Position of the Profile

The position in space of a profile is specified by its end point coordinates, normally described in the coordinate system of the panel (or bracket) which the profile belongs to. In most cases, the end point coordinates are computed by connection to other parts of the structure.

The line from end point 1 to end point 2 is called the mold line (or description line) of the profile.

For stiffeners and flanges, the web (and the flange, if any) of the profile is supposed to be located to the left of the mold line. Thus, the orientation of the profile section is defined by selecting the direction of the mold line (or the order of the end profile).

For pillars, the description line is normally located in the symmetry line of the profile section (see the PILLAR statement for further information). The orientation of the profile section is controlled by a separate data item.