Conclusion:
In this study, a simplified method is proposed to analyse and design the
flat plates with irregular column layout. These flat plates having the
irregular column layout are first subdivided into triangular panels and
then design the largest triangle slab panel 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)
were selected in this study to be analysed and designed using the
simplified design method approach. These six slabs were also analysed
and designed with computer software (SAFE). The average variation of
analytically computed values to the finite element software was no more
than 20% showing relatively satisfactory results. However the moment
values for the SDM approach are slightly higher which makes this
theoretical approach more conservative. Moreover the punching shear
ratio obtained from the simplified design method approach is also less
than < 1 for all of the studied slabs.
The obtained results indicates that the simplified design method SDM is
safe, economical and quick approach to design irregular slabs sections
and are also useful for the educational purposes where the students can
easily analyse and design the flat slabs having the irregular column
layout.