Basic Training
Basic Training
Steel
Steel
Tekla Structures 20.0
Tekla Structures 20.0
2014 Steel Basic T
2014 Steel Basic Training
raining
Copyright © 2014 Tekla CorporationContents
Contents
Introduction to Tekla Structures Basic Trai
Introduction to Tekla Structures Basic Training
ning ...
... 11
Things you need to
Things you need to know ...
know ... 11
Release Notes ... 1
Localization Notes ...1
Help Files ... 2
Things you will
Things you will learn
learn ...
... 22
Basic Modeling ... 2
System Components ...3
Interactive Detailing... 3
Numbering and Reports ... 3
Principles of Drawings ... 4
Assembly and Single Part Drawings ... 4
Multi-Drawings and Multi-Numbering ... 4
General Arrangement Drawings ... 4
Drawing Management ... 5
Project Deliverables ...5
How to use this training material...
How to use this training material... 66
Introduction
Introduction to T
to Tekla St
ekla Structures
ructures
Basic Training
Basic Training
This training course will demonstrate how to create a 3D model of a building, and produce drawings and reports from the model with Tekla Structures. The training is divided into lessons, each of which covers a certain task of the design process and introduces the commands and functions required to complete that particular task.
Things you need to know
Things you need to know
Release Notes
Release Notes
Each version (including Service Releases) is created with a document that outlines most of the changes that are included within that release. This document is available as part of the program’s Online Help, called the Tekla User Assistance. It contains information about th e
general changes, additions, and improvements made to the program. It is important that you
read the Release Notes Release Notes before incorporating a new Tekla Structures version into your
organization.
Localization Notes
Localization Notes
Each version (but not Service Releases) includes a document that describes what specifics have been made to the US environments. This document comes in PDF format and is located,
for example, in theTeklaStructures\20.0\environments\usimp folder. This document contains
valuable information about the US environment changes for that version. For example, it lists which new files have been added to the usimp environment, what they are for, and how to use them. In addition, it describes changes to existing files, such as catalogs, that have been made. Plus, if a file has been removed or renamed, this document explains what has taken place. It is
important that you read the Localization NotesLocalization Notes before incorporating a new Tekla Structures
Help Files
Help Files
Program Help Program Help
Tekla Structures is supported by an online Help through the Tekla User Assistance website
which can be accessed by using the F1F1 key or by going to Help > Tekla Structures HelpHelp > Tekla Structures Help
from inside the progra m. Many topics can be found using the InstructionsInstructions section. Another
effective way to find the information you are seeking is to use the SearchSearch field. You can then
filter by the content type, specific tasks, and more.
Another important tip is, once you find the subject you are seeking, reference the See alsoSee also
section at the bottom for related topics. Did You Know?
Did You Know? Many of the dialog boxes inside of Tekla Structures have been mapped to
the section of the online help that relates to them. For example, if the F1F1 key is pushed while
the Beam PropertiesBeam Properties dialog box is opened and the active window, then the Tekla User
Assistance will open to that corresponding section.
System Component Help System Component Help
System Components included with Tekla Structures also have help topics available on the Tekla User Assistance. This can be accessed when a system component dialog is opened by
using the F1F1 key or by clicking the HelpHelp button located in the top right corner.
US Custom Components US Custom Components
Custom Components that are created by the Tekla Inc office and included with the US environments contain their own help file. This help file can be accessed when a custom
component dialog is opened by using the F1F1 key or by clicking the HelpHelp button located in the
top right corner.
Some help topics may be lacking in examples or may not be up to date with regards to recent development. Please notify us when you encounter such an occurrence so we can notify our documentation team.
Things you will learn
Things you will learn
Basic Modeling
Basic Modeling
This lesson introduces the basic modeling functions of Tekla Structures. We will recap the basic functions introduced in the prerequisite model, and you will learn some more basic
functions.
You will learn how to:
start a new structural 3D model
set up job specific information
create grids
create concrete and steel parts
manipulate members within the model (copy, move, mirror)
adjust member attributes
input construction points
work in true planes (sloped, skewed)
define and use new filters
work with phases
combine models
use the Organizer to check the model
System Components
System Components
This lesson introduces the basics of creating connections in Tekla Structures. You will learn how to:
create connections
work with connection parameters
save the parameters for later use
clash check the model
Interactive Detailing
Interactive Detailing
This lesson introduces how to in teractively create unique or customized connections between parts.
You will learn how to:
explode system connections and modify connection objects (parts, welds, bolts, cuts)
add system components to previously exploded connections
create unique connection objects interactively
define and apply custom components
Numbering and Reports
Numbering and Reports
This lesson covers how to handle part marking within Tekla Structures. You will learn:
numbering basics
how to customize the numbering system
numbering in phases
Principles of Drawings
Principles of Drawings
This lesson introduces the basics of drawings in Tekla Structures. You will learn:
the integration between the drawings and the model
the drawing types available in Tekla Structures
the basics of the drawing list
the various levels of editing drawings
Assembly and Single Part Drawings
Assembly and Single Part Drawings
The next step is to learn how to create fabrication drawings for the items that were created in the model.
You will learn:
how to create individual drawings
how to use selection filters to create groups of drawings of members with similar
attributes
how to create drawings automatically using the Master Drawing Catalog
editing drawings manually
handling drawing after changes are made to the model
Multi-Drawings and Multi-Numbering
Multi-Drawings and Multi-Numbering
This lesson introduces multi-drawings and explains the principles of multi-numbering. You will learn how to:
create multi-drawings
collect multiple assembly or single-part drawings to one multi-drawing sheet
apply multi-numbering to multi-drawings
update and modify multi-drawings
General Arrangement Drawings
General Arrangement Drawings
This lesson covers how to create erection plans, details and section views. You will learn how to:
create anchor bolt plans
create erection plans of individual views
create general arrangements of multiple views on one sheet
modify drawings properties
modify view properties
Drawing Management
Drawing Management
This lesson covers more advanced aspects of handling drawings. You will learn how to:
control revisions
edit drawings more effectively using object level settings and cloning
customize the drawing title block by adding logos
make and use basic drawing templates
Project Deliverables
Project Deliverables
This lesson covers how to create deliverables for your project. You will learn to:
Print/plot drawings
Sharing your 3D model
Creating CNC files
How to use this training material
How to use this training material
Each lesson starts with a short introduction to its contents. All lessons are comprised mainly of step-by-step instructions, which are complemented by background and additional information. Pictures of the dialog boxes and of the model help you to visualize the instructions and show the desired result.
