Structural concrete designers nowadays distinguish between B-regions
(named after Bernoulli beam theory) and D-regions (D standing for
'disturbed'). They are all familiar with B-regions, but less acquainted
with the expertise required for D-regions. To design D-regions, the
Strut-and-Tie Model (STM) is usually applied, a model laid down
worldwide in structural codes of practice. The Stringer-Panel Model
(SPM) recommended here is a companion method to the STM, with the
advantage of being suitable for different load cases and reversed
loading. This being so, the SPM is suitable for linear-elastic analyses
where durability is a key consideration, but also suits structural
design for contexts of cyclical seismic activity. Finally, this book
sets out how structural engineers who prefer the STM can nevertheless
apply the SPM to determine a proper strut-and-tie model.