[Radiance-general] quick geometry modelling query

[Daniel LASH(SED)]

Hello,

A fairly basic question on geometry entry I think.  When modelling geometry does it matter if
opaque (ie plastic) elements intersect?  I am modelling using autocad.  For example, say I am
modelling a 'waffle' type roof structure, to which a standard plastic material is to be added.  I
have drawn all the beams going in one direction.  For the beams cutting through this beam
perpendicularly, do you;

a; draw individual small beams between the existing beams (no intersection, but alot more geometry
description.  does this do anything to calculation times?)

b; draw long beams cutting through the existing beams (much less geometry entry, but does the
intersection result in inaccuracy/redundancy somehow?)

c; does it matter?

in RwR p.59, the simple vase case, primitives are intersected together, such that the 'interior' of
the vase is not as in 'real life'.  Given this, and as long as the exterior of the 'waffle' is
light tight, can I draw it with fewer but intersecting elements?

Many thanks, this mailing list has been a very useful learning resource,

Dan Lash
Sheffield Hallam University, UK.