Quick design tool for welded rectangular hollow sections joint using MS-Excel

• Main Author: Lydiawati Mohamed Aron.
• Other Authors: Lee Chi King
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2009
• Subjects: DRNTU::Engineering::Civil engineering::Structures and design
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/16102
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

This report is based on a quick and simple design tool developed for structural engineers to design axially loaded uniplanar welded rectangular hollow section (RHS) joints. Running on a Microsoft Office (MS) Excel 2007 engine together with Visual Basics for Application (VBA), it enables engineers to perform design computations without the need of using the conventional method in designing a joint as everything would be clearly stated in the Excel spreadsheet program. Multiple screenshots are taken showing all the functions and controls in the Excel software and also in the developed program. It also discusses the pros and cons of both a conventional design computation and design spreadsheet program. Thus, with the development of the specially designed spreadsheet, the design process could be much simplified and become automated especially in the course of selection of appropriate section sizes. Overall, the author aimed to make the experience interactive and user friendly so that it permits the user to check quickly if the particular design is appropriate. The author also aimed to make the work less taxing for them especially in mega projects, where they have many joints to design. The conclusion is that users would definitely find the program enjoyable as the user interface is fitted with various functions that are attractive and colourful. Future software that aims to promote the same or new functions as this can follow the techniques used and any enhancements so that it can be more interesting and useful.