Function Curves
Function curves define pairs of values for use by different types of studies. The Function Curves dialog lets you create and edit Simulation curve libraries.
We recommend that you use this dialog to include all your frequently used curves to a library so that you can use then conveniently in other studies and documents.
The following types of function curves are available:
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Time Curve - defines variation with time for nonlinear, linear dynamic and transient thermal studies.
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Temperature Curve - defines variation with temperature for structural and thermal studies.
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S-N Curve - defines fatigue properties of materials used in static studies referenced by a fatigue study.
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Load History Curve - defines a variable amplitude fatigue event for a fatigue study.
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Frequency Curve - defines variation with frequency for harmonic and random vibration linear dynamic studies.
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Harmonic Loading Curve
- defines a harmonic load as a sum of sine and cosine functions for modal time history dynamic studies.
To create a new Curve Library or edit an existing one:
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In the Simulation study tree, right-click the study icon and select Define Function Curves.
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In the Function Curves dialog box :
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Browse to select an existing library or enter a name for the new library. The extension of Simulation Curve libraries is cwcur.
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In the Curve Library box, do one of the following:
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Right-click Time Curve and select Create Curve to define a time curve.
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Right-click Temperature Curve and select Create Curve to define a temperature curve.
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Right-click S-N Curve and select Create Curve to define an S-N curve.
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Right-click Load History Curve and select Create Curve to define a Load History Curve that can be used to define a variable amplitude fatigue event.
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Right-click Frequency Curve and select Create Curve to define variation with frequency for harmonic and random vibration linear dynamic studies.
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In the Name box, select the name of an existing curve to edit or a enter a name for a new curve.
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In the Curve Data box, do the following:
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Depending on the curve type, specify required units.
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To import a curve from an external text file, click File and browse
The format of the file depends on the type of the curve.
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To add a new row, double-click in the Points column.
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Fill in the X and Y cells as desired. You can use cut and paste to populate the curve.
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To delete a row, highlight it and click the Delete key or right-click it and select Delete.
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Click View to create a graph of the curve
Click here
to find out what happens when the program reaches a point beyond the curve definition.
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Repeat steps b through e to define as many curves as desired and then click OK.
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Click Save to save the library. You can use the curves in the library in any study.
To view a library curve:
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In the Simulation study tree, right-click the study icon and select Define Function Curves.
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In the Function Curves dialog box:
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Browse to select an existing library or enter a name for the new library. The extension of Simulation Curve library files is cwcur.
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In the Curve Library box, select the desired curve.
The curve data appears in the table and a graph appears in the Preview area.
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Click OK.