Overview
Parts with large deformation have been traditionally modeled with discrete flexible links (a set of rigid parts connected with force elements). A new approach is now available for modeling parts undergoing geometric nonlinearity: The FE Part.
The FE Part is a wholly Adams-native modeling object which has mass and is accurate for very large deformation cases (that is, geometric nonlinearity) of beam-like structures. The FE Part differs from the linear flexible body option within Adams Flex in two significant ways: 1) it has the ability to accurately represent large deformations which the linear modes approach cannot and 2) its modeling does not require an FEA-produced file like the modal neutral file (MNF). The FE Part is differs from the beam force element in that it possess inertia properties. The inertia properties are specified using symmetric, consistent mass matrix which remains constant. The FE Part has two formulation options:
■3D Beam: A three-dimensional fully geometrically nonlinear representation useful for beam-like structures. Accounts for stretching, shearing, bending, and torsion.
■2D Beam (XY, YZ, or ZX): A two-dimensional geometrically nonlinear representation useful for beam-like structures whereby the centerline of the beam can be assumed constrained to a plane parallel to the model's global XY, YZ or ZX plane. The 2D Beam can stretch or bend in plane. The 2D Beam will solve faster than the 3D Beam.