Modelling Cross-Lapped members (in timber)

[davidmVESBW]

Hello, 

I'm trying to model a pair of cross-lapped members for a timber scissor truss (see quick sketch attached). I want both members to be continuous and pass by each other so that any shear forces in the members can be passed into the other via the pin, but not transfer and moments into the adjacent member. 

I've tried using compatible nodes, but the members in the model are in the same plane (as the truss) so the bars intersect in the middle. 

Any ideas welcome. 

[Romanich]

Hi @davidmVESBW ,

The compatible nodes should help. Actually, this tool works with the nodes that have the same coordinates.

[davidmVESBW]

Hi Romanich, 

Thanks for your help. 

https://www.autodesk.com/support/technical/article/caas/sfdcarticles/sfdcarticles/How-to-define-comp...

The link above advises the following:

1. "Apply the “Compatible nodes” at the intersection of bars on an existing node.

Mind that the bars at this intersection must be physically divided" 

Have have tried applying compatible nodes to my model, but I get the following error 'Bar zero length' and warning: 'Compatible node(s) defined at the intersection of bars at which calculation elements are generated'. 

I assume I'm not defining them correctly? Can you please advise? 

Thanks. 

[Romanich]

Hi @davidmVESBW,

Please check this video:

[davidmVESBW]

Hi Roman, 

I managed to get it working. Not sure what I was doing wrong before. 

Thanks for your help. 

David