Abstract
This paper presents a simplified design method (SDM) to analyze and
design the flat plates with irregular column layouts. Theses flat plates
having the irregular panels are subdivided into triangular panels.
Flexural design formulas for largest triangular slab panel are derived
based on the theoretical principles of plate and yield line theories and
using the ultimate-strength design method USD under the provisions of
ACI building code of design (ACI 318-14). Six different flat slabs with
irregular column layouts (FS-1 to FS-6) are selected in this study to be
analyzed and designed using the simplified design method approach.
Numerical examples for two of the slabs (FS-3 and FS-6) are also
presented to illustrate the method capability of designing the flat
slabs having irregular column layouts. The selected slab sections (FS-1
to FS-6) are also analyzed and designed using the computer software
(SAFE) and the results obtained are compared with the numerical
solutions. The percentage difference of simplified design method with
the finite element software (SAFE) ranges within 4% to 20% indicates
that the SDM is a good and quick approach to design a flat slab having
arbitrary/irregular column layout.