OpenTower

CONNECT Edition

User Manual
Last Updated: July 18, 2020
Table of Contents
1 Getting Started .........................................................................................................................................................8

Services and Support Information............................................................................................................................... 9

2 Summary ................................................................................................................................................................. 10

3 Introduction ........................................................................................................................................................... 11

4 Tower Geometry .................................................................................................................................................. 12

Base Geometry ................................................................................................................................................................... 12

Section profiles ............................................................................................................................................................. 13

Materials .......................................................................................................................................................................... 13

Modeling Panels and Bays ........................................................................................................................................ 13

Open an Existing Tower Model .............................................................................................................................. 14

Creating a New Tower Model.................................................................................................................................. 14

Import a tnxTower file into OpenTower ............................................................................................................ 25

Section Detail ...................................................................................................................................................................... 26

Section Editor ................................................................................................................................................................ 28

Geometry ......................................................................................................................................................................... 28

Bracing Connections ................................................................................................................................................... 31

Leg Connection.............................................................................................................................................................. 34

Design Parameter Page.............................................................................................................................................. 39

Edit Section Overview ................................................................................................................................................ 41

Edit Custom Capacity ................................................................................................................................................. 44

Section Detail (Monopole) ............................................................................................................................................ 45

 Guy Details ........................................................................................................................................................................... 49

Anchor Group Details ................................................................................................................................................. 49

Attachment Details ...................................................................................................................................................... 50

Modifications ...................................................................................................................................................................... 53

Highlighting Member.................................................................................................................................................. 57

5 Work Order............................................................................................................................................................. 58

Configure Work Order .................................................................................................................................................... 58

User Settings ....................................................................................................................................................................... 60

Project Data ......................................................................................................................................................................... 60

6 Loading Definition ............................................................................................................................................... 62

Wind Definition ................................................................................................................................................................. 62

Building code ................................................................................................................................................................. 63

Wind Parameters ......................................................................................................................................................... 64

Adjustment Factors ..................................................................................................................................................... 75

Load Combination Parameters............................................................................................................................... 77

Existing Structure ............................................................................................................................................................. 78

Seismic Definition ............................................................................................................................................................. 79

Create a Seismic Definition ...................................................................................................................................... 79

7 Appurtenances ...................................................................................................................................................... 84

Appurtenance Group ....................................................................................................................................................... 84

Discrete Appurtenance ................................................................................................................................................... 86

Mount Level Summary ............................................................................................................................................... 86

Level Details ................................................................................................................................................................... 90

Miscellaneous ................................................................................................................................................................ 93
 Output Summary .......................................................................................................................................................... 94

Linear Appurtenance ...................................................................................................................................................... 95

Linear Attachment Table .......................................................................................................................................... 96

Linear Appurtenance Table ..................................................................................................................................... 98

FeedLine Tool ............................................................................................................................................................. 100

Appurtenance Configuration .................................................................................................................................... 103

8 Foundation Definition ..................................................................................................................................... 105

Isolated/MAT Footing Foundation ......................................................................................................................... 105

Isolated Footing Definition ................................................................................................................................... 105

Soil Parameters .......................................................................................................................................................... 106

Footing Properties .................................................................................................................................................... 108

Pedestal Properties .................................................................................................................................................. 110

Material Properties .................................................................................................................................................. 112

Drilled Pier Foundation............................................................................................................................................... 113

Drilled Pier Definition ............................................................................................................................................. 113

Soil Parameters .......................................................................................................................................................... 115

Drilled Pier Properties ............................................................................................................................................ 116

Material Properties .................................................................................................................................................. 119

Guy Anchor Foundation .............................................................................................................................................. 119

Guy Anchor Definition ............................................................................................................................................ 120

Soil Parameters .......................................................................................................................................................... 121

Guy Anchor Properties ........................................................................................................................................... 123

Material Properties .................................................................................................................................................. 125

Design Foundation and Foundation Output ....................................................................................................... 126

9 Scenario Analysis .............................................................................................................................................. 131

Operations on Scenario ............................................................................................................................................... 132

Analysis .............................................................................................................................................................................. 136

Report ................................................................................................................................................................................. 141

Report Contents......................................................................................................................................................... 142

Print Group .................................................................................................................................................................. 143

Page Setup Group ...................................................................................................................................................... 144

Scale Settings .............................................................................................................................................................. 145

Set Custom Margins ................................................................................................................................................. 145

Orientation................................................................................................................................................................... 146

Size .................................................................................................................................................................................. 146

Navigation Group ...................................................................................................................................................... 147

Find dialog box ........................................................................................................................................................... 148

Zoom Group................................................................................................................................................................. 149

Page Background Group......................................................................................................................................... 150

Export group ............................................................................................................................................................... 150

10 Graphical Interface ........................................................................................................................................... 153

Standard Group.......................................................................................................................................................... 153

View Group .................................................................................................................................................................. 154

Selection Group.......................................................................................................................................................... 156

Analysis Group ........................................................................................................................................................... 157

Windows Group ......................................................................................................................................................... 158

Axis Group.................................................................................................................................................................... 158

Active Load Case Group.......................................................................................................................................... 164

 Active Scenario........................................................................................................................................................... 164

Results Tab ....................................................................................................................................................................... 165

View Results Commands........................................................................................................................................ 165

Member Design Tab ...................................................................................................................................................... 166

Tower Model Explorer................................................................................................................................................. 168

View User Settings .................................................................................................................................................... 169

View Project Information ...................................................................................................................................... 169

View Tower Panels ................................................................................................................................................... 170

View Supports ............................................................................................................................................................ 171

View Mount ................................................................................................................................................................. 171

View Antenna ............................................................................................................................................................. 171

View Miscellaneous .................................................................................................................................................. 172

View Linear Attachment ........................................................................................................................................ 173

View Feedlines ........................................................................................................................................................... 173

Library Page ..................................................................................................................................................................... 174

Truss Leg Library ...................................................................................................................................................... 174

User Provided Table (UPT) ................................................................................................................................... 180

SPC Custom Section.................................................................................................................................................. 190

Edit Config ........................................................................................................................................................................ 194

Tower Profile Page ........................................................................................................................................................ 196

Examples Descriptions ................................................................................................................................................ 197

Bentley Cloud Services ................................................................................................................................................ 197

To Associate a ProjectWise Project with Your File ..................................................................................... 198

To Disassociate a ProjectWise Project from a File ...................................................................................... 199

OpenTower Analysis & Analysis Control Parameters ................................................................................. 200

1. Linear Analysis ...................................................................................................................................................... 200

2. P-Delta Analysis .................................................................................................................................................... 200

2.1 Introduction of P-Delta Effects .................................................................................................................... 200

2.2 Introduction of P-Delta Analysis Methods .............................................................................................. 201

2.3 Iterative Method ................................................................................................................................................ 202

2.4 Kg Method............................................................................................................................................................. 202

2.5 Control Parameters........................................................................................................................................... 202

3. Nonlinear Analysis............................................................................................................................................... 203

3.1 Introduction of Newton Method ................................................................................................................. 204

3.2 Introduction of Tension-Only Approaches ............................................................................................. 206

3.3 Introduction of Retention Guys to Initial Tension Routine .............................................................. 208

3.4 Control Parameters........................................................................................................................................... 209

Appendix ........................................................................................................................................................................ 212

Index ................................................................................................................................................................................ 223

 1 Getting Started
OpenTower Connect Edition is purpose-built for analyzing and designing telecom towers. It can
design different types of towers including monopoles, self -supported and guy masts. The
program was developed by practicing tower engineers in collaboration with tower owners,
consultants, and tower engineers. It is designed to capture the typical workflow of a tower
analysis and modifications. A state-of-the-art technology (and graphics), the program is
futuristic by design for its openness and user-friendliness. OpenTower can import tower
models from legacy software, such as tnxTower.

It is a physical modeling system, where geometry is defined as a combination of multiple panels,

starting from the top. Discrete and linear appurtenances can be easily attached and viewed
through built-in catalogs and intuitive UI. OpenTower uses a modern graphical environment to
get a realistic visualization of the model. Discrete and linear appurtenances are drawn to scale
on your 3D tower model.

It has a comprehensive library of panel types and appurtennaces that enables users to quickly
generate telecom structures. It automatically generates loads for any number of directions with
user-defined topographic configurations and quickly performs design checks. The program can
create reports using the standard as well as user-defined templates. Reports can be exported in
various formats, including PDF, HTML, CSV etc.

OpenTower Connect Edition supports US design Standards (TIA-222-F, TIA-222-G, and TIA-
222-H).

You can design tower foundations (ACI 318) for tower legs and guy support points. It includes
design for pad -pier, drilled pier, guy anchor, and mat foundations. The program can
automatically design foundations for all the critical load cases for different criteria and
automatically reports foundation rating.

Scenario analysis is an innovative approach and engineers will save time through scenario
creation by combining geometric layers including modifications, appurtenance grouping, and
loading criteria. It can create a physical model by applying hierarchical modification layers with
revision history on top of the base geometry using built-in business logic. You can use advanced
options like User-Provided Table (UPT) to create non-standard tower sections,materials and
both discrete and linear appurtenances. You can use built-up sections, including industry-
specific profiles like a split-pipe, bent plate, and more (30+ section types), as well as materials
for virtually all global standards. With the help of the custom catalog, you can add any number
of sections and shapes.

The program automatically calculates the effect of cluster formation on linear appurtenances.
“Connection interface” can be used to easily define member connections with various bolt
patterns including pre-defined bolt configurations. It automatically considers the effects of
connections on member design calculations and check connections.
The result of the OpenTower building process is a complete OpenTower data file, that is saved,
with the extension “STWR”.

Services and Support Information

Downloads and support of Bentley products are facilitated through Bentley CONNECT Services.
For more detailed information visit Bentley CONNECT services.

Technotes, FAQs and additional Bentley product information, can be found on the Bentley
Communities page. Here you can find answers to your technical questions about the program,
as well as gain insight into current and emerging best practices in the industry.

Log issues that you encounter with Bentley products using the Service Request Manager.
 2 Summary

Fig 1: The first screen (or Start Page) that opens when you start the OpenTower application.

Many example problems can be found in the start screen of the program under the “Example
Files” section.
 3 Introduction
OpenTower is a program developed by practicing tower engineers, for practicing tower
engineers, and in collaboration with practicing tower engineers. It is designed to capture the
typical workflow of a tower analysis and modification. A state-of-the-art technology, the
program is futuristic by design for its openness and being user-friendly as the user interface
was laid out by practicing engineers for the best possible user experience.

One of the most important aspects of the program is to divide the modeling into two distinct
categories.

1) Geometry
2) Work Order (or loading)
 4 Tower Geometry
As the name suggests, this section is specifically dedicated to model the tower geometry.
Geometry can further be divided in the following three categories.

1) Base Geometry
2) Modifications
3) Base Support (or boundary conditions)

Base Geometry
Base geometry contains original or unreinforced geometric properties of the tower. The
application does not have any limitations on the size and complexities to model any telecom
tower. It is a physical modeling system, where geometry is defined as a combination of multiple
panels, starting from the top. Geometry includes three essential components.

1) Section profiles (shapes and sizes)

2) Materials
3) Panel definitions
Section profiles
The program is shipped with virtually all standard steel section catalogs including different
versions of AISC catalogs. You can combine sections from different
catalogs to support original sections and their properties. The program
greatly improves performance and user-friendliness by adding a
custom tower catalog, which includes many built-up shapes and sizes
needed for the telecommunications tower industry. It is called
“Custom-Tower Catalog”. Unlike standard AISC section catalogs, the
custom catalog is editable and expandable. As you or your organization
increasingly start using custom sections, those sections will be added to
the catalog for future usage including reanalysis and modifications. A
catalog can be shared among engineers and organizations.

Materials
Like the section profile catalogs, the program is shipped with standard materials catalogs.
Additional materials can be added to the custom tower catalog.

Modeling Panels and Bays

You have three options to create a tower model in OpenTower. Create a new model, open an
existing OpenTower file, or import an existing tnx tower(*.eri) file. These processes are
explained below.

Fig 2: OpenTower Application

Open an Existing Tower Model
1. On the Start ribbon tab, select Open.

2. Browse to and select the desired OpenTower (.STWR) file to open.

Creating a New Tower Model

1. On the Start ribbon tab, Select New.

2. The Tower Setup wizard opens (Fig.3).

 Fig 3: Tower Information

3. Select Tower Type

Two types of tower structures can be parametrically generated using the tower generation
wizard. Those are monopole (shown as Pole) and lattice (which includes self-supporting Tower
and guyed tower). Each of these choices will create different pages on the left pane to help
model that tower type. If you select the tower type as Pole, you should input Structure Details as
shown in Fig.4. If you select Lattice as the tower type, you should input (Base) Structure Details
as shown in Fig.5. In the tower information page, you must specify if the tower is a guyed tower
in case of tower type is lattice. The guyed input is disabled for a pole. The upperstructure option
is disabled for both tower types in this version.

Fig 4: Monopole Tower Type

4. Lattice Tower Type.

Lattice Tower wizard can be used to model both self-supporting and guyed towers. To help
model lattice tower type, on the left panel, you should input (Base) Structure Details as shown
in Fig.5. In the tower information page, you must specify if the tower is a guyed tower. Default
values can be used.
 Fig 5: Lattice Tower Type

5. Specify the Tower Information. The field description is given below.

Parameter Description
Name
Tower Type Pole or Lattice Tower can be selected
Guyed For the Pole tower type, this option is disabled. For Lattice Tower
Type, select Yes or No.
Unit Systems Imperial
Project ID Current Project ID
Tower Name Name of the Tower, by default it’s called Demo Tower.
Bearing Angle Bearing angle of the Tower
(deg)
Tower US Convention
Convention
Design Code Select the design code standard to be used. The default standard is
EIA/TIA-222.
Wind Code Select the wind code standard to be used. The default standard is
EIA/TIA-222.
6. Specify Tower Geometry.

For Lattice tower type, the (Base) Structure Details on the left panel will show the following
options

Parameter Description
Name
Tower Shape In Case of Lattice Tower Type, select between 3-Sided and 4-
Sided.
Tower Height Provide the total height of the tower above its base.
Top & Bottom The width is the distance between adjacent legs. Provide the
Width width at the bottom of the lowest panel and the top of the
highest panel in these fields, respectively. For Guyed tower,
the bottom width option is disabled.
Default Length Provide the default length of a section. It can be edited as
of Section needed in the “section detail” page.
Default No of Provide the default no of bays per section.
Bays
Default Face Select from one of the predefined typical bracing patterns you
Bracing want to apply for all panel faces by default. You can edit
individual panel faces or levels as needed in the “section
detail” page later.
Taper Start Provide the start elevation from where the taper starts for
Elevation non-guyed tower(self-supported). For guyed tower, this
option is disabled.
Base Support Select the support of the base you want to apply to the tower.
For all lattice towers excluding the guyed towers with no
taper base, the options are Fixed But Mx, Mz, Fixed and
Pinned. For guyed towers with non-taper base, the options
are Fixed But Mx, Mz, Fixed, Pinned, I-Beam, and I-Beam
Pinned.
If you select Guyed in tower information, the following 4 parameters get enabled apart from the
above parameter list.

Guy Taper Base Length Provide the guy taper base length for
bottom section of the tower.
No of Guy Levels Specify the total number of guy levels along
the height of the tower.
No of Anchor Groups Provide the number of anchor groups.
Anchor Support Select from the given options. The options
are Fixed But Mx, Mz, Fixed, and Pinned.

Fig 6: Base Structure Details for Lattice Tower

For Monopole tower type, Select the tower shape from the drop-down list in the Structure
Details page. The options are Tapered, Stepped, and Hybrid. Depending upon the selected tower
shape, the inputs will be changed accordingly.

The Structure Details on the left panel will show the following options if we choose the Tapered
shape for the pole (Fig.7).

Parameter Description
Name

Dimension Select one of the options to input dimensions. The options are
Input Diameter Flat to Flat, Flat Width, and Perimeter.
Tower Height Specify the total height of the tower, above its base in ft.
No of Sections Provide the no. of sections.
Polygonal Specify the number of polygonal sides (8,12,16,18) or choose
Sides Round.
Length of Top Provide the Length of Top Section in ft.
Section
Top Diameter Provide the top section diameter in inch.
Top Section Provide the top section thickness in inch.
Thickness
Taper Factor Provide tapered factor.
Material Type Choose the material type from the available options (steel or
concrete)
Default Choose the default material from the combo box.
Material
Base Support Select the Fixed base support. This input is common for all
the pole shapes.
Fig 7: Structure Details for Tapered Shape Monopole Tower
The structure details for the Stepped monopole tower will show the following input(Fig.8).

Parameter Description
Name

Tower Height Specify the total height of the tower, above its base in ft.
No of Sections Provide the no. of sections.
Country Select the United States
Specification Provide the specification from the combo box.
Shapes Select the shapes.
Default Section Provide the section profile from the option given in the
Profile combo box.
Material Type Choose the material type from the available options (steel or
concrete)
Default Choose the default material from the combo box.
Material
Base Support Select the Fixed base support. This input is common for all
pole shapes.
 Fig 8: Structure Details for Stepped Shape Monopole Tower

The hybrid shape monopole tower input (Fig.9) is the combination of Stepped and Tapered
monopole input. Refer to page no 21 and page no 23.
 Fig 9: Structure Details for Hybrid Shape Monopole Tower

7. Click the Create Tower Button to complete the wizard.

Import a tnxTower file into OpenTower

1. On the Import Page ribbon tab, Select Import tnx tower.

2. The tnxTower Import page opens as shown in Fig. 10.

3. Browse to and select the desired tnxTower file (.eri) to import.
4. Click on Import.

Fig 10: Tnx Tower Import Page

The program generates a log file in the tnxTower model folder. The log file reports the
messages related to the data imported from the tnxTower file and also lists any error and
warning messages related to the geometry, sections, and materials.
Section Detail

Fig 11: Section Detail Page

The section detail page contains all the information about each section. You can add new
sections or delete and copy existing sections (Fig. 11). To modify the geometry of the model,
you can use the section detail page.

Note: The recommendation is to input the custom capacity after defining the scenarios.

You can also add or delete a section by right-clicking on the Base Structure Overview table. The
popup as shown in Fig. 11 (above) will appear.

Parameter Description
Base Tower Type This will always be set during the initial setup and
cannot be edited by the user once they exit the initial
setup. Available options are Lattice 3-Sided and Lattice
4-Sided.
Section ID Automatically assigned to each section from the top to
the bottom. If a new section is added, it is always
assigned as the first section (Section ID 1) and all other
section numbers increase by one.

Top Elevation (ft) The height at the top of a given section, not including the
base elevation. For lattice towers, this is simply the sum
of the current section height and all the sections below.

Section Length (ft) The total length of the section is equal to the sum of all
the bay lengths plus the top and bottom girt offsets. You
can edit the section length.

No of Bays It is the number of braced sub-sections the tower section

is divided into.

Top Girt Offset (in) The vertical distance from the top of the leg section to
the working point where the first bay begins.

Bottom Girt Offset(in) The vertical distance from the working point where the
last bay ends to the bottom of the leg section.

Spacing (ft) This is the length of each bay from the top to the bottom
of the section. By default, each section is divided into
equal bay height.

Top Width/(Depth) (ft) Width of the tower face at the top of each section as
measured from center-to-center of the legs. For all but
the top section, this is automatically set equal to the
Bottom Width of the section above.

Bottom Width/(Depth) Width of the tower face at the bottom of each section as
(ft) measured from center-to-center of the legs.
Face Bracing This is not user input, but simply a summary of the
bracing types that are selected in the Section Editor. If
the bracing type varies within a section, the table will
have a comma-separated list of the bracing types for
each bay from the top to the bottom of the section.
Plan Bracing A summary of the plan bracing for each bay as specified
in the Section Editor.

Hip Bracing A summary of the hip bracing for each bay as specified in
the Section Editor.
Section Editor
Due to the complexity of a lattice base structure, the Section Editor is designed to customize one
section at a time. The Base Structure Overview for lattice structures will only allow you to
define the dimensions of the super-structure. Member and connection detailing definitions for
individual members, you will have to use the Section Editor. You can either click on Edit
Section Details (shown in Fig.11) or double-click on a section in the “Base Structure Overview”
section to open the Section Editor Window. You can edit geometry, bracing connections, leg
connections and design parameters in the Section Editor window. Section Editor can be used to
edit bay spacing, choose bracing patterns, assign Section profiles, define connections, and define
design parameters. The section editor is divided into three tabs, one for the geometry, one for
the connections and one for design parameters. The geometry tab can be seen below as shown
in Fig.12.

