This type of support is created using command Point/Linear/Planar T/C supports. T/C supports behave like ordinary elastic supports for linear analyses. For non-linear analyses, they work in tension only or compression only. Below there is a link about elastic support, in order to know how to define the stiffness for the support. http://www.graitec.com/en/FAQ_view.asp?FAQID=720&Language=EN&Name=How+is+an+elastic+linear+support+modeled%3FWhen modeling elements on T/C supports, it is important to keep in mind that this type of support can only take over the tension or compression part of loads. If the structural element supported only by a T/C support is also loaded in another direction, e.g., the tension/compression direction of the support, the calculation cannot be provided. To simulate such situation correctly, the element must be supported by two overlapping supports: - the T/C support with stiffness defined only for translation in the z-direction (other stiffness having zero value), which takes over only tension or compression;- the additional support restraining forces in other directions - this can be a hinge support, free to move in the z-direction, or an elastic support with zero stiffness in the z-direction.
