The Quad options allows you to select four locations to specify
a quad element. A quadrilateral element is a surface element. It is
possible to select existing nodes, points, or arbitrary locations
on the screen. Select in a clockwise or counterclockwise order unless Automatic vertex distribution is enabled (see below).
- Method
- From nodes
allows you to select the nodes of the mesh to define new elements. A mesh must be loaded so that nodes can be selected.
- From points
allows you to select the points of the geometry to define new elements. A geometry file must be loaded so that points can be selected.
- From screen
allows you to select any arbitrary location by clicking on the screen.
- Make Volume Consistent
automatically adjusts the volumetric elements to conform with the new element(s). This applies when creating quads within a tetra mesh. Pyramids will be created to maintain node connectivity.
- Automatic vertex distribution
For quad and hexa elements, if this option is enabled, the order of selection of nodes is disregarded, and selected nodes will be automatically reordered to avoid creating a skewed element.
Figure 413: Example of Automatic Vertex Distribution option
Automatic Vertex Distribution disabled 
If the nodes were selected in the order notated, a skewed element is created.
Automatic Vertex Distribution enabled 
Although the nodes were selected in the same order as above, a good quality quad element is created.
- Automatic element creation
automatically creates the element after selecting the point, node, or edge, without requiring confirmation by pressing the middle mouse button.