Geometry

Fig 12: Section Editor Geometry

The Geometry page of the section editor can be used to edit all possible properties of a given
section, which can be selected from the Section ID combo box. Basic input parameters are the
number of bays and the section length.

Section ID This is a drop-down list with every all the sections of

the tower. The section editor automatically opens to
whichever section was selected on the Tower
 Overview, but you can change the tower sections
without returning to the Tower overview.
Top/Bottom Elevation These are non-editable fields displayed for reference.
This information can only be adjusted in the Tower
Overview.

Top/Bottom Face Width These are non-editable fields displayed for reference.
This information can only be adjusted in the Tower
Overview.

Top/Bottom Face Depth These are not inputs and are displayed for reference
only. Also, it is displayed for 4-sided towers only.

Section Length (ft) You can input a section length here and the program
should automatically adjust the table to evenly
distribute the section length to the correct number of
bays. However, if you change the length of an
individual bay or adds a bay to the section, the section
length should automatically update to reflect the sum
of all bay lengths and girt offsets.

No of Bays This input directly edits the number of bays, the

program evenly distributes the section length to the
correct number of bays. However, if you add or delete
a bay from the table, the number of bays in this box
gets updated.

All Faces When this option is checked you only need to enter
Identical(Checkbox) data for face A and all other faces will use the same
configuration. Checked by default. Member class Step
does not get copied to the other faces and user has to
input the profiles on each face if needed.

All Hips When this option is checked you only need to enter
Identical(Checkbox) data for Leg A hips and all other hips will use the same
configuration. Checked by default.

All Bays When this option is checked you only need to enter
Identical(Checkbox) data for Bay 1 and all subsequent bays will be
identical. Checked by default. Member class Bottom
Horizontal does not get copied to the other bays as this
class is applicable to the bottom segment of the panel.
 Girt Offsets Girt offsets are applicable for the top and bottom bays
only. All middle bays have this column inactive. If “All
Bays Identical” is checked then the bottom girt offset
automatically made equals to the top girt offset.

Top Horizontal The Top Horizontal of the Bay.

Bottom Horizontal The Bottom Horizontal is applicable to only bottom

bay of the section.
Secondary Horizontal The secondary horizontal of the Bay.
Bracing Table** The bracing table is consisting of a few tables including
one for each face, hip, and plan. The members can be
assigned by double-clicking a cell to open the Section
Profile Catalog. Once chosen from the catalog,
members can be copied from cell to cell throughout
the table. The default columns available for all face
bracing types are Leg, Diagonal, Top Horizontal and
Bottom Horizontals. However, depending on the
selected bracing type, the columns may vary. The
tables in the hip and plan tabs are different than the
face tab and columns may vary depending on the
selected bracing type. Refer to Page no 213 for
different bracing patterns.

Section Profile Page

The section Profile Page (Fig. 13) can be used to edit or assign a section profile to a member.
You can choose from any of the section catalogs including the custom tower catalog. Section and
Materials can be Standard, Custom, or UPT. Depending on the type of selected catalog, available
sections and materials are populated in the grid. You can mix and match, like select a section
from a standard catalog along with a custom material, etc.
 Fig 13: Section Profile

Bracing Connections
The bracing connection user interface allows users to assign bracing connections to the bracing
members of a lattice tower. Though bracing connections on lattice towers are simple, they can
be numerous and occasionally complex. The main goal of this interface is to allow the user to
model the typical cases quickly while still having the flexibility to model complex connections as
needed (Fig. 14).
 Fig 14: Bracing Connections Page

Bracing Connected Directly to Leg This option is used to adjust the member lengths
when bracing members are bolted or welded
directly to the leg members. When checked, the
effective length of the bracing members will be
calculated from the internal edge of the leg
members.

Member End Adjustment Length This option is used to adjust the member length
from both ends.

Section Adjustment Factors These inputs are used to increase or decrease the
wind area and weight of the section.

Group by Member and Type Checked by default. When checked all members of
(Checkbox) the same type and section property are grouped into
one row.
Check Gusset Connections When checked four additional columns are enabled
(Checkbox) and user can defined the start and end connection
details for Gusset Horizontal Edge Distance (Gusset
Hor.) and Gusset Vertical Edge Distance (Gusset
Vert.). When unchecked these columns are disabled.
The Gusset Horizontal Edge distance is further used
to perform gusset bearing check calculations.
End Condition This input allows the program to do two things.
First, it helps to design the bolt connections
correctly using the shear condition on the bolts. All
concentric connections are assumed to be double
shear. Second, it allows the program to choose the
effective slenderness ratio equation for design
calculations.

Pattern* This is the bolt pattern used to connect the bracing

member. Zero is an option if the connection is
welded or requires special design consideration.
Refer to Appendix page 210.

Edge/Pitch/Gage/Gage Spacing Provide the measurements of gage and edge

distance. When bolt patterns are staggered, the
pitch is considered to be the distance between two
bolts in a row.

Gusset Horzi. /Gusset Vertical These options are activated by the “Check Gusset
Connection” checkbox. When active you can specify
a horizontal and vertical edge distance from the
gusset to the reference of the bolt group. If you enter
zero for the vertical edge distance, then the bolt
group is assumed to be in the middle of the gusset
plate where there is no block rupture path involving
the top or bottom edges of the gusset.

Mirror (Checkbox) When checked for an individual row this makes the
end connection the same as the start connection.
The top box is meant to toggle this option for all
rows.

Gussets Gusset area can be calculated from height and width

or entered directly. If the area is entered then the
application consider the are of gusset as flat area in
the wind load coalculations and is also considered to
include the weight of the gusset plate in the self-
weight calculations. Thickness and Material are used
 to calculate the correct weight and to check the
bolted connection on the gusset.

The Panel view on the right shows the image of the connection that gets updated based on your
input.

Leg Connection
Leg Connection UI is used to define the leg connection of a lattice tower. The program supports
four types of Leg Connections - Flange, Splice, Shear Sleeve, and Base Plate. Base Plate option is
available only for the bottom section of the tower. The input parameters will change, depending
upon the selected leg Connection Type. The different connection types with the input
parameters are described below.

Fig 15: Leg Connection Page for Flange Connection Type

The Panel view on the right, shows the image of the connection that gets updated based on user
input.
 Parameter Description
No of Bolts Provide the no of bolts
Bolts Select a bolt type. You can double-click on the field to
open the Select Bolt UI, where you can select bolt type
and Material from the standard or the UPT catalog as
shown in the image below (Fig.16). The concatenated
string of the Bolt type and Material will be
automatically displayed in the field, once clicked ok.

Leg Connections For all Leg Connection details to be identical, check the
Identical Leg Connection Identical checkbox.

Fig 16: Select Bolt Types and Material

 Fig 17: Leg Connection Page for Shear Sleeve Connection Type

Parameter Description
Sheer Sleeve Type Select from the options, Double Shear and Single Shear.
Bolts Select a bolt type. You can double-click on the field to
open the Select Bolt UI, where you can select bolt type
and Material from the standard or the UPT catalog as
shown in Fig.16. The concatenated string of the Bolt
type and Material will be automatically displayed in
the field, once clicked ok.
Number of bolts Specify the number of bolts.
Edge Distance Specify the edge distance in inch.
Bolt Shear resist leg If you check the bolt shear resist leg compression
compression (checkbox) checkbox, the program will perform the bolt shear
resist leg compression check.
 Fig 18: Leg Connection Page for Splice Connection Type

If Upper and Lower Splice Identical checkbox is checked, input from the Connection to Upper
leg will be duplicated to the Connection of Lower Leg. If not checked, the user must input values
for the lower leg.

Note: The application does not perform the splice check calculation in this version.

Parameter Description
Connection to Upper and
Lower Leg
Splice Type Select from the options, Double Shear and Single Shear.
Bolts Select a bolt type. You can double-click on the field to
open the Select Bolt UI, where you can select bolt type
and Material from the standard or the UPT catalog as
shown in Fig.16. The concatenated string of the Bolt
type and Material will be automatically displayed in
the field, once clicked ok.
No of Bolts Specify the number of bolts.
Columns Specify the number of columns
Patterns Select from the options, Aligned, Positive Stagger and
Negative Stagger.
Column Spacing Specify column spacing in inch, by default auto is used.
Leg Edge Distance Specify column spacing in inch, by default auto is used.
Pitch Specify column spacing in inch, by default auto is used.
Outside and Inside Splice
Plate
Material Select material from the combo box. This option is
enabled only if Check Splice Plate checkbox is checked.
Thickness Specify the Splice Plate thickness in inch. This option is
enabled only if Check Splice Plate checkbox is checked.
Width Specify the splice plate width in inch. This option is
enabled only if Check Splice Plate checkbox is checked.
Edge Distance Specify the edge distance in inch. This option is
enabled only if Check Splice Plate checkbox is checked.

Fig 19: Leg Connection Page for Base Plate Connection Type
 Parameter Description
Base Plate Detail Type Select base plate type from the options a, b, c, or d. For
more details the right hand side shows the details of
selected base type.
No of Anchor Rods Specify the number of bolts..
Anchor Rods Select a bolt type. You can double-click on the field to
open the Select Bolt UI, where you can select bolt type
and Material from the standard or the UPT catalog as
shown in Fig.16. The concatenated string of the Bolt
type and Material will be automatically displayed in
the field, once clicked ok.
Unsupported AR Length This option is active for base plate type “d” only and is
inactive for other base plate types.

Design Parameter Page

The design parameters section allows you to specify all additional information needed to
perform member design checks.

Fig 20: Design Parameter Page

Group by Member and Type Checked by default. When checked all members of the same
(Checkbox) type and section property will be grouped into one row and
assumed to have the same member design properties.

Connection Type This option defines the intermediate connection type for
composite members. The options are bolted or welded.

Connection Spacing Define the intermediate connection spacing for composite

members. The default option is a special input of “Mid-
Point” which will calculate the intermediate connector
spacing based on half of the effective length.

End Connection It is used to define how two composite members are

connected at the termination. Options are fixed or free. The
default option is fixed.

Fully Composite The user must select from, “Yes” or “No” options. The default
option is No. This is a design option for the custom
composite sections.
Crushing Possible The user must select from “Yes” or “No” options. The default
option is No. This option is used when a small part of the
member is unreinforced. The section must be too small to
buckle but could still fail in compression yield.

Tension Reinforced The user must select from “Yes” or “No” options. The default
option is Yes. Some sections may have different effective
sections in compression and tension.

Consider Eccentricity The user must select from “Yes” or “No” options. The default
option is No. This option allows you to consider the effect of
member offset from the analytical centerline.

U factor The shear lag factor. The default is “auto”. This option will
allow you to override the calculated U factor.

LE(x/y/z) Effective length in feet. The default value is “auto”.

Sometimes you will need to override the effective length to
ensure the correct effective length is used. X, Y, Z are the
local axes of the member.
 K(x/y/z) Effective length factor. The default is “auto”. This will allow
you to override the calculated value.

Passing Rating The percentage value used to differentiate a Passed Member

and a Failed Member for a specific design code check. This
value is inactive in this table and can be edited from the
wind definition..

Once you are done with all the inputs and modifications, click Apply and then OK, to save the
changes made in the tabs. Then click Apply and OK on the Section Detail Page (above Fig.11) to
apply the changes in the model. The message box will ask for the confirmation “Want to
Update the Base Model”. If you click ok, it will automatically update the base model with the
changes.

Edit Section Overview

The Edit Section Overview button is used to open the Section Overview Page. This page
contains all information regarding Legs, Options and Bracings. It gives a summary of the entire
structure in one table with different tabs for legs, face, hip and plan bracings, which can be
added, deleted and edited quickly and efficiently. This is an easy and fast way to update the leg
and bracing parameters of different sections simultaneously with the help of drag, copy and
paste operations.

If you want to apply same data for each cell, you can drag the data you want to copy in the cell,
while pressing Ctrl. Automatically, all the cells will be updated with the selected data. The delete
of each cell data can be done, by pressing the delete button from the keyboard, after selecting
the desired item to be deleted. The greyed cells are not editable. Once you apply the changes by
clicking the Apply and then OK button, the changes will be applied to the base structure and will
be reflected in the base structure overview table. These operations are applicable for all the
tabs in the Section Overview page.
 Fig 21: Section Overview Page-Legs and Options

Leg and Options page (Fig.21) shows the Leg properties for different sections in a single table.

Fig 22: Section Overview Page-Face Bracing

Face Bracing tab shows the Face bracing properties of all the sections in a single table. If Show
Connection Details checkbox is checked, the program will show the connection parameters in
this page.

Fig 23: Section Overview Page-Hip Bracing

The hip Bracing tab shows the Hip bracing properties of all the sections in a single table. If
Show Connection Details checkbox is checked it will show the connection parameters in the
page.
 Fig 24: Section Overview Page-Inner Bracing

Inner Bracing tab shows the Inner bracing properties of all the sections in a single table. Show
Connection Details checkbox, if checked will show the connection parameters, in the page.

Edit Custom Capacity

The Edit Custom Capacity table can be accessed after activating the scenario .You must use Edit
Custom Capacity to override the design capacities of any member. Once you click the Edit
Custom Capacity button, Custom Capacity UI (shown in Fig. 25) will appear. You can input the
fields that are shown as “auto” to override those capacities with your preferred values. Click
Apply and Ok to save the changes. Capacities are separated for each revision of the code, TIA-
222-F, TIA-222-G, and TIA-222-H. The fields that can be updated are Member Tension, Member
Compression, Connection Compression, Connection Tension, and Passing Rating.
 Fig 25: Custom Capacity Page

Section Detail (Monopole)

The Section detail page for monopole towers contains all the information about each section.
Fig.26 shows the section detail page for Tapered monopole.

For table editing operations a user can right-click on the Pole Overview table and then select
from the options like Copy Row, Insert Row, Delete Row and Cancel.

The Add section button will add a new section and will be displayed in the Pole Overview table,
and the Remove Section will remove the selected section from the Pole Overview table.

The grayed cells cannot be edited. The followings are the details of the Section detail page for
monopole towers.
 Fig 26: Monopole Section Detail Page

You can add new sections or delete and copy existing sections (Fig. 26). To modify the geometry
of the model, you can use the section detail page.

In order to efficiently model all types of monopoles, a user may choose different types of
Input Methods. Depending on each method, different columns and cells within the table will be
enabled and disabled. The “Detailed” method allows users to create any combination of custom
tapered sections and sections from the section profile catalog. All other input methods are for
tapered poles only and will be used to reduce the number of inputs for the user by interpolating
much of the data. The different input methods are explained below.

Detailed: When a tower is created in the detailed method or the user switches to the detailed
method and applies the changes, they will not be allowed to switch to any other input method.

Taper Factor: This method requires the minimum amount of user input but will be limited to
tapered monopoles only. As this method is restricted to tapered poles, the “Flange” and
“Database” options are not available for connection type and section type respectively.

Mapped – Detailed: A detailed mapping of a tapered pole typically includes the top dimensions
of the top section and the bottom dimensions of every other section. In this case, the user will
enter the Measured Length of each section rather than the exact length and the program will
calculate the lap splice lengths, taper factor, and top dimensions for each section.
Mapped – Taper Factor: Mapped taper factor requires the top and bottom dimensions of the top
section. This method forces each section to have a uniform taper factor and the program will
calculate the lap splice lengths, taper factor, and top and bottom dimensions.

Mapped – Limited: In this case, the program will solve for a taper factor that gives the correct
dimensions at top and bottom.

Parameter Description
Tower Type The monopole type is selected.

Input Method Select from the five types of input methods that are,
Detailed, Taper Factor, Mapped-Detailed, Mapped Taper
Factor and Mapped Limited. For Stepped and Hybrid
monopole, the only available option is the Detailed input
method. Depending upon the selection, the Preferred
Section Dimension option will change, and the pole
overview table will allow editing specific columns.
Preferred Section For polygonal poles, there are three ways to input the
Dimension section dimensions. Users can select from the three
options, Diameter (Flat to Flat), Flat width and
Perimeter. The selection of the input method will change
the options for the preferred section dimension. If a user
selects the input method as Detailed, the Preferred
Section dimension will only have one option, i.e.,
Diameter (flat to flat), as polygonal and round sections
can be combined. For other input methods, it will show
all three options.

Section ID Automatically assigned to each section in order from top

to bottom. If a new section is added, it is always assigned
Section ID 1 and each other section ID increases by one.

Top /Bottom Elevation These are non-editable fields displayed for reference.
(ft) This information will be auto updated based on the
section length and design lap splice length inputs.
Measured Length (ft) Provide Section length. For mapped towers, only the
visible length of the section can be measured.
Connection Select the connection. Depending upon the Input method
selection, the options will change for Connection input.
The options are Flange, Lap slice, Base Plate, None. The
bottom section of a tower has two options None and
 Base Plate, the Base Plate option is only available on the
bottom section. Application does not perform the
connection calaculations in this version
Design Lap Provide the Lap Splice/Socket Length in ft. This is the
Slice/Socket length (ft) length of a section which overlaps the top of the section
below. The input is enabled, only if a user selects the
Input method as Taper Factor or Detailed. For any of the
mapped input methods this input is inactive, and the
software will use the required splice length as calculated
per code. The lap splice/socket length weight will be
considered in the overall analysis and design
calculations

Section Type Provide the section type from the options 8,12,16,18,
Round, Database. “Database” will only be available when
the input method is set to “Detailed”. This option will
allow users to double click on the Section Profile box to
open the Section Profile Catalog where they can assign a
profile and material grade. For all other section types,
the Section Profile box will be inactive, and the Top
Diameter, Bottom Diameter, Thickness, and Material
Grade will be required.
Section Profile This option is non-editable for sections with 8,12,16 and
18 sided polygonal pole types and is editable for both
stepped and hybrid pole structures with database
section type. For hybrid monopole, the user can select
the section profile, by double-clicking on the first section
cell, which will open the Section profile selection dialog
box.
Taper Factor The taper Factor will be used differently for each input
method.
Top /Bottom Diameter Provide the Top and Bottom diameter. Depending upon
(in) the input method selection, these fields are non-editable.
Thickness(in) Provide the thickness of the section
Material Select the material from the options.
Required Lap Splice This is a non-Editable field displayed for reference only
(ft) and is calculated based on the code requirements.
Guy Details
Whenever a user creates a Guyed Tower, the Guy Details Tab will be available. The guy Details
tab uses a unique method of specifying guy anchor points and guy attachment points before
mapping the guy wire between them. There are two tables, the anchor group table which shows
each anchor group and all their corresponding anchors, and the attachment table which gives a
summary of the attachment details for an elevation and shows which anchor group the guys
have been mapped to. There are no inputs on these tables. You can edit these data using the
Anchor Group Tool and the Quick Guy Tool which will provide graphical aids to help you place
guys correctly.

Fig 27: Guy Details Tab

Anchor Group Details

The anchor table is a simple summary of each anchor group and its individual anchors. There
are only three properties associated with anchors, those are Radius, Azimuth, and Elevation.

On double-clicking on the Anchor group table, the user can edit the data. A new window titled
Anchor Group Tool will appear as shown in the image below.
 Fig 28: Anchor Group Tool

Anchor Group Tool

The anchor group tool allows you to create or edit one group of anchors at a time. The graphic
on the right shows a plan view of the tower and guy anchor locations. These are updated in real-
time as you enter specifics of the guy group.

Parameter Description
Group Name You can enter any name for the group when you are
adding groups, else it will show the selected group.
Number of Anchors The number of anchors in a group. The default is 3.
Anchor Table There will be one row in this table for each anchor. The
anchor names will be automatically generated based
on the group name. Anchor radius, elevation, and
azimuth can be edited here.
All Anchors Identical When checked, you only need to enter Radius and
(Checkbox) Elevation of the first anchor.
Symmetrical When checked, you only need to enter an azimuth for
Arrangement the first anchor. All other anchors will be evenly
(Checkbox) distributed based on the number of anchors.

Attachment Details
The guy attachment table has a summary of each attachment elevation, how the guys are
attached, and what anchor group they are connected to. These properties can be edited, one
level at a time, using the Quick Guy Tool, shown in Fig. 29. On double-clicking on the cell, the
quick guy tool window will appear for the user to edit the properties.