The necessary background data is given either by the teacher (in the class room) or through paths to the Tekla User Assistance help topics. These paths help you find the related information quickly and easily which will assist you in getting the most from this course. Note that with the assistance of online help you will learn to use Tekla Structures as
efficiently as possible from the very beginning.
The aim of this training material is to teach you best practices, and the most efficient way to use Tekla Structures. However, the aim is also to introduce alternative methods to carry out tasks. This means that repeated tasks are occasionally carried out with using different procedures than those presented earlier in the lessons.
Icons are also used to highlight certain information:
A warning triangle highlights a note that is worth remembering. Or it may serve to point out a potential problem to be avoided.
Stop signs are severe warnings. Ignoring the text accompanying these may cause something to fail or cause a process to produce unexpected results.
Tips are shown with a light bulb icon. They provide additional information that may help speed up your learning or help you produce better or quicker results.
Technical information is denoted by gear wheels. You can choose to ignore this info until you are more confident with the system, or you can pay attention to it if you are curious.
Basi c Mod eli ng
Tekl a Structu res 20.0
2014 Steel Basic Training
Contents
1
Basic Modeling ... 1
1.1
Start Tekla S
tructu
res...
...
...
...
...
...
.... 2
1.2
Create a New Model – Basic T
raining
... 3
1.3
Setting Up Job Specific Information ...
...
...
...
.... 6
Check prefere
nces ...
...
...
...
...
...
.. 7
Project properties ... 9
1.4
Create Grid ...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
10
1.5
Create plane views along gridlines
...
...
...
...
...
15
1.6
Create Foundations
...
...
...
...
...
...
... 20
Change the phase for the b
uilding
... 20
Pad footings
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
... 2
1
Copy the footings...
...
...
...
...
...
.. 24
1.7
Create Ste
el Framing ...
...
...
...
...
...
.. 26
Steel colum
ns ...
...
...
...
...
...
...
. 26
Floor beams ...
...
...
...
...
...
...
... 29
Roof Beam ...
...
...
...
...
...
...
... 3
1
Work points fo
r floor joists an
d roof purlins
... 32
Crane Beam Support Stubs ...
...
...
...
...
35
Copy the colum
n line 1 fr
ame and th
e points
... 38
Model Floor Steel ...
...
...
...
...
...
... 39
Set Sloping Work Plane for Roof Purlins ... 42
True plan view ...
...
...
...
...
...
... 4
4
Create Roof Purlins ...
...
...
...
...
...
... 45
Horizontal Eaves Bracing
...
...
...
...
...
...
48
Copy steel bays ...
...
...
...
...
...
... 49
Pour Stop ...
...
...
...
...
...
...
... 5
0
1.8
Combine Models...
...
...
...
...
...
. 63
Check that all part properties a
re consisten
t ... 68
1.9
Define Your Own Sele
ction Filters
...
...
...
...
...
74
1.10
Model View F
ilters ...
...
...
...
...
... 76
1 Basic Modeling
In this lesson
In this lesson, we will cover some preliminary tasks that you need to do before starting to model in a real project. We will create a new model and recap the basic functions introduced in the Prerequisite Model. After that, you will learn some more about the basic functions. We will review how to:
Open and save or backup models Input grids
Create beams and columns Copy and move items
You will learn how to:
Adjust attributes of members Input construction points
Work in true planes (sloped, skewed) Use phases
1.1 Start Tekl a Stru ctu res
Start Tekla Structures
To start Tekla Structures, click the WindowsStart button. Navigate throughAllAllPrograms >
Tekla Struc tures 20.0 > Tekla Structu res 20.0.
Alternatively, you could double-click on the desktop iconTekla Structures 20.0.
The login dialog box will open. This login allows you to select the environment you want to work in – typically US Imperial or US Metric, depending on your installation. You will also be able to select your role. The roles options in Tekla Structures are to tailor the program to
fit your needs and to help you find the settings you need easier and faster.
For this training, we will be working in theUS Imperial environment and using theSteel
Detailing Role. Make sure these are selected, and clickOK.
This class will be using a Steel Detailing configuration type which will allow you to create any size model – if using a Primary configuration, please be aware that your model is limited to 2500 parts. You can keep track of how many parts are in your model in the bottom left after each save.
If dealing with a model too large for a Primary configuration, consider splitting up the building into smaller models or continue the project with a Steel Detailing license.
The modeling interface is now opened as shown below. At first, most of the menu options and icons are gray indicating that they are inactive. When you open an existing model or create a new model, the icons and available menu options will become active.
You can open or create models from theWelcome t o Tekla Structures dialog box, or you can use theFile menu or toolbar buttons.
1.2 Create a New Model – Basic Traini ng
To start a new model, you first need to create an empty model database with a unique name. In this lesson, use the nameBasic Training followed by your name.
Start a new model
1. SelectNew m odelfrom theWelcome to Tekla Structures dialog box or select File > New… from the pull-down menu or CTRL+N or click theNew model icon in the
Standardtoolbar to open theNew model dialog box.
2. At the lower center of theNew Model dialog box, Tekla Structures suggests the name
New Model for the model. The full path of the model folder is shown in the top field.
3. Name the modelBasic Training - YourName. (Adding your own name to the model name helps to identify your model on a network, especially during the training class)
Every model must have a unique name. Tekla Structures does not allow duplicate model names within the same location. Do not use special marks ( / \ ; : | ) in model names.
You can use model templates as a basis when creating new models. Model templates consist of predefined settings. The “STL_DetailingTemplate”, for example, cleans up the modeling environment by removing filters and options meant for other disciplines. To get all of the steel detailing components included with Tekla Structures, youmustmustselect theSTL_DetailingTemplate
model template.
When using a model template, all projects are started in Single-user mode. The model can later be opened in Multi-user mode if desired. The Multi-User functionality in Tekla Structures allows multiple users in one model. This is particularly useful when a number of detailers are working on one contract. 4. Click theOK button to create the n ew model.
The menus and icons become activated, and the model name appears in the title bar of the Tekla Structures window.
You can only have one model open at a time. If you already have a model open, Tekla Structures prompts you to save that model.
Tekla Structures automatically creates a grid and a 3D view according to the saved standard view properties. The 3D view is shown in theViews dialog box. Named views are shown on the left, and currently visible views are on the right. To make the 3D view visible, highlight it and use the arrow button to move it to theVisible views side, or double-click on it.
The default 3D view and grid are shown below.
Lines show the projections of the grids that are visible on the view plane. Tekla Structures indicates the work area of a view using a white, dashed line cube.
