Geometry/Graphics settings

These settings can be accessed via Main menu > Tools > Geometry/Graphics settings.

The parameters in the first group are identical with some items from the Parameters controlling the alignment of the structure. These values are used for all geometrical operations and for your convenience they are added into this dialogue as well

Geometric tolerances

Min. distance of two nodes, node to curve

Specifies the min. distance of two nodes for which the two nodes are considered separate nodes. If the real distance of two nodes is lower than this parameter, the two nodes are merged together.

This parameter is used by the function for connection of entities and by the function for check of data.

Max. distance of node to 2D member plane

Specifies the maximal allowable distance of a node from the plane of a 2D member. If the actual distance is larger than this limit value, the geometry is considered invalid and a corresponding warning is issued.

Note: The algorithm tries to find a new plane with normal vector, for the given definition points, which fulfils the condition for maximum distance of the node to plane. It means if there is input a node outside the plane then a new basic plane is found between these points. If all points are closer than the defined maximum value then it is considered as a valid state.

Displaying

Precise member surface	This parameter comes into account only if surfaces are switched on. If ON, the shape is displayed as precisely as possible. If OFF, only the schematic shape of the cross-section is displayed. The parameter has meaning in particular for steel rolled sections.
Immediate refresh of structural model	If ON, the structural model is automatically refreshed after all changes. If OFF, the structural model is refreshed manually on user’s request.
Precision of displayed curves	This parameter control smoothness of curves and curved surfaces. The higher the number the smoother the curve. On the other hand, the higher the number the slower the response of your computer may be. The parameter must be from interval <1, 10>. The parameter does not affect the precision of the calculation.
Precision of cut-out mesh	This parameter controls smoothness of the displayed shape of intersecting surfaces. The parameter does not affect the precision of the calculation.

Load panels

Disable automatic update of load panels

If ON, during manipulation, adding and removing members selection of beams and edges supporting load panels is not updated. The update can be forced manually by pressing the action button Update all load panels which is in Properties of each panel.

If OFF, beams and edges supporting load panels are automatically updated during manipulation actions.