Fig 29: Quick Guy Tool

The guy tool allows you to define attachment properties such as elevation and torque-arm or
pull-off style. You will then be able to assign specific guy wires between connection points at
this elevation and guy anchors. The upper graphic displays a small section of the tower at the
given attachment elevation. The lower graphic shows a plan view of the current elevation with
attachment points labeled. Both the graphics will show the torque-arm, pull-off, and guys as
they are added. The connection and the design parameters will be addressed in the Quick Guy
tool as shown in Fig. 29.
 Fig 30: Design Parameter and Connection Tab in Quick Guy Tool

Parameter Description
Attachment You can enter any elevation below the top of the tower.
Elevation
Type It lists all the types of guy attachments in the guy attachment catalog.
The catalog includes pull-offs as well as channel, bat ear, dog ear, and
wing style torque-arms.
Top/Bottom This input is dependent on the attachment type.
Mount
Elevation
Spread The distance from one attachment point to another attachment point.
Torque-Arm You can specify specific torque arm members here. The number of
Member Table rows on the table will be either three or four depending on the number
of faces of the tower. The default columns will be Top Strap, Bottom
Strap, and Horizontal. Many additional columns will be added for
various torque arm types
Torque Arm When checked, you will only need to input member types for face A.
Members
Identical
(Checkbox)
 Anchor Group This is a dropdown box that lists all the anchor groups that you have
already defined. There is also an option for “Varies” which will allow
you to assign guys to anchors in any group. In case you did not define
anchor groups before getting to this screen you can click the “create
new anchor group” option to be taken to the Anchor Tool before
continuing.
Guy Table You can map guy wires between attachment points on the current level
and anchors in the selected group. There are six possible attachments
points for both torque-arms and pull-offs. The attachment points
follow a standard numbering pattern, starting with point 1 on leg A and
continuing around clockwise. You will be able to delete and add guys as
needed. If the arrangement is atypical and the program can’t make a
reasonable guess at the guy locations, there will be a warning to let you
know to map all the guy wires. You can double-click on a cell in the Guy
column to open the Guy Wire Catalog and assign the correct profile as
shown in the image given below (Fig. 31).

All Guys When checked, you will only have to enter guy type, initial tension
Identical (I.T), and end fitting efficiency (E.F.E) in the first row.
(Checkbox)

Fig 31: Guy Wire Catalog

Modifications
Modification is a unique concept. It enables you to create a series of modifications to replicate
the history of tower modifications. The file eventually becomes a living history of the tower.
Modifications are geometric layers which can be applied on top of the base geometry (layer) or
on top of another modification.

Modifications can be defined as section substructures. A complete panel or some components of

a panel can be replaced by a modification layer. You can define hierarchical orders for those
layers.

To create a new modification layer, right-click on “Modifications” and click on “Create

Modifications”. It will open a new window for panel modification.

Fig 32: Model Modification

 Parameter Description
Name Alphanumeric Name of the layer
Existing Mod(s) Select one or more existing mods to copy from.
Copy Create a layer by copying data from selected existing
mods
Details Description and other details of the current mod layer
Add New Section Add a new section starting from the top
Remove Section Remove currently selected section
Show Base Model Shows the original section before modification
Create Create a new modification layer
Edit Edit the current modification layer.
The rest of the controls are like “Section Editor”, ‘Bracing Connections”, “Leg Connections” and
“Design Parameters” pages as described earlier.

The modification hierarchy helps the user to prioritize the different modifications created,
depending upon the specification and the requirement. You can set the priority of the

modifications with the help of the up and down arrows while creating or updating a
scenario. As shown in Fig.33. The modification priority is only applicable to the same panel
with different modifications. For example, let’s first create a modification layer called Mod1 to
change the bracing pattern from X Brace to Diagonal Up, and then create another modification
layer called Mod2 to change the bracing pattern from X Brace to Z Brace. Both the modifications
are on Panel1. Now, while creating a new scenario assign higher priority to Mod2. After
activating the scenario, panel 1 will have Z Brace bracing.
Fig 33: Modification Hierarchy
Highlighting Member
If a user changes any member using model modification UI, and apply the changes, not only the
change gets reflected in the Main model graphics, the modified member gets highlighted too. To
view the change, you must activate the scenario. The change is also highlighted in the Section
Editor dialog box, with a different color as shown in Fig.34.

Fig 34: Highlighted Member

If you do not want to use highlighting the member, simply right click on the Main model page,
and select UnHighlight Modified member from the pop-up menu.
 5 Work Order
A work order is a project-based approach to mimic tower engineers’ daily workflow. Project
data or loading data are separated from the geometry layer.

A tower model can have only one Work Order. While creating a new file, the program
automatically creates a navigation tree for the “Work Order” user interface, and you must
configure it with appropriate data. From the Tower Model Explorer on the left panel, when you
right-click on Work Order, a pop up appears as shown in Fig.35. On clicking, the Work Order
Configuration dialog opens as shown in Fig. 36.

Fig 35: Configure Work Order

Configure Work Order

With the Work Order Tab user can add or modify work order. You must give a Name to the
Work Order. The description is optional.
Fig 36: Work Order
User Settings

Fig 37: User Settings Tab

To set the company information for a tower model, you can give the information as shown
above in Fig.37.

Project Data
To store the data related to the project, you may want to save information in the tab Project
data as shown in Fig.38.
 Fig 38: Project Data

Once Apply is clicked, the program will configure or update the work order. Cancel will undo
all the recent changes made in the work order configuration page. To close it with saving, click
the OK button.
 6 Loading Definition
Towers are most vulnerable to lateral loads, such as wind and earthquake loads. Wind loading
is generally measured in terms of speed and can be affected by temperature and the angle at
which it is blowing as well as the surrounding terrain of the tower. This section describes the
different parameters that can be changed related to the load application onto the tower due to
wind.

Wind Definition
To create a wind definition, right-click on the Wind Definition leaf, under Loading definition.
Click on Create New Wind Definition as shown in Fig.39.

Fig 39: Create Wind Definition

 Fig 40: Wind Definition User Interface

There are five tabs within the Wind Definition user interface: Building Code, Wind Parameters,
Adjustment Factors, Load Combination Parameters, and Existing Structure. Although you have
the option to edit any tab at any time, the recommended workflow is to start from the leftmost
tab and continue to the right. Within the tabs, there are several cells that are initially left blank.
Input valid data into each cell. Whenever you click ‘Next’, the program runs an internal
validation on the provided input. If you have failed to enter any valid information, the program
issues a warning message that lists all the cells that are either invalid or have no data. Within
the navigation tree, each tower model can have multiple wind definitions. This feature is to
enable users to run past analyses with different wind profiles and different codes.

Building code
The first tab of the Wind Definition, shown in Fig. 40(above).

Jurisdiction Select the standard to be considered for

wind load geeration and member design
calculations. You can create as many
wind definitions as needed.
 Name The unique name associated with the
wind definition.
Standard This cell shows the applicable TIA
standard. You can select a code from one
of the following options.

1. TIA-222-F
2. TIA-222-G
3. TIA-222- G (ASCE 7-10 Wind Maps)
4. TIA-222- H (ASCE 7-16)

Jurisdiction Notes You can input any note specific to a

regulatory body, like wind exceptions,
references etc.
Additional Notes This section is used to input any
additional notes

Wind Parameters
Wind Speed Requirements - Depending on the code selected in the ‘Building Code’ Tab, inputs
for the wind speed and ice requirement fields will appear, as shown in the pictures given below.

Fig 41: Wind Parameters page for TIA-222-F Building Code

 Fig 42: Wind Parameters page for TIA-222-G Building Code

Fig 43: Wind Parameters page for TIA-222-G (ASCE 7-10 Wind Maps) Building Code
 Fig 44: Wind Parameters page for TIA-222-H (ASCE 7-16) Building Code

State The state where the tower is located. Both TIA-222-F and
TIA-222-G have databases for every state in the USA.

County The county where the tower is located. Both TIA-222-F and
TIA-222-G have databases for every county in the USA.
These lists include county-specific wind speeds, ice
thicknesses, etc.

City The city where the tower is located.

Latitude The application automatically converts the latitude to a

decimal format (instead of degrees, minutes and seconds).

Longitude The application automatically converts the longitude to a

decimal format (instead of degrees, minutes and seconds).
Wind Speed Requirement

Depending on which code was selected in the ‘Building Code’ Tab, inputs for the wind speed and
ice requirement fields will change.

TIA-222-F Wind Speed This cell is initially auto-populated with the county’s fastest
(mph) mile wind speed (without ice considerations) as specified by
the TIA-222-F code. It is based on the county where the
tower is located. Unlike TIA-222-G, TIA-222-F only specifies
one value for the design wind speed for each county. This
cell is also active, so you can change the wind speed. The
value entered in this cell is what the application uses for the
wind load geneartion.

Service Wind Speed (mph) This is auto-populated based on the code selected in the
Building Code tab. It is 50 mph for TIA-222-F and 60 mph
for TIA-222-G, and TIA-222-H, respectively.

TIA-222-G Wind Speed: Min This cell is auto-populated with the minimum county 3-
(mph) second gust wind speed (without ice considerations)
specified by the TIA-222-G code. This cell cannot be edited.
This cell is for reference only and will not be used in the
analysis.

TIA-222-G Wind Speed: Max The same rules apply to this cell as to the previous cell. The
(mph) only difference is that this wind speed is the maximum
allowable wind speed for the county.

TIA-222-G Wind Speed: This is an active cell for you to manually input a special
Design (mph) design wind speed. The value entered in this cell is what the
application uses for the wind load generation. Default value
is based on the maximum wind speed and can be edited as
per the requirement.
Wind Load Factors This option is visible only if the selected standard in the
building code is “TIA-222-G (ASCE 7-10 Wind Map)”.You
must choose to either use ASCE 7-10 load factors or TIA-
222-G (ASCE 7-05) load factors. When the ASCE 7-10 load
factors are selected, the application hides the nominal wind
speed box. In this case, the ultimate wind speed used for the
wind load generation. When the ASCE 7-05 wind speeds are
selected, the nominal wind speed box reappears. The
application automatically calculates the nominal wind speed
based on your input for ultimate wind speed. The nominal
 wind speed cell is inactive, but this the wind speed use for
wind load generation.

Ultimate (mph) This is an ultimate wind speed (without ice considerations)

that you must specify.

Nominal (mph) This is a nominal wind speed (without ice considerations)

that the application calculates based on your input for
ultimate wind speed. This cell is inactive.

Ice Requirement

Ice Wind Speed: Min (mph) This cell cannot be edited. This cell is for reference only and
will not be used in the wind load generation.

Ice Wind Speed: Max (mph) The same rules apply to this cell as to the previous cell. The
only difference is that this wind speed is the maximum
allowed wind speed for the county.

Ice Wind Speed: Design This is an active cell for you to manually input a special
(mph) design ice wind speed. The value entered in this cell is what
the application uses for the wind load generation.

Consider Ice Load To consider Ice Load this checkbox should be checked.

Ice Thickness: Min (in) It shows the minimum ice thickness. You cannot edit this
cell. Since it is for reference purposes only, the cell is always
grayed out.

Ice Thickness: Max (in) It shows the maximum ice thickness. You cannot edit this
cell. Since it is for reference purposes only, the cell is always
grayed out.

Ice Density (pcf) This is auto-generated and cannot be edited. The value is 56
pcf.
 Escalated Ice Thickness This box is only visible for TIA-222-F analysis. The default is
to escalate ice, but you have the option to uncheck this cell.

Design Provide the ice thickness in inch which is used for wind load
generation.

Site Parameters

The Site Parameters section is invisible for the TIA-222-F standard . The first checkbox within
the Site Parameters section is called “All wind directions identical”. This option is active for
topographic category 5 (RSM) and 5 (RSM CC) and is inactive and checked for topographic
category 1-4. When checked, you only input the critical wind direction parameters, and the
Wind Directions table will only consist of the first three columns. The other columns will be
invisible.

In case of “All wind directions identical” unchecked, all the site parameters except the structure
class and other SEAW RSM -03 paarmeters are exposed in the wind direction table.

All Wind Directions When this option is unchecked, you can apply varying
Identical exposure and topo categories for different wind directions.
Active only for topographic Category 5.

Structure Class This includes a dropdown list with the options I, II, or III.
The default is II, but you have the option to change this.

Exposure Category This includes a dropdown list with options B, C, or D. The

default is C, but you have the option to change this.

Topographic Category This includes a dropdown list with options 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

(RSM), or 5 (RSM CC).

Crest Height (ft) This is input that is initially left blank. When topographic
category 1 is chosen, the site has no additional topographic
effects to consider, and the Crest Height box is not displayed.
A value is necessary here for topographic categories 2-4. For
topographic category 5 (RSM), this cell is active. For
topographic category 5 (RSM CC), this cell is inactive and the
application calculates the crest height based on inputs in the
SEAW RSM-03 section (see below).
SEAW RSM-03

Fig 45: SEAW Parameters when Topographic category 5 (RSM) is selected

Fig 46: SEAW Parameters when Topographic category 5 (RSM CC) is selected

Topographic Feature It is a dropdown list with the options of hill, flat-topped hill,
continuous ridge, flat-topped ridge, or continuous
escarpment. Default value is “Hill”. This row is visible in
both the 5 (RSM) and the 5 (RSM CC) methods.

Crest Point Elevation (ft) This is a user input that is initially left blank. It is the total
elevation of the crest above mean sea level. This row is only
visible for topographic category 5 (RSM CC).
Base Point Elevation (ft) This input is initially left blank. It is the total elevation at the
base of the topographic feature with respect to mean sea
level. This row is only visible for topographic category 5
(RSM CC).

Mid-Height Elevation (ft) This is the average of the crest point elevation and the base
point elevation. It is automatically calculated by the
application and is inactive. This row is only visible for
topographic category 5 (RSM CC).
 Crest to Mid-Height This is the horizontal distance from the feature’s crest to the
Distance (L/2) (ft) mid-height point of the topographic feature. This is initially
left blank. This row is visible in both the 5 (RSM) and the 5
(RSM CC) methods.
Slope Distance L (ft) The program calculates the total slope distance (L) as twice
the crest to mid-height horizontal distance. This cell is auto-
populated and inactive for user-input. It is visible in both the
5 (RSM) and the 5 (RSM CC) methods.

Tower Point Elevation (ft) This row is only visible for topographic category 5 (RSM CC).
It is the tower’s base elevation with respect to mean sea
level. For hills and continuous ridges, this is a user-defined
input and will initially be blank. For flat-topped ridges, flat-
topped hills, and continuous escarpments, this cell will be
automatically calculated by the application based on input
for Structure Distance from Crest Line. The calculation
assumes a constant slope for the feature and uses similar
triangles to determine the tower point elevation.

Structure Distance from This row is visible in both the 5 (RSM) and the 5 (RSM CC)
Crest Line (x) (ft) methods. It is the horizontal distance from the crest to the
tower.

Wind Directions

When the “All wind directions identical” checkbox is selected, the table within the Wind
Directions section will have the wind direction information and checkbox option for user to
select the directions to be considered for the analysis. For “All wind directions identical”
unchecked, more information is available for the user to define including the consider analysis
option .
Wind Definition Dialog - wind directions identical unchecked.
 Fig 47: Wind Definition Dialog - wind directions identical checked.

Base Elevation

This specifies the tower’s base elevation with respect to the ground level. A large base elevation
will increase the wind pressures on the tower. The default value is at zero feet as shown in
Fig.48.

When you select the TIA-222-H code, the base elevation shows two new inputs, Ground
Elevation Factor and Rooftop checkbox as shown below.
 Parameter Description
Ground EL. Above The input for the average ground elevation above sea level is
Sea level required to calculate the Ground Elevation Factor.
Rooftop To consider increased wind pressure due to the rooftop wind
speedup factor, this checkbox should be checked. If this Rooftop
checkbox is checked, the wind parameters UI expands, as shown
in the fig. 48.
 Fig 48: Rooftop Parameters

If you check the rooftop option, the four inputs that must be input by the user are Parapet
Height, Minimum Distance to Edge of Building, Maximum Width of Building and Maximum
Height of Building.

Adjustment Factors
The third tab of the Wind Definition user interface is called the Adjustment Factors (Fig.48).
 Fig 49: Adjustment Factors

Parameter Description
Section ID The application auto-populates this data, you cannot edit this
column.
Section Top This is auto-populated in a similar manner to the Section column
Elevation (ft) described above. You cannot edit this column either.
Face Af (Flat) The application calculates the flat area of the structural members
“Af” for the wind load calculations. This Face Af factor acts as a
multiplier to the Af of structural members. This multiplier can be
edited for every panel section on the tower shown in Fig. 14.
Face Ar (Round) The application calculates the round area of the structural
members “Ar” for the wind load calculations. This Face Ar factor
acts as a multiplier to the Ar of structural members. This would
apply to the wind conditions where no ice is present.
Ar ice (Round) This is an adjustment factor that is only applied to the total round
tower wind area that the application calculates when ice
conditions are considered.
Weight Multiplier The weight multiplier is a user input that accounts for additional
miscellaneous weight on the tower. This value is applied to the
tower weight calculated by the application.
Wind Pressure This factor will be multplied to the calculated wind pressure and
Multiplier will be applied to the structure and all the appurtenances.
Load Combination Parameters
As the name suggests, load combinations are the combinations (or grouping) of primary load
cases used for the analysis and design of a tower. The cells represent the factors to be added
with the primary load cases, depending upon the rules of the TIA Standards.

Each row in a table represents the ID for a different load combination.

• Index - The first column indicates the index of the load combination.
• toggle - Select the checkboxes of the combination which you want to use.
• Load Type columns - Primary Load cases are assigned a load type, each of which is
represented by a separate column in the load combination tables. Enter the load
combination factor for a given load type in the cell.

Tip: The cell with zero values appears in white color whereas nonzero values are shown as
numbers.
Tip: Negative load factors may be used to reverse load direction.

Fig 50: Load Combination Parameter Tab

 Parameter Description
D Dead Load of the structure and appurtenances.
Dg Dead load of guys.
Di Dead load of ice weight on the structure and appurtenances.
E Earthquake load
Ti Temperature load (for guy towers)
Wo Wind without ice
Wi Wind with ice
Ws Wind with service

Existing Structure
The existing Structures tab allows you to consider an appropriate reduction to the wind load
and allows you to change the passing rating. You can also select the option “Divide Demand-
Capacity Ratios by 1.05” to see the changes in the reporting. The load modification group is
available for TIA 222 H code only.

Fig 51: Existing Structure Tab

Seismic Definition
OpenTower can perform seismic analysis by automatically generating seismic load cases and
then performing advanced Eigen solution during analysis. This section describes the different
parameters that are required and can be edited for the generation of seismic loadings.

Create a Seismic Definition

To create a Seismic definition, right-click on the Seismic Definition leaf, under Loading
definition. Click on Create New Seismic Definition as shown in Fig.52. Seismic definition Page
has three tabs, building code, standards, and seismic parameters.

Building Code

In this tab you must select the building code from the combo box, the options are The options
are ASCE 7-10 and TIA-222-H. Depending upon the selection of the code, the fields in the next
tab will be updated.

Standards

The general information is provided under the standard tab.

Parameter Description
Method The selected method for load generation. The default option
is the Equivalent Lateral Force Procedure. If you have
selected TIA-222-H code in the Building Code tab, another
option gets added, i.e. TIA-222-H Lateral Force Procedure.
You can choose from these two options.
Name The unique name associated with the seismic definition.
State The state where the tower is located.
Country The country where the tower is located.
City The city where the tower is located.
Latitude The application automatically converts the latitude to a
decimal format (instead of degrees, minutes, and seconds).
This is used to determine the site seismology parameters.
 Longitude The application automatically converts the longitude to a
decimal format (instead of degrees, minutes, and seconds).
This is used to determine the site seismology parameters.

Jurisdiction This is used for output and for documentation purposes

only.

Seismic Parameters

Structure category information is provided in the seismic Parameters tab.

Parameter Description
Risk Category It determines the Importance Factor. You must select from
the options given from One to Five.
Importance Factor This is auto-populated as per the input provided for Risk
Category.
Response Modification Factor You must provide the response modification factor.
Site Class It is to define the site soil type. You must choose from the
options provided under the dropdown as shown in Fig. 53.
Available options are dependent on the selected building
code. For TIA-222-H, an additional option is added, which is
Stiff Soil (Determined).

SS This is spectral response acceleration for the shorter period.

You can click to “Fetch Ss, S1 anf TL from”and the data will
be auto-populated based on the “Latitude” and “Longitude”
from the USGS website or can input manually.

S1 This is spectral response acceleration for a 1-sec period.

You can click to “Fetch Ss, S1 anf TL from”and the data will
be auto-populated based on the “Latitude” and “Longitude”
from the USGS website or can input manually.
TL This is the long period transition in seconds. You can click to
“Fetch Ss, S1 anf TL from”and the data will be auto-
populated based on the “Latitude” and “Longitude” from
the USGS website or can input manually.