Save the model
To save the model: SelectFile > Save from the pull-down menu orCTRL+SCTRL+S or click the
Save icon in theStandard toolbar.
Remember to save your model often, and always save when opening a new model or exiting Tekla Structures model.
Tekla Structures also includes an auto save feature that backs up and saves your work automatically at set intervals. These intervals are set in the Autosave properties dialog box obtained from thedown menu. Tools > Options > Options…
pull-Most commands for Tekla Structures are found both in menus (main or pop-up) and in toolbars (icons). In this training manual, we will mainly use the pop-up menu to activate commands.
There are several ways to execute commands in Tekla Structures:
Icons
Commands in main pull-down menu Commands in pop-up menu
By default all commands are found in the pull-down menus and most of them in the icons. A pop-up menu appears when you click the right mouse button (right-click). If you have an object selected, the commands on the pop-up menu relate to that object.
Home › Basics of Tekla Structures › Interface overview Home › Basics of Tekla Structures › Interface overview
1.3 Settin g Up Job Specific Information
Now would be a good time to set up many preferences and job specific properties. Note that you can set up this information at any time, but the most logical time to do this is right at the start of the contract.
Preferences Project properties
Tekla Structures contains a powerful tool to help productivity with regard to setting up information that may be repeated over several contracts. All this information can be entered once then stored in a "Firm or Project Folder" so that the next time you start a new model on a particular project or for a particular client you already have the settings required. This information can
also be saved into a model template. For more information on Firm and Project Folders, please consult the Tekla User Assistance, the Tekla Extranet, or Tekla Support.
Check preferences
Before starting the modeling, we will check that preferences are set up correctly.
Home › Instructions › System Guide
Home › Instructions › System Guide › Files and folders › Files › Files and folders › Files storing options andstoring options and advanced options › Settings
advanced options › Settings in the Options dialog boxin the Options dialog box
Check that your preferences are set up correctly before you start modeling. If you change settings in the Options, Tekla Structures only applies the new settings to connections you subsequently create. Connections you created prior to changing the preferences are not affected.
Check preferences
1. OpenTools > Options > Options…
Here you can set the Autosave interval we just mentioned. It can be set by the number of commands completed, or the number of drawings created.
For more information on saving and auto saving, see:
Home › Instructions › Project Collaboration Guide ›
Home › Instructions › Project Collaboration Guide › Multi-user mode › GeneralMulti-user mode › General information on the multi-user mode ›
information on the multi-user mode › Saving in multi-user mode › Saving in multi-user mode › AutosAutosaveave
The bolt edge distance factor does not actually affect connections created by Tekla; it only sets the value for the bolt edge distance warning in the bottom left. This indicates that you may need to look closer at this connection. The bolt standard and size will affect all connections put in after the change is made. It will not retroactively affect existing connections in the model. 3. UnderOrienta tion marks, you can set the north direction by degrees from global X as
shown below.
4. After you make any desired changes, remember to click the Ap ply button. 5. ClickOK.
Project properties
Project properties are common to all drawings and can be used to fill in typical information in the title blocks.
Set up pro ject properties
1. Open theProject properties dialog box by selectingFile > Project Properties…
2. Note that default information has been added in the dialog box to show you what fields will apply when used on drawings and reports. Replace the defaults with project information.
1.4 Create Gri d
Properties dialog box
In order to create or modify the grid, you need a basic understanding of how to use a property dialog box. All entities in Tekla Structures such as grids, views, beams, connections, even points and welds have properties. You can see and modify the properties of an object by
double-clicking on the object in the model.
Double-click on the grid, and the grid properties dialog box will open. Note the buttons along the bottom of the box. These are typical for most property dialog boxes in Tekla Structures.
In this case you will have the option toCreatea new grid,Modify an existing grid, orGet the properties of an existing grid (by highlighting the grid and clicking theGet button). You can
alsoClose the dialog box.
Note the buttons along the top of the dialog box. These are typical for most property dialog boxes in Tekla Structures.
You have the option toSave the settings as they stand, select different saved settings from the pull down menu andLoad them, or save changed settings with a new name typed in the field
to the right of theSave as button.
To create the grid, you can delete the existing grid and create a new one from theModeling >
Create Grid … pull-down menu, or you can modify the existing grid.
Modify the existing grid
1. Open the3d view and Double-click on a gridline. This opens theGrid properties dialog box.
2. Complete theGrid dialog box by filling in the X, Y and Z coordinates, and the labels for the gridlines as shown. Don’t miss the Origin offset in the Y.
The x and y coordinates of a grid are relative. This means that the entries for x and y are always relative to the previous entry. The z coordinates are absolute, which means that entries for z are absolute distances from the work plane srcin. For more information, see the Tekla User Assistance:
Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Setting up the workspace › Grids › Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Setting up the workspace › Grids › Creating a grid ›
Creating a grid › Grid coordinatesGrid coordinates
There are a number of ways you can type fractions in Tekla Structures including fractional inches (7"5/8), Decimal inches (7.5 for 7½"), Feet and inches (7'5"5/8 or 7'5.625) or even decimal feet (7.5' for 7'-6"). The program will convert whatever you type into a format that it can use. You don't have to type the inch symbol when you mean inches. It will always assume this by default.
Tekla views a space as an indicator of a new value. If you would like to use a space in the name of a grid line, you need to enclose the entire mark in quotes (i.e. “First Floor”).
If a grid line needs to be skewed they can be individually created with the
Modelin g > Crea te Grid Li ne command, or individual lines can be moved
around by changing your selection options toSelect Grid Line. 3. ClickModify to apply the new grid values.
4. When prompted to confirm, clickYes.
5. In theSave as field, enter the grid file name,GRID-BASICTRGMODEL, and click the
Save as button to save the grid values for later use.
6. ClickClose to close the dialog box.
You can make grids and grid lines act magnetically so that the objects on the grid lines follow if you move the grid line. To bind objects to grid lines, select the magnetic grid plane checkbox.
Home › Instructions › Ba
Home › Instructions › Ba sics of Tekla Structures › Interface overview › sics of Tekla Structures › Interface overview › Dialog boxesDialog boxes Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Setting up the workspace › Grids Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Setting up the workspace › Grids
The numeric units used in theGrid dialog box (as well as in other modeling dialog boxes) can be controlled from theUnits and decimals ... dialog box obtained from theTools > Options > Options pull-down menu,Units and
decimals topic.
Every time you save an attribute by clickingSaveSave orSaveSaveasas, a file gets created in the “attributes” folder inside the current model folder. To open this folder, go to File > Open Model Folder > attributes. These files can then be copied to Firm or Project folder to be used on other models.
