Transforming the Grid Contd...
The "Geometry | Transform" function can be used to move, rotate, scale or reflect some or all of the elements within the model.
To reduce the spacing of the North portion of the structure, the "Geometry | Transform | Scale" function can be used. This allows the user to scale parts (or all) of the finite element model in combinations of the X-, Y-, and Z-directions. In the example case, the spacing of the North portion of the structure is too large in the Y-direction.
To do this:
1. Select the "Scale" tab of the "Transform" dialogue box.
2. Enter the scale factors in the X-, Y- and Z-directions. In this instance the elements need to be scaled in the Y-direction by the required spacing (1.6375 m) divided by the spacing assumed by the Generate Grid function (2.05 m). This results in a factor of 0.7987.
3. Enter the position of the datum line which is to be used for the scale function. In this instance, the datum point is the spine beam which is positioned 8.2 m away from the X-axis (i.e. at Y = 8200).
4. Select all of the elements to be scaled (in this instance all elements to the North of the spine beam).
Scale by...
Defines the factor to scale by in the appropriate direction.
Relative to...
Defines the position of the datum point about which the selected elements should be scaled.
N.B. Only centre-lines of members are defined so far. Cross-section, alignment and properties undefined.