Panel Modelling tool
The panel Modelling tool gathers tools that fine-tune analytical behaviour: you can create point-, line- or surface-based connections, insert fictitious elements to simulate hinges or stiffeners, and define rigid diaphragms.
- ↘ Point connection - assign a nodal hinge, rigid link or spring between two coincident points
- ↘ Line connection - connect parallel or intersecting lines with user-defined stiffness along the full length
- ↘ Surface connection - couple two plates or walls through an elastic membrane or rigid link layer
- ↘ Fictitious bar - add a zero-mass bar to transmit forces or impose releases without extra weight
- ↘ Fictitious shell - introduce an in-plane or out-of-plane stiffener that carries loads but does not contribute to mass or volume
- ↘ Diaphragm - enforce rigid-body behaviour in a slab or deck to simplify lateral-load analysis
Modelling tool panel also has an interactive clickable panel name that will take you to the relevant settings in the Settings menu.