Overview
The Foundation-Column Connection plugin represents a sophisticated engineering solution that automates the complex process of designing foundation connections in steel structures. This advanced tool integrates multiple databases and engineering standards to deliver precise, code-compliant connections.
Developed specifically for structural engineers working with Tekla Structures, this plugin addresses one of the most time-consuming aspects of structural design - the detailed design of column base connections with proper anchor layout, reinforcement, and accessories.
Engineering Excellence: Incorporates advanced algorithms for anchor bolt arrangement, shoe placement, and reinforcement optimization based on structural loads and geometric constraints.
Technical Architecture
Core Technologies & Integration
- C# .NET Framework: High-performance backend processing
- WPF with MVVM: Sophisticated UI with data binding and validation
- MySQL Database: Comprehensive steel profile database with 25+ properties per profile
- Tekla Open API: Deep integration for 3D modeling and assembly management
- Advanced Mathematics: 3D vector calculations and geometric transformations
Database Schema
The plugin utilizes a comprehensive MySQL database containing:
- Steel Profiles: I-beams, channels, angles with geometric properties
- Anchor Systems: Complete catalog of anchor bolt specifications
- Material Properties: Structural steel grades and reinforcement specifications
- Connection Details: Standard connection configurations and parameters
public MyProfile GetProfileGeometryByName(string profileName)
{
using (MySqlConnection connection = new MySqlConnection(connectionString))
{
connection.Open();
string query = "SELECT * FROM steeldb.iprofiles WHERE Name = @Name";
MySqlCommand command = new MySqlCommand(query, connection);
command.Parameters.AddWithValue("@Name", profileName);
}
}
Intelligent Design Process
Anchor Arrangement Algorithm
The plugin employs sophisticated algorithms to determine optimal anchor arrangements:
- Analyze column geometry and calculate distributed points around perimeter
- Apply user-defined offset values for each anchor position
- Select appropriate anchor shoe types (corner vs. inside positions)
- Generate anchor bolts with proper orientation and threading
- Create foundation cutouts and column modifications as needed
Reinforcement Intelligence
Advanced reinforcement placement considers:
- Stirrup Optimization: Vertical and horizontal stirrup placement with fire protection coverage
- Bigel Configuration: Intelligent distribution based on anchor arrangement
- Coverage Control: Customizable concrete coverage with string parsing for complex patterns
- Connection Continuity: Automatic reinforcement connection to existing structure
private void InsertBigelGroups(Beam selectedColumn, ConnectionData connection,
List<(Point, Point, BigelOrientation)> pointPairs)
{
for (int i = 0; i < pointPairs.Count; i++)
{
var (point1, point2, orientation) = pointPairs[i];
Polygon[] bigelPolygons = CreateBigelPolygons(point1, point2);
int startIndex = orientation == BigelOrientation.Vertical ? 0 : 2;
RebarGroup bigelGroup = CreateRebarGroup(selectedColumn, connection,
bigelPolygons[startIndex], orientation);
bigelGroup.Insert();
}
}
User Interface Design
Multi-Tab Interface
The plugin features a comprehensive interface organized into four main sections:
🏗️
Connection Geometry
Anchor arrangement, shoe types, grout thickness, and fire protection settings
📋
Attributes
Numbering, classification, and material assignment for all connection components
⚙️
Advanced Controls
Individual anchor positioning with 12-point control grid for complex geometries
🔗
Reinforcement
Stirrup and bigel configuration with advanced coverage control
Advanced Tab Features
The Advanced tab provides granular control over each anchor position:
- Individual Positioning: X/Y offset control for each of 12 possible anchor positions
- Anchor Type Selection: Independent shoe type and bolt length selection per anchor
- Rotation Control: Individual anchor rotation for complex geometries
- Coverage Adjustment: Per-anchor concrete coverage optimization
- Bending Radius: Custom radius control for bent anchor design
Visual Feedback: The interface includes dynamic image updates showing the current anchor arrangement configuration as parameters change.
Database Integration
Steel Database Structure
The MySQL database contains comprehensive structural steel data:
string query = @"SELECT Name FROM steeldb.iprofiles
WHERE NOT (Name LIKE '%IPEAA%' OR Name LIKE '%IPEA%'
OR Name LIKE '%AA' OR Name LIKE '%C')
AND LENGTH(Name) <= 6";
using (MySqlDataReader reader = command.ExecuteReader())
{
while (reader.Read())
{
string name = reader.GetString(0);
profiles.Add(StringManipulations.InsertLastCharacterToThirdPosition(name));
}
}
Profile Properties
Each steel profile includes over 25 properties:
- Geometric: Height, width, web/flange thickness, radii
- Section: Area, moment of inertia, section modulus
- Structural: Radius of gyration, shear area, torsional properties
- Connection: Bolt specifications, minimum/maximum spacing
- Surface: Area per unit length for coating calculations
Installation & Configuration
System Requirements
- Tekla Structures 2021.0 or later
- Windows 10/11 64-bit operating system
- MySQL Server 8.0+ (local or remote installation)
- .NET Framework 4.8 or higher
- Minimum 16GB RAM for optimal performance
- 50MB free disk space for plugin and database
Database Setup
- Install MySQL Server and create database schema
- Import steel profile data using provided SQL scripts
- Configure connection string in plugin settings
- Test database connectivity through plugin interface
- Update profile catalog if needed for regional standards
Plugin Installation
- Download the complete plugin package
- Extract to Tekla Structures applications directory
- Configure database connection parameters
- Restart Tekla Structures to register the plugin
- Verify installation through Applications menu
- Run initial configuration wizard for default settings
Important: Ensure MySQL server is accessible and database credentials are correctly configured before first use.
Engineering Applications
Typical Use Cases
- Industrial Buildings: Heavy steel frame structures with large foundation loads
- Commercial Construction: Multi-story buildings with varied column sizes
- Infrastructure Projects: Bridges, towers, and special structures
- Precast Integration: Connections between precast elements and foundations
- Retrofit Projects: Strengthening existing foundations with new connections
Design Standards Compliance
The plugin ensures compliance with major structural standards:
- Eurocode 3: Steel structure design and connection requirements
- Eurocode 2: Concrete design for foundation elements
- EN 1090: Execution standards for steel structures
- Regional Codes: Support for national annexes and local requirements
Quality Assurance: All generated connections undergo automatic validation against standard requirements for anchor spacing, edge distances, and reinforcement coverage.