SAP2000 - Add Joint Mid Member 1

[jtjc23eng]

Hello,

I am relatively new to SAP2000. I used RISA before much more successfully, but I am still getting the hang of SAP's little details. How do I add a joint mid member?

I did a few searches but could not find a clear answer. Thanks ahead of time.

 

[JoshPlumSE]

It takes a while to transition from RISA to SAP2000. The two programs are just organized very differently.

First, can I assume this is about P-Delta behavior or capturing geometric non-linearity? If so, then consider two things:
1) SAP may not need as much meshing of the members because it can capture the P-little delta due to nodal rotation as well (i.e. member curvature).
2) Some meshing of the columns or such could still be required. Go to Assign > Frame > Automatic Frame Mesh to set some setting related to this.

If this is NOT related to geometric non-linearity, then I'll give some alternate suggestions in my next post.

 

[JoshPlumSE]

So, if you're just trying to add a joint somewhere along the length of a member, here are some suggestions:
3) There is a "snap" toolbar usually on the lower left side of the screen (see attached image) this allows you to snap to intersections, midpoints, lines, edges and such. Kinda like you'd do in AutoCAD.

4) Under the Edit menu there are a number of functions that might help you
a) Move
b) Edit Points

5) There is also a "Nudge Feature" described in the help file. Basically the same as move. You select the item to be moved graphically, then hold down the Ctrl button and use the Up, Down, Right, Left arrow keys on your keyboard to nudge that item in any direction. The distance that it's moved is set on the Options > Dimension / Tolerances form.

I hope that helps!

 

[jtjc23eng]

Perfect. This is exactly what I needed. Really appreciate your help breaking it down for me! I knew there must be a simple solution to what I was trying to do. Thanks!