why I need input Depth(t3) and Width(t2) when I define general section

[myabc]

I want to define general sections (Import general, Add general)in SAP2000. All section properties required are calculated using other software. But I am asked to input Dimensions: Depth(t3) and Width (t2). Why? what's the use of t3 and t2? And since the sections are not regular, how to find t3 and t2?

I thank you for your help.

Ta

 

[WillisV]

It is really just for display purposes in the program (so the program can graphically display a rectangular type shape even though all of the properties input might have nothing to do with that t3 and t2).

 

[popabf]

I want to define general sections (Import general, Add general)in SAP2000. All section properties required are calculated using other software. But I am asked to input Dimensions: Depth(t3) and Width (t2).

When using Import/Add GENERAL there are no Depth(t3), Width(t2) parameters to define. At least for version 9 or 10. what version of SAP are you using?

 

[myabc]

I used version 9. Now I am using version 10. Even for version 10, you still need to give t3 and t2 to define general section (after input the properties, you will be asked to input t3 and t2).
The general section can be defined in "Add SD section". It's more convenient.

Ta

 

[Pushover]

I agree with WillisV - the t3 and t2 properties are there so that the elements can be seen as shapes (and not lines) in a 3-D extruded view of the model.

Just so no one has to feel wary about using a general section and avoid it! (you can also convince yourself by checking with a 1-DOF model)

 

[Diquan]

"I used version 9. Now I am using version 10. Even for version 10, you still need to give t3 and t2 to define general section (after input the properties, you will be asked to input t3 and t2).
The general section can be defined in "Add SD section". It's more convenient"

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This is wrong!!!, look, to add a general section you have to select "ADD GENERAL" like popabf said you don't need t3/t2

Now... SD means = "Section Designer" there you define a section, you don't need to input anything like Ix, Iy, Sx, Sy, etc.... that is for not common shapes like a circular shear wall or something like that. To go there after you select the ADD SD SECTION and add new property click on section designer and there you can draw the desire shape and how to learn and read the results to use Section Designer read the manual, there you can find how SD sections works

Diquan

 

[myabc]

Sorry for my confusing post.

I means you can define general section by "Add General". But the general section also can be defined in SD.

You are right. Thank you.

Ta

 

[Diquan]

Yes, something like that. In Section Designer you can draw the section and SAP calculates the properties

Diquan