Rotate Grid
1. Select the grid.
2. Right-click, and selectMove Special > Rotate.
3. Pick on the intersection of grid lines C and 1.
TheMove – Rotate dialog box will reflect the new srcin point that was selected.
4. Enter15 for the degrees of rotation around that srcin point.
5. ClickMove.
Because the grid is now so far outside theWork Area, Tekla Structures will warn that objects are now outside of it and offer the option to adjust it automatically.
6. ClickExpand.
7. Right-click > Interrupt to cancel the command.
If we were to start modeling in parts now, especially footings and columns, they would come in square to global 0, 0. The work plane must be modified to follow the skew of the building before any parts are modeled.
The red coordinate arrow symbol indicates the work planework plane, which is the current local coordinate system of the model. Most of the commands that are dependent on the coordinate system use the work plane coordinates.
Set work plane to new skew
Now we can set our work plane to the new skew. 1. SelectView > Set Work Plane > Using Two Point s. 2. Pick the intersection of grid lines C and 1 to set the new srcin. 3. Pick a point along grid line C to indicate a new positive X direction.
You can use the command Set work plane > Using one point to set the work plane exactly to the desired position. This command keeps the work plane parallel to the current work plane but moves it to a new position using a single picked point.
The values for the grid size are saved, but to recreate the grid in the proper position you would still need to first set the skewed coordinate again, or place
it and then rotate it.
Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Setting up the workspace Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Setting up the workspace
1.5 Create plane views a lon g gri dli nes
We will now create Elevation and Plan views along the gridlines created in the previous section.
A view is a representation of a model from a specific location. Each view is displayed in its own window inside the main Tekla Structures window. Each view has a view plane on which the grids are visible.
Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Setting up the workspace › Views Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Setting up the workspace › Views
Create Plan vi ew To create a plan view
1. Open the view properties dialog box by double-clicking anywhere in the 3d view. These are the properties of the 3d view.
2. Note theName 3d, the An gle of view is 3d and the view has d imensionsUp andDown
into virtual reality from the location where the view was cut at the 0'-0" level. The current dimensions were set by Tekla Structures when the grid was rotated.
There are multiple ways to open the View Properties dialog box. You can either double click on an existing view or by selecting View > View Properties…
You can also open up the view properties and activate a create view command at the same time by double clicking on the icon button in the toolbar or by holding down the Shift key and single clicking on the icon in the toolbar or by holding down the Shift key and selecting View > Create View of Model > (pick method).
3. From the pull down menu at the top of theView Properties dialog box, selectPlan View
and clickLoad.
4. In the name field after the textPLAN AT EL., type the elevation of the view you wish to create, in this case0’-0”.
Notice that loading different settings changes the name, angle, and view depth. Plan and Elevation views have a much smaller view depth so they can focus only on that level of steel.
The view depth does not act as a cut off point for visible members. If any of the part is located within the defined view depth, the entire object will be visible in that view.
5. Click App ly so these settings, or attributes, will be used for the next view created. It is important to click the apply button, or you will create a view with the “old” applied settings which in this case were 3d. The name, angle and up and down depth of the view would still be set as 3d, and the new view created would be considered a copy view.
If you don't click theOK button, the dialog box will remain open. You can also close a dialog box by clicking theCancel button orX in the top right corner of that dialog box. Clicking App ly will apply the settings but keep the dialog box open. Only use Ap ply if you want to keep the dialog box open. You don't have to click Ap ply andOK every time.
It is important to understand the buttons at the bottom of a typical Tekla Structures dialog box.
Home › Instructions › Basics of Tekla Structures › Interface overview › Home › Instructions › Basics of Tekla Structures › Interface overview › Dialog boxes › Common buttons
Dialog boxes › Common buttons
Create Basic Vi ews
6. Click on theCreate basic view of model icon.
7. The following dialog box will open. The default elevation is 0”. Once a different elevation has been input that elevation becomes the default. This is typical of most property dialog boxes in Tekla Structures.
8. Enter the elevation to cut the view you applied setting, in this case0’-0”. 9. ClickCreate, and then close the Create view dialog.
You should now have a plan view cut at elevation 0’0”. You can double-click in the view and modify the name of the view, the type of cut, (Plane or 3d) and the distance the view will display up and down, but you can never modify or change where the view was cut. Create elevation view
3. In theName field after the textELEVATION ON GRID, type the name of the grid line for which you wish to cut an elevation view, in this case, gridC.
4. Click App ly so these settings, or attributes, will be used for the next view created. Create view by two p oints
1. Click on theCreate view using two poin ts icon.
2. In the plan view you created at elevation 0, click on the intersection of grid lines C and 2. As you move the cursor, you will see arrows pointing in the direction the cut will face.
4. Right-click > Interrupt
5. You have now created on elevation view for grid line C. ClickOK to close theView
Properties dialog box.
It is not necessary to pick two points the entire width of the building – this simply indicates the plane in which the view is cut.
Now that you know how to create views manually, we will learn how to create views automatically based on a grid system.
Tekla Structures offers a tool to quickly create views for each elevation and grid line as specified in the grid properties and name these views with the markers you specified. Note that these views will always be cut looking north and west.
Before we proceed to create views using this tool, we need to delete all existing views, except the 3d. To do this, go toView > View List, select the view to be deleted and click theDelete
button.
Views can be selected in both theNamed andVisible columns, so be careful when deleting them that you don’t accidentally delete views you want to keep. There is no Undo for this, so these views would have to be recreated.
Create grid views 1. Select the grid.
2. Right-click and selectCreate view > Along Grid Lines from the pop-up menu.
This opens theCreation of views along grid l ines dialog box. 3. In the view name prefix, add ‘
BLDG 2
’ to set these views apart from the first building. 4. Type the name ‘Bldg 2’ in the upper right and clickSave asSave as to save th ese properties.
You can click theShow… button on each view plane to open theView
properties dialog box, and adjust the view properties the way you want and
save them.
1.6 Create Foundati ons
First, we will create pad footings on gridline 1 and then copy them to the other gridlines. To be able to manage the objects from the two models after we have combined them we will create the parts in this building in a different phase.
Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Advanced modeling › Phases Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Advanced modeling › Phases
Change the phase for the bu ilding
Ad d a new p has e – Bu il di ng 21. ClickTools > Phase Manager… to open thePhase manager dialog box. By default
onlyPhase 1 appears in the d ialog box.
