Modular structure supported on beam

[Anonymous]

Hello,

I wondering what would be a good approach to modelling a modular structure that will apply point loads onto a beam frame? Here's a sketch to illustrate what I'd like to do:

(Above) - That is a typical module that will apply point loads at column locations onto the beams (W27x114) below. Some are single HSS 4x4x1/4 columns and some are double HSS 4x4x1/4 columns that are connected by a single connection. Here's are 2 examples of such connections:

(Above) - The green plates in the 2 images above will be in contact with the W27x114 beams hence transferring point loads to them. 

How would I model the two corner HSS columns from 2 modules that are next to each other applying point loads onto the shared W-beam below (as shown in the image below)? Is Robot able to understand two columns applying point loads onto a beam at the same location only side by side? I tried a simple example but I ended up having errors when analyzing it.

  

[Rafacascudo]

I would do the modular frame pinned at the supports using bar releases. at the bottom column nodes.. For the double columns ,you can model them as one single section using compound tab on New sections dialogue window.

[Anonymous · Accepted solution]

Thx for the reply Rafacascudo,

I tried using the compound tab but for some reason I was not given the option to use HSS compound structures 

However I believe I can use the section definition to create a custom cross section and then use that as a column? As for the pinning the supports, is that how it should be? Looking at the images I've posted, the HSS gets welded all around at the connection point essentially acting as a fixed connection.

[Rafacascudo · Accepted solution]

If the connections are fixed , forget the bar releases.
yes use section definition to create a custom section