I tried to model a concrete block using solid element (to simulate a pile cap). However, the block does not seem to look right in Staad. I numbered the nodes sequentially in one direction for the upper nodes and similarly for the lower nodes. There seems to be some cross over lines between the upper and lower nodes. Is it just the way that it is presented visually in Staad or am I not doing this correctly? Please advise. Thanks.
Looks like the order in which you picked the nodes was not correct which resulted in a distorted shape. I have attached a sample model in which I have created two solids. Solid 1 is defined the right way and solid 2 is defined the wrong way. You can take a look at the element incidence of the two solids to understand how is should be defined.
5444.Structure1.std
Answer Verified By: Charles Chan