PREPARATION OF PRELIMINARY INPUT DATA FOR STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS OF REINFORCED CONCRETE BUILDINGS USING SAP2000

Abstract

     This research investigates and analyzes the process of preparing preliminary input data, which is essential for ensuring the accuracy of structural analysis of reinforced concrete buildings using SAP2000 software. The study compares the analytical results obtained from simulations of a case-study building structure under different configuration conditions. The findings reveal that strict adherence to material properties and boundary conditions in accordance with the standards of the Engineering Institute of Thailand (EIT) significantly reduces displacement errors. In particular, the consideration of fixed supports instead of pinned supports in foundation structures was found to improve the accuracy of structural behavior predictions. Furthermore, the research identified important findings regarding the establishment of load combinations based on ASCE and EIT standards. A lack of understanding of load path principles may lead to inaccurate internal force analysis results. The knowledge obtained from this research not only helps reduce technical errors in software application, but also provides a standardized guideline for preparing input data to enhance safety and cost-effectiveness in civil engineering structural design.