How to model slanting / inclined beam

How to model slanting / inclined beam

When a beam is modeled, it is by default created horizontally at the top of the active storey in view.  

The elevation of the beam can be changed using the del z boxes for each end of the beam in the Beam Properties > 3D tab.

Method 1 :  Input delZ manually in Beam Properties

With reference to the table top model below, when a beam is created delZ – I (left end) and delZ -J (right end) defaults to 0.  Hence the top of the beam is in the same horizontal plane as the top of the storey (which is also the default top of slab).


A positive value of delZ will raise the beam end while a negative value will lower it.  

For example, if delZ- I = 500 and del Z -J = -1000, the left end will be raised 500mm and the right hand will be lowered by 1000mm.


Looking at the 3D physical model, it is not entirely clear if the left end of the beam is still connected to the column. The only way to verify the connectivity of members is to run Building Analysis and then go to the Analytical Model to investigate the analytical model (as shown below).


As shown above, the analysis automatically extended the height of the column by creating a rigid link (dark blue line). This is because the depth of the beam is 500mm and the beam end is raised by 500mm, hence the bottom of the beam end technical still meet the top of the column. Hence, the analysis intelligently created this rigid link to connect the column and beam.

Alternatively, if in doubt, you can raise the top of the column by the same value by using the delZ – top box in the column properties (as shown below).


Method 2 : Using insertion points in the 3D view

It is also possible to create a slanting beam by clicking on the smart points along the column length in the 3D view :

  1. With the beam properties out, hover the mouse cursor along the column.
  2. Select / Input the 1st end of the beam using any of these methods
  • Insertion points (red smart points) will appear at 0L, 0.25L, 0.33L, 0.5L, 0.66L, 0.75L & 1.0L
  • Hold down the CTRL & the insertion points will be available at a length step of 100 mm (can be adjusted in Settings> General Settings).  
  • Press F2 while an insertion point is visible will allow you to manually input the exact distance from the top of the column > Input value > press ENTER
  1. Select / Input the 2nd end of the beam  (see below example)


Method 3 : Using Plane function

This method can be used to model inclined beams which are supporting slabs. Using the plane function, all elevation of members can be forced to align with the plane.

This method must be used to model inclined / slanting the slab. Refer to this article : How to model inclined / sloping slab 


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