RAM Elements Foundation [FAQ]

 For combined footings, why do I get a warning for rigid entity length to width ratio?

The foundation module uses the provisions of ACI 318 for rigid foundations.  The foundation is determined to be rigid by length to width ratio values.  The warning acknowledges that this is a flexible foundation.  The engineer will need to either change the footing dimensions to be within guidelines OR do some additional checks based on ACI flexible foundation design.

The following equations are used to determine rigid footing classification:

Why can't I assign a spread footing?

In order to assign a spread footing to a model the following conditions must be met: 

• A model with complete analysis including
• At least one each of Service (or RC-Service) and Design (or RC-Design) type combinations. 
• The user must select a node or nodes with a support (or spring).

Additionally, in order to assign a continuous footing, the user must select exactly two nodes with supports. The program does not strictly enforce the requirement that the nodes have the same elevation (Y coordinate), but that is the best practice since the continuous footing design assumes a flat foundation.

See Also

Ram Elements Modules