Fundamental Period Method This input is specific to the TIA-222-H code. Users must
choose from one of the two available options, Rayleigh
Method and user specified method.
 Amplification Factor (As) The amplification factor input is specific to the TIA-222-H code.
The default value is 1.

Once the Load Definition is defined and saved, the load definition will be added in the tower
model explorer under the seismic definition category as shown below.

Fig 52: seismic definition creation

If you double-click on the definition, the load definition dialog box will open for editing.
Add the inputs for the Standard tab
Fig 53: Seismic Definition Seismic Parameters Page(left side shows the TIA-222-H seismic code and
the right side ASCE 7-10 seismic code)

The compatibility of the wind definition type and seismic definition type is checked while
creating a scenario. (For e.g. A scenario can’t be saved with wind definition of type TIA-222-G
and Seismic definition Type of TIA-222-H)
 7 Appurtenances
This section allows the user to create discrete and linear appurtenances on a tower to be used
for analysis. Discrete and linear appurtenances have separate user interfaces as input and
properties vastly differ. To create the appurtenances, users must add the appurtenance group
by right-clicking on Appurtenances and clicking Add Group. as shown in Fig.54.

Fig 54: Appurtenances

Appurtenance Group
Multiple appurtenance groups can be defined to be used for multiple scenario analysis. You can
create a new group from scratch or can copy data from an existing group. Once saved, the
appurtenance group will be created and added under the “Appurtenances” group as shown in
Fig. 55.
 Appurtenance Group

Fig 55: Appurtenance Group Created

Discrete Appurtenance
The discrete appurtenance user interface consists of four tabs, Mount Level Summary, Level
Details, Miscellaneous, and Output Summary as shown in the picture below. All these four pages
are described in detail in the following sections.

Fig 56: Discrete Appurtenance UI Mount Level Summary Tab

Mount Level Summary

This interface contains an overview of all the mount levels. It allows you to add, delete, and edit
general mount level data. Copy and paste functions are available to quickly copy full lines or
fields to other areas where applicable. Right-click functions such as Add New Mount, Delete
New Mount, Copy Mount, and Paste Mount are also available. From the Mount Level Summary
window, you can access the Level Details window for an in-depth view of each elevation and the
loading associated with that elevation. Shown in Fig. 56(above).

Elevation Provide the Elevation from the base of the tower to

the centerline of the mount.

Mount Type It is a dropdown list which contains all the Mount

types with the options as shown in Fig.57

Manufacturer Select the manufacturer name from the dropdown.

All the manufactures from different databases are
listed under this column.

Model Once the mount manufacturer is selected, model

names will be populated. You can select an
appropriate model using the dropdown list.
Quantity The default value of 1 will be added for each
mount. Changing the quantity will adjust the
number of rows that are displayed for that
elevation.
Location It is a dropdown list, where you can select from
different tower legs or tower faces that mount will
be attached to.

Carrier Carrier information is populated based on

appurtenance information in the Level Details
window and for informational purposes only. This
information cannot be altered from this window.

Load case Classification You can select the classification from one of the
listed options as shown below.

Horizontal Offset (ft) Provide the horizontal offset. The horizontal offset
is the clear distance between the mount and the
towerlocation (Leg/face) reference.

Mount Width (ft) Overall width of a mount that the appurtenances

are attached. It is normally auto-populated from
the mount database. Pipe mounts, most stand offs,
and “none” models will not populate a width per
mount database.
Stand-Off Distance (ft) The horizontal distance from the mount face
relative to the leg or face on the tower that the
mount is attached.

Mount Azimuth It is the relative angle from the leg or face the
mount attached.
Face Rotation (Degree) Face rotation is applicable for T- Arms. The arm
rotation is described as the angle at which the
width of the mount is rotated, on which the mount
pipes are attached. The default value is 0 degrees,
 which is perpendicular to the supporting mount
members (mount azimuth).

Ka Ka is the shielding factor applied to appurtenance

effective projected areas to account for the
shielding of the tower by discrete appurtenances.
The default is set to Autocalc ON (ono-edited
mode) and the value of the Ka factor is auto
calculated based on the selected standard. User
can right click on the Ka cell to change to setting to
Autocalc OFF to define any other value. This factor
does not apply to TIA-222-F.

Fig 57: Mount Types

The Add Mount function inserts a new line at the bottom of the Mount Level Summary table.
You fill out the information and based on what elevation is added, the table will be redrawn to
position the row to its correct elevation order. This option is available by right-clicking on the
table.

The Delete Mount will delete the row that is currently selected or multiple rows if multiple
rows are highlighted. This option is also available by right-clicking on the table. Any
appurtenances on the level details tab associated with this mount will also be deleted. A dialog
box will warn that deleting the mount will delete associated appurtenances on the level details
tab.

The Copy Mount will copy the existing selected row. This option is also available by right-
clicking on the table. Paste Mount will paste the copied mount in the new row or existing row.
 Fig 58: Right Click Operation

Once you add all the input, click Apply mount, to apply the changes, which will populate the
required data in the Level Details Page.

Quick Editor

The discrete and miscellaneous loading quick editor is a quick and easy way to view the data in
a single table and update the data in multiple cells with a drag and drop operation. To view the
quick editor, you must press the Quick Editor button at the bottom left in the discrete
appurtenance page as shown in Fig. 56.

Fig 59: Quick Editor- Discrete Loading Page

The Radio button, Discrete and Miscellaneous, as shown in Fig.59, switches between the
Discrete Quick Editor and Miscellaneous Quick Editor. To copy the data from one cell to
multiple cells in a single column, the user must drag the selected cell while pressing CTRL. The
data will be updated in the subsequent cells automatically. To delete any data from a cell, select
the cell and press Delete.

Fig.59 shows the Discrete Loading Quick editor, where the table comprises of the Mount level
summary properties and Level Details Page properties.
For parameters like Ka, where the default value is auto, if a user updates it with a new value, the
cell will automatically be turned into green color to show the updated cell as shown in the
Fig.59. If you revert the change to auto, the cell will be unhighlighted.

Hide Mount Related Columns checkbox, gives you an option to hide/unhide the Mount related
properties, that cannot be edited and shown as grayed cells.

Fig 60: Quick Editor- Miscellaneous Loading Page

Fig.60 shows the Miscellaneous Loading Quick editor, where the table comprises of the
Miscellaneous loading properties.

You can also filter the data of each column by clicking the filter icon , shown beside each
column name.

The grey cells are non-editable.

Once the user adds /updates the data in the tables, to apply the changes, a user must click Apply
and OK button. The changes will be reflected in the Discrete Appurtenance UI.

Level Details
Level Details user interface allows you to add, delete, and edit data for all appurtenances on the
tower. Copy and paste functions are available for quick copying of full lines or fields to other
areas where applicable.

The All Mounts Identical option allows you to apply symmetric loading on an elevation.

Right-click functions pop up the image as shown below. It allows you to add, delete, copy, paste
mount pipes and appurtenances. The Add Appurtenance and Add Multiple Appurtenance
allows users to insert one row or multiple rows respectively; selecting multiple rows prompts a
dialog box to input the number of rows to be added. The Delete Appurtenance deletes the
current row that is selected or will delete multiple rows if multiple rows were selected. A
dialog box will display to confirm your choice. Copy Appurtenance copies the selected row and
Paste Appurtenance pastes it to the existing or new row.

Fig 61: Discrete Appurtenance Dialog Level Details Tab

Manufacturer Select the manufacturer from the list of available

manufacturers. All the manufactures from different catalogs
are listed under this column.

Model Once the manufacturer is selected, the corresponding model

names will be populated. You can select an appropriate
model name from the dropdown list.
Type This field provides the information about the antenna type
and is auto-populated from the database based on the
manufacturer and model selected.
Carrier The carrier for that appurtenances
Classification You can select classifications for loading such as Existing,
Proposed, Reserved, To Be Removed, Other, and Suppressed
The application generate the loads and report the discrete
appurtenances based on the selected classifications for the
scenario.
Pipe Mount Type The pipe mount type can be selected from the drown list.
The selected pipe will be shown in the graphics and loads
will be generated. Default option is “None”.
Pipe Mount Length (ft) The length of the mount pipe. It is adjustable and used by
the program to calculate area and weight.
Pipe Mount Vertical Offset It is an offset to the pipe mount vertically from the
(ft) centerline of the mount. The default value is 0 ft and it can
have both positive and negative values.
Horizontal Clear Distance The horizontal offset for an appurtenance is relative clear
(ft) distance between the face of the mount and the back of the
antenna in case of pipe mount type “None”. If pipe mount
type is defined then it’s a clear distance between the face of
the mount and the back of the mount pipe. The default
horizontal offset is 0 ft.
Lateral Offset (ft) The lateral offset of a pipe mount is the lateral distance,
across the face of the mount, to the pipe mount from the
center of the mount. The appurtenance’s lateral offset is
relative to the center of the mount face. The default value of
lateral offset is 0 ft.

Vertical Offset (ft) The vertical offset of an appurtenance is the vertical

distance from the center elevation of the mount.
Orientation It represents the orientation of the appurtenance on the
mount. The orientation options that can be chosen are: a,b;
a,c; b,a; b,c; c,a; c,b. The first letter represents the height of
the antenna and second letter represents the width of the
antenna. The default orientation is a,b for all the
appurtenances and is mostly used for mounting the correct
orientation for tower mouned amplifiers or RRU’s or
diplexers etc. This can be explained with the below image.
 Relative Azimuth (Deg) The azimuth for an appurtenance is relative to the
perpendicular to the location (face or leg) of the mount that
it is attached.
Absolute Azimuth (Deg) The absolute azimuth of an appurtenance is relative to true
north. This field cannot be edites and is auto-calculated
based on the relative azimuth of appurtenance and the
bearing of the tower.
Ka Ka is the shielding factor applied to appurtenance effective
projected areas to account for the shielding of the tower by
discrete appurtenances. The default is set to Autocalc ON
(ono-edited mode) and the value of the Ka factor is auto
calculated based on the selected standard. User can right
click on the Ka cell to change to setting to Autocalc OFF to
define any other value. This factor does not apply to TIA-
222-F.
Ks Front This is applied to the area of appurtenances to account for
the shielding effects from one appurtenance to another from
the front.
Ks Side This is applied to the area of appurtenances to account for
the shielding effects from one appurtenance to another from
the side.
App No The application number is for reference only and has no
impact on the calculations for wind load generation and
analysis.

Once you add all the input, click on the Apply button to apply the changes.

Miscellaneous
The Miscellaneous section of the Discrete Appurtenance user interface works the same way as
the Level Details information. The miscellaneous information is not connected with the mounts
in the mount level summary, but pipe mounts can be defined if necessary. The miscellaneous
appurtenance can be defined at various locations such as Legs, Faces and/or centroid. The
centroid location will distribute the loads to all the legs of the tower.

Fig 62: Discrete Appurtenance Dialog Miscellaneous Tab

Once the user adds all the input, click on the Apply button to apply the changes.

Output Summary
This is a read-only table where you will see the list of all the appurtenances from the level
details tab aligned with the elevation sequence. In this window, you can sort information by
elevation, manufacturer, model, type, carrier, classification, or location (leg/face). You can sort
by individual columns or by multiple columns using a hierarchal method.

Fig 63: Discrete Appurtenance Dialog Output Summary tab

After all the inputs are added in the relevant tab, click Save, to save the discrete appurtenance
changes. The appurtenance will be added in the Tower Model Explorer under the Appurtenance
Group and Discrete leaf as shown in Fig. 64.
 Fig 64: Discrete Appurtenance got Added in the Navigation Tree

Linear Appurtenance
The Linear Appurtenance user-interface allows you to define linear appurtenances on towers to
be considered for scenario analysis. It consists of two tables, Linear Attachments and Linear
Appurtenances. These two tables are linked together and the workflow is defined to reflect the
industry practice. Feedlines on lattice towers are usually attached to feedline ladders,
waveguide brackets, t-brackets and banjo brackets, and all these attachments may contain the
feedlines of different sizes and with different start and end elevations.

The Linear Attachments table allows you to select an attachment type and position using
lateral and horizontal offset. If no attachment exists, you can simply model the feedlines
attached directly to the tower by defining the attachment as “None”.

The Linear Appurtenances table allows the user to defined the feedlines (round or elliptical or
flat) from in built catalogs or UPT. Each feedline is refer to the attachment. The quantity of
feeddlines and its start and end elevation is also define in the linear appurtenance table.
 Fig 65: Linear Appurtenance dialog

Linear Attachment Table

Attachment ID This is an automatically generated unique ID starting from 1.

If an attachment in this table is deleted, all appurtenances
assigned to that attachment in the Linear Appurtenances
Table are also deleted.
Attachment This input contains a list of all the available attachments
from the linear attachment database and from UPT
database.
Attachment Spacing (ft) The spacing refers to the center-to-center vertical spacing.
This column is only applicable to interval attachments such
as waveguide brackets, t-brackets and banjo brackets. The
default value fo attachment spacing is 3.333 ft. This option is
inactive for continuous attachments such as feedline
ladders, climbing ladders, conduits etc.
Bottom Elevation (ft) This is the bottom elevation of the attachment. This input
has a default value of 0 ft.
Top Elevation (ft) This is the top elevation of an attachment or attachment
section.
Location It is a drop-down optiona and the user can select the
attachment location on the tower. There are mostly two
options either from Leg or Face of the tower. For a 3-sided
lattice tower and monopole, the options for location are Leg
A, Leg B, Leg C, Face A, Face B, and Face C. For a 4-sided
lattice tower, the options are Leg A, Leg B, Leg C, Leg D, Face
A, Face B, Face C, and Face D.
Lateral Offset (Fraction of This input is only active for attachments located on faces of
Face) the tower structure. With this option, user can locate the
attachments along the face width of the tower. The range is
from -0.5 to 0.5 where negative values are counterclockwise
and positive values are clockwise from the center of the face.
The 0 value refers to the attachment located at the center of
the face along the height of the tower.
Lateral Offset from Leg This input is only active when you select a leg location. This
is used to specify the lateral location of an attachment that’s
connected to a leg.
Horizontal Offset (in) This input specifies the attachment’s standoff distance from
the face. It is only active for attachments that connect to a
face. The value can be both negative and positive. Negative
value means the attachment is inside the tower face and
positive value implies it’s outside the face. The default value
is 0 inches..
Attachment Azimuth (Deg) This option is for interval attachments such as t-brackets or
banjo brackets. There are two options either 0 or 180 deg, 0
deg if attachments are facing inside the tower from the leg
and 180 deg facing outside the tower from the leg.
Load Case Classification You can select classifications for loading such as Existing,
Proposed, Reserved, To Be Removed, Other, and
Suppressed. The application generate the loads and report
the linear appurtenances based on the selected
classifications for the scenario.
 App The application number is for reference only and has no
impact on the calculations for wind load generation and
analysis.
KS Factor This input is applied to the area of appurtenances to account
for the shielding effects from one appurtenance to another.
There are other features implemented to the table for the user to add, delete, copy, and paste
the data to different rows. Right-clicking on a row will open a menu with the following options:

Add Attachment – It adds a new line for you to enter data for a new attachment.

Add Multiple Attachments – It allows the user to enter multiple rows of appurtenances.
Clicking this option, opens another dialox box to input the required number of rows.

Delete Attachment – It deletes the selected attachment row from the table.

Add Section – It allows flexibility to split the attachment location along the height and taper of
the tower

Delete Section – It deletes the selected section under the selected attachment.

Copy Attachment – It allows the user to copy the entire row of the attachment and enbales the
paste attachment option in the right click menu.

Paste Attachment – It will paste the the copied data into the selected row.

Linear Appurtenance Table

Once an attachment ID is defined within the Linear Attachment table, you can assign feedlines
to that attachment in the Linear Appurtenance table as shown in Fig. 65(above). This section
allows you to assign an appurtenance to an attachment.

Right-clicking on a row will open a menu with the following options,

Insert Row- Adds a new row for you to manually enter feedline data.

Delete Row – Deletes the selected feedline data.

Insert Sub row / Delete Sub row - Allows an alternative method to re-stacking feedlines and
allows quantity change.

Appurtenance ID This is an automatically generated unique ID starting from 1.

Select Attachment This is a drop-down list that includes list of linear
attachments define in the linear attachment table. This
input allows you to assign a given appurtenance to an
attachment group. The default is a blank cell. All
appurtenances are assigned to an attachment ID. Each time
a new attachment is defined in the Linear Attachments table,
its attachment ID gets added to the Attachment ID list after
clicking apply.
Manufacturer Once the manufacturer is selected, the corresponding model
names will be populated. You can select an appropriate
manufacturer name from the dropdown list.
Model This drop-down list contains the list of all the models under
the manufacturer.
Quantity This input is the number of feedlines in the group or in the
feedline row.
Bottom Elevation (ft) This is the bottom elevation of the feedlines.
Top Elevation (ft) This is the top elevation of feedlines.
Load Case Classification You can select classifications for loading such as Existing,
Proposed, Reserved, To Be Removed, Other, and
Suppressed. The application generate the loads and report
the linear appurtenances based on the selected
classifications for the scenario.

App The application number is for reference only and has no

impact on the calculations for wind load generation and
analysis.
FeedLine Tool
This feature allow users to model and arrange the feedlines on the attachments very precisely. The
feedline tool is a graphical tool with built-in CAD features such as move the feedlines right, left, up
and down and zoom to an extent to place the smallest feedline to an accuracy.

Fig 66: FeedLine Tool

Classification You can choose which feedlines are displayed in the Main
Model Configuration by checking/unchecking the
classification (treating each feedline classification as a
layer).
Attachment ID Select an Attachment ID to display the feedlines that are
associated with the attachment. This drop-down menu
contains all the attachment IDs with checked
classifications in the classification tab.
Feedline Data This shows the feedlines that are associated with the
selected attachment ID. The five parameters shown are
Appurtenance ID, (No of Lines), Nominal Size, Start-
Elevation, and Classification.

Feedline Layout In this section, user can see the linear appurtenance width
and depth information for the reference. The
 appurtenance rotation option is for the elliptical /
rectangular feedlines with option of 0 and 90 deg. The 0
deg is the default and 90 degree will rotate the feedline in
such a way that the appurtenance width and depth will
swap at the tool level. The number per row will auto aling
the feedlines in the stack configuration. The column and
row spacing will change the grid spacing both in stack and
attachment configuration.

Stack Configuration This section displays feedlines after they have been
selected from the ‘Feedline Data’ section. When
adjustments are made in the ‘Feedline Layout’ section, the
stack configuration image will update based on those
changes.
Select Feedlines Right-clicking on the Stack Configuration grid allows
further flexibility in re-positioning feedlines by using the
, , and arrows.
Select All By right-clicking in the ‘Stack Configuration’ grid, all
feedlines can be selected.
Apply to Attachment After you choose ‘Select All’, right-click in the Stack
Config Configuration grid to “Apply to Attachment Config”. The
feedlines will be transferred to the “Attachment
Configuration” grid as they appeared in the “Stack
Configuration” grid.

Attachment Configuration In the Attachment Configuration Grid, you can re-position

lines by choosing ‘Select Feedlines’ to move individual
lines or ‘Select All’ and utilizing the , , and
arrows.
Grid Layout Adjustments can be made to the Row and Column offsets
to model lines more accurately.
Apply Model Click on the Apply Model button to apply the attachment
configuration to the main model configuration.
Main Model Configuration This section displays the exact linear appurtenance
placement as it will appear in the model.
Elevation Enter an elevation to view the linear appurtenance
configuration at various tower levels.
View Cluster Click the View Cluster button to view clusters of feedlines
recognized by the program. The program will cluster lines
based on line spacing, not limiting clustering to line size or
elevation.
For monopole tower the feedline tool interface is shown as below

Fig 66a: Monopole with circular Gridline.

Appurtenance Configuration

Fig 67: Appurtenance Configuration

After creating the appurtenance group, the appurtenance configuration needs to be defined to
consider into the scenario. Multiple appurtenance configurations can be created. Right-click on
the Appurtenance configuration and then click Add configuration, the configuration definition
dialog opens. In this dialog, you have to specify a name for the configuration and have to choose
classifications from the list shown in Fig.67.
 8 Foundation Definition
Foundation Definition helps you to design different types of foundations of a Tower. The types
of foundation that can be used are Isolated Footing (also known as Pad and Pier), MAT
Foundation, Drilled Pier Foundation, and Guy Anchor Foundation. All the foundations will be
designed for all appropriate load combinations for the current scenario. The different
foundation types are added under the Foundation Definition leaf as shown in the image below.

