How to cut beams precisely using the Opening Tool for accurate joinery modeling

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Modeling timber beams and roof trusses for joinery or fabrication often requires displaying exact cuts, notches, or connection details directly on the beam elements in the model. Instead of duplicating geometry or editing complex profiles, the Opening Tool can be used to create clean, parametric cuts that remain editable and display consistently in plans, sections, and 3D views while the beam stays a single element.

Issue description

When modeling timber structures for roof trusses or joinery, structural elements like beams must sometimes display accurate cuts, notches, or connection points for documentation and fabrication purposes. These modifications should remain editable and reflect precisely in both 2D and 3D views, while preserving the beam as a single, cohesive shape. The objectives are:

• Show precise notches and cuts at chosen locations

• Retain the beam as a single editable element

• Fully control the position, size, and angle of the cut

• Display all modifications correctly in plans, sections, and 3D environments

Solution

Instead of duplicating geometry or changing profiles, the Opening Tool enables clean, parametric cuts in beams. This method gives flexibility for positioning, sizing, and shaping the openings without altering the essential properties or behavior of the beam.

How to cut beams precisely

1. Click on the Opening Tool

   • Access via Design > Architectural Tools > Opening, or select the tool from the toolkit.
     
     

2. Draw the opening

   • In the floor plan or 3D view, sketch a rectangular or polygonal opening across the exact spot on the beam where the cut is needed.
     
     

     

      

Once placed, the beam is cut precisely at the desired location. The opening remains editable, visible in all modeling views, and suitable for documentation, while preserving all original beam attributes.

 

Extra tips for working with the Opening Tool

• Openings are parametric and editable, so dimensions and positions can be adjusted at any time.

  

   

• Any opening shape and angle is supported, allowing for custom joinery and more realistic details.

• The approach works for individual beams or coordinated placements across multiple elements as needed.

Result

This method results in accurate, editable cuts that represent joinery or structural details directly on beams. The workflow streamlines documentation and maintains a clean, professional modeling standard with minimal extra detailing effort.

 

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These techniques were originally shared by Community members, @Noody and @Jaime-airc_digital. If you’d like to explore the original discussion, click here to read the full thread!

This article is part of the ‘Tip of the Month’ series on Graphisoft Insights, highlighting valuable community-driven solutions for modeling challenges. Try these methods in your next project and experience the difference in model quality and efficiency.