> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://manual-1-3.karamba3d.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://manual-1-3.karamba3d.com/3-in-depth-component-reference/3.1-model/3.1.9-mesh-to-shell.md).

# 3.1.9: Mesh to Shell

The **“MeshToShell”**-component takes a triangle or quad mesh and turns it into a group of shell elements (see fig. 3.1.9.1). Quads get automatically decomposed to triangles. Shell patches are rigidly connected when some of their nodes have the same index.

Colors can be attached to shells via the **“Color”**-input. In order to enable the display of shell element colors, activate **“Elements”** in submenu **“Colors”** of the **“ModelView”**-component. In addition **“Cross section”** needs to be selected in the submenu **“Render Settings”** of the **“ShellView”**-component.

Each patch of shells can be given an identifier via input **“Id”** for later reference when attaching custom material or cross section properties. By default shells have a thickness of $$1cm$$ and steel as their material. Use the **“CroSec”**-input to change that. Clicking on the **“Options”** submenu header further unfolds the component: The **“Pts”**- and **“LDist”**-input serve the same purpose as in the **“LineToBeam”**-component – see section [3.1.6](/3-in-depth-component-reference/3.1-model/3.1.6-line-to-beam.md). Additionally mesh faces with an area smaller than $$LDist^2 \cdot 0.1$$ get automatically removed.

![Fig. 3.1.9.1: The “MeshToShell”-component turns meshes into shells](/files/-M9XuVheB5KYb61p1juY)

The shell elements used in Karamba3D resemble the TRIC-element devised by Argyris and coworkers (see [\[1\]](/appendix/bibliography.md), [\[2\]](/appendix/bibliography.md) for details). They are faceted (i.e. flat) elements. Karamba3D neglects transverse shear deformation in case of shell elements.


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