Tributary

In this section, the tributary analysis of the building is conducted, incorporating the live load reduction approach.

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Figure 1

Tributary Analysis Settings

In Figure 1, main parameters of tributary analysis are presented.

The following steps outline the procedure for performing the tributary analysis:

1. Set the previously imported Live Load Reduction Code for Columns template by referring to Figure 1. This template provides the necessary guidelines and specifications for applying live load reduction to the columns in the structural model. For detailed instructions on how to import a template, please visit the following pages: Design Criteria and Design Templates.

2. Access the Tributary Correction Factors spreadsheet, as depicted in Figure 2. This spreadsheet allows users to make adjustments to the tributary area factors, if necessary. By modifying these factors, users can fine-tune the distribution of the live load within the structural system.
   
   
   
   

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   Figure 2

   
   
   

3. Edit the Tributary Area Factor in the spreadsheet, as illustrated in Figure 3. This factor determines the portion of the live load that each column carries. Users can customize this factor based on their specific design requirements and load distribution considerations.
   
   

    

4. To initiate the tributary analysis, click on the "Run Tributary Analysis" button, as shown in Figure 1. This action triggers the analysis process, taking into account the live load reduction methodology and the defined tributary area factors. Figure 4 depicts a typical process of running tributary analysis.
   
   
   

    

5. After the analysis is completed, the reducible live load (if any) areas carried by the columns will be listed in the spreadsheet (Figure 5). This information provides a comprehensive overview of the load distribution and assists in evaluating the structural response of the building.

If any changes occur after running a tributary analysis, you can utilize the "View Changes" option, as shown in Figure 6a. This feature allows you to review and assess the modifications made to the analysis results. By clicking on "View Changes," you can observe the specific alterations that have occurred.

Once you have reviewed the changes, you have two options to proceed, as demonstrated in Figure 6b:

1. Rerun the Tributary Analysis: If you find that the changes necessitate a revision of the tributary analysis, you can choose to rerun the analysis. This will recalculate the load distribution and generate updated tributary areas based on the modified conditions. By selecting this option, you ensure that the analysis results reflect the most recent changes.

2. Ignore Changes: Alternatively, if you determine that the changes are insignificant or do not require a recalculation of the tributary analysis, you can choose to ignore the changes. This means that the original analysis results will be retained, and no further action will be taken based on the modifications. If you choose to take this action and proceed with ignoring the changes, the "View Changes" button will indeed turn back into the "No Changes" state, similar to what is shown in Figure 4. This indicates that the system has acknowledged your decision to disregard the changes and will not prompt you to review them further.