Example 1: Offset Beams to Slabs

https://helpcenter.graphisoft.com/wp-content/uploads/archicad-25/090_structuralanalyticalmodeltools/BeamSlabNotAdjusted.png 

Turning the Structural Analytical Model on, we see that the Beams’ 1D Members (axes) are not connected to the Slab: there is no continuity, which is necessary for structural analysis.

The solution is to generate a rule that offsets the Beam axes to the Slab.

Members Group 1: Beam

Members Group 2: Slab

Method: one to the other (adjust Beams to Slabs)

Adjuster type: Offset

Additional options, including the maximum allowed offset.

In this case, let’s use the global Z direction.

Note: The defined tolerances are length-type values: the units specified for Length in Preferences > Working Units apply.

https://helpcenter.graphisoft.com/wp-content/uploads/archicad-25/090_structuralanalyticalmodeltools/BeamSlabRule.png 

Click OK to apply the rule. As expected, the Beam axes are offset to the plane of the Slab (straight up, in the Z direction).

But one of the Beams’ axes (the center Beam) stayed in place. This seems to be an error.

https://helpcenter.graphisoft.com/wp-content/uploads/archicad-25/090_structuralanalyticalmodeltools/OffsetResult1.png 

Select the center Beam and check its Settings. Here, it is clear that this Beam did not participate in the Offset rule, because the element-level Offset setting, in Beam Settings - Structural Analytical Parameters panel, is unchecked.

https://helpcenter.graphisoft.com/wp-content/uploads/archicad-25/090_structuralanalyticalmodeltools/BeamNoOffset.png 

To fix the problem:

Activate the Offset checkbox in Beam Settings.

Click OK to close the Settings dialog.

Now the model automatically applies the defined Generation Rules. The Beam axis is now offset, according to the rule:

https://helpcenter.graphisoft.com/wp-content/uploads/archicad-25/090_structuralanalyticalmodeltools/BeamSlabOffsetOK.png 

The current rule offsets Beams to Slabs in the Z direction. This model can be considered structurally correct.

You may prefer a different option: Beam axes should be offset to the edge of the Slab.

Adjust this option in Generation Rules:

https://helpcenter.graphisoft.com/wp-content/uploads/archicad-25/090_structuralanalyticalmodeltools/BeamSlabOffsettoEdge.png 

Click OK to apply the rule.

As expected, the axes of the two edge Beams are offset to the edge of the Slab plane (instead of straight up, as in the previous example, in which only “Global Z offset” was enabled).

https://helpcenter.graphisoft.com/wp-content/uploads/archicad-25/090_structuralanalyticalmodeltools/BeamSlabOffsetDone.png 

If the element could be offset to several target elements, define which element should be the target.

The preview drawing helps you understand each option:

https://helpcenter.graphisoft.com/wp-content/uploads/archicad-25/090_structuralanalyticalmodeltools/OffsetOptionsPrecise.png 

See Offset Options In Case of Multiple Targets.

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