Introduction
The high-rise building with a tube structural system, a common design in tall structures, utilizes interconnected vertical columns and horizontal beams that create a rigid “tube” to resist lateral forces like wind and seismic loads. This model will focus on capturing the essential elements, such as structural elements of the tube system and the ceiling structure. Possible materials, forces, and spatial relationships provide a comprehensive understanding of the building’s design and structure. It can be used to support structural analysis, and during the design decision-making processes throughout the building’s lifecycle, from conception through construction and maintenance.
Scope and Goal
The ontology assists designers in making decisions regarding materials and the dimensions and type of structural components of High-Rise framed tube structures. It provides ranges for each component, based on reference values, offering designers guidance on appropriate choices for their designs.
It for example provides answers to:
- What spacing between two exterior columns makes sense for a framed tube system?
- What elements of the ceiling structure need to be considered during planning?
- For a steel column, which dimensions do I have to determine?
Components
The ontology focuses on the Framed Tube bracing system of high-rise buildings, consisting of exterior columns and pillars that resist horizontal forces, with construction options in reinforced concrete, steel, or a combination of both. Secondary components, such as slabs and girders, support vertical loads and can be designed with longitudinal, transversal, or combined girder systems to allow for larger spans. It offers data input ranges for nearly every building component, enabling a quick assessment of dimensions and materials for generating a preliminary building concept.
Figure 1: Sketch of the System
Engineering examples
Engineers could use the ontology to decide for instance, whether a Tube-System with monolithic connected Columns and beams made from concrete, or a welded steel structure is more suitable for their use case. From an architectural perspective, the focus might be on how large the glass surface within the Tube structure can be designed while still maintaining structural integrity. Additionally, for standardized buildings across various locations, the ontology allows for easy modification of load conditions like wind and seismic loads based on regional requirements.
For existing buildings, the ontology could assist in adjusting the spacing of columns to better suit new use-case requirements. This might involve adding more beams to increase the ceiling span or to accommodate new live load conditions.