Edge Releases of Slabs and Edge Constraints

[Zambino]

Hello,

Wondering if anyone has some wisdom on how to properly release a slab edge. I have a condition where some slabs are only supported vertically on a wall (on sliding bearings). Other than the vertical support, the two elements of the structure are completely independent. I'd like this to be modelled, so I release everything except vertical shear on that edge of that slab element.

The issue I'm finding is that unless I take away all auto meshing and all auto edge constraints within that slab, it will still connect the wall and slab horizontally and diaphragm shear is transferred across the joint. I'm not sure I understand why edge constraints and meshing would change how ETABS deals with the DOF of nodes along that edge. Wondering if anyone here could enlighten me on why that behaviour tends to occur, or maybe a better way to deal with these sorts of situations (occurs often in precast).

Thank you,

 

[Luceid]

Assign -> Shell -> Edge Releases if you want to keep using the automesh. Automeshing shouldnt affect this. Edge constraints always add some funk to the system, so I try to have them turned off if I have the option.

Otherwise, manual mesh with links would probably be the most controlled method.