In the case of multiple scenarios, the definition of foundation parameters is independent of a

scenario definition. The same input data is applicable to all the scenarios.

Isolated/MAT Footing Foundation

The Isolated/Mat Footing Wizard is a step-by-step process to define a set of design parameters
for isolated/Mat footing. You must double-click the Isolated/Mat Footing Foundation from
the Tower Model Explorer. The wizard appears with auto-populated default values. You must
review and edit the design parameters of each tab before saving the definition. The five input
tabs for isolated/Mat Footings are described as below.

Isolated Footing Definition

In this tab, you assign the foundation definition to specific tower legs, that are listed in the
Assign Legs field, by checking the checkbox beside the desired leg names. To select all the legs,
the user can either choose, Select All which automatically select all the tower legs or can click
on the individual checkboxes beside the Leg Name. To deselect All the selection, click the
Deselect All radio button.
To create a MAT foundation, you must check the checkbox Create MAT Foundation. This will
automatically select all the legs in the Assign Leg group and a user cannot select individual legs
to be assigned for this foundation. For deselecting the legs, you must uncheck the Create MAT
Foundation checkbox, or click the Deselect All radio button. Create MAT foundation checkbox is
only enabled for Self-Supported Towers.

To create an Isolated Foundation, you must uncheck the Create Mat Foundation checkbox. By
default, the checkbox is unchecked.

For applying the changes, you need to click the Apply button. Only one isolated/Mat footing
definition is permitted for a given work order.

Fig 68: Isolated/Mat Footing Definition

Soil Parameters
This page is used to input all the soil properties and soil type.
 Fig 69: Soil Parameters

Parameter Description
Unit Weight of Soil Specify a density to be used for the soil for the selected unit.
The unit can be selected from the unit combo box adjacent
to this field.
Bearing Capacity Type You must select from one of the available options which are
“Ultimate Gross Bearing Capacity” or “Ultimate Net Bearing
Capacity”.
Bearing Distribution You must choose either Plastic or Elastic option.
Bearing Capacity Specify the allowable bearing capacity of the soil for the
selected unit. The unit can be selected from the unit combo
box adjacent to this field.
Foundation Depth Specify the depth of the foundation in the selected units.
The unit can be selected from the unit combo box adjacent
to this field.
 Neglected Depth Specify the Neglected depth (or frost depth) of the
foundation in the selected unit. The unit can be selected
from the unit combo box adjacent to this field.
Cohesion For footings in a drained condition, specify a cohesion
pressure in the selected unit. The unit can be selected from
the unit combo box adjacent to this field.

Friction Angle Specify the angle of friction in degree.

Soil Type Select the type of soil supporting the foundation. The
options are:
Cohesive, Cohesionless, and Silty.
Depth of Water Table Specify the depth from the soil surface to the water table in
the selected unit. The unit can be selected from the unit
combo box adjacent to this field.
Coefficient of Friction Specify a coefficient value of friction between the soil and
concrete in the selected units. The unit can be selected from
the unit combo box adjacent to this field. If this field is left
as blank, the application automatically calculates the
friction coefficient.
Blow Count Specify the blow count per feet.

Footing Properties
This page is used to input geometry parameters used in the foundation design.
 Fig 70: Footing Properties

Parameter Description
Footing Length Specify the length to be used for the footing design in
selected unit. The unit can be selected from the unit
combo box adjacent to this field.
Footing Height Specify the height to be used for the footing design in
selected unit. The unit can be selected from the unit
combo box adjacent to this field.
Footing Cover Specify a concrete clear cover distance to be used for the
bottom-most layer of the footing reinforcement in the
selected units. The unit can be selected from the unit
combo box adjacent to this field.
Top Rebar Size Select the allowed reinforcing top bar sizes to be used in
the design. Sizes listed correspond to the appropriate bar
sizes used in the Design Code.
Bottom Rebar Size Select the minimum and maximum allowed reinforcing
bar sizes to be used in the design. Sizes listed correspond
 to the appropriate bar sizes used in the selected Design
Code.
Top Rebar Count Specify the top rebar count.

Bottom Rebar Count Specify the bottom rebar count.

Pedestal Properties
This page is used to input pedestal geometry parameters used in the foundation design.

Parameter Description
Consider Pedestal Select from “Yes” or “No” options, to specify whether to
consider pedestal or not.
Pedestal Shape Select the pedestal shape, either from “Square” or
“Circular”.
Pedestal Length/ Dia Specify the length of the pedestal in case of a square
pedestal shape or diameter for a circular pedestal shape in
the selected unit. The unit can be selected from the unit
combo box adjacent to this field.
Pedestal Height Specify the pedestal height to be used for the footing
design in selected unit. The unit can be selected from the
unit combo box adjacent to this field.
Pedestal Cover Specify the pedestal cover to be used for the footing design
in selected unit. The unit can be selected from the unit
combo box adjacent to this field.
Longitudinal Rebar Size Select the longitudinal reinforcing bar size to be used for
capacity calculation. Sizes listed correspond to the
appropriate bar sizes used in the Design Code
Longitudinal Rebar Count Specify the rebar count.

Tie Size Select the tie size to be used for capacity calculation. Sizes
listed correspond to the appropriate tie sizes used in the
Design Code
Tie Count Specify the tie count.

Superimposed Axial Load or The radio button with the two options Superimposed Axial
Pure Bending load or Pure bending help the user to select the design
intent of the pedestal.
Anchor Bolt Circle This input field is enabled if the user selects Pure Bending
or if the user selects Superimposed Axial Load along with
 consider pedestal as “No”. Specify the anchor bolt
diameter, when it is enabled.
Centroid Offset (for MAT) This input field is considered only for MAT foundation
when you select the Create MAT foundation Checkbox in
the Footing Definition Page. Specify the tower centroid
offset from the foundation centroid. The unit can be
selected from the unit combo box adjacent to this field.

Fig 71: Pedestal Properties

Material Properties
This page is used to input material properties.

Parameter Description
Steel Grade Specify the strength of steel reinforcing bars, in specified
units. The unit can be selected from the unit combo box
adjacent to this field.
Concrete Grade Specify the ultimate strength of the concrete in the
selected unit. The unit can be selected from the unit
combo box adjacent to this field.
Concrete Density Specify concrete density in the selected unit. The unit can
be selected from the unit combo box adjacent to this field.

Fig 72: Material Properties

Drilled Pier Foundation
The Drilled Pier Footing Wizard is a step-by-step process to define a set of design parameters to
be used for designing a drilled pier foundation. You must right-click on the Drilled Pier
Foundation leaf from the Tower Model Explorer navigation tree to create a new definition. The
wizard appears with auto-populated default values. You must select all the tabs and review all
the parameters before clicking on Save to complete the wizard and create a new definition for a
drilled pier foundation. The four input tabs for a Drilled Pier foundation are as described below.

Fig 73: Create New Drilled Pier Foundation

Drilled Pier Definition

In this tab, a user assigns the foundation definition to specific tower legs, that are listed in the
Assign Legs field, by checking the checkbox beside the desired leg names. To select all the legs,
the user can either choose, Select All which automatically select all the tower legs or can click
on the individual checkboxes beside the Leg Name. To deselect All the selection, click the
Deselect All radio button. For applying the changes, the user needs to click the Apply button.
You can create multiple drilled pier definitions in a single work order. Once created, if you
double-click on the definition name, the wizard automatically opens for editing.
 Fig 74: Drilled Pier Definition Page

For a guyed tower, the drilled pier definition page adds another section for anchor selection
apart from the leg selection.

The Anchor group list the groups that are already defined.

Anchor Guy lists all the anchors assigned to the selected anchor group. To select a particulate
anchor, you must click the corresponding checkbox. To select all anchors, you can simply click
on the Select All radio button. To deselect all the selection, you can choose Deselect All. To
apply the changes, click on the Apply button. Drilled Pier Definition ID is a unique name that
will be saved and viewed in the Tower Model Explorer.
 Fig 75: Drilled Pier Definition page for Guyed Tower

Soil Parameters
This page is used to input all the soil properties and soil type.
 Fig 76: Soil Parameters Page

Parameter Description
Depth of Water Table (ft) Specify the water table depth measured from the Ground
Elevation
Layer No This field is not editable, and auto incremental.
Soil Type Select the soil type that best describes the layer. Options
are Cohesive, Cohesionless, and Silty.
Depth of Layer (ft) Depth for each soil layer is measured from Ground
Elevation
Density (kcf) Specify soil density for the respective soil layer.
Friction Angle (Deg) Specify the Effective Friction Angle
Cohesion (ksf) Undrained shear strength of cohesive soil.
Ultimate Skin Friction (ksf) Specify skin friction. If you leave this field blank, the
program will automatically calculate Skin friction.
Ultimate Skin Friction Uplift (ksf) Specify ultimate skin friction for uplift. If you leave this
field blank, the program will automatically calculate
ultimate skin friction for uplift.
Ultimate End Bearing Pressure Specify ultimate end bearing pressure at the bottom of a
(ksf) layer
N (Blows/ft) Specify the blow count
Expansive Soil Force Specify the extra soil force exerted due to expansive soil
condition

Drilled Pier Properties

This Page is used to input drilled pier geometric properties and Reinforcing properties. It
consists of two tables, Pier Profile, and Rebar Cage List. The rebar cage table is dependent on
the pier profile table. It allows you to add and edit reinforcing related data of the corresponding
section, selected in the pier profile table. You can add multiple sections to the pier with different
diameters, depths, clear covers, and tie sizes. For a given geometric section, users can assign
multiple rebar cages to that section.
 Fig 77: Drilled Pier Properties page

Parameter Description
Pier Height Above Ground (ft) Specify pier height above ground level

Segment Length (ft) Specify the segment length of a pier section. A short
segment length used by the program to break up the pier
into many small segments to perform design calculations.
Section ID (Pier Profile) Auto incremental and non-editable unique ID of a section
Section Depth Specify the depth of the corresponding section
Diameter Specify the diameter of the corresponding section, the unit
can be selected from the diameter unit combo box.
Cover Specify side reinforcing cover, the unit can be selected
from the cover unit combo box.
 Tie Bar Size Select the reinforcing tie bar size to be used in the design.
Sizes listed correspond to the appropriate tie sizes used in
the Design Code
Section ID (Rebar Cage List) Auto incremental and a non-editable unique ID. This ID is
the selected ID of the pier profile table.
Rebar Cage ID Auto incremental and non-editable unique ID.
Rebar Cage Diameter Specify the diameter of the corresponding reinforcing
cage. The unit can be selected from the depth unit combo
list.
Rebar Size Select the reinforcing bar size for longitudinal
reinforcement. Sizes listed correspond to the appropriate
tie bar sizes used in the Design Code
Rebar Count Specify the rebar count.
To add a new row in pier profile table or in the rebar cage list, click “Click here”. It adds a new
pier profile or a new reinforcing property respectively. Rebar Cage diameter gets automatically
calculated based on the section diameter and other reinforcing properties. You are not allowed
to update the calculated Rebar Cage Diameter.

Apply Changes to Rebar Button is used to apply changes users made in the rebar cage list
table.
Material Properties

Fig 78: Material Property Page

Parameter Description
Steel Grade Specify the strength of steel reinforcing bars, in specified
units. The unit can be selected from the unit combo box
adjacent to this field.
Concrete Grade Specify the ultimate strength of the concrete in the
selected unit. The unit can be selected from the unit
combo box adjacent to this field.
Concrete Density Specify a density to be used for concrete in the selected
unit. The unit can be selected from the unit combo box
adjacent to this field.

Guy Anchor Foundation

The Guy Anchor Foundation is available only for guyed towers. This wizard is a step-by-step
process to define a set of design parameters for a guy anchor foundation design. You must right-
click on the Guy Anchor Foundation leaf from the Tower Model Explorer navigation tree, to
create a new definition. The wizard appears with auto-populated default values. Select each tab
and review all design parameters before clicking the Save button. Multiple guy anchor
foundations can be defined for a given Work Order. The four input tabs for a Guy anchor
foundation are described as below.
 Fig 79: Create New Guy Anchor Foundation

Guy Anchor Definition

In this tab, you assign the foundation definition to specific tower legs, that are listed in the
Assign Legs field, by checking the checkbox beside the desired leg names. To select all the legs,
the user can either choose, Select All which automatically select all the tower legs or can click
on the individual checkboxes beside the Leg Name. To deselect All the selection, click the
Deselect All radio button. For applying the changes, the user needs to click the Apply button.
You can create multiple guy anchor definiti ons in a single work order. To edit design
parameters, the user can double click on the definition name. Anchor Guy Definition ID is the
unique name that will be saved and viewed in the Tower Model Explorer.
 Fig 80: Guy Anchor Definition Page

Soil Parameters
This page is used to input all the soil parameters for guy anchor foundations. Multiple soil
layers can be defined using a table, with each row representing a different layer of soil.
 Fig 81: Soil Parameter Page

Parameter Description
Depth to Bottom of Anchor Specify the depth of the bottom of the anchor block in
specified units. The unit can be selected from the unit
combo box adjacent to this field.
Neglect Depth Specify the neglected (or frost) depth in the selected unit.
The unit can be selected from the unit combo box adjacent
to this field.
Depth of Water Table Specify the depth of the top of the water table, measured
from Ground Elevation in the selected unit. The unit can
be selected from the unit combo box adjacent to this field.
Layer This field is non-editable, and auto incremental.
Soil Type Select the type that best describes the contents of the
selected layer
Depth of Bottom Layer (ft) Specify the bottom depth of each soil layer, measured from
Ground Elevation
Soil Unit Weight (kcf) Specify the unit weight of soil for the corresponding soil
layer
Friction Angle (Deg) Specify Effective Friction Angle for the corresponding soil
layer
Cohesion (kcf) The undrained shear strength of the respective soil layer.
 Ultimate Skin Friction (ksf) Specify the ultimate skin friction of the respective soil
layer. The application will automatically calculate this
value if the field is left blank.
N (Blows/ft) Specify the blow count of the respective soil layer.

Guy Anchor Properties

This page is used to input all the geometrical properties of a guy anchor foundation.

Fig 82: Guy Anchor Properties Page

Parameter Description
Footing Width Specify the width of the anchor block to be used for
design, in selected units. The unit can be selected from the
unit combo box adjacent to this field.
Footing Height Specify the height of the anchor block to be used for
design, in selected units. The unit can be selected from the
unit combo box adjacent to this field.
Footing Length Specify the length of the anchor block to be used for
design, in selected units. The unit can be selected from the
unit combo box adjacent to this field.
Toe Dimension Specify the toe dimension, in selected units. The unit can
be selected from the unit combo box adjacent to this field.
Quantity Specify the number of anchor rods

Diameter Specify the diameter of each anchor rod in the selected

unit. The unit can be selected from the unit combo box
adjacent to this field.
Area Override This is an optional input to override the total anchor rod
area. The application automatically calculates area based
on diameter and quantity if the field is left blank.
Rebar Size Select reinforcing rebar size to be used in the design. Sizes
listed correspond to the appropriate bar sizes used in the
Design Code.
Top Rebar Count Specify the number of reinforcing bars at the top of the
footing.
Front Face Rebar Count Specify the number of reinforcing bars at the front face.
Clear Cover Specify a concrete clear cover distance to be used for the
bottom-most layer of footing reinforcement in the selected
unit. The unit can be selected from the unit combo box
adjacent to this field.
Quantity Specify the quantity.
Diameter Specify the diameter in selected units. The unit can be
selected from the unit combo box adjacent to this field.
Area Override Specify area override in selected units. The unit can be
selected from the unit combo box adjacent to this field. If
you leave this field empty, the application will
automatically calculate the area override.
Material Properties

Fig 83: Material Property Page

Parameter Description
Steel Grade Specify the strength of steel reinforcing bars, in specified
units. The unit can be selected from the unit combo box
adjacent to this field.
Concrete Grade Specify the ultimate strength of the concrete in the
selected unit. The unit can be selected from the unit
combo box adjacent to this field.
Concrete Density Specify a density to be used for concrete in the selected
unit. The unit can be selected from the unit combo box
adjacent to this field.
Anchor Shaft Grade Specify the grade of anchor shaft in the selected unit. The
unit can be selected from the unit combo box adjacent to
this field.
As foundation definitions are created, those are added within the foundation definition
navigation tree as shown in Fig. 84. After a successful completion of tower structural analysis,
the application will design foundations based on these definitions.
 Fig 84: Drilled Pier Foundation

Design Foundation and Foundation Output

To design foundation, a user must right click on the current scenario name and select
“Foundation Design”, to perform foundation design checks.
 Fig 85: Foundation Design

• Select Set Active to activate the scenario.

• Select Generate Load for designing load.
• Select Perform Analysis, to analyze the model.
• Select Foundation Design to start designing the foundation, defined.
• Once the foundation is designed successfully, a message will be shown in the Output
window, in the lower pane, Foundation Design Completed, Foundation Report
Added. It will automatically add a new menu in the popup shown below, Foundation
Output Report.

After successful completion of foundation design, the program will automatically add a new
item in the popup menu, called Foundation Output Report. To review the foundation design
output, you can click on the new menu item. It will bring up the foundation design output
window, which comprises all the output of different types of foundation defined for this model
in specific tabs as shown in Fig. 86, Fig. 87, Fig. 88 and Fig. 89.

Fig 86: Isolated Foundation Output Report

Fig 87: Anchor Guy Foundation Report
 Fig 88: Drilled Pier Foundation Report

Drilled pier foundation report, also shows Moment Diagrams for the critical load combination.
It draws moment diagrams along the depth of the pier and offers demand vs. capacity
comparison. As Anchor Guy and Drilled Pier foundations can have more than one definition,
reports are organized and listed under foundation ID. You can select the desired definition ID
from the combo box to view the corresponding output.
 Fig 89: MAT Foundation Report

MAT foundation report also shows Moment Diagram and Shear Diagram for critical load
combination.
 9 Scenario Analysis
Scenario definition is a unique setup, which enables engineers to perform multiple structural
analysis by combining different geometrc modification layers with hierarchy, appurtenance
group and configuration, and loading conditions. You must create a scenario to perform analysis
and then design checks.

Fig 90: Scenario

Parameter Description
Name Specify a scenario name, which is unique to this model.

Copy From You can copy an existing scenario from the list of
scenarios, or else can choose None.
 Modification Geometry Modifications are selected to be included in the tower
geometry or structural component. If none of the modification
is selected or checked, it will not be considered in the tower
geometry, i.e. in the case when a modification is not yet
installed or rendered ineffective. The modifications can be
adjusted/arranged with the up and down arrwos to define the
hierarchy. To edit a Modification layer, you need to De –
Activate the scenario first.

Appurtenance and Configuration Selecting the appurtenance group considers the loading
modeled for the analysis. The appurtenance configuration
is chosen based on the desired load combination to be
considered in the analysis.
Loading Criteria Select the wind and seismic definition to be used for
loading generation. In case, the user consider the different
standards for both wind and seismic then the application
provides the validation message for user to correct the
design standard. Ths same design standard will be used
for the member and connection design checks.

Operations on Scenario
Once you create a scenario, the different operations that can be performed on the scenario are
described below (Fig.91).

Operation Description
Set Active This operation will activate the selected scenario.

Options With this operation, you can choose different checking

conditions for the design, load generation, and analysis. A
dialog box will open once you click Options. (Fig. 92).
Generate Load Once you have activated the scenario, for designing load,
you must click Generate Load.
Perform Analysis After the load generation is completed, the output window
will show the message “Model is ready for the analysis”.
Right click on active scenario and click on perform
analysis will perform the required analysis per design
standard. After performing an analysis, you can view the
analysis result from the Results Tab.
Foundation Design To design foundations, click on Foundation design.
Foundation design will not be performed if the analysis
has not been performed on the active scenario.
Delete To delete the scenario, select the scenario and click delete.
In order to delete the active scenario, user need to de-
activate the scenario first before delete.
De-Activate Scenario To deactivate the active scenario, click De-Activate
scenario.
Fig 91: Scenario
 Fig 92: Options

Parameter Description
Consider Leg Moment This option is used to consider flexural and Interaction
checks for leg members.
Consider Diagonal Moment This option is used to consider flexural and Interaction
checks for Diagonal members.
Consider Horizontal Moment This option is used to consider for flexural and Interaction
checks for Horizontal members.
TIA – 222-G Minimum Bracing When checked, Minimum bracing resistance Pr = 1.5% Fs
Exemption 15.6. b will be used as per section 15.6. b.
Wind Loading Patterns This option is checked by default and the different wind
load pattern is auto generated to account the dynamic
effects of wind gusts as specified in TIA code.
 Consider TIA 4.9.7 Splice check This option is visible only for Guyed Tower. When
checked, Leg bolts will be checked in accordance with
Section 4.9.7 of TIA-222-G/H

The options group displays the different tower members in a tree view format on the right-
hand side and the graphics on the left-hand side (Fig.92). The member that is not checked or
selected in the tree view is considered in the load generation but not in the design. Once you
save these changes, the program will analyze and design the member depending upon the
selection.

