I am modeling a concrete slab supported on concrete beams. The beams are "beam elements" given a defined width (ZD) and depth (YD). The slab is a plate element, sharing nodes with the beams. The slab and beam system share the same centerline (3D render). I use the "offset" command to drop the beam down a distance so top of beam is same as top of slab. In reality, the beam reinforcing will extend into the top of the slab.
My question: Should I reduce the depth of the beam (YD) so the plate (slab) depth will essentially "act" as the top portion of the beam, after "offset?" (Will the beam and slab elements automatically work together as a section)?
Or: Should I keep my beam defined as it's intended depth to model the actual beam stiffness? (in this case, after "offset" the slab-plate element will overlap the top portion of the beam, possibly giving an increased false stiffness).
Thanks!