SectionBuilder is a finite element based tool for the sectional analysis of beams of arbitrary configuration made of anisotropic materials. ShapeBuilder is a pre-processor to SectionBuilder that enables the parametric definition of simple cross-sectional shapes that are used in mechanical and aerospace engineering.
This tutorial describes how to run SectionBuilder, exercise its many options, and how to understand the output generated by SectionBuilder. A detailed user's manual is available for SectionBuilder and in many instances, this tutorial links to this user's manual as a resource for finding more detailed information and background material.
ShapeBuilder provides a convenient way of generating simple cross-sectional shapes in a parametric manner. Familiar shapes such as I-sections, T-sections, or L-section are obtained easily along with more complex shapes such as airfoil sections or double box sections. This tutorial makes exclusive use of ShapeBuilder for the generation of the cross-sectional shapes.
SectionBuilder | Sign conventions | Sectional properties | The file system |
File operations | Open the input file | Save the input file | Backup the input file |
Run SectionBuilder | Perform FEM analysis | The graphics commands | |
Visualize results | Visualize strain field | Visualize stress field | Visualize warping field |
Display results | Display topology | Display axes and centers | |
Element operations | Select an element | List stress tensor | List strain tensor |
Sensor operations | List sensors | Select an element | Create a sensor |
Static loads | Select a loading case | Edit a loading case | Create a loading case |