Question:
What is the best way to model two welded members that lie parallel to each other?
Answer:
The following options are available for modeling two welded members lying parallel to each other (Image 01):
1) Connecting both members using rigid members at certain distances:
Division of the members at certain distances: Right-click the corresponding members → "Divide Member"
Connection of the newly created nodes using rigid members
2) Generating a surface from the member (possible in RFEM only):
- Right-click one of the members → "Generate Surfaces from Member"
Displacement of the other member into a plane of the newly created surfaces in a way so that the line of the displaced member is integrated into the corresponding surface (check: dialog box "Edit Surface" → tab "Integrated")
Defining a member eccentricity in a way so that the original position is restored ("Edit Member" → "Settings" tab → "New Member Eccentricity" → here practically: "Relative Offset")
If the member used for generating surfaces is designed in an add-on module, you can simply define a result member here.
3) Use the SHAPE-THIN stand-alone program to model and design the individual cross-sections.