2. Click on the Ad d button to add a new phase.
3. Edit the name of the new phase toBuilding 2, by clicking on the name field.
4. Also edit the name of the phase 1 toBuilding 1. 5. Make sure ‘Building 2’ is highlighted. 6. ClickSet current.
7. Now all of the parts we create will be in phase number 2.
The @ symbol will jump to the current phase in the phase manager, and at the bottom of the main Tekla Structures window the current phase number and
name will always be displayed. You can also switch phases by double clicking on the phase in the Phase Manger.
Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide
Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Modeling settings › Part position settings ›› Modeling settings › Part position settings › Position on the work plane
Position on the work plane
Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide
Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Modeling settings › Part position settings ›› Modeling settings › Part position settings › Position depth
Position depth
Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Creating and modifying structures › Creating Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Creating and modifying structures › Creating and modifying parts › Changing the profile of a part
and modifying parts › Changing the profile of a part
You can also model in parts by using the coordinate values of the model.
Home › Instructions › Basics of Tekla Structures › Snapping to positions › Home › Instructions › Basics of Tekla Structures › Snapping to positions › Snapping to a
Snapping to a position using coordinates › Options for entering coordinatesposition using coordinates › Options for entering coordinates
Snap Icons
The snap icons function similarly to other computer aided drawing applications. These snap icons are hierarchal from left to right. The two right end icons designate if you want to snap only to work points (used mostly for modeling) or all points on corners and edges of objects.
Home › Instructions › Basics
Home › Instructions › Basics of Tekla Structures › Snapping to of Tekla Structures › Snapping to positionspositions
You can undo (and redo) previous commands one by one since the last save by clicking the icons or typing" Ctrl + Z" (Undo) and" Ctrl + Y" (Redo).
Create 6’-10 x 6’-1 0 footi ng
You should still be in theCreate pad footing command. (You will see the prompt"Pick
Position" in the status bar located in the lower left corner of the main Tekla Structures
window.)
While still in the command:
1. Enter the pad footing information in the dialog box for an82"*82"82"*82" (6'-10 x 6'-10") footing.
2. Change the top and bottom levels for the internal pad footings as shown. 3. ClickOK.
4. Pick grid intersectionsD-1 andE-1.
Below are the select icons. These icons allow you to select all parts or specific parts of the model by dragging a box around the entire model.
The first group, from 1 through 17 enables or disable the ability to select those object types in the model.
The next 4 icons allow you to select connections and assemblies as a whole or as individual entities.
Pull-down options are offered by Tekla Structures to allow you to select types of members such as beams or columns. The next icon (24) allows you to further narrow your selection by specifying more detailed information about an object.
The last icon enables or disables direct modification, which allows you to modify parts through drag/drop functionality.
For more information on using the select filter, see:
Home › Instructions › Basics
Home › Instructions › Basics of Tekla Structures › Filtering objects › of Tekla Structures › Filtering objects › Filtering objectsFiltering objects using a selection filter
using a selection filter
1.7 Create Stee l Frami ng
First, we will create four columns on gridline 1 and add floor beams and a sloping beam, or rafter, between them.
After that we will create the construction points needed to create floor joists and roof purlins. We will copy the completed portal frame and points.
Utilizing a sloping work plane and view planes, we will model roof purlins. Finally, we will create horizontal eaves bracing on gridlines C and F.
Steel column s
Create external columns2. Click on theSelect button to open theSelect Profile dialog box.
3. Select theW30X108from the profile tree and clickOK.
If you double click on a profile in the Select Profile dialog box, it will apply that profile to the column properties and close the Select Profile dialog box.
You can select the profile for a part from theSelect profil e dialog box that opens next to theProfile field in the part properties dialog box. You can also type a profile name in theProfile field in the part properties dialog box.
4. On thePosition tab change the bottom elevation to-1’-7”1/2 and the top elevation to
User-defined attributes provide extra information about a part. Attributes can consist of numbers, text, or lists. Some examples are: Comment, camber, existing, On Hold, RFI information, Preliminary Marks, and bought out items.
Home › Instructions › Modeling
Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Modeling settings › PartGuide › Modeling settings › Part properties › User-defined attributes
properties › User-defined attributes
Note that the bottom of the column is 1’-7-1/2" below zero (0"). This takes into account for the grout that will be added later (1-1/2") as we want the end point of the column to be at the underside of the base plate when we apply the base plate component.
5. Click App ly .
6. Pick grid intersectionC/1 to create the first column. 7. On theParameters tab, change the top elevation to59’-8.
8. Click App ly.
Create floor support columns
We will now create twoW18X97 columns to support the floor steel at gridsD/1 andE/1. The
Create Column command should still be active, but if not, simply single-click on theCreate
Column button to reactivate it.
1. Set the profile and top elevation properties as shown below.
Attrib utes tab:
Position tab:
2. ClickOK to apply the properties and close theColumn Properties dialog box. 3. Pick the grid intersections atD/1 andE/1 to create the columns.
4. Right-click and selectInterrupt to end the command.
The visibility of objects in views depends on the work area, view depth, view setup, and view filter. You can also temporarily hide parts in a view by using theHide tool (on the pop-up menu).
In the pictures hereafter, all the model objects created may not always be visible.
Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Examining the model › Showing Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Examining the model › Showing and hiding objects
and hiding objects
Floor beams
Create floor beamsNext, we will create the floor beams on column line 1. These beams will be adjusted down 2-1/2” to allow for joist bearing.
Always model beams in a 2D plane view to ensure that the handles get created at the correct elevation. The handles of the beam (yellow and magenta squares) will be located in the view plane that was used to model in the beam. The beam properties will then locate the actual beam profile in relation to these handles (reference line) and the workplane.
1. Open theBLDG 2 PLAN AT EL. 23’-6” view.
In rendered views, use the shortcuts Ctrl+1...5 and Shift+1...5 to set the desired representation for parts in the model or components which we will create later.
3. Double-click on theCreate beam icon to open the Beam Properties dialog box and activate the command.
4. EnterW24X76 for the beam profile.
These beams need to be lowered for joist bearing. They can either be moved into position after they are modeled in, or the position tab values can be modified.
5. On thePosition tab, change thePosition / At depth to:Behind with2"1/2 offset and clickOKto apply the properties and close the dialog box.
Changing theOn plane or At d epth positions on thePosition tab adjusts the location of the steel in relation to the handles and the workplane.
Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Creating and modifying structures Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Creating and modifying structures › Creating and modifying parts › Modifying the position of a part
› Creating and modifying parts › Modifying the position of a part
It really makes very little difference whether you locate beams using offsets or by simply moving them into position. Sometimes there may be speed
advantages to be gained by modeling one way rather than another.
