Steps for Designing Columns

A structured approach to column design per NDS 2024 ASD, aligned with the Wood Column module (/design/wood-column). Wizard section titles match content/wizard-labels/wood-column.json.

In StructSuite (wizard order)

1. Step 1: Geometry & End Conditions — Column height (unbraced length), effective length factor K_e (NDS Table G1).
2. Step 2: Load Definition (ASCE 7-22 / NDS 2024) — Axial and any applicable lateral or eccentric effects; load combinations.
3. Step 3: Material & Section — Solid sawn, glulam, round post (equivalent square), species, grade, size.
4. Step 4: Design Parameters (NDS Adjustment Factors) — C_D, C_M, C_t, and related factors.
5. Step 5: Design Verification — Axial compression, stability factor C_P, bearing at supports, and interaction where applicable.
6. Step 6: Visualization — Column schematic and diagrams when implemented. Product note: this accordion may be temporarily hidden in the UI while the visualization experience is finished; underlying code remains in the application.

General design sequence

1. Determine axial load – From gravity loads and applicable combinations.
2. Select trial size – Based on slenderness ratio limits.
3. Compute buckling capacity – F'_c = F_c × C_D × C_M × C_t × C_F × C_P.
4. Check compression – P ≤ F'_c × A.
5. Check combined stress – If bending exists, use interaction equations per NDS 3.9.2.

References

• NDS 2024, Section 3.7 (Column Stability Factor C_P)
• NDS 2024, Section 3.9 (Combined Stresses)