Question
How can a user model a rebar that is continuous over three edges of a concrete member with different rebar covers on each edge?
Answer
This is a common scenario faced by many modelers. To achieve this in CIM, the user can utilize the advanced cover defining option. Let’s consider an example of a PSC box section, where a rebar needs to be modeled along the bottom edges with different cover distances on each edge.
The steps to follow are:
Step 1: Enter the ‘Rebar Draw Mode’ of the PSC box curve library.
Note: Users unfamiliar with the basics of rebar modeling can refer to this link to understand the basics of rebar modelling.
Step 2: Since the requirement is to define a transverse rebar, ensure that the ‘Transverse Rebar’ radio button is selected.
Step 3: Click on the ‘Property’ tab at the top of the panel.
Step 4: Assume the cover thickness values required are 50 mm, 100 mm, and 200 mm along the three different edges of the PSC box. In the ‘Cover Thickness’ section, under the ‘On Plane’ option, enter the values 50,100,200 in the corresponding cell.
Step 5: Click on the ‘Draw’ tab at the top of the panel.
Step 6: From the drop-down menu, select the option ‘Select Member Edge’.
Step 7: Select the three edges one after the other using left mouse clicks, as shown in the example images below.
Step 8: Click on the green tick button in the panel to complete the action.
After completing these steps, the user will observe that the rebar has been modeled continuously along the three selected edges, each with its respective cover thickness applied accurately.
This is the process for modeling rebar along continuous edges with different covers.