Treatment of linked nodes in manipulation functions

As stated earlier in chapter Types of nodes, there are two types of nodes in ESA. This paragraph will emphasize important rules taken into account in manipulation functions.

In SCIA Engineer, a connection where the end point of one 1D members gets in contact with an intermediate point of another 1D members of two 1D members is called a LINKED NODE. The said is true on condition that the two 1D members were "told" to be connected to each other. What, however, remains an open issue is what should happen to the linked node when one of the 1D members is repositioned. Should the linked node stay "rooted" in the original location, or should it follow the manipulation formula?

As the problem is rather complex, SCIA Engineer presents a logical compromise solution.

Manipulation functions are divided into two groups:

a global change of 1D member position and / or orientation is possible,

only an "in-axis" modification of 1D member geometry is available.

In-axis modification

Manipulation where only the "in-axis" modification can be carried out leads to the situation that the linked node remains in its original position. This group of manipulation functions consists of a limited number of functions: trim, extend, enlarge, break in defined points.

Out-of-axis modification

Manipulation where only a general modification of the 1D member orientation can be performed cause that the linked node is manipulated as well and may change its position. This is the case of majority of manipulation functions, e.g. move, rotate, mirror, stretch, scale, etc.

If the manipulation brings any ambiguity to what should be done with the linked node, the linked node is disconnected and the connection of the two 1D members is broken. This may happen in function Join (two 1D members into one).

Examples

The original structure
The cantilever end moved up and right using function Move node.
The cantilever end moved right using function Move node.
The cantilever end moved right using function Extend (by defined length).

Note: The distinction between "in-axis" and "out-of-axis" modification is not based on the actual result of the manipulation that has been carried out. It is based on the principle, i.e. on the fact WHAT CAN BE DONE by means of selected manipulation function. If the function provides for an "out-of-axis" manipulation, rules for "out-of-axis" manipulation are applied even if the final position of the 1D member looks like after an "in-axis" manipulation.