Hinge type library

In the Hinge type library you can define hinge types (couplers).

Constraint conditions

In each direction (translations along X, Y, and Z local 1D member axes, rotation around X, Y, and Z local 1D member axes) the condition may be:

rigid	There is no release of degree of freedom defined for the specific direction. The entities are fully connected in this direction.
free	The degree of freedom in the specified direction is released. The two entities are not connected in the given direction.
flexible	There is defined a certain degree of flexibility in the specified direction. The user then has to specify the stiffness of the connection in the given direction.
nonlinear	The behaviour of the hinge must be specified by means of a non-linear function. A particular function may be selected in the Hinge property dialogue. Unless the function has been defined earlier, it must be defined when the hinge is being inserted into the model. It is possible to call the Nonlinear function manager directly from the Hinge property dialogue.

You can select the types according to EN 12811-1.

Certain hinge types affect also the constraint conditions.

You can select steel or aluminium material of the coupler (hinge).

You can add your own picture of the hinge type.

The values set for individual hinge types according to EN 12811-1. If required, it is possible to modify individual values.

Use function Libraries > Structure, Analysis > Hinge type.

Use the three-dot button in the properties of a hinge.