Definition of prefabricated elements

In the element definition dialog, you can define prefabricated, volumetric elements of complex geometry, such as spread footings and stairs.

There are 2 types of element definition:

• Parametrized element - specify dimensions that define the geometry of a selected type of prefabricated element. A defined element is saved to the database.

  For spread footings, there are 2 icons on the right

  Define - use this to define a shape of the spread footing cross-section.

  Select - use this to define a shape of the spread footing cross-section by selecting a closed polyline (created using AutoCAD).

• ACIS solid - define a prefabricated element by defining or indicating an ACIS solid (an AutoCAD 3D solid or a group of objects (block) of the Face type).

  After you select ACIS solid, there are 2 icons on the right

  Select solid - use this to indicate an existing ACIS solid defined by means of the available AutoCAD options.

  Insert from file - use this to insert a solid from a DWG file (a DWG file may include a definition of only 1 solid).

  A defined element is saved to the database.

The Geometry tab displays a schematic drawing of a prefabricated element type and characteristic dimensions of the section. The 3D Preview tab includes a 3D drawing of a defined element.

Specify element parameters:

• Element type - the contents of this list depend on the type of prefabricated element for which the dialog has been opened
  • Spread footings
  • Prefabricated beams
  • Prefabricated columns
  • Stairs
  • Slabs
  • Walls
  • Continuous footings
  • Raft foundations
  • Ground beams

Note: Some types of prefabricated elements can be defined only using an ACIS solid and not a parametrized element.

• Name - specify the name of a defined element
• Scale factor - specify a value of the scale factor according to the AutoCAD rules
• Description - give an additional description of a defined element. This description will be provided in the INFO window (the Element info option).