Linear Elements
Linear elements are structural Advance Design elements. According to the assigned properties, they become the representation of beams, columns, purlins or any other linear-shaped structure elements.
Using the properties window it is possible to configure finite elements properties and to assign steel, concrete or timber sets of properties for each linear element.
Methods for creating linear elements
Linear elements are created directly in the graphic area, specifying each extremity of the element in the command line or by snapping to objects. In combination with the systems level settings option, it is possible to predefine the vertical elements length within the level limits and the horizontal elements position.
Linear elements are created using the following methods:
- Using modeling tools, the linear elements are created between specified coordinates in the graphic area.
- Converting lines: Lines and polylines can be converted into linear elements.
- Extruding points: Using the Extrude command it is possible to obtain linear and planar elements starting from points and lines. This command is very useful for the faster, easier and more accurate creation of several structure elements simultaneously.
Types of linear elements
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According to the assigned material, the following element types can be created: steel elements, concrete elements and timber elements.
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According to the degree of freedom, the geometrical properties and the allowed forces, the following linear element types can be created: bar, beam, short beam, variable beam, tie, strut and cable.
Linear elements orientation
The linear element orientation is defined by the local coordinate system and can be modified manually, using specific commands, coordinate angles and orientation points. The default orientation of linear elements is determined by their local axes (x, y, z) relative to the global coordinate system (X, Y, Z).
Consider a linear element created from I to J:
Linear element orientation
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x collinear with the element longitudinal axis, and x · IJ > 0
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If z
Z then z is parallel to X, else z x, as z · Z > 0 -
y, as (x, y, z) right-handed coordinate system
Linear elements symbols display
It is possible to apply symbols such as the local axis symbol and the releases symbol to be displayed on the linear elements:
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Local axis:
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Releases:
