Computing Section Properties from AutoCAD
Computing Section Properties from AutoCAD
(OP)
Hello All.
I am doing a structural review for a rooftop solar panel racking system, which is comprised of extruded aluminum rails. I have CAD drawings of the extrusion profiles, and need to figure out section properties (moment of inertia, section modulus, etc)so I can calculate the compression and moment resistance of the rails.
My boss tells me there may be an AutoCAD plugin that will be able to quickly figure this properties out, but I havent been able to find anything.
Does anyone have any advice? I would really appreciate it!
Thanks,
I am doing a structural review for a rooftop solar panel racking system, which is comprised of extruded aluminum rails. I have CAD drawings of the extrusion profiles, and need to figure out section properties (moment of inertia, section modulus, etc)so I can calculate the compression and moment resistance of the rails.
My boss tells me there may be an AutoCAD plugin that will be able to quickly figure this properties out, but I havent been able to find anything.
Does anyone have any advice? I would really appreciate it!
Thanks,






RE: Computing Section Properties from AutoCAD
RE: Computing Section Properties from AutoCAD
Once the shape is a "region", type MASSPROP and select the shape.
The section properties will pop up.
Move the the shape so the centroid is at 0,0,0.
type MASSPROP again.
Waa laa!
RE: Computing Section Properties from AutoCAD
you guys are just the best. thanks much!!
RE: Computing Section Properties from AutoCAD
thanks again, guys.
RE: Computing Section Properties from AutoCAD
TJ had it right, but just a word of warning. If you have a closed section like a square tube or pipe, create a "saw slit" in it to let the good carma in and out. I do this with a couple of lines maye 0.001 inch apart, then "pedit" the perimeter making it a polyline then make it a region.
You can also find the MASSPROP by following "tools...inquiry...massprop"
RE: Computing Section Properties from AutoCAD
RE: Computing Section Properties from AutoCAD
RE: Computing Section Properties from AutoCAD
thanks for the info.
RE: Computing Section Properties from AutoCAD
last problem, any idea how to calculate the torsional properties? (such as Cw and J).
This might be a challenge. Any ideas?
RE: Computing Section Properties from AutoCAD
It makes my eyes bleed.