Designing bar-mesh modules of reinforced concrete structures

Abstract

This paper introduces a process of developing a system called AUREMSYS, automated rebar module design system. AUREMSYS is a set of computer programs which analyzes reinforcement drawings of a reinforced concrete structure and develops rebar modules for prefabrication. Such rebar modules are also named as bar-meshes because a rebar module is made of a set of horizontal and vertical rebars welded together like a mesh. To develop a bar-mesh design system, a design standard for bar-mesh needs to be established first. The authors determined a bar-mesh design standard by analyzing various factors that are related to design and construction stages. Some of these factors include the Korean standard for reinforced concrete structures, load transportation environment, workmanship of local labor forces, performances of automated welding machines, etc. Considerable effort is made in developing a bar-mesh design algorithm. This paper discusses two specific bar-meshes design algorithms that are devised in the process of AUREMSYS development. The first algorithm is dessigned by focusing on a rebar element itself and the second algorithm is designed by introducing a “Zone Object” concept.