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Data Generation Wizard : Truss

The information supplied on these pages provides a description of a truss, a Vierendeel truss, or a Pratt truss, which is subsequently used to generate the structural model. The units of length are reported on the dialog, alongside a sketch of the structural form.

Definition​

Generation

The user can choose to create analysis and/or design models with

  • Generate members
  • Generate elements

Width, Number of Bays

Specify the width of the truss and the number of bays between supports.

Depth

The distance between the neutral axes of the top and bottom chords.

End Style

The end style of the truss can be selected from

  • Cornice – overhanging.
  • Facia – vertical.
  • Mansard – sloping.

Use Bars for Bracing

Bar elements should be used for bracing. By default beam elements will be used.

Top & Bottom Chords, Diagonals & Verticals

Opens the Section Wizard to allow the top and bottom chord, bracing and vertical sections to be selected. This is marked as unspecified until a section is assigned when the actual section will be displayed.

The verticals are only relevant if the facia option is selected, otherwise this item is disabled.

Include Supports

Pin supports are created at the ends of the span. By default no restraints are applied to the model.

Include Self Weight

A gravity load is set up in load case 1 applied to all elements. By default no loading is applied to the model.