Analysis
To view the analysis result, the user must perform analysis. Perform Analysis can be done by
right-clicking on the active scenario and select the perform analysis option. Once the analysis is
done, a message will appear “Analysis Successfully Completed”. The generated load cases,
analytical objects,and results including displacements, forces and reactions are populated and
can be viewed under the leaf Analysis, in Tower Model Explorer. (Shown in Fig. 93).
 Fig 93: Analysis

The Analysis section contains Load Cases, Analytical Objects and Results group under Structure
leaf of the activated scenario.

The Load Case section shows all the Primary Load Cases and Load Combinations. If you click on
the particular primary load case the property window on the right will show the wind pressure
profile and the table with pressure values along the height of the tower. Click on particular
value in the primary load case will show the detail information of the nodal load in the property
window (Shown in Fig.94).
 Fig 94: Primary Load Case

If you click on the particular Load combination leaf, the property window on the right will show
all the load cases which are used to create the load combination (Fig. 95). To check the different
Primary Load Cases or Load Combinations you can expand the respective leaf under Load
Cases.

The Analytical Object contains the Nodes and Members as child leaf. To view the Nodes of the
model, you must right-click and select Show Nodes from the pop-up menu to display the
Analytical Load Table in the Output Pane. (Fig. 96). To view the Members of the model, you
must right-click and select Show Members from the pop-up menu to display the Analytical
Member Table in the Output Pane. (Fig. 97).
Fig 95: Load Combination
 Fig 96: Analytical Load Table

Fig 97: Analytical Member Table

The Results section contains the following groups of results:

▪ Displacement Results
▪ Force Results
▪ Reaction Results

Analysis Results Description

Displacement The displacement results provide the node displacement
and the deflected profiles.
Node Displacement table can be seen by right-click on
“Node Displacements” and select “Show Node
Displacement Table” in the Output pane.

Deflected Profile group contains three different types of

deflected shapes
▪ Horizontal Deflection
▪ Tilt
▪ Twist
 To view a profile, click on that profile and the deflected
shape will be displayed in the property window on the
right side.
Force All output related to member forces are grouped into two
options
• Linear Members – contains several output tables
o Member End Forces – right click will show
member end force table in output window
o Section Forces - right click will show section
forces table in output window
o Section Displacement - right click will show
section displacement table in output window
o Member force Graphs – click on member force
graph will show the graphs in output window.
User can select the physical member ID and
one of the force graphs (axial, shear, torsion
and bending) for the select load case in the
active load case window in the main ribbon

Leg Compression Curves -provides the compression

graphs for the legs in the right side property window.
Reaction The right click on overall tower reaction in the reaction
results will show support reaction table for the selected
load case in the output window.

Report
To view the report of the analyzed model, the user must select the Report tab from the ribbon
bar.

Report tab Contains many features for formatting, viewing, and distributing user’s compiled
reports. Once the user loads the Report tab, the Tower Model Explorer is replaced with two
different side windows: The Report Document Map and the Selected Items List. These tools,
along with the tools found along the ribbon bar, are used to add elements into the report,
customize the format, and produce reports for external use and distribution. In the left panel,
Available Report Items will be listed under the Reports. To generate the report, you must
select the items by dragging them from the Available Report Item panel and drop it to the
Selected items section. This is shown in Fig. 98.
•

Fig 98: Report Tab

Report Contents
Each individual output section can be dragged and dropped into the ‘Report Contents’ section.
This enables you to quickly view output sections one at a time or the entire output report.

Viewing the Entire Output Reports

Viewing Individual Output

Sections
Once added in the selected item list, you must click the Generate Report button , to generate
the report. It complies all the sections in the ‘Report Contents’ into a report to the right of the
section. You can navigate through the report by clicking on specific items within the report.

Fig 99: Tower Geometry Selected

Print Group

Commands for printing a hard copy of your report from OpenTower.

Report Printing commands

Opens a Windows print dialog box to select a printer and modify

printer preferences.

Print

Sends the report directly to your default Windows printer.

 Quick
Print

Inactive.

Options

Page Setup Group

Controls the printed page size and layout of your report.

Report page setup commands

Set the options for the header and footer of the report
document.

Header/Footer

Opens the Scale Settings panel to set your report scale.

Scale

Opens the Margins gallery where you can select predefined

options or set custom margins.

Margins

Opens the page Orientation gallery.

Orientation

Opens the Page Size gallery.

Size
 Scale Settings
It allows you to specify how the document should be scaled on a printed page.

Adjust to Set the scale based on the percentage to full size.

Fit to Scale the report output based on page width.
Margins
The Margins tool opens the margins gallery, where allows you may select
from a list of preset margin sizes or set Custom Margins.

Set Custom Margins

1. On the Reports ribbon tab, click the Margins tool.
2. Select Custom Margins … at the bottom of the gallery list. The Page Setup dialog box opens.
 3. Specify the Margins (in inches) in the Margins panel.
4. Click OK.

Orientation
The Orientation tool opens the orientation gallery, where you can set the report page
orientation to either Portrait or Landscape.

Size
The Size tool opens the Page Size gallery, where you can select from a variety of common paper
sizes for your report output.
Navigation Group
Here, you will find controls to navigate through your on-screen report.

Report screen navigation commands

Opens the Find dialog box which is used to search for

specific text strings within your generated report.
Find

Jumps the current report view to the first page.

First Page

Steps the current report view backward one page.

Previous
Page
 Steps the current report view forward one page.

Next Page

Jumps the current report view to the last page.

Last Page

Find dialog box

Used to search for specific text strings within your generated report.

Opens when you select the Find tool on the Report ribbon tab Navigation group.
Dialog Controls

Find what Specify a text string for which to search. Previously used text
strings are available in the drop-down box by clicking the arrow.
Search Options Select any combination of options to narrow your search:

• Match case — The search is case insensitive by

default. This restricts the search to use on the
letter case you enter.
• Match whole word — The search will return
partial word matches by default. This option
restricts to only complete word matches (strings
between whitespace and punctuation).
• Search up — The search starts at the current
point in the document and works towards the
end. This option reverses the search to move
from the current point towards the beginning.

Find Next Click this button to begin/continue the search

Close Closes the Find dialog.

Zoom Group
A series of controls for setting the display of your current Report View.

Report view zoom commands

The default pointer which does not affect the magnification or

scrolling of your report in the Report View window. Use this to
Mouse "turn off" the Hand Tool or Magnifier features.
Pointer

This tool allows you manually to scroll by clicking and dragging a

page up or down.
Hand Tool
 This tool toggles between viewing the report at 100% and viewing
an entire page.
Magnifier

Choose the page layout for displaying the report.

View Many
Pages

Click to see more of the page.

Zoom Out

Produces a menu for resizing the page view to many preset sizes.
You can also specify a custom zoom by percentage.

Zoom

Get a close-up view of the document.

Zoom In

Page Background Group

You can customize the background of the report pages.

Table 7-30: Report page watermark commands

You can choose a color for the background of the report

document.
Page
Color

Export group
OpenTower gives you the capability to save a prepared report in a variety of file formats for
later use or distribution. The Export To… tools are used to save the file to a storage device
(local hard drive, network drive, etc.). The E-Mail To… tools will open your default windows
application and add the file as an e-mail attachment. Both will provide you with the same file
options dialog before saving or attaching.
 Opens the PDF Export Options dialog, which is used to save the report as a portable
document format (file extension .PDF) file. These files are commonly used to transport
text and graphical data in a self-contained file. They require a reader program, such as
PDF File
Adobe® Reader®.

(Export to only) Opens the HTML Export Options dialog, which is used to save the report
as a hypertext markup language (file extension .HTM or .HTML) file. These files may
contain text, images, and formats in separate files (depending on the options selected).
They are typically read by web browsers such as Microsoft Internet Explorer® and
HTML File
Mozilla Firefox®.

Note: You cannot select HTML files for e-mailing. Use. MTH files instead for attaching a
file which can be read by many web browsers.

Opens the MHT Export Options dialog, which is used to save the repot as a MIME HTML
(. MHT) file. These files are self-contained html documents which can include rich data
which can be read by Microsoft Internet Explorer® 5 or higher.
MHT File
 Opens the RTF Export Options dialog, which is used to save the repot as a rich text file
(file extension .RTF). Rich text files contain both text and images in a single file and also
preserves much of the formatting from your report. These files can be read by a wide
RTF File
variety of word processing programs, such as Microsoft Office Word® or Sun
OpenOffice®.

Opens the XLS Export Options dialog, which is used to save the report as a Microsoft
Office Excel 2003 spreadsheet (file extension .XLS). These files can contain images and
text data, as well as preserve the table structure. They also allow for some richer
formatting features for making your data easier to read. They are typically only
Excel File
readable by spreadsheet programs such as Microsoft Office Excel®, IBM Lotus 1-2-3®, or
Sun OpenOffice®.

Opens the CSV Export Options dialog, which is used save the report as a comma-
separated values text file (file extension .CSV). These files are plain text with a specified
content delimiter (typically a comma).
CSV File Note: No images will be included in this format.

Opens the Text Export Options dialog, which is used to save the report as a plain text
file. These files can be read by a wide variety of programs and devices.

Note: No images will be included in this format.

Text File

Opens the Image Export Options dialog, which is used to save the report to one of
several image file types. Saving to an image file creates a raster image of the entire
report output (though .WMF files can also include vector data). The data in the image
Image File file is not directly editable, though image editors can manipulate the file graphically. All
information will be human readable, though.

Note: Reports saved to image file formats will create single image files of the entire
report, except for a .TIFF file which are multi-paged images.
 10 Graphical Interface

Fig 100: Graphical Interface

Standard Group
The Standard group contains common tools for file operations and for managing the content
within the current model file.

Opens the New dialog box to create a new tower model.

Used to open an existing file. Clicking the icon launches the common
window file browser for selecting a file to be opened.

Used to close the current file. The program will prompt the user to save
the file before closing.
 This will save any changes made in the current model file since the last
save.

Opens a Windows Save As dialog, which is used to save the current model in
a different location or with a different file name.

View Group
The view group contains commonly used view control tools.

The physical Model tool is used to toggle the display of the physical model elements in the View
pane (default view). The physical view mode is typically the environment in which the user will
construct tower models. The analytical Model tool is used to toggle the display of the physical
model elements in the View pane. The analytical view mode is used for reviewing the
mathematical model which will be used by the application engine in the analysis. Click the
Tables menu button, it displays a list of commonly used tables. Click any of the menu items to
display that table in the Output pane. You can also hide the table from the output pane by clicking
on the table you want to hide from the list of the tables in the pop-up menu.
 Click on any of the tower view buttons to change the tower
perspective. A set of tools used to control the global
orientation of the View pane by a set of predefined directions.
A seventh tool highlights three faces of the cube. This
changes the current Model View to an isometric view.

Rotate tool is used to rotate the perspective in the View pane

about all the three-global axis.

It is used to control the zoom level within the View pane as

well as pan about the view

Show Physical Member table Displays all members and some associated properties. Some
properties can be edited directly from this table.

Show Node table Displays all notes and associated properties

Show Joint Displacements table Displays the joint displacements and rotations for each load
case.

Show Support Reactions table Displays the reactions at all supports for each load case.

Show Member End Forces table Displays the force and moments at both ends of each
analytical member

Show Section Force Table Displays the section forces for all physical members in 13
intermediate section points along the length of a physical
member for a given load case.
A separate control just above the table can be used to
ascertain the section force at a given distance.

Show Section Displacement It is used to view numerical values for sectional

Table displacements along the length of members.
The table displays the displacements of members at
intermediate section points. The table shows
displacements along the local axes of the members, as well
as their resultants.
 Show Cable Station Section Force Displays the section forces for all cable members (i.e. Guy
table cable) in intermediate section points along the length of the
cable

Show Cable Station Deformation Displays the section deformation for all cable members (aka
Table guy cable) in intermediate section points along the length of
the cable.

Show Cable Reaction Force Table Displays the guy cable end forces for the selected load case.
To change the load case for which the reaction is displayed,
select from the drop-down list of the selection box at the
top.
Show Section Force Graph Table Displays graph of a member for a selected load case of a
particular force type (Axial, Shear Y, Shear Z, etc. ).The force
type and member can be changed from a drop-down located
just above the graph.
Show Analytical Node Table Displays a table of nodes with coordinates for Analytical
nodes. The table lists the node numbers and their
coordinates

Show Analytical Member Table Lists the Analytical members and their incidences, along
with corresponding Physical member and member lengths.

Hide All Table Hides all the tables that are displayed in the output pane.

Selection Group
The Selection Cursors Group contains various pointer types in addition to a filtering tool. The
different pointers represent selection modes used to limit selections in the Model View by an
object type.

Used to select nodes.

 Used to select one-dimensional model entities that are part of the
physical model.

Used to select one-dimensional model entities that are part of the

analytical model.

Used to select panel entities.

Used to select ancillary entities.

Used to select an attachment.

Used to select feedlines.

Used to select guy cable entities.

Used to select mount.

Analysis Group

Performs analysis on the analytical model using the analysis methods selected for the Whole
Model.
Windows Group

Model Explorer The Tower Model Explorer is used to display all elements of the
tower model in a folder tree interface on the left pane.

Properties Used to view detailed information of respective items on the

right pane.

Output Geometry tables, analysis messages/warnings/errors, code

check messages/warnings/errors, and design results will be
displayed here.

Axis Group

It displays the true north relative to the tower. When the tower is given 0 deg bearing, the true
north align with the Leg A..

Structural Properties Control

It is used to control the graphic display details included in the View pane. By selecting the
Apply Immediately option in the drop-down window, any selections made will be updated as
soon as they are selected. Otherwise, all changes will be applied once the Apply button has been
selected. The color tab allows the user to vary the color of displayed structural elements such as
members, supports, and appurtenances. The Label tab allows you to toggle the display of
element labels in the View pane. The Scale tab allows you to control the relative size of graphic
elements.
 Fig 101: Structural Properties Control

The color tab allows you to vary the color of displayed structural elements such as members,
supports, and appurtenances.

Change the Color of a Model Entity

1. Select the Structural Diagram pop-up dialog box from the View tab.

2. Select the Color tab in the dialog.

3. Select any color in the right column associated with the element you want to change. The
colors can be selected either from the Custom tab, the Web (named colors) tab, or the
System tab.

4. Select the Apply tool to update colors.

or

Select the Apply Immediately option to have all colors updated dynamically.

Use a Custom Color

1. When changing the color of a model entity as described above, select the Custom tab.

2. In any of the blank color spaces at the bottom of the dialog, right-click to open the
Windows color picker dialog.
 3. Use the color picker tool to select a hue and shade graphically.

or

Enter numerical values for Hue, Saturation, and Lumosity.

or

Enter numerical values for Red, Green, and Blue.

4. Select the Add to Custom Colors tool.

5. Select the new color that appears in the Custom colors grid.

6. Select the OK tool.

Label Tab

The Label tab allows you to toggle the display of element labels in the View pane.
Turn on Display Labels

1. Select the Structural Diagram pop-up dialog box from the View tab.
2. Select the Label tab in the dialog.
3. Select the box associated with any item label you want to be displayed.
4. Select the Apply tool to update labels.

or

5. Select the Apply Immediately option to have all colors updated dynamically.
Scale Tab

The Scale tab allows you to control the relative size of graphic elements.

Change Display Scale

1. Select the Structural Diagram pop-up dialog box from the View tab.

2. Select the Scale tab in the dialog.

3. Enter a numerical value ratio (scale units described).

or

Use the Up and Down arrows to step the scale factors by ten.

4. Select the Apply tool to update labels.

or

Select the Apply Immediately option to have all colors updated dynamically.
Design Color Tab

Design Color Tab allows you to select different color codes depending upon the utilization
ratio of the members. You can select the colors for a different range of ratios from the
color palette. Once you select the color, click Apply or Apply Immediately to see the
change in the model. This helps in understanding the utilization of the member.
Select Member Tab

Select Member Tab, displays the selected member, Section, Material, Member Type or
Panel in the model depending upon your selection. To view a member, you must specify
the Member ID. To view a Section, you must select the Section from the combo box. For
Material, you must choose from the different material given from the combo box. For
Material type, you can choose from the options shown in the combo box. To view a
specific panel, you must specify the Panel ID. The selection is displayed in the main model,
as shown in Figure 102.

Fig 102: Selected Panel in the Main Model

This takes the snapshot of the model and saves it in the specified
location.

Displays the load.

This is used to modify the tower geometry, at run time, as shown in the
image below. You can modify Tower Name, Tower Base Elevation, and
Bearing Angle. Once modified and applied, the program will update the
tower geometry. For 0 degree bearing the True North will align with Leg
 A. The Tower rotates in the clockwise direction with the positive
bearing angle.

Active Load Case Group

This is used to display the active model and the active load case. Once the user chooses the
active load cases from the combo box, the results tables automatically get updated
corresponding to the active load case.

Active Scenario
The active scenario option will show the last active scenario. You can see the listed scenarios in
the combo but scenario will be active from the navigation tree.
 Results Tab
The result tab contains tools used to visualize results from the analysis on the model in the view
pane. Here, you will be able to review member forces and dsiplacements.

View Results Commands

The following commands are used to graphically display force and displacement results on the
physical model. The results are shown to scale in wireframe, superimposed onto the current
model view.

The current load case may be selected by using the drop-down list in the Results group. This list
includes all Primary Load Cases and Load Combinations included prior to running the most
recent analysis.

View Results commands

The force along the local x-axis of the member.

Axial Force

The force along the local y-axis of the member.

Shear Y Force

The force along the local z-axis of the member.

Shear Z Force

The twisting moment about the local x-axis of the

member.
Torsion

The bending moment about the local y-axis of the member

(generally weak-axis bending).
Bending Moment
Y

The bending moment about the local z-axis of the member

Bending Moment
(generally strong axis bending).
Z
 The deformed shape of the structure will be displayed.
Displacement

Member Design Tab

This page contains tools used for the design of individual members and member groups.

Note: Selecting the Member Design tab also selects the Design tab in the Tower Model Explorer
pane.

Fig 103: Member Design Tab

Generate The program automatically generate the design groups based on

Design Groups member classes such as leg, bracing, horizontal, redundant and cross
arms (torque-arms).
Perform This command directs the application to perform member design
Design checks for the entire tower structure.

In the Tower Model Explorer window under the Design tab, the Tower Design will be broken
into the following three sections: Design Briefs, Design Groups, and Design results. Design Briefs
includes three types of briefs which are Beam Briefs, Truss Briefs, and Guy Cable Briefs. When
selected, a property window will have corresponding information to each brief in which the
user can define or alter certain parameters for the design. The application will automatically
create appropriate design briefs based on the selected loading criteria in the active scenario and
assign them to members groups.
Fig 104: Tower Model Explorer for Member Design
Tower Model Explorer

Fig 105: Tower Model Explorer

The Tower Model Explorer is used to display all elements of your tower model in a folder tree
interface that should be familiar to users of Windows. Here, users can quickly view all aspects of
the model creation, analysis, and results. Using the model explorer to add, edit, or remove
model elements is a fast and powerful way to use the application. The structure of the Model tab
closely follows the typical workflow of model creation.
View User Settings
This section can be used to document user information, which can be included as part of the
analysis report.

Fig 106: User Setting

View Project Information

Features of the tower are assigned through the tower wizard set-up from OpenTower. This
page includes carrier information as well as site information. User can save this information for
the reference and this will not be used in any calculations.
 Fig 107: Project Information

View Tower Panels

Details of each section of the tower can be seen in Geometry > Panels. The Main model will
also show the selected highlighted panel.

Fig 108: Tower Panel

View Supports
Expand Supports will list the assigned supports at the tower and anchor base. Clicking on the
support will show the details of the supports in the property window on the right side of the
view pane.

Fig 109: Supports

View Mount
Expand Mounts will list the assigned mounts at the tower. Clicking on the mount will show the
details of the mounts in the property window on the right side of the view pane.

