading, self weight of the

footing, weight of soil on top of footing, buoyant forces based on water
level and bearing resistance of the soil.

Stress distribution under the footing is assumed to be linear. For
eccentrically loaded footings, the stresses may become tensile under part
of the foundation. In such cases the program sets stress values in uplift
zones to zero and calculates new values elsewhere for the revised
equilibrium condition. Stability checks in both orthogonal directions are
performed. The final plan dimensions of the footing are established
iteratively from the condition that the maximum stress should not exceed
the factored bearing resistance of the soil.
2. Development length is checked for straight rebars. If development crite-
rion is not met by the footing geometry a warning message is displayed in
the calculation sheet, user can go for other detailing options like bent
bars. Future release of STAAD.foundation will take bent up bars into con-
sideration.
Calculate footing thickness based on structural capacity in shear and bending.
Structural design of the footing consists of the following:
l Punching shear check, in accordance with ACI 318 Section 11.12.2 (for US
jobs), at a distance of d/2 from the pedestal. The critical section com-
prises four straight-line segments, parallel to the corresponding sides of
the pedestal.
l One-way shear (beam action), in accordance with Sections 11.1 through
11.5, at a distance of d from the face of the pedestal, in both orthogonal
directions. The critical plane is assumed to extend over the entire
width/length of the footing.
l Bending, in accordance with ACI 318 Sections 15.4.2 and 10.3.4 (for US
jobs), with the critical planes located at both orthogonal faces of the ped-
estal and extending across the full width/length of the footing.
Design output displays applicable code sections used for foundation design for
all codes.
8.12 Driller Pier Theory

8.12.1 API Method
API method is based on American Petroleum Industry Guideline RP 2A-WSD.
This method supports Sand, Sand-Silt, Silt, Gravel and clayey soil. Axial
capacity of drilled pier is calculated based on API eq 6.4.1-1.
Qd = Qf + Qp
Where:
User Manual — 399

Qf = skin friction resistance,lb (kN)
Qp = total end bearing, lb (kN)
Skin Friction Resistance Calculation

For cohesive soils, skin friction is calculated based on API eq 6.4.2-1
f=αc
Where:
α = a dimensionless factor
c = undrained shear strength of the soil at the point in question
For cohesionless soils, skin friction is calculated based on API eq 6.4.3-1

f = K po tan(δ)
Where:
K=coefficient of lateral earth pressure (ratio of horizontal to

vertical normal effective stress)
po =effective overburden pressure lb/ft 2 (kPa)at the point in
question
End Bearing Resistance Calculation

End bearing is calculated from geometry of pier.
Qp=q Ap
Where:
q = unit end bearing capacity,lb/(ft 2 )(kPa)

Ap = gross end area of pier, ft 2 (m2)
For cohesive soils, unit end bearing capacity is calculated based on API eq
6.4.2-3
q=9c
Where:
c = undrained shear strength of the soil at the point in question
For cohesionless soils, unit end bearing capacity is calculated based on API eq
6.4.3-2
q = po Nq
Where:
po =effective overburden pressure lb/ft 2 (kPa)at the point in

question
Nq = dimensionless bearing capacity factor
Effect of water table

The water table depth is used to calculate buoyant forces on the pier. Buoyant
forces are deducted from total axial capacity of the pier
Self weight of the pier and factors of safety

Pier self weight is taken into consideration while calculating the axial capacity.
The end bearing safety factor is applied to tip resistance and skin friction
safety factor is applied to side resistance. Total axial capacity is calculated as,
Total Axial Capacity = (End bearing resistance – Pier self weight)/(End bearing
Safety factor) + (Skin friction resistance – Buoyant force )/(Skin Friction
Safety factor)
The program also offers % of skin friction and end bearing contributing to axial
capacity through user input.
8.12.2 FHWA Method

FHWA method is based on Federal Highway Administration publication
FHWA-IF-99-025. Methodology for calculating axial capacity runs same as API
method mentioned above.
Axial capacity of drilled pier is calculated based on FHWA-IF-99-025 Eq 1.1
RT= RB+ RS
Where:
RT= total calculated or nominal ultimate axial resistance of the

drilled shaft
RB= nominal ultimate base resistance
RS= nominal ultimate side resistance
An allowable load is the calculated as:
RA= RT/F
Where:
User Manual — 401

RA= allowable resistance
F = global factor of safety
Skin Friction Resistance Calculation

For cohesive soils, skin friction is calculated based on FHWA-IF-99-025 Eq
11.16
f = α* su
Where:
α = dimensionless correlation coefficient

su= design value for undrained shear strength for the layer being
considered
For cohesionless soils, skin friction is calculated based on FHWA-IF-99-025

