The DASCON expert system provides advice to architects regarding the structural system of reinforced concrete buildings. Based on a sketch of building plans it generates alternative structural system configurations and gives size limitations of columns, beams, and slabs that enter in the architectural drawings. It helps the architect to select column locations that ensure continuity throughout the different building plans, do not come through open spaces, rooms; windows, etc. and are spaced at distances that will allow optimum sizing of structural members. It generates structurally acceptable grids of beams which satisfy the architectural plan constraints: beams that follow wall lines, do not cross open spaces, and use minimum depth when necessary. Overall, DASCON helps the architect decide on the orientation and sizing of structural members, showing the most advantageous solutions in terms of seismic, cost and other requirements.

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