Is there a simple function to invert the surface contraction function of a plate?
I have 2 rectangular surfaces with plates of slightly different geometry but the same local axes. When i create a planar contraction function (to contract along the shortest dimension of the surface - such as integral bridge deck contraction), one of these plates forms the planar contraction in the correct direction, the other forms it at 90 degrees, along the plates long axis. Is there a way to invert this?
Dear Scott,
In addition to Stefanos' solution, you could also just change the direction of the local axis. When you select the plate, in the Selection explorer set the "Axis function" to "Manual" and specify the direction of the local "1" axis with respect to the global x,y and z axes.
To visualize the current direction of the local axes, go to the "Options" menu and choose "Show local axis". In order to not fill your screen with local axis you could then for instance choose the sub-option "Show local axes on surfaces with structures" to get the local axes drawn only on your structural surface elements.
With kind regards,
Dennis Waterman
Thanks Dennis - I had also tried this approach with multiple combinations of axes orientation, however this did not appear to alter the direction of the contraction that is created on the plate. I expected that it would, but this does not happen. As responded to Stefanos above, ive managed to create the plate with the right contraction direction.