Fig 110: Mounts

View Antenna
Expand Antennas will list the assigned antenna at the tower. Clicking on the antenna will show
the details of the antenna in the property window on the right side of the view pane. In the
Antenna Information Data, depending upon the IsCFD property information, the EPA properties
for no ice and ice are calculated. If the IsCFD property is true, the data for the EPA (for noice and
ice) is populated from the antenna database, else, it is calculated from the length, width, and
height of the antenna. The calculation is refreshed, after load generation, when IsCFD is false.

Also, if IsCFD property is false and the appurtenance classification is not considered in the
selected appurtenance configuration in the scenario, then the EPA values and weight for ice will
not be updated in the property window.
 Fig 111: Antenna

View Miscellaneous
Expand Miscellaneous will list the assigned miscellaneous at the tower. Clicking on the
miscellaneous will show the details of the miscellaneous in the property window on the right side
of the view pane.

Fig 112: Miscellaneous

View Linear Attachment
Expand Linear Attachments will list the assigned linear attachments at the tower. Clicking on
the linear attachments will show the details of the linear attachments in the property window on
the right side of the view pane.

Fig 113: Linear Attachment

View Feedlines
Expand Feedlines will list the assigned feedlines at the tower. Clicking on the feedlines will show
the details of the feedlines in the property window on the right side of the view pane.
 Fig 114: Feedlines

Library Page
Library Page contains three features, Truss Leg Library, User Provided Table (UPT) and SPC
Custom Section which allows users to create various geometric configurations and are not
present in the standard library. All these three features are described below.

Fig 115: Library Page

Truss Leg Library

This section allows users to create various geometric configurations of truss-legs that are
commonly used on lattice structures. Truss-legs consists of three solid round legs that are
connected to each other by solid round bracing members. They are a type of built-up section.
Truss leg UI allows the user to input the section properties.
 Fig 116: Truss Leg UI

The plan view and elevation view is shown in the Truss Leg UI, automatically updates to match
the inputted data.

Section Name Name used to represent a truss-leg section in the

database.
Existing Section Select from the existing sections listed in the combo box.

Save Clicking this button saves the new section.

Copy This button is only active for existing sections in the

database or saved sections located within the respective
folder. You will be directed to a new, active section
window within the database which includes the copied
data.
Cancel No data is saved by clicking this button and returns you to
the previous window.
Modify Clicking this button copies the respective section into a
new database called Modified Truss-Legs.
Basic Dimension
Section Length Describes the total vertical length of the truss-leg section.

Face Width Defines the center to center spacing of the legs along one
face of the truss-leg section.
Top/Bottom Offset The vertical distance from either the top or the bottom of
the leg section to the working point where the first bay
begins or ends, respectively. This will offset the outermost
horizontal member; whether it’s classified as a normal
horizontal member or top or bottom girt
Bay Spacing Defines the length, a diagonal member spans, vertically.
The total quantity of bays is determined from the section
length, top/bottom offset and bay spacing. If the total
number of bays does not equal a whole number, then an
additional diagonal member is generated for the
remaining length.
Type of Bracing Choose from the drop-down selection of either Z, X or K-
Right bracing.
Bracing Specification Choose from the drop-down selection of either Smooth
Ends or Cut Ends, Continuous Ends, Concentric at Center
or Layered at Center.
Leg Section/Diagonal Specify the Section and the Grade of steel. You can select
Section/Horizontal Section the section and material grade, by double-clicking on this
field. Section Profile Page will appear, and the user can
input the required fields.
Top/Mid/Bottom Girt Section Entering a value under one of these cells will replace the
horizontal member at the respective location with the
proper girt diameter. You can select the section and
material grade, by double-clicking on this field. Section
Profile Page will appear, and the user can input the
required fields.
Top/Bottom K-Brace Section Entering values in these sections will create two diagonals
forming a V-shape which is connected to the closest
horizontal member. These values are only active when
offsets are applied. You can select the section and material
grade, by double-clicking on this field. Section Profile Page
will appear, and the user can input the required fields.
Steps Section Steps are added to one face of the truss-legs and are
included in area calculations. Steps are connected to the
diagonals and legs in the middle of each bay. You can
select the section and material grade, by double-clicking
on this field. Section Profile Page will appear, and the user
can input the required fields.
Flat Area Details
AF face(in2) This user input specifies the flat area that should be
considered in determining the solidity ratio and the
effective projected area of the truss-leg. This input applies
to 0, 0.5,1,2, and 4 inches of ice.
AF Weight(K) Weight accounting for flat members entered under Af
(Face). This input applies to 0, 0.5,1,2, and 4 inches of ice.
Conn CaAa(in2) Accounts for flat linear members extending the length of
the truss-leg. This input applies to 0, 0.5,1,2, and 4 inches
of ice.
Conn Weight(K) Weight accounting for flat linear members entered under
Conn CaAa. This input applies to 0, 0.5,1,2, and 4 inches of
ice.
Truss Leg Features This table lists the total quantity for bays, horizontals,
girts, and k-braces. The value calculated for bays is the
only cell in this table which does not need to be a whole
number; this would signify that a smaller diagonal was
generated for the section.

Area Properties
Total Round Area(∑Ar)(in^2) Specifies the total calculated round area for one face of the
truss-leg which is used to determine the effective
projected area. This calculated value is only shown for 0
and 0.5 inches of ice.
Solidity Ratio(ε) Specifies the solidity ratio for one face of the truss-leg as
defined in TIA-222-G which is used to determine the
effective projected area. This calculated value is only
shown for 0 and 0.5 inches of ice.
Effective Area(EPAs)(in^2) Specifies the calculated value for the effective projected
area along one face as defined in TIA-222-G. This
calculated value is only shown for 0 and 0.5 inches of ice.
Equivalent Diameter(in) The effective projected area of the lattice-leg is converted
into an equivalent round member. This calculated value is
used in determining the EPA along the face of a lattice
structure.
Total Weight (K) The calculated value for total weight.

Built-Up Properties
AG (in2) The calculated value for the total cross-sectional area of
the three legs acting as a built-up member.
 I(in4) The calculated value for the moment of inertia of the 3 legs
acting as a built-up member.
R (in) The calculated value for the radius of gyration of the 3 legs
acting as a built-up member.
Sx/Sz (in4) The calculated value for the minimum section modulus (Sx
or Sy) of the 3 legs acting as a built-up member.
Zx/Zz (in4) The calculated value for the minimum plastic section
modulus (Zx or Zy) of the 3 legs acting as a built-up
member.

Import

You can import a section by clicking this button. A dialog box will open as shown in Fig. 117,
where users can select from the listed sections, or else can Select ALL the sections to import all
the listed sections and click Import.
 Fig 117: Import Section

Export

You can also export the section to the database. Just like Import, a window will open to select
the existing section to be exported.
User Provided Table (UPT)
The User Provided Table (UPT) allows you to create a new section that is specific to the tower
and local data of an OpenTower input file. You can add different sections, materials, both
discrete and linear appurtenances, mount, bolt size, bolt material, and guy cable using UPT.

You must click on the UPT button to create or edit a UPT table.

Fig 118: UPT Graphical Interface

Creating/ Updating UPT Section

You can add different sections that are specific to the tower and not part of the standard
database.
There are two groups of properties for each Section Type. Input Parameters are the necessary
user inputs to enable additional auto-calculated values which will be shown in the Output
Parameter. The user inputs vary depending on the section type being created. Output
parameters are automatically calculated properties based on section type and property inputs.
These values are used for analysis and for graphical section profile generation. Refer Fig. 118

To create a new UPT section or edit an existing section, follow the following steps.

1. Choose a Section Type from the drop-down list(Fig. 119)..

2. Enter the input values in the respective input fields .

3. All input fields with default values will be shown in the input parameters grid. Review and
edit all relevant input fields and specify a unique name for the section type. The application
will automatically check for any duplicate section name and display a message, “Section
name already exists, Do you want to overwrite it?”.
4. All calculated values will be automatically populated in the output parameter grid,
depending upon the input.
5. To apply the changes, click the Save to UPT button. A message box will confirm, with the
message, “UPT Section Data Updated Successfully”.
6. You can check the data that got saved, by selecting the section type. The Section Details
group will list all the sections that got added under the selected section type.
7. If you want to edit the data, you must double click on the selected row of the Section Details
table. It will automatically fetch all properties and display in the input and output
parameters grid. You can then modify any or all input data. After clicking Save to UPT, the
changes will be saved while prompting the user to whether overwrite the data or not.
8. To save this in the database, you must click the OK button.
 Fig 119: Section Type

Creating/ Updating UPT Material

To create a new UPT material or to update an existing section, one can follow the steps as given
below. Refer Fig. 120.

1. Enter the inputs in the text boxes to add new material.

2. All input fields with default values will be shown in Material Grade Details. Review and edit
all relevant input fields and specify a unique name for the material. The application will
automatically check for any duplicate name and display a message, “Material name already
exists, , Do you want to overwrite it?”.
3. To apply the changes, click on the Save to UPT button. A message box will confirm, with the
message, “UPT Material Data Updated Successfully”.
4. You can check the data that got saved, by double-clicking on the relevant Material grade
from the Material Grade Details grid. It will automatically fetch all relevant properties and
display them in the Material Grade Details. You can then modify any or all input. After
clicking Save to UPT, the changes will be saved while prompting the user to whether
overwrite the data or not.
5. To save this in the database, you must click the OK button.
 Fig 120: Add/Update UPT Material

Creating/ Updating UPT Discrete Appurtenance

To create a new UPT discrete appurtenance or to update an existing one, one can follow the
steps as given below. Refer Fig. 122.

1. Choose the Appurtenance type from the drop-down list( Fig. 121).

2. Enter the inputs in the text boxes..

3. Add all the relevant input for the appurtenance type in the discrete appurtenance details
section. The manufacturer and the model name combination should be unique, else you will
be notified with a message that the “Manufacturer name with the same Model already
exists,DO you want to overwrite it?”.
4. To apply the changes, click Save to UPT. A message box will confirm, with the message,
“UPT Discrete Appurtenance Updated Successfully”.
5. You can check the data that got saved, by selecting the Appurtenance type. The discrete
appurtenance details group will list all the appurtenance that got added under the selected
type.
6. If you want to edit the data, you must double click on the selected row of the appurtenance
Details table. It will automatically fetch and display relevant properties in the general input
and the appurtenance properties. you can then modify any or all input data. After clicking
Save to UPT, the changes will be saved while prompting the user to whether overwrite the
data or not..
7. To save this in the database, you must click the OK button.
Fig 121: UPT Discrete Appurtenance Type

Fig 122: UPT Discrete Appurtenance

Creating/ Updating UPT Linear Appurtenance and Linear Attachment

To create a new UPT Linear appurtenance/attachment or to update an existing one, one can
follow the steps as given below. Refer Fig. 124.

1. Choose the Appurtenance type/Attachment Type from the drop-down list(Fig. 123).
2. Add all the relevant input for the appurtenance type in the linear appurtenance details
section. The manufacturer and the model name combination should be unique, else you will
be notified with a message that the “Manufacturer name with the same Model already
exists,Do you want to overwrite it?”.
3. Appurtenance properties will be automatically calculated depending upon the input.
4. To apply the changes, click the Save to UPT Button. A message box will confirm, with the
message, “UPT Linear Appurtenance Updated Successfully”.
5. You can check the data that got saved, by selecting the Appurtenance type. The linear
appurtenance table will list all the appurtenance that got added under the selected type.
6. If you want to edit the data, you must double click on the selected row of the appurtenance
table. It will automatically fetch all relevant data and display in the general input and the
appurtenance properties, you can modify the input data. After clicking Save to UPT, the
changes will be saved while prompting the user to whether overwrite the data or not..
7. To save this in the database, you must click the OK button.

Fig 123: Appurtenance/Attachment Type

 Fig 124: UPT Linear Appurtenance/Attachment

Creating/ Updating UPT Mount

To create a new UPT mount or to update an existing one follow the steps as given below.

To create a new UPT mount or to update an existing one follow the steps as given below. Refer
Fig. 125.

1. Add all the relevant input in the general, Mount properties and dimension details section.
2. To apply the changes, click Save to UPT button. A message box will confirm, with the
message, “Data saved successfully”.
3. You can check the data that got saved, under the Mount table.
4. If you want to edit the data, you must double click on the selected row of the mount table. It
will automatically fetch all relevant data and display in the general input, dimension details,
and the mount properties. You can then modify any or all input data. After clicking Save to
UPT, the changes will be saved while prompting the user to whether overwrite the data or
not..
5. To save this in the database, you must click the OK button.
 Fig 125: UPT Mount

Creating/ Updating UPT Bolt Size

To create a new UPT bolt size or to update an existing one, follow the steps as given below.
Refer Fig. 126.

1. Add all the relevant input in the bolt details and material details section. The Name should
be unique.
2. To apply the changes, click Save to UPT button. A message box will confirm, with the
message, “UPT Material Bolt Data saved successfully”.
3. You can check the data that got saved, under the Bolt table. A new row will be added with
the input data.
4. If you want to edit the data, you must double click on the selected row of the bolt table. It
will automatically fetch all relevant data and display those in the bolt details section. After
clicking Save to UPT, the changes will be saved while prompting the user to whether
overwrite the data or not..
5. To save this in the database, you must click the OK button.
 Fig 126: UPT Bolt Size

Creating/ Updating UPT Bolt Material

To create a new UPT bolt material or to update an existing one, follow the steps as given below.
Refer Fig. 127.

1. Add all the relevant input in the bolt details and material details section. Add a unique name
for the Material.
2. To apply the changes, click Save to UPT button. A message box will confirm, with the
message, “UPT Material Bolt Data saved successfully”.
3. You can check the data that got saved, under the Bolt table. A new row will be added with
the input data.
4. If you want to edit the data, you must double click on the selected row of the bolt table. It
will automatically fetch all relevant data and display those in the material details section.
After clicking Save to UPT, the changes will be saved while prompting the user to whether
overwrite the data or not..
5. To save this in the database, you must click the OK button.
 Fig 127: UPT Bolt Material

Creating/ Updating UPT Guy Cable

To create a new UPT Guy Cable or to update an existing one, follow the steps as given below.
Refer Fig. 128.

1. Add all the relevant input in the Guy Wire Details. Add a unique name for the Guy Cable.
2. To apply the changes, click Save to UPT button. A message box will confirm, with the
message, “UPT Guy Wire Data saved successfully”.
3. You can check the data that got saved, under the Guy Wire table. A new row will be added
with the input data.
4. If you want to edit any data, you must double click on the selected row of the Guy Wire
table. It will automatically fetch all selected data and display those in the Guy Wire details
section. After clicking Save to UPT, the changes will be saved while prompting the user to
whether overwrite the data or not..
5. To save this in the database, you must click the OK button.

Guy cable information is unique as the Type, Size, and Breaking Strength are all correlated with
one another.
 Fig 128: UPT Guy Cable

SPC Custom Section

This feature is used to add sections in the custom catalog or database that are not part of the
standard shapes and sections. New custom and built-up sections are added here parametrically,
and the program will automatically generate section profiles to display those sections correctly.
The custom catalog database can be installed separately. Once you click the SPC Custom Section
from Library, the following dialog box appears.
 Fig 129: Custom Tower DB Interface

Choose Catalog Select the customized database for the section.

Country Select the country. By default, the United States is selected.

Select Section Type Select the section type, that you want to add in the database
from the options given as shown below.
Add new Section in Database

You must input all the input parameters specific to different section types and click Add New
Record button. Click Save to DB button to save it in the database. The section data will get
saved in the custom catalog database and can be viewed in the table below. The dynamic image
shows the graphical representation of the input data and changes with the input.

Bulk Insert from Excel

If you want to input multiple entries of a section type, you can do it by entering the input in an
excel file. You must click the Bulk Insert from Excel button, which will open a dialog box as
shown in Fig.130.
 Fig 130: Custom Tower DB Interface

While entering the input data in excel, you must first enter the input parameter name in the first
row. If you keep the input parameter name as same as the name used in the custom catalog UI,
the application will automatically map the name and the values. If the parameter names vary,
you must map the name with the excel column header selecting from the dropdown list. In the
Fig.130, the section name parameter is different from the excel header column. Click Save to DB
button to save it in the database. The section data will get saved in the custom catalog database
and can be viewed in the table below. The newly added custom section will be accessible from
the section profile page after you close the application and reopen the application
Edit Config

This feature allows you to configure different databases and XML for different types of bracings
that are used in the application. The application comes with default XML and database.
However, if you want to use different configuration file you can do it after going through the
validation check.

By default, the configuration and the XML files are linked to the application.

Fig 131: Edit Config

 Catalog Data It shows the section database used by the application, for
Standard Sections, and for Customized Section. The default
Standard Catalog version is 3.1.4.2.

Configuration XML
Bracing Configuration Used to configure the bracing xml pattern.

Default Configuration Used to configure the default sections that are used in the
application

Connection Configuration Used to configure connections

Hip Bracing Configuration Used to configure hip bracing pattern and geometry

Used to configure databases for Antenna, Guy, Mount, Truss

Database Configuration Leg and Miscellaneous.

The xml and the databases are installed at the time of installation, if you want to change the
path or use a different configuration file, you must first browse the path by clicking the 3-dotted
button and must click Validate button, which checks whether the xml or the databases are in

the desired format. If the configuration file is an appropriate one, sign confirms it. Else
sign prompts the user that the xml is not appropriate. Click Ok. You will be prompted to restart
the application to start using the updated configuration settings.
Tower Profile Page
Tower Profile Page gives a snapshot of important details of the current tower model, including
the graphical 3D view of the Tower, Tower Summary reaction, Loading Details, Section Details,
and Geometry Details, as shown in Fig. 133. To view the tower profile page, you must use
Firefox or Google Chrome.

To view the Tower profile page, you must click the Tower icon on the top-left corner.
Select Open Tower Profile from the Pop-up menu.

Fig 132: File menu

 Fig 133: Tower Profile Page

Examples Descriptions
A short description of the example models is compiled and shipped with the program. To know

more about the example models, you must click the icon Learn more about examples,
from the file menu as shown in Fig.132, which will open the pdf file, listing different examples
with short descriptions.

Bentley Cloud Services

OpenTower is a CONNECT product. It means you can associate your models with ProjectWise
Projects from within the application usage per project. You must sign in with your Bentley
CONNECT account. The Bentley CONNECTION Client is used to sign in and the status is
displayed in the user icon in the top-right corner of the application window.

The Bentley Cloud Services, ribbon tab contains ProjectWise Project features and links to cloud
portals. This is used to manage ProjectWise Projects and CONNECT Portals.

Once you start a new OpenTower project model or open an existing model that is not yet
associated with a ProjectWise Project, you will be prompted to assign a ProjectWise Project to
your file. A list of all registered projects in the organization is displayed. You can also register
new projects (Only users with Admin/Co-admin roles can register a project). OpenTower will
display the ProjectWise Project name in the window title bar.

Fig 134: Bentley Cloud Services

Associate Used to associate the user’s model with a ProjectWise Project.

Disassociate Used to disassociate a user’s model with the current ProjectWise Project. If
you want to change the associated ProjectWise Project, you do not need to
first disassociate the model first.
Personal Opens the CONNECT Personal Portal in the user’s web browser.
Project Opens the Project Portal for the ProjectWise Project.

To Associate a ProjectWise Project with Your File

When you create a new file or open an existing file that is not associated with a project, use the
following procedure to associate the file with a ProjectWise project.

Note: You must be signed in using the CONNECTION client to associate a ProjectWise project
with the file.

Tip: If you want to change the ProjectWise project associated with the file, use the
following procedure.

1. On the Bentley Cloud Services ribbon tab, select the Associate tool in the Projects group.
The Choose Project dialog opens.
2. (Optional) If you want to register a new project, do the following:

a. Click Register Project. The Register a Project page opens in your browser.

Note: Only users with Admin/Co-admin roles can register a project.

b. Type or select the required items (marked with an asterisk, "*")

c. Click Save. A list of registered projects within your organization opens. The newly
created project is highlighted in green.
 Tip: Alternatively, you can visit connect.bentley.com and select +New on the Recent Projects
tile on your personal dashboard.

3. Select the desired project from the list.

Tip: Use the View controls and Search tool to locate your project.

4. Click Associate.

Fig 135: Connect Project Chooser

To Disassociate a ProjectWise Project from a File

When you need to disassociate a file from a ProjectWise project, use the following procedure.

Tip: If you want to change the ProjectWise project association to another ProjectWise
project, this procedure is not necessary.

