4.4.15.3. Joint connection

Pinned Connection

In this article, you will learn how to create a pinned connection using the SuCri plugin for AutoCAD Plant 3D or Advance Steel. Technically, a pinned connection exists when an endpoint of a beam coincides exactly with an endpoint of a column.

Video Tutorial:

Prerequisites

Installed CAD Program: AutoCAD Plant 3D or Advance Steel is present on your system.
SuCri Plugin: The plugin is installed and activated within the CAD environment.
Existing Model: Your drawing contains at least one beam and one column whose endpoints are coincident.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Open the Connections Interface

Start your CAD program and load the corresponding drawing.
Switch to the SuCri tab in the menu bar.
Click on the Connections command.

Expected Result: A dialog box opens for central control of the connection types.

Step 2: Selecting the Connection Type "Pinned"

Look for the Pinned entry in the list of connection types.
Click on the Pinned button.

Expected Result: The plugin prepares to analyze the model and displays specific options for pinned connections.

Step 3: Identifying and Selecting Connection Points

The plugin automatically starts analyzing the components. A manual selection sequence (e.g., column first, then beam) is not required.
Review the visual representation of possible connections in the model.

Expected Result: Possible connection points are highlighted in the CAD window by markers or highlighting.

Step 4: Placing the Pinned Connection

Click directly on the marked location in the CAD window or select the connection from the list in the dialog box.

Expected Result: The connection is automatically placed and aligned. All necessary elements such as bolts, nuts, washers, and gusset plates are modeled as 3D objects. The bill of materials is automatically updated.

Step 5: Review and Adjust (Optional)

Perform a visual check of the placed connection.
If necessary, use the dialog box or the CAD properties palette to adjust details such as bolt types or plate thicknesses.

Important Notes

Geometric Definition: The automation only works if the endpoints of the beam and column coincide precisely.
Bill of Materials: Due to the detailed modeling, all small parts are correctly captured for the parts list, minimizing procurement errors.
Performance: In complex models, the analysis of connection points may take a few seconds.

Troubleshooting

No connections found:
- Check if the endpoints of the components sit exactly on top of each other (use object snap).
- Ensure that the components are correctly categorized as structural elements.
Connection elements are missing or incorrectly sized:
- Check the plugin libraries and default values.
- Check whether the profile sizes of your components are within the supported parameters of the connection.

---