General

Every building comprises the load bearing system which is usually constructed of reinforced concrete, steel or by a combination of those two materials.

The photorealistic figure shows the structural frame of the above building of PANOPLIA soft-ware (the slabs of the upper storey have been removed in order to allow for the visual presenta-tion of all members.

 The structural frame must have enough strength to securely bear the gravity loads throughout the entire life span of the building..

 An adequate load bearing system is based on a continuous load path throughout the structure:

• The slabs carry the floor loads of each storey.
• The beams carry the loads transferred to them by the slabs as well as the weight of the walls seated on them.
• The columns carry the beam loads and they transmit them to the foundation.
• The footings (foundation) carry the column loads and transfer them to the ground.

The foundation elements of this structure are the spread footings, the foundation beams and the strip foundation.

In countries with extensive seismic activity like Greece, the structural frame must be able to withstand not only the gravity loads but also the loads imposed in a few but vital cases during its life span such as during an earthquake.

Footings are continuously active and critically affect the structural behaviour, especially during an earthquake.