6. Turn on theSnap to lines and edges snap switch.
7. Hover over grid line 1 between grid lines C and D as shown below, and notice how the line illuminates with an arrow to show where the beam will be created and also the
8. Click to create the beam automatically and see that it appears at the correct level in the 3D view simultaneously.
Note that it is very important to input beams from left to right and bottom to top. Tekla Structures will consider the first end input in the model as the left end on the drawings. This will make the marked end of the beams on the erection plans be the left and bottom to match US standards. 9. Continue creating the beams along grid line 1.
10. Right-click and selectInterrupt to end the command. 11. Turn off the Snap to li nes and edges snap switch.
Roof Beam
Now we will create aW30X99 beam at the roof between the two outside columns that we created.
Create beam
1. Open theBLDG 2 EL EVATION ON GRID 1view.
2. Double-click on theCreate beam icon.
3. Load theBeam properties – we do this to clear out the changes we made on the position tab for the floor beams.
4. EnterW30X99 for the beam profile and clickOKto apply the properties and close the dialog box.
5. In theBLDG 2 EL EVATION ON GRID 1 view pick gridCat66’-3”and then gridFat
Work points for floor joists and roof purlins
After inputting the steel along 1 line, we will layout points for modeling the floor infill joists and the roof purlins. These points can be placed in either a plan view at the steel elevation or an elevation view along this column line. We will use theBLDG 2 EL EVATION ON GRID 1
view.
Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Setting up the workspace › Points Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Setting up the workspace › Points
Equal spaced work points fo r floor beams First, the floor joist spacing.
2. Type4and click Ap ply.
3. At the 23’-6 elevation, select the grid intersection ofC/1, thenD/1 to create five equal spaces (4 points).
4. Repeat at the bay between grid intersectionsE/1 andF/1.
5. Back in theDivided Line Points dialog box, change the number of points to5 and click
OKto apply the properties and close the dialog box.
6. Pick the grid intersectionsD/1, thenE/1 to create 6 equal spaces (5 points) in that bay.
7. Right-click > Interrupt .
These points could have been modeled in either the plan view or the elevation view. When a point is in the same plane as your view, they appear yellow. When they are out of the current view plane, they are red.
We can now use the grid intersections C and 66’-3” and F and 59’-8” to create the work points for the first and last roof purlins. To make sure the points are in the correct position,
we will work in the BLDG 2 ELEVATION ON GRID 1 view.
Because the points need to follow the sloping beam, they cannot be entered in a plan view – since the current plan views have flat planes, the points would also
come in at a constant elevation.
First a nd last joist wor k points
1. Double-click on the Ad d po in t alo ng ext ensi on o f two p ic ked po in ts icon. 2. Type-2-0” and clickOKto apply the properties and close the dialog box.
Create extension point adds or subtracts a point along a line that you specify
by clicking two points in the model. The points that are clicked by you in the model define the direction vector; the value you enter defines the distance from the second selected point. A positive or negative value defines the direction along the defined vector. A positive value means the extension point to be added will further away from the first point clicked, negative means back towards the first point clicked.
3. Pick grid intersectionC and66’-3” and thenFand59’-8”. 4. Repeat, picking the points in the reverse order.
5. Click on theMeasure Distanc e (F) icon and click on the top of column atC/1 then the work point to check that the point was created at the correct location. Place the temporary dimension by clicking a final time in space above the beam.
Divide the working poi nts in 12 segme nts
Using the Ad d po ints on li ne command, divide the space between the two work points that you just created into twelve equal spaces (11 points).
1. Double-click to open theDivide d li ne points dialog box.
2. Type11and clickOKto apply the properties and close the dialog box.
3. Select the two work points created previously.
4. Right-click > Interrupt .
Crane Beam Suppo rt Stubs
Next we will add crane girders to the framing. Create Stubs1. Double-click on theCreate beam icon. 2. Load theBEAM properties.
3. EnterW18X40 for the profile size and clickOK to a pply the properties and close the dialog box.
4. In theBLDG 2 EL EVATION ON GRID 1 view, pick the grid intersectionC and50’-10”. 5. Move the cursor to snap in the y direction (activate theSnap to neare st points option). 6. When the autosnap feature reaches3’-0”, click to create the beam.
When using the autosnap feature, the accuracy of the displayed dimensions is based on how far you are zoomed in the view. The further in you zoom, the
more accurate the dimensions will get.
Practice the use of Polar Tracking in order to fully maximize your modeling speed. Remember relative and absolute snaps can also help you to locate items or points in your model.
Copy to other column
Now we will copy the crane support to the column on F line by using theCopy Special >
Mirror command.
To make it easier to mirror parts, the work plane can be changed to match the 2d view we are working in.
1. In theBLDG 2 EL EVATION ON GRID 1 view, click on theSet wor k plane parallel to
view plane icon, and then click in view background.
The coordinate icon will change to show the X-Y directions in this view. 2. Select the crane beam andright-cli ck > Copy Special > Mirror.
3. This opens theCopy - mirror dialog box.
4. In the view, pick two points on the grid at two different elevations between grid lines D and E to define the mirror line. TheX0, Y0 and Ang le fields automatically change based on these 2 points.
5. ClickCopy, thenOK.
6. Right-click > Interrupt .
Set the work plane back to Buildi ng
1. Open theBLDG 2 PLAN AT EL. 0’-0 view.
2. SelectView > Set Work plane > Parallel to View Plane
3. Click in the background of the view.
The work plane is now set square to the skewed building.
Copy the column l ine 1 fram e and th e points
We will now copy the columns, the rafter and the points to gridlines 2 through 7. Copy the members
1. Select the columns, the rafter, the beams, and the points by dragging a box from the lower right to the upper left around the parts.
2. Right-click and selectCopy special > Linear .
3. Pick two points to show the translation vector (19’-8” in x direction). 4. Type the number of copies (6).
6. Right-click > Interrupt to cancel the command andOK to close the dialog box.
Model Floor Steel
The next step is to model the rest of the floor steel at the 23’-6 level in the first bay. Set pro perties for the flo or beams
1. Double-click on theCreate beam icon. 2. Load theBeam properties.
It is a good idea to Load the proper settings after modeling a member of different properties so that all settings for numbering, material and position are all reset.
3. EnterW24X76 for the beam profile and click App ly.
4. In theBLDG 2 PLAN A T EL. 23’-6” view, place the beams along column lineC through
Next, we will model the infill joists in each bay.
5. In the beam properties dialog box, load theJoist properties. 6. Enter18K for the joist profile and click Ap ply.
Joists in Tekla Structures are for representation only; they are not intended for fabrication. While this is possible in Tekla Structures, the process is not covered in the Steel Basic course.
