Basisschnitt

Basisschnitt is a term used in German technical language to designate the cross-section of a three-dimensional object that lies in or is referred to as the base plane. The term combines Basis (base) and Schnitt (cut/section). Its exact meaning varies by field, but it generally denotes the reference cross-section used as a basis for further operations, analyses, or construction.

In architecture and structural engineering, the Basisschnitt refers to the cross-section at the foundation or base plane of a component, for example the base outline of a pillar or column. This cross-section serves as the starting point for calculating area, centroid, moments of inertia, and for compatibility with foundations or footing design. In CAD and BIM, specifying the Basisschnitt can help align parts and define how a 3D model sits on the base plane.

In woodworking and sculpture, Basisschnitt describes the initial flat base surface prepared so the object can stand stably, facilitating subsequent shaping.

In geometry and mathematical modelling, Basisschnitt is used to describe the intersection of a solid with the base plane, producing a 2D shape (for example, a base rectangle for a prism, or a base circle for a right circular cone). The term is not universally standardized and may be substituted by terms like base cross-section or base plane cross-section in some contexts.

See also: cross-section, base plane, plane of reference.