INSERT CONNECTION TEMPLATE PROBLEM

[sshasni]

Dear Members,

I am trying to insert a connection template that I created as shown in snap P1. I inserted a welded stiffener plate in the middle, the one circled in red. When I try to insert the same template to another column, the shape of inserted plate is changing automatically as shown in Snap P2. I will be thankful to you for your expert advice for the following:

1- How can this change be avoided?

2- How can I use this template as a master connection to create a joint group? Create Joint in a Joint group tool does not recognize this connection template as a connection. I have tried to save this connection in connection templates library and then apply. Still same issue.

Thanks in advance.

[AleckGiles · Accepted solution]

HI,

For 1) Make sure features are showing and you select the green feature as part of the connection template definition.

2) You need to distinguish between the original definition and the first use of the template. Both have a blue frame so it is hard to tell. If when you double click the blue frame you get the definition box with driver 1 driver 2 etc. then that is the definition. If you get a Joint Properties box with Allow Modification option then you have a usage of the joint. You can use "Create by Template" or "Create Joint in a Joint Group" with a usage but not the definition. Usually the definition should be in a separate library file in your Connection Templates folder. The actual project file should normally only contain uses and not the definition.

[sshasni]

Thank you for your kind response. Just came back from vacations and I tried the solution you proposed. It went fine except the de-shaping of the main stiffener plate as shown in SNAP S2. This is the plate which I added additionally in my custom connection.

Please advise how to get rid of it. I will be thankful to you.

[johnjmbennett]

As Aleck says, in the template file under connections folder you need to redefine the custom connection selection of elements required for the joint(custom connection)
Delete the element you do not require
Just open up the custom connection dialog and then use button for selecting the elements . This will redefine those inputs.

The joint is now redefined in the source file.

If in a model and you have used as a master with slave type, then you should be able to alter the master , with the "allow modification " check box. Just tick that and alter as required. This should then transfer to each of the linked joints.

[sshasni]

Dear John,

Thank you for you kind response. I did the same as advised. Now all stiffener plates are getting modified. I have attached snapshots for the reference.