How to Model Steel Frame Members
Frame members are a new generation of elements, independent of the axis, allowing for easy manipulation of definition points and offsets, providing great convenience in modeling. Finite element method can be used to transfer loads to frame elements from slabs, and restraints and end-releases can be assigned at both ends. The desired load profile can be defined on frame elements utilizing ProtaStructure's interactive load editor.
These members are automatically assigned to different drawing layers according to their types, and they are displayed in different colors in the model. Furthermore, in ProtaSteel, suitable connections and detail drawings can be created for these types.
Frame Groups
For steel floor and decking systems, "Frame Groups" have been developed to quickly insert secondary beams or parallel steel beams. With ProtaStructure, steel frames can be inserted in groups, and the properties of the inserted frames and their layout options can be changed from a single properties window.
For further details of the modelling process, the video given below is recommended.
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