I have found one element in ANSYS - MPC184 (Multipoint Constraint) which can simulate a joint with a local coordinate system. I'll give it a try. :wink:
This works with trusses in 2D.
But let's consider this truss in 3D:
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/800x600q90/839/pg60.png
What rotational coupling should I have for my lattice members with the chord?
I set the nodes of the different elements in a single joint to have the same translations e.g. two diagonals and a vertical meet the chord at the same joint, the chord is rigid (continuous), and the end nodes of the diagonals and the vertical have the same translations as the node of the chord...
Hello!
I'm trying to model my truss with FEM using only beam elements in ANSYS, but I am experiencing difficulties with the constraints between the members (or coupling of the DOFs).
For instance, I want my truss chords to be continuous and my lattice members to be pinned to them. I couple...