M. To draw a solid connecting existing nodes
To draw a solid with 4 to 8 nodes connecting existing nodes, use the following procedure.
The basic solid
element consists of 8 nodes. However, by collapsing nodes together
progressively, different three-dimensional solid shapes can be formed. The
minimal number of nodes is a four-noded, pyramidal shape.
-
On the
Geometry ribbon tab, select one of the tools
in the
Add Solid menu in the
Solid group.
). - Click on any node that will form the first corner of the solid element. A line is "rubber banded" to the cursor from this node. This represents the first edge of the solid.
-
Continue clicking on nodes up to the number corresponding to the
tool selected in step 1.
It is important that you click the nodes in an order which does not result in a
negative volume.
- Click on the node counter-clockwise to the first node on the same face.
- Click the subsequent nodes on the same face in a counter-clockwise order.
- Click on a node on the opposing face.
- Click on the node counter-clockwise to the first opposing face node.
- Click the subsequent nodes on the opposing face in a counter-clockwise order.
Select nodes in a counter-clockwise order from an outside view perspective on one face and then repeat on the opposing face.