Structural steel - portal frame rafters

[CKub]

Hello,

I am modeling a skillion roof industrial building for construction documentation (alterations). I have run into some difficulties modeling the existing steel rafters so that they include connections, knee haunches at the columns and purlin cleats. I have used the framing member tool, and have then had to manually manipulate the rafter (with limited success).

Any tips on modeling structural steel in VW? Perhaps I am chasing too much detail, does anybody else bother modeling connections, haunches and purlin cleats in 3D?

I have found the column and pilaster tool to be fairly useful, so I am a little bit surprised that there is no streamlined way to model other major structural steel elements.

Any tips much appreciated.

[beanus]

I usually use Sketchup & import into Vectorworks for any thing complicated, I've not got the hang of 3D modelling in Vectorworks yet, but I am getting there.

[bcd]

Nice work.

You can also try this in VW:

Draw a cross-section of the frame using the polygon tool

From the Detailing tool set select the structural section reqd.

Rotate the section 90?

Modify>Ungroup

Select both

Model>Extrude along path

Modify>Rotate 3d 90? about the x azis

Front view

Use L to split & trim the frame into components / trim, create cleats etc.

Top view select all Modify>Align Centers

Group.

Edit Duplicate Array to taste.

etc. for purlins...

[Kool Aid]

Perhaps I am chasing too much detail, does anybody else bother modeling connections, haunches and purlin cleats in 3D?

I think you are. The result will be very slow to render, with little additional value.

[Gytis]

The liberal use of hybrid symbols [might] speed things up for you.

You may want to search the Board for posts by islandmon regarding structural detailing and symbol use. Very experienced power user; however, recently retired. Here is a link to some of his work with VW for steel framing. There's lots more to browse for ideas.