The geometry of the model is described by members. By assigning a cross-section (which also defines a material), the member gains a stiffness.
Members can only be connected to each other at nodes. If members cross without sharing a common node, there is no connection. No internal forces are transferred at such crossing points.
Graphically, members can be set individually or continuously. The corresponding functions are accessible via the list button.
| Button | Function |
|---|---|
|
New individual member with simple definition options |
|
New individual member with extended definition options |
|
New individual member perpendicular to the work plane |
|
New individual member parallel to the work plane |
|
New continuous member with simple definition options |
|
New continuous member with extended definition options |
|
New member set |
After entering the cross-section (see image New Member), a dialog appears that is designed as 'simple' or 'general' depending on the function. The general dialog offers extended options, for example, to define a reference node or to use member spacing for placement.
By default, the New Member dialog consists of the Base and Cross-section tabs. They are described in the following two subsections.
Properties of a Member
You can display important properties of a member in the Object Properties panel:
- Select the member.
- Activate the 'Object Properties' panel using the
button in the toolbar.
The panel displays information such as member type, cross-section, material, and geometric data.
