A Group Technology Based Classification and Coding System for Reinforced Concrete Structures

Abstract: This paper presents an application of Group Technology, a technique used in the manifacturing industry, to code and classifv the components of a reinforced concrete building structure. Given this classification scheme, a designer can search the database for design components that are similar and standardize them, retrieve previous similar design solutions and minimize the constructed cost of the structure. This paper reviews current construction classification schemes, provides an overview of group technology, and develops a classification and coding scheme for mid rise reinforced concrete building structural components. The scheme is implemented on software and a case study illustrates the utility of such a system to the industry.