Member openings offer the possibility of inserting cutouts or holes into a member element. This way, it is possible to include castellated beams in the structural model. for example.
Member openings are possible for nearly all thin-walled cross-sections from the library and RSECTION. However, the elements of the cross-section have to be straight. Openings in curved structural components, such as pipes, are therefore not allowable.
Opening Type and Location
First, specify the type of opening. The list includes the following reduction types to select from (see the image above):
- Rectangular Opening – for ventilation ducts or supply lines
- Circular Opening – for castellated beams with circular holes
- Hexagonal Opening – for castellated beams
The definition options in the “Parameters” section are aligned with the reduction type.
Enter the numbers of the elements in the cross-section where the opening is located.
Enter the location "x" of the opening: It describes the distance from the start node of the member and refers to the center of the opening.
If there are several similar member openings available at regular intervals along the member, as for a castellated beam, activate the "Multiple" check box. You can then define the offset of the openings in the "Parameters" dialog section.
Parameters
In this dialog section, you specify the dimensions of the opening. The parameters of the individual reduction types are illustrated in the dialog graphic.
If the opening is not centered on the element, you can adjust its “Location”. Select the reference point for the element from the “Position Reference” list:
- Element start
- Element center
- Element end
The element start and element end are determined by the direction of the element (see the mage Cross-Section Elements).
Then, specify the "Distance" so to move the opening along the element. This value is related to the center of the opening.