Display the Local Coordinate System of an Analytical Element

Use Analytical Model Categories visibility settings to display Local Coordinate System (LCS) widgets along structural analytical elements in a view.

The widgets are available to linear structural elements.

1. In the Project Browser, open a plan, elevation, or 3D view.
2. Click View tabGraphics panel (Visibility & Graphics) to open the Visibility/Graphics dialog.
3. Click the Analytical Model Categories tab and expand the structural elements to access and enable the Local Coordinate System widgets. The following elements can display the local coordinate system widgets:
   • Analytical Beams
   • Analytical Braces
   • Analytical Columns
   • Analytical Floors
   • Analytical Foundation Slabs
   • Analytical Walls

Widgets representing the X, Y, and Z axes display along the enabled analytical elements. The Axes are defined as follows

Columns, Braces and Beams

• x (red) longitudinal axis: Orients from the beginning to end analytical model segments of the element.
• y (green) transverse section: The horizontal strong axis.
• z (blue) transverse section: The vertical weak axis.

Walls

• x (red) in-plane axis: Vertical orientation.
• y (green) in-plane axis: Perpendicular to x-axis.
• z (blue) normal axis: Orients from the interior to exterior face.

Floors and Slabs

• x (red) in-plane axis: Orients along the span direction of the element.
• y (green) in-plane axis: Perpendicular to x-axis.
• z (blue) normal axis: Perpendicular to the top surface.