Pier Cap

This section defines the pier cap geometry, sections, and FEA settings for intermediate supports.

Navigation: Substructure > Pier > Pier Cap

For detailed parameter explanations, see the Pier Cap Reference.

Steps

Step 1: Navigate to Pier Cap

Navigate to Pier > Pier Cap in the tree view.

Pier Cap navigation

Step 2: Assign Locations

Click the three-dots icon on the Location cell and select the support lines:

Pier Cap	Location
PierCap1	SL2
PierCap2	SL3

Since PierCap1 and PierCap2 are identical, enter the same parameter values for both.

Location Assignment

Pier Cap Parameters 1

Pier Cap Parameters 2

Step 3: Define Section Geometry

Click the three-dots icon on Straight - Tapered Section / Length and select Edit.

Configure the section parameters:

Parameter	Value
Start Section	PCSec
End Section	PCSec
Section Length	45 ft (along Y-Y from right)

Step 4: Set Slope Option

Navigate to the General tab and set Slope Option to Alignment.

Slope Option

Step 5: Set Elevation Offset

Enter the Top Elevation Offset from Alignment value as -9.00 ft.

Quick Tip: Transverse Offset Direction

Offset values use PGL (Profile Grade Line) as the reference point.

Offset Reference

Step 6: Configure FEA Settings

Navigate to the FEM tab and assign RigidSection to the Rigid Section parameter.

FEM Tab

OpenBrIM automatically uses the RigidSection defined in Properties for rigid connections.

Verification

The completed pier caps are shown below.

Completed Pier Cap Plan

Completed Pier Cap 3D