How to change orientation of BEAM 188

[rupika]

Hi all,
I use Beam 188 element for my model. I want to change orientation of the beam. I went through the ANSYS document and this expression was there. "Node K is always required to define the orientation of the element". But can't find how to enter K value. I tried it by following method. Preprocessor->real constant->thickness func->function of shell thickness vs node number.But it requires name of array parameter.
Please give me an idea.

 

[Stringmaker]

How about the E or EN commands? Specify nodes I, J, & K in their proper order then with K being the orientation node.

 

[rupika]

Hi,
I used "I" beam cross section for BEAM 188 element. I entered dimensions of I beam using preprocessor-> sections-> beam->common sections. When I draw a horizontal element it shows as H section instead of I section. How can I change it to I section that means orientation? It is o.k with vetical elements. I have attached a document herewith.

 

[yebhrab]

You may have to draw your desired section upside down to get it to orient correctly. If you haven't already played with Modelling>Move>Reverse Normals, you should try that first.

 

[bagarbilla]

As i remember cross sections are defined in XY plane. where X is horizontal and Y is vertical. if u want to use I section as H u just have to change the orientation of the cross section when assigning it to a line mesh. I didn't remember the exact procedure now. but check ansys help for older beam elements too.