Eq 11.17
f= βi* σvi
Where:
βi=dimensionless correlation factor between vertical effective

stress and maximum stress limit
σvi=vertical effective stress at the middle of Layer i
End bearing Resistance Calculation

RB = qmax Ap
Where:
qmax= unit end bearing capacity, lb/(ft 2 )(kPa)

Ap = gross end area of pier, ft 2 (m2)
For cohesive soils, unit end bearing capacity is calculated based on FHWA-IF-
99-025 Eq 11.1, 11.2 &11.3
q=9 su
Where:
su= design value for undrained shear strength for the layer being
considered
For cohesionless soils, unit end bearing capacity is calculated based on FHWA-
IF-99-025 Eq 11.4
q=57.5NSPT
Where:
NSPT = design value for SPT blow counts
8.12.3 Vesic Method

The Vesic method is a slight modification of FHWA method. Skin friction
calculation for Vesic method is same as that of FHWA method.
End bearing Resistance Calculation

RB=qmax Ap
Where:
qmax=unit end bearing capacity,lb/(ft 2 )(kPa)

Ap = gross end area of pier,ft 2 (m2)
For cohesive soils, unit end bearing capacity is calculated based on
q = Fr Ncp*su
Where:
su = design value for undrained shear strength for the layer being
considered
Nqp = cohesion factor
Fr = Reese and O'Neill factor
For cohesionless soils, unit end bearing capacity is calculated based on:
q = po* Nqp
Where:
po = effective overburden pressure lb/ft 2 (kPa) at the point in

question
Nqp = surcharge factor
User Manual — 403

8.13 Pedestal Theory
STAAD.foundation 5.2 or later can design pedestals for isolated footings
complying with US, British and Indian code.
Pedestal design is performed same as a design of short column.
STAAD.foundation can design pedestal subjected with:
l Axial Load only

l Axial Load & Uni-axial bending
l Axial Load & Bi-axial bending
STAAD.foundation follows limit state method for section design.
Indian Code Pedestal Design Theory

Pedestal design for the Indian code is based on IS 465 – 2000 and SP: 16.
STAAD.foundation checks minimum area of reinforcement provided per IS
456 -2000 Section 26.5.3.1 (Clause 26.5.3.1.a to Clause 26.5.3.1.h). Program
checks minimum bar size for longitudinal and main reinforcement. Pedestal
spacing requirements are also checked per Indian code.
Minimum eccentricity subjected on pedestal is considered per IS 456 – 2000.
For Axial Load only pedestal design done per IS 456 – 2000 Section 39. For
uni-axial and bi-axial moments, pedestal design follows SP16.
British Code Pedestal Design Theory

Pedestal design for the British code is based on per BS 8110-1 Section 3.
STAAD.foundation checks minimum area of reinforcement provided per BS
81100-1 Section 3. Program checks minimum bar size for longitudinal and
main reinforcement. Pedestal spacing requirements are also checked per
British code.
Minimum eccentricity subjected on pedestal is considered per BS 8110-1
Section 3.8.2.4.
For axial load only, uni-axial and bi-axial moments, pedestal design follows BS
8110-1 Section 3.
C
change 69
Clashing 91
Combined Footing
recreate 219
Combined Footing Theory 398
Coordinate System 385
copied 69
CSA A23.3.-04 390
current load case 214
Section 9 cursor 57
Customize 39
Index D
Default 57
deflection
increase 362
A delete 219
Delete 38
ACI 318-05 390
Delete All 219
American Petroleum Industry Guideline399
design 343
API RP 2A-WSD 399
design factor 349
Application Look 39
design several different types343
AS3600 – 2001 390
Detail Drawing 84
B diagram 362
Biaxial Moment Distribution391 dockable 57
Biaxial Uplift 391 drag 57
Bolt Theory 392 floating toolbar close 57
BS 8110 390, 404

E
Edit Menu 38
User Manual — 405

Index: Element Load Specification – Output
Element Load Specification 384 Live Load 130

End bearing Resistance 402- Load Case
403 New 118
End Bearing Resistance 400
Exit 28 M
Main Navigator 344

F
Mat Foundation Theory 396
FHWA-IF-99-025 401 Menu
File Menu 25 Edit 38
Finite Element 384 View 38
Finite Element Analysis 383 menu bar 57
Finite Element Method 396 below 57
forces/moments 343 menu commands 46
foundation 343 Menus
rotate 77 File 25
Foundation Toolkit 265 Moment 57
mouse cursor 57
G
Move 47
GA Drawing 90
multiple copied objects 69
generate 219
Grouping 225 N
New 26
H
Heat Exchanger 227 O