On the Bentley Cloud Services ribbon tab, select the Dissociate tool in the Projects group.
The project association is removed from the file.
 OpenTower Analysis & Analysis Control
Parameters
The document introduces the analysis methods used in OpenTower. For each type of analysis,
the methodology is illustrated and then the analysis control parameters are explained.

Self-supported towers are analyzed with either Linear Analysis or P-Delta Analysis. Guyed
Towers are analyzed with Nonlinear Analysis.

1. Linear Analysis
TIA codes (such as TIA-222-H §3.5) specifies certain self-supported towers can be analyzed
with Linear Analysis.

For linear analysis, the displacement is solved in one shot by the equation:

[𝐾]{𝑢} = {𝐹}

where [𝐾] is the elastic stiffness matrix; {𝑢} is the to-be-solved displacement vector; and {𝐹} is
the loading vector.

There is no control parameter for linear analysis.

2. P-Delta Analysis
Except for certain towers exempted by TIA codes (such as TIA-222-H §3.5), P-Delta effects are
needed to be considered in the analysis. In STAADTower, such self-supported towers are
analyzed with P-Delta Analysis.

2.1 Introduction of P-Delta Effects

P-Delta effects refer to the second-order effect associated with the lateral translational
deformation of the members due to vertical loading. There are two types of P-Delta effects for
members, P-Δ and P-δ. As in Figure 2.1, P-Δ is associated with the displacement relative to
member ends; P-δ is associated with the local deformation relative to the element chord.
 (a) P-Δ effect (b) P-δ effect
Figure 2.1 P-Delta effects

2.2 Introduction of P-Delta Analysis Methods

The PDelta effects can be simulated with geometric stiffness [𝐾𝑔 ]. The formulation of [𝐾𝑔 ] can
take into account P-Δ effect, or P-δ effect, or both.

[𝐾𝑔 ] can be included into the stiffness matrix for the equilibrium equation:

{[𝐾] + [𝐾𝑔 ]}{𝑢} = {𝐹}

Because [𝐾𝑔 ] is dependent on element axial forces, and therefore dependent on the
displacement vector {𝑢}, the above equation is a nonlinear one. And it can not be solved in one
shot, as in Linear Analysis. OpenTower provides two approaches for solving the questions, as
named Iterative method, and Kg method.
2.3 Iterative Method
In this approach, the equation is rewritten as:

[𝐾]{𝑢} = {𝐹} − [𝐾𝑔 ]{𝑢}

Iterations are executed to solve the equation:

1) In the first iteration, assume {𝑢} = {0}.

2) Based on the current step {𝑢}𝑖 , calculate the [𝐾𝑔 ] .
𝑖
3) Compute the right-hand side {𝐹} − [𝐾𝑔 ] {𝑢}𝑖 . Use this to solve the equation and get the next
𝑖
step {𝑢}𝑖+1.
4) Repeat steps 2-3.
There are two options to terminate the iterations. First, users can specify the number of
iterations, and analysis will execute that certain number of iterations and terminate. Second,
users can specify to check convergence. With a given tolerance 𝜀, the analysis will check
|{𝑢}𝑖+1 − {𝑢}𝑖 | < 𝜀. Once it is satisfied, the iteration will be terminated.

2.4 Kg Method
In this approach, iterations are executed to solve the equation:

1) In the first iteration, assume {𝑢} = {0}.

2) Based on the current step {𝑢}𝑖 , calculate the [𝐾𝑔 ] . Add it up to the elastic stiffness [𝐾].
𝑖
3) Solve the equation {[𝐾] + [𝐾𝑔 ]}{𝑢} = {𝐹}, to get {𝑢}𝑖+1.
4) Repeat steps 2-3.

Users need to specify the number of iterations. The analysis will execute that certain number of
iterations and terminate.

2.5 Control Parameters

• Analysis Options: There are three options to choose from.
o Large and Small Delta effect: If this radio button is chosen, the “Iterative Method” is
used to solve the nonlinear equation by P-Delta effect. As named, both P-Δ effect and P-δ
effect are considered.
o Excluded Small Delta effect: If this radio button is chosen, the “Iterative Method” is
used to solve the nonlinear equation by P-Delta effect. As named, only the P-Δ effect is
considered, and the P-δ effect is excluded.
o Include Geometric Stiffness: If this radio button is chosen, the “Kg Method” is used to
solve the nonlinear equation by P-Delta effect. Both P-Δ effect and P-δ effect are
considered.
• No. of Iteration: This input number specifies the number of iterations. The analysis will run
this certain number of iterations and then terminate. This input is used for both the
“Iterative Method” and “Kg Method”. In other words, the input is appliable to all three
options under “Analysis Options”.

• Converge Check: When this checkbox is checked, the analysis will check the convergence
criteria to terminate the iterations, instead of running the certain number of iterations given
by “No. of Iteration”. In other words, when this checkbox is checked, the input of “No. of
Iteration” is ineffective; and vice versa. This convergence check approach is only applicable
to the “Iterative Method”, which means it is only available to choose only when the selection
in “Analysis Options” is either “Large and Small Delta effect” or “Exclude Small Delta effect”.
It is not available when the selection is “Include Geometric Stiffness”. UI is also set in the
same logic.

• Max Number of Iterations: The input specifies the max number of iterations to run when
analysis checks converge to terminate iterations. The input is available only when the
“Converge Check” checkbox is checked. The analysis will terminate when the converge is
achieved or the number of iterations exceeds this input.

• Displacement Tolerance: The input specifies converge tolerance, in the unit of an inch.
The input is available only when the “Converge Check” checkbox is checked. The analysis
will pick the maximum value from the incremental solved displacement vector and compare
it with this input. When the value is smaller than this tolerance input, the iteration is
considered converged and terminated.

3. Nonlinear Analysis
For guyed towers, nonlinear static analysis is performed. The nonlinearity in the guyed towers
are from:

• The highly geometric nonlinear of the guy cables;

• The P-Delta effect in all frame elements (i.e. legs, diagonals, etc.).
In the equilibrium equation:

{[𝐾] + [𝐾𝑔 ]}{𝑢} = {𝐹}

Both [𝐾] and [𝐾𝑔 ] are dependent on {𝑢}. And the equation is a nonlinear one.

The analysis employs Full Newton method for solving nonlinear equations.

For guyed towers with a great number of tension-only members, two approaches are provided
to assist the solution to converge.

To determining guy cables’ initial tensions, the procedure “Retention Guys to Initial Tension” is
required, per users’ judgment.
3.1 Introduction of Newton Method
The Full Newton method runs with iterations and gets the solution by checking force
equilibrium and displacement increment, as depicted in Figure 3.1. The running steps are:

1) The loading vector {P} is assembled. For the first iteration, define the unbalanced loading
{ΔP} ={P}, and displacement vector {u}= {0}.
2) The stiffness matrix [K] is assembled. If any elements are performing nonlinearly, their
element stiffness matrix will be determined based on their current nonlinear status.
3) The equation [K]{Δu} ={ΔP} is solved to find out the incremental displacement {Δu}.
4) The current displacement vector is calculated as {u}={u}+{Δu}. Use this newly calculated
{u} to update all elements.
5) Based on the updated elements, calculate the element reaction {R}.
6) Calculate the unbalanced loading {ΔP} ={P}-{R}.
7) Check convergence by comparing |{ΔP} |/|{P}| with ε, as well as |{Δu}|/|{u}| with ε. If
converge is achieved, the analysis is considered converged. Repeat steps 2-7 until converge
is achieved or the maximum iteration number is reached.

Figure 3.2 demonstrates the solution process in a numerical presentation.

 Loading {P}
Define {ΔP}={P}, {u}={0}

Assemble nonlinear
stiffness matrix [K]

Solve incremental
displacement
[K]{Δu}={ΔP}

{ΔP}={P}-{R}
{u}={u}+{Δu}
Update the system

Assemble element
reaction {R}

Check equilibrium
|{P}-{R}|≤ε No

Yes

End

Figure 3.1 Flow chart of the nonlinear static solver with Full Newton method
 Figure 3.2 Numerical present of the nonlinear static solver with Full Newton method

3.2 Introduction of Tension-Only Approaches

For guyed towers with tension-only members, such as TX diagonals, additional checking of the
tension-only members’ status is included in the analysis routine:

a) In any an iteration, if a tension-only member has tensile deformation, it will be marked as

“activated”; if a tension-only member has compressive deformation, it will be marked as
“deactivated”.
b) In the next iteration, for a previously marked “deactivated” member, its stiffness (also force)
will be set to zero. With such stiffness, the structure is solved again; and all tension-only
members are marked again as “activated” or “deactivated”.
c) The iterative solution is considered converged only when all previously marked “activated”
tension-only members are still in tensile deformation for the current iteration, and all
previous marked “deactivated” tension-only members are still in compressive deformation
for the current iteration. Please notice that the regular equilibrium check still needs to be
satisfied.

For models with a great number of tension-only members, the solving process may face
difficulty to get converged. Numerically, some tension-only members switch back and forth
between “activated” to “deactivated” repeatedly. Physically, when many members are
“deactivated”, the structure’s instability becomes sensitive.
Two approaches, i.e. Euler Buckling Tension Member method and Residual Stiffness Tension
Member method, are provided to ease the analysis converge for models with tension-only
members. In both approaches, additional strength or stiffness is added to the structure.
Discretion is required to adopt the approaches and to verify the result correctness.

3.2.1 Euler Buckling Tension Member

This approach allows a “tension-only” member to take some compression force until it reaches
the Euler Buckling critical force:

𝜋 2 𝐸𝐼
𝑃𝑐𝑟 =
(𝑘𝐿)2

Figure 3.3 depicts the axial force-deformation relation for original “tension-only” modeling and
the “Euler Buckling tension member”.

(a) Tension-only member (b) Euler Buckling tension member

Figure 3.3 Axial force-deformation constitutive relations

Compared to original “tension-only” modeling, this approach adds in additional compressive

strength, capped by 𝑃𝑐𝑟 .

It is worth noticing that such modeling actually resembles better real physical performance.
“Tension-only” is usually used for slender members. Such members have very small buckling
strength and therefore the compressive capacity is ignored for modeling simplicity and also
conservative concerns. Physically, such members can take compressive force. When the
compressive force reaches the critical buckling force, the member buckles and the loading on it
cannot increase (i.e. zero stiffness but some strength). When the compressive force decreases,
the member returns to its elastic status. “Euler Buckling” modeling resembles the process more
precisely than pure tension-only modeling.
3.2.2 Residual Stiffness Tension Member

This approach allows a “tension-only” member to take some compression force, but with a
much smaller stiffness:

𝛼∙𝐾

where 𝛼 is a number between 0 and 1; and 𝐾 is the elastic stiffness.

Figure 3.4 depicts the force-deformation relationships.

(a) Tension-only member (b) Residual Stiffness tension member

Figure 3.4 Axial force-deformation constitutive relations

Compared to the original “tension-only” member, an additional compression stiffness is added.

Numerically, it helps the converge. Meanwhile, it is ideal to have a small 𝛼 value, which means
the behavior of the “Residual Stiffness” member is closer to the original “tension-only” member.

Similar to the original “tension-only” modeling, this “Residual Stiffness” modeling also does not
precisely resemble the member’s real behavior. Further than that, it is possible that a “Residual
Stiffness” member may undergo a compressive force even more than the Euler buckling force.
But, as long as the 𝛼 value is small, the chance is trivial.

3.3 Introduction of Retention Guys to Initial Tension Routine

A key modeling parameter of a guy cable element is its “tension under undeformed tower”, i.e.
the cable’s two connection nodes have no displacement. This logic could be understood
similarly as the prestressed beam/truss element. For a prestressed beam/truss element in a
structure, users input its “prestressed strain”, which is the strain while the whole structure does
not deform. When the structure deforms under a load case (such as SW), the prestressed
beam/truss element will deform to a new strain. The guy cable element has same logic. As in
Figure 3.5a, we denote the “tension under undeformed tower” as “T0”. Under SW, the tower will
deform, the guy cable tension will change to a different value, the “tension under deformed
Tower”, denoted “T”, as in Figure 3.5b. Because the tower is shortened, “T” is generally smaller
than “T0”.

(a) Undeformed tower (b) Deformed tower under SW load case

Figure 3.5 Guy tension in undeformed model and deformed model

To define the guy cable’s tensioning condition, users input a tension value, which is called Initial
Tension, denoted by “Ti”. It is usually 10% of the cable breaking strength.

Without the “Retention Guys to Initial Tension” routine, it indicts the input Initial Tension “Ti” is
the “tension under undeformed tower” i.e. “T0”.

With the “Retention Guys to Initial Tension” routine, it requests the “tension under deformed
tower”, i.e. “T”, equal to the Initial Tension “Ti”. Numerically, it asks the program to find a “T0”
value, by using this “T0”, the tension under deformed structure is exactly or approximately this
Initial Tension “Ti” value. Physically, it means that tower installation workers will keep
tightening all guy cables during the tower erection, so at the end, each guy cable tension reaches
its requested Initial Tension “Ti”.

In summary, with “Retention Guys to Initial Tension” option, it requests “T=Ti”. Without that
option, it means “T0=Ti”.

3.4 Control Parameters

Totally eight control parameters are exposed to users in the UI. They are related to the Newton
method, P-Delta effect, Tension-Only handling, and Retention Guy Initial Tension routine
respectively.
3.4.1 Related to Newton method

• Number of increments (not available now but maybe activated later): This parameter
is used to divide the loading into small increments. It could be any positive integer number.
If users are interested in load carrying capcity develop process under the loading, a larger
than 1 number could be assigned to this parameter. Generally, a larger than 1 number could
be beneficial for solution converge, as the loading is applied gradually.

• Max Number of iterations: This parameter is the maximum number of the iterations.
During each loading increment, the analysis will iterate to find solution convergence. Once
the iteration number reaches the maximum value, the analysis will be stopped even if the
solution is not achieved. It could be any positive integer number. A smaller than enough
number may prevent the solution to converge. However, if the model has some instability or
unsolvable nonlinearity, a bigger number here may cost too much running time but still not
able to achieve converge.

• Converge tolerance: When the computed error is equal or smaller than this threshold
value, the nonlinear solver will stop iterating and consider the ongoing step as converged. A
very small value may prevent the solution to be considered as converged. However, a very
large value may result in inaccurate results.

3.4.2 Related to P-Delta effect

• Include Geometric Stiffness: When the checkbox is checked, the member geometric
nonlinear P-Delta effects will be included in the analysis. Both P-Δ and P-δ effects are
incorporated. The numerical approach employed is the “Kg” method, as explained
previously in §2.1. The geometric stiffness matrix [Kg] will be included in the stiffness
matrix. Different from the Kg Method in “P-Delta Analysis” for SST, the force equilibrium is
checked for convergence. For guyed towers, TIA codes (such as TIA-222-H §3.5) always
require including P-Δ effect. Please notice, including P-Delta increases the complexities of
convergence.

3.4.3 Related to Tension-only handling

• Euler Buckling tension member: When the checkbox is checked, the “Euler Buckling
Tension Member” approach is enabled to assist converge for models with tension-only
members. For models without any tension-only members, checking or not checking this
checkbox does not make any difference. It is suggested to first try running the analysis
without using either this “Euler Buckling Tension Member” approach or “Residual Stiffness
Tension Member” approach. Increasing “Max Number of Iteration” or decreasing “Converge
Tolerance” can be tried. The “Euler Bucklking Tension Member” and “Residual Stiffness
 Tension Member” approaches are suggested as the secondary methods. Please notice, when
the checkbox is checked, the “Converge Tolerance” is automatically decreased to 1.0e-3,
while the default value is 1.0e-6. This is to further assist converge.

• Residual Stiffness tension member: When the checkbox is checked, the “Residual
Stiffness Tension Member” approach is enabled to assist converge for models with tension-
only members. For models without any tension-only members, checking or not checking
this checkbox does not make a difference. This checkbox and the “Euler Buckling tension
member” checkbox can not be checked at the same time. In other words, only one of the
“Euler Buckling Tension Member” approach and “Residual Stiffness Tension Member”
approach can be activated; it is OK to not enable any of them; but it is not OK or allowed to
enable both of them. Please notice, when the checkbox is checked, the “Converge Tolerance”
is automatically decreased to 1.0e-3, while the default value is 1.0e-6. This is to further
assist convergence.

• Residual Stiffness ratio: The input is used as the compression stiffness ratio for tension-
only members, as depicted in Figure 3.4b. The input is enabled only when the “Residual
Stiffness tension member” checkbox is checked.

3.4.4 Related to Retention Guys to Initial Tension routine

• Retention Guys Initial Tension: When this checkbox is checked, the “Retention to Guys
Initial Tension” routine is performed. Otherwise, this routine is not performed. As explained
int §3.3, when it is checked, it requires “T=Ti”; when not checked, it means “T0=Ti”. By
default, the checkbox is checked. For numerical reasons, the routine may only get to the
solution approximately satisfying “T=Ti”, but not exactly. The solution information can be
found in the “*.LOGX” file.
 Appendix
* Bolt Pattern: The different types of bolt patterns that are supported by OpenTower

AISC Standard Gage: For angle bracing the gage is always assumed to be the standard AISC
workable gage as shown in the table below
**Bracing Patterns: The different types of bracing patterns that are supported by OpenTower
Face Bracing
Plan Bracing
3-Leg Tower

4-Leg Tower
Hip Bracing
Torque-arm Bracing
Bearing Angle
 Key Features added or upgraded
o Discrete Load Calculation
• A parameter called IsCFD introduced in the discrete Appurtenance property.
Depending upon its value true or false, the Front Area or Side Area is calculated from
the database or geometric dimensions.
o Feedline tool

• The attachment ID color will change to green after all the group of feeders placed in
the model. It will help the end-user to ensure if any group of feeders missed.
• The group of feeders that are already assigned is greyed out. For the feedline group
currently being modeled, if the lines have not been applied to the model yet, they
appear as green. Once applied, the color is change to yellow.

o Connection Design

• Logic is introduced to consider multiple-bolted or welded connections in the out-of-

plane direction as unrestrained if the "Bracing Connected Directly to Leg" option is
not checked, otherwise if bracing is connected directly to the legs then those
connections would provide restraint in the out-of-plane direction. (TIA-222-H Section
4.5.2)

o Foundation improvement

• Option to exclude the steel information (rebar and anchor shaft) from being analyzed.
Two separate checkboxes to the Guy Anchor Foundation UI is excluded 1. Rebar and 2.
Anchor Shaft if either of those options are toggled. If a checkbox to Exclude Rebar
from Analysis is selected, the Rebar information is grayed out, and the Uplift and
Lateral flexural checks of the anchor block is also excluded from the report. If the
Exclude Anchor Shaft checkbox is selected, the anchor shaft tension check is excluded
from the report.
• Improved Foundation image.
o Improvements in Reports

• Reports now showed the Truss-Leg towers local leg reactions. The "Compression",
"Tension", and "Shear" are shown. These are included in the "Tower Summary
Reaction" table of the report, and the results are the sum of the individual truss-leg
leg reactions, to represent the reactions of the full truss-leg section.

• Overall tower rating to the "Tower Summary Information" table is added.

• Leg Bolt Summary Report now reports the total applied force and total connection
capacity

o Improvements in Performance:

• Truss Leg Design is optimized. The amount of time taking for the design of the Truss
Leg is reduced appreciably.
• Time taken for Saving the Section Overview table and updating the model is reduced.
o Other features

• "Residual Stiffness tension member" analysis option checked by default

• When the bolt quantity is 0 in TNX, OT still import the bolt type, size, and spacing
• Special characters are allowed in the different UI
• Section Detail Page the data are now displayed up to 4 decimal places.
 Index
A

anchor groups, 53

appurtenances, 84

configuration, 102

discrete, 86

groups, 84

linear, 95

Bentley cloud services, 196

bracing connections, 31

Code Check, 154

D
drilled pier foundations, 110

feedlines, 99

foundations, 104

design of, 125

guy anchors, 118

foundation

drilled piers, 110

geometry, 28
graphical interface reference, 152

guy anchor foundations, 118

guys, 48

isolated footings, 104

leg connections, 34

library, 173

load combinations

parameters, 77

loads, 62

seismic, 79

wind, 62

materials, 12

modifications, 54

P
project data, 60

ProjectWise projects

associating, 197

disassociating, 198

report, 140

scenarios,130
 definition, 130

section catalogs, 13

section editor, 28

section property catalog, 188

seismic load definitions, 79

SPC. See section property catalog

tower model expolorer, 167

tower models

create new, 14

import from TNX, 25

open existing, 14

truss leg library, 173

user settings, 60,168

user-provided tables, 179

wind load definitions, 62

work order, 58