Animating Plots

Animated plots represent snapshots of plotted data versus time or frequency. If results are available for one step (linear static, frequency, buckling, and steady state thermal analyses), results are linearly interpolated for several frames. Multiple steps are available for transient thermal, nonlinear, dynamic, and drop test studies.

Animated plots from static studies with large displacement solution are linearly interpolated between the initial and final solution steps. To view accurate animations of result plots that capture the whole solution history, it is recommended to use Nonlinear analysis.

To animate a plot:

1. In the Simulation study tree, double-click a plot to activate it.

2. Right-click the plot and select Animate.

3. In the PropertyManager, under Basics:

1. Click Play to start the animation.

2. View the animation in the graphics area.

3. Click Stop to end the animation.

4. Click .

To save an animation as an .avi file:

1. In the Animation PropertyManager, set the necessary options but do not click Play yet.

2. Select Save As AVI File.

3. Under Save As AVI File, set the necessary options and browse to where you want to save the file.

4. Under Basics, click Play to start the animation.

5. Click Stop to stop the animation.

6. Click .

See Animation PropertyManager for information on all of the options in the PropertyManager.