Horizontal Vessel 227 offers tooltip help 57
One-way shear 399
I
Open 26, 214
Import 27, 35
Orientation 386
From STAAD.Pro 334
original object 69
IS 465 – 2000 390, 404
Output
L Element Force 385

Element Stress 385
length 69
Output View Options 190 safety factors 349
form Safety Factors 127
Overlap 91 Save 26
screen 57
P
side 57
Pedestal Design Theory 404
serviceability 349
BS 8110 404
short example exercises 343
IS 456-2000 404
set 343
Pile Arrangement 392
Sign Convention 387
Pile Cap Theory 391
Single Exchanger 248
Plane Stress 384
Skin Friction Resistance 400,
Plant Foundations 227 402
Plate Element 384 Slab Design 164
Polyline 171 SP- 16 404
Print 27 specified 69
Punching Shear Check 399 STAAD.foundation 390
Punching Shear Design 398 STAAD.foundation offers
set 57
Q
STAAD.Pro
Quick Tour 343 Import 35
Stacked Exchanger 248
R
Standard Toolbar 57
Raft Foundation Theory 396
Stress Distribution 384
recreate 219
stress types 214
Redo 38
Strip Footing Theory 398
Rivet theory 395
structural 362
rotate 77
structure 362
Rotate Toolbar 77
Support 343
S Deletion 219
support co-ordinates 343
Safety Factor 349
supports 343
Safety Factor Table 349
sure 57
User Manual — 407

Index: table – Von Mises stress
table 214, 349

table allowing 349
term 57
hence 57
Theoretical Basis 384
toolbar
drag 57
Toolbars 16
Translational Repeat 68
Tresca Stress 386
types 214
Undo 38
Unit 69, 362
unit used 69
Units 74
use
Safety Factor Table 349
use STAAD.foundation
design several different types343
Verification Manual 55
Vertical Vessel foundation 227
Vesic method 403
View Menu 38
Von Mises stress 386

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Section 5

Creating Reports and

5.1 Creating Design Reports

To add a graphic to a report

User Manual — 329

To create a design report

The Report Setup dialog opens.

To print a design report

5.2 Creating Detailed Calculations Sheets

output to hard copy.

To print a set of calculations

5.3 Create Drawing Files for use with CAD software

To create a detail plan and elevation drawing for a foun-

Hint: You can group isolated footings to control the number of

3. Select the Detail Drawing tab in the Main View window.

User Manual — 331

To create a foundation schedule (table) for a foundation

Hint: You can group isolated footings to control the number of

3. Select the Detail Drawing tab in the Main View window.

To create a general arrangement drawing for a foun-

Hint: You can group isolated footings to control the number of

3. Select the GA Drawing tab in the Main View window.

6.1 Working with STAAD.Pro

User Manual — 333

Things to Consider When Using STAAD.Pro

Copy and paste STAAD.Pro load type using Excel

Initiating STAAD.Pro import from the Command Line

Importing Data from STAAD.Pro

The STAAD.Pro File Import dialog opens.

Exporting from Within STAAD.Pro

1. Perform a successful analysis in STAAD.Pro.

Note: For additional information on using the Foundation Design mode,

6.2 Working with Microsoft Excel

Note: This feature requires a copy of STAAD.foundation V8i

User Manual — 335

To copy and paste data from Microsoft Excel to STAAD.foundation

1. Highlight the extents of the data in the spreadsheet program.

2. Copy the cell contents.

6. Press CTRL+V to paste the data into the table.

User Manual — 337

Hint: This facility can be particularly useful when importing a large

To copy and paste data from STAAD.foundation to Excel

Similarly, output tables generated by a successful analysis/design can be

1. Perform an analysis/design on the STAAD.foundation job.

Import Foundation Input from Excel

Warning: It is recommended to save a copy of MULTIPLE JOBS EXCEL

Input data into the Excel spreadsheet

1. Open MULTIPLE JOBS EXCEL INPUT.XLS in Microsoft Office Excel.

3. Select the Units you wish to use on the Units tab.

Hint: The correct number of grids will be highlighted in both

b. Node coordinates and column / pedestal data are entered on the

User Manual — 339

6. Save the spreadsheet and exit Excel.

Import data from MULTIPLE JOBS EXCEL INPUT.XLS into a

1. Select Tools > Import from Excel.

Note: If you have not saved a copy of MULTIPLE JOBS EXCEL

3. Click the Open button.

6.3 Working with Neutral Files

User Manual — 341

7.1 Isolated Footing Example

7.1.1 Creating a New General Foundation Project

User Manual — 343