In placed created beam

[tvanniekerk]

I created a curved beam as family, but it does not seem to behave correct as structural member. It shows an analytical plane, but one cannot add line loads to it as it simply puts the load on the analytical plane from end to end

When I eport this beam to Robot Millenium for analysis, it does not show up, only the end-to-end analytical plan shows up.

So clearly RS3 does not recognize it properly as Structural Frame element. My question is this:

a/ Is there a better way of creating a curved concrete beam family?
b/ What must I do to get RS to recognize it as structural element?
c/ How can one control the analysis plane of such a beam

I attach a test file with the beam to demonstrate.

Theo

[rmcelvain.103137]

Theo,

I'll take a stab here but can't promise too much :) , I'm no pro at families....

A. I don't know that I would create a curved beam family like this; it seems to me that there has to be more flexibility than just the 2 points. I typically have created in-place families for curved members.

B. I think it's not recognizing it because you used symbolic lines for your analytical lines. I modified your family using model lines and it seemed to work; I was able to select the lines to add line loads.

C. Not sure exactly what you mean by "control", but the end to end analytical line shows up I think because of the fact that you used the beam family as a template. Again, this would not be the case if you created an in-place family.

I know the factory recognizes the need for a way to handle curved members and I'm hopeful that it is getting attention. Until then maybe someone else can add to what I have stated.

[tvanniekerk]

Rick

Thanks for the reply. Your comment certainly helped. Would it be possible to send me your family by email? my address is theo@tvna.co.za .

By control I meant being able to manipulate the position of the plane relative to the cross section, which I guess you answered already.

Regards,

Theo

[rmcelvain.103137]

Theo,

Here is the modified RVT file with the modified family. I hope it helps....

[tvanniekerk]

Thanks, much appreciated