beam members variable cross section

[kornbrot]

hello,
i am trying to model a beam that is (example values):
'1 pris yd 1 zd 1' at one end and
'1 pris yd 2 zd 1' at the other.
is this possible or am i wasting my time?
regards,
kornbrot

 

[kornbrot]

can't fint a edit button so i'll do it this way:

PS: i'm using staad 2005 if this makes any difference

 

[SethGuthrie]

I think you are just looking to use the Tapered Member specification. Check the help contents (Index - Tapered) for details. While the tapered member specification is often used with "I" shaped sections it can also work for rectangular shapes.

 

[kornbrot]

i have worked with the tapered member specifications, but have only managed to create trapeze shaped beams. i am looking to model a beam with different cross section areas at the start and end node...
regards,
kornbrot

 

[edward1]

I have modelled several bridges with haunches at abutments and at piers. I put enough nodes in the model so I would have the members no longer than 1 foot. I would get the average depth of each member and use PRIS YD ZD for that property. That works well for modelling bridges.

 

[SethGuthrie]

I agree, modeling a series of short members is always a good solution. Using the Tapered I shape (with no flanges) is maybe a little easier, but it's limited to a tapering of the depth only, where both dimensions are changing, the segmented member approach is best.

 

[kornbrot]

as i have got more then 150 beams i need o model i would rather refrain from modeling them all in small sections as this would significantly increase the number of elements in the model. i will try playing with the tapered i shape some more, but it doesnt seem to do what i need.
regards,
kornbrot