Introduction
RAM Concept is an analysis and design program that uses the finite element method for elevated concrete floor systems, or mat foundations. The floors or mats can be post-tensioned concrete (PT), reinforced concrete (RC), or hybrid (a mixture of PT and RC). RAM Concept is extremely powerful and allows you to design an entire floor in one model, or design individual strips or beams.
In this context, the term
"design" means that:
- You (the user) define the following: structural geometry, loads, load combinations, and post-tensioning layout (if applicable).
- RAM Concept calculates (for any number of load combinations): the required amount of reinforcement for flexure and one-way shear according to relevant code requirements; the stud shear reinforcement (SSR) for punching shear, stresses for flexure, and deflections.
- RAM Concept has a post-tensioning optimization feature that allows to select better and economic tendon designs analyzing many alternatives using cloud computing to get a fast optimization process.
A model consists of anything from a single simply supported beam or slab to an entire floor. All models are three-dimensional (even those developed with Strip Wizard).
RAM Concept does not generally use strip methods other than to replicate the intent of concrete code rules, and with the Strip Wizard interface.