Continuum Elements - Beam Elements

Hi,

I have a structure which is made up of continuum elements and beam elements joined together. I tried to join the beam elements to continuum elements by tie and coupling (I tried both distributing and kinematic coupling).

There are 2 general-static steps, first a vertical load and then a tip load. For both tie and coupling approach, Abaqus Standard give me aborted runs because the time increment is too small. I tried all ways of stablization but it still would not run.

For coupling, Abaqus also gives me warning that the mesh density of the beam elements should be smaller than the continuum elements.

Can anyone advise me what is the right way to connect the beam and continuum elements?

Thank you very much.