You can also model joists so that there are higher than the supporting beam by entering -2”1/2 in the Position > At Depth field. This is helpful when modeling in roof joists and only the top of rafter elevations are known.
7. Pick the joist work point near grid intersection C1 at the commandPickfirst position . 8. At the command: Pick second point, pick the work point near grid intersection C2.
Notice that as you drag the icon to the second point of the beam, a dimension displays to indicate the part’s current length. The same dimension will appear again if you click and highlight a part in the model.
9. Right-click > Interrupt
10. Highlight the joist and Right-clic k > Copy.
11. Pick the endpoint of the joist, then the next work point to set the new copied location. 12. Repeat up to column line F, selecting all of the work points that we created earlier.
Home › Instructions › Basics of Tekla Structures › Copying and moving objects › Home › Instructions › Basics of Tekla Structures › Copying and moving objects › Copying an object
Copying an object
Set Sloping Work Pla ne for Roof Purlins
The next step is to model the Z-Purlins on the sloped roof. To place the parts in the correct plane we will first change the work plane (which currently is flat) to the roof slope.
Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Setting up the workspace › Work plane › Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Setting up the workspace › Work plane › Shifting the work plane
Shifting the work plane
Set work pl ane to the roof slo pe To set the work plane to the roof slope: 1. Open the 3d view.
2. Pick theSet Work usi ng three points icon, or go toView > Set Work Plane > Using Three Points
3. Pick the top of the column at gridC/1as thesrcin .
4. Pick the top of the column at gridC/2to define thepositive x direction . 5. Pick the top of the column at gridF/1to define thepositive y direction .
The work plane is now positioned to the top plane of the rafter.
It is a good idea to use the top of columns since their elevations are set in the column properties whereas the end of the roof beam was picked manually. To snap to the top of a column, just hover the cursor near the edge of the column shaft, and the endpoint that becomes visible is the top of the column.
TheSet work plane to pa rt to p plane command sets the work plane parallel
to the part plane (front, top, back, or bottom) on the center line of the part.
True plan view
We will now make a true plan view of the roof manually by creating a view on the sloped work plane. We can also use this true plan view in drawings.
Working in a true plan view makes it easier to model sloped objects since the grids are also shown in the true plan.
The part positioning, copying, etc, however, always comply with the work plane coordinate system no matter in which view you perform the commands.
Create true pl an view
1. PickView > View Properties…
2. LoadthePlan View pre-defined settings and complete the properties as shown below,
then clickOKto apply the properties and close the dialog box.
Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Setting up the workspace › Views Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Setting up the workspace › Views
3. SelectView > Create View of Mod el > On Work Plane.
The new view is created. The grid is also shown in the true plan view plane. Notice that because you are now looking directly at the sloping roof, your columns may look a little odd because they are effectively skewed in this view.
Other “Create View” commands allow us to double click on the icon to open up the properties dialog box and activate the command at the same time. This is not possible when creating a view from the work plane. You have to apply the view properties before activating the “Create View” command.
You can also turn on the grid in the work plane in your 3D view by selecting ‘work plane’ on your Snapping toolbar. This grid displays as a dark red color.
Create Roof Purlins
We will now create the roof purlins by using theCreate beam tool.
Create Purlins
1. Double-click on theCreate beam icon.
2. Load thePurlin_Z properties.
3. Select a1000Z300-71 profile from theCanam Z Sectio ns for the purlins. 4. ClickOKto apply the properties and close the dialog box.
5. Pick the work point near grid intersection C/1 at the commandPickfirst position . 6. At the command:Pick second point , pick the work point near grid intersection C/2.
7. Right-clic k > Interrupt.
8. Open theBLDG 2 EL EVATION ON GRID 1 view and notice that the purlin is not oriented correctly – the bottom leg should be facing down the slope.
The direction of the bottom flange of the purlin is determined by the direction in which the purlin was modeled. We cannot change this orientation in the Beam Properties dialog box. There is a tool in Tekla that allows us to switch the locations of the yellow and magenta handles so that we don’t have to remodel the purlin.
9. Select the purlin and go toTools > Macros, then select theGlobal radio button at the bottom, selectSwap Handles and clickRun.
Create the rest of the purlins in the bay between gridlines 1 and 2 by using theCopy special >
Linear command. (12 copies along the slope).
10. Select the purlin and thenright-click > Copy Special > Lin ear .
11. In theBLDG 2 TRUE PLA N ON ROOFview, pick two work points to define the distance between them in theCopy – Linear dialog box.
12. Enter the number of copies (12) and clickCopy. 13. ClickOKto close the dialog box.
14. Right- click >Interrupt.
If you get a distance in 1/128” accuracy when picking 2 points in the Copy Special > Linear command, there will almost always be a remainder that will prevent the later copied objects from falling exactly on the work points. If you
use the right-click > Copy method, all of the members will be exactly on the work points.
Set th e work plane ba ck to Building 2
Now we must switch the work plane back to the second building in a flat plane to carry on modeling outside of the roof plane.
1. Open theBLDG 2 PLAN AT EL. 66’-3”.
1. SelectView > Set Work pl ane > Parall el to View Plane.
2. Click in the background of the view.
Horizontal Eaves Bracing
On grid lines C and F, we will create horizontal HSS bracing using theCreate beam tool. Create b race
1. Open theBLDG 2 PLAN AT EL. 66'-3” andBLDG 2 PLAN AT EL. 59’-8” views. 2. Double-click on theCreate beam icon.
3. Load theHorizontal_HSS_Brace properties. 4. Enter HSS8X4X1/4 as the profile.
5. ClickOKto apply the properties and close the dialog box. 6. In theEL. 66’-3” view, create one brace from gridC/1 to gridC/2.
7. In theEL. 59'-8”view, create one brace from gridF/1 to gridF/2.
8. Select both braces,right-cli ck > Move Special > Linear to move them down4’-0” in the Z plane.
9. When prompted,Expand the view depth to see both braces.
Copy st eel bays
Finally, highlight all the beams, joists, purlins, and braces between column lines 1 and 2 and copy the framing to the rest of the building.
1. Open theBLDG 2 PLAN AT EL. 66’-3” view.
2. Double-click in the background of the view and adjust the view down distance enough to see all of the framing on the roof and the floor.
3. Starting below C line, drag a selection window from right to left up through all of the framing.
4. Right-click > Copy Special > Linear .
5. Enter19’-8” in theXdirection,5 copies, and clickCopy.
6. Right-click > Interrupt .
7. Double-click in the background of theBLDG 2 PLAN AT EL. 66’-3” view and change the view down distance back to5’-0” so that we only see the roof purlins and eaves braces.
