Download - Structural Desktop

Working With Structural Desktop from Scratch
Structural Desktop is also designed to work without an analysis file, and this is the
primary method for working with Structural Desktop LT. When there is no data file
from an analysis program available, Structural Desktop will allow a user to create a
model in AutoCAD. This model can be used to create an input file for analytical/design
software using Structural Desktop, or you can proceed directly to the output drawings
with either Structural Desktop or Structural Desktop LT.
Structural Desktop creates input files for analytical programs that describe the geometry
and basic properties of members and elements. Structural Desktop creates the joint
numbers and coordinates, member incidences, and element incidences.
Structural Desktop will create the geometry for an analytical model without a preexisting analytical model. You may then export the input file for analysis and design and
return the result to Structural Desktop. Alternately, you can create a model and create
your drawings completely within Structural Desktop.
On the Structural Desktop menu, under File, the last menu selection is Open Structural
Desktop Document. (See Figure 2 - 3) This selection will set all the necessary layers
and create a Structural Desktop Model environment. This environment enables you to
create a structural model with access to the full library of sections.
Any method that will place LINES and 3D FACES within AutoCAD is valid to create a
Structural Desktop Model. DXF files from any version of AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT
(or any other CAD software or analytical design program that produces DXF files), or
any drawing file that is compatible with your version of AutoCAD can be inserted as a
block and exploded. Lines and faces to be changed to Structural Desktop objects will
retain their layer information and color. However, do NOT try to use lines that are only
inserted through XREF or that are still part of a BLOCK. Simple lines and simple 3D
faces are the rule.
You can use existing drawings to create lines and insert them into this model, or you can
draw lines, copy lines, array lines, or mirror lines to create a structure. Any AutoCAD
tool such as trim, extend or offset can be applied to these lines BEFORE they are
changed to MEMBERS to get them precisely where you want them. Since lines do not
become members until changed, you may use any construction lines or reference lines
you wish. Lines that are not selected at the time you Change Lines to Members will be
erased by Structural Desktop as part of the database management cycle.
See the section on Changing Lines to Members for more information. In like manner,
you can create or import 3d Face objects that can be changed to elements and that is
covered in the section on Changing Faces to Elements.
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