Pour Stop
Next we can model some angle and bent plate pour stop around the perimeter of the 23’-6 level.
Create Perimeter angl e
1. Open theBLDG 2 PLAN AT EL. 23’-6” view.
4. Change the profile to anL7X4X3/8 and click Ap ply.
While you can simply type in the profile size into the field of the beam or column properties, you should select them from the catalog until you are more familiar with the syntax of the profile name.
5. HoldCtrl and click at the intersection ofC/1 to set a reference point.
6. Aim up with your cursor (do not pick!) and type1’-3”1/2, thenEnter . 7. HoldCtrl and click at the intersection ofF/1 to set th e second reference point.
8. Aim down with your cursor (do not pick!) and type1’-3”1/2, thenEnter .
9. Right-click > Interrupt .
If you look closely, you can see that the orientation of the angle is not correct.
10. If theBeam Properties dialog is closed, double-click on the angle we just created to reopen it. Otherwise, simply select the angle in the model.
11. On thePosition tab, change theRotation and the At d epth values toFront, and click
The angle is now oriented correctly (long leg horizontal), but is toed in the wrong direction.
12. Select the angle and go toTools > Macros, choose theGlobalradio button, then select
Swap Handles and clickRun.
13. Select the angle again and change theOn plane direction toLeft and theOn plane
dimension to-8”, then clickModify.
The back of the angle is now 8” from column line 1.
By setting the On Plane direction to Left with a negative dimension, the back of the pourstop angle will remain in the correct location even if the angle profile gets modified.
Asymmetrical profiles like Z purlins, angles, and channels cannot always follow the ‘left to right, bottom to top’ rule of modeling. If you cannot achieve the orientation needed, the part may need to be modeled in the other direction.
It may take some experimenting with the On plane, Rotation, and At depth settings to get an angle oriented the way you want. Depending on the direction the part is modeled and the current work plane, values for one location may not work in another.
We will now model the pourstop angle along column line 7 with the reference line at a different location so that we can see how this affects the visibility of the parts on the drawings.
1. Double-click on theCreate Beam icon to open the dialog box.
2. Load the An gle_Pou rstop attribute that we just created.
3. Go to thePosition tab, change theOn plane dimension to0”, and click Apply.
4. HoldCtrl and click at the intersection ofC/7 to set a reference point.
5. Aim right with your cursor (do not pick!) and holdCtrl and left click when the autosnap dimension shows 8” to set a second reference point.
6. Type the letterO on your keyboard to activate Orthogonal tracking.
7. Aim up with your cursor (do not pick!) and type1’-3”1/2, thenEnterto create the start handle of the angle.
8. HoldCtrl and click the perpendicular at column lineF to set reference point. 9. Aim down with your cursor (do not pick!) and type1’-3”1/2, thenEnterto create the end
10. Right-click > Interrupt . Split Perimeter Angle
The angles as modeled are over 70’-0 long, so they need to be broken into smaller manageable pieces. We will split the angle into 20’-0 lengths.
1. Click onEdit > Split.
2. Select the angle on column line1.
3. Ctrl+Click on the start handle of the angle.
4. Aim upwards (do not pick!) along the angle and type20’-0, thenEnter . 5. With the command still active, pick the next section of angle.
6. Ctrl+Click on the new start handle at the split point that was just created.
8. Repeat the command until there are three 20’-0” long sections of angle, and a remaining 12’-9” piece. Repeat the above steps for the continuous angle along grid line 7.
9. Right- click >Interrupt.
Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide
Home › Instructions › Modeling Guide › Detailing structures › Splitting parts› Detailing structures › Splitting parts
You can use splitting with straight parts, curved beams without offsets, or normal and tapered reinforcing bar groups. You can also split plates and slabs by using a polygon. You cannot split polybeams.
Create Bent Pl ate
Next we will create bent plate pour stops along column line C using theCreate Polyb eam
tool.
1. Open theBLDG 2 EL EVATION ON GRID 1 view.
2. Go toView > Set Work Plane > Pa rall el to View Pl ane and click in the background of the view.
3. Double-click on theCreate Polyb eam icon.
4. Load thePlate properties from the drop-down menu.
5. Change the profile size toPL3/8X120”.
The legs of the bent plate are going to be defined by the points we pick. The length of the overall plate then needs to be defined in the Profile field.
TheCreate Polybeam tool can also be used to create curved material. Curved
members created with the polybeam tool can be measured differently depending on their orientation or profile type.
6. Go to thePosition tab, change theOn plane direction toRight, theRotation toTop, and
the AtDepth toBehind.
7. Click ApplyandSave the attribute as Bent_Plate.
When modeling plates with the Z Axis pointing out of the screen towards you,
theTop andBelow rotations will model in the plate with the skinny side visible;
theFront andBack rotations will model in the plate with the broad side visible.
8. Click on the top of the beam onC line, then aim to the left and type1’-5” and press
Enter .
9. Type the letterO on your keyboard to activate Orthogonal tracking. 10. Aim straight up and type4”4”, thenEnter .
11. Middle mouse click to finish. 12. At the prompt, clickDo not expand.
Notice that the plate was created outside of column line 1, or behind the current work plane.
14. Go toView > Set Work Plane > Pa rall el to View Plane and click in the background of the view.
15. Select the plate, andright-click > Move.
16. Select the grid intersection atC/1 for the starting point.
17. Right- click >Mid to select the midpoint snap override and place the plate at the midpoint
of the grid between lines 1 and 2.
18. Select the plate andright-click > Copy Special >Mirror .
19. Pick two points along the far right edge of the plate to indicate the mirror line.
20. ClickCopy.
The plates need to be adjusted to provide a gap at column centerline. 21. Click theMeasure horizontal dis tance icon.
Adjust the plate so it is 1/2” clear of column line 2.
23. Double-click on the plate overlapping column line 2 to open theBeam Properties dialog box.
24. Change the profile length to9’-9”1/29’-9”1/2 (117-1/2”) and clickModify.
25. Single-click on the first bent plate we created.
26. Click the check/uncheck button in theBeam Properties dialog box.
27. Check on theProfile line.
28. ClickModify. 29. ClickOK. Copy bent p lates
Next, copy the plates down column line C.
1. Select both plates, thenright-click > Copy Special >To another object .
2. Select the beam between grid lines 1 and 2 at the prompt for the source object. 3. Select the beam between grid lines 2 and 3 at the prompt for the destination object.