Specifying directions is often necessary during model definition and result viewing. In model definition, directions are used to define orthotropic material properties, restraints, and loads. In result viewing, directions are required for viewing directional results, like displacements, stresses, strains, and heat flux in certain directions.
When applying loads or prescribing nonzero restraints, use the PropertyManager to identify directions. Use a negative values for the opposite directions.
In an assembly, you can use reference geometry from the assembly or its referenced components or subassemblies.
| Using a Reference Plane
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A reference plane (or a planar face) defines two directions in its plane and a normal. The two directions in the plane are referred to as Plane dir 1 and Plane dir 2. They are parallel to the boundaries of the plane. When applying restraints and loads, select Show preview to identify dir 1 and dir 2. The normal is obvious.
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| Using Planar Faces |
Similar to a reference plane, a planar face defines two directions in its plane and a normal. Dir 1 and dir 2 are internally defined for every planar face. They cannot be modified. When applying restraints and loads, check Show preview to identify dir 1 and dir 2. The normal is obvious.
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| Coordinate Systems
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A coordinate system defines 3 directions, X, Y, and Z. The default coordinate system used by the software, called the global coordinate system, is based on Plane1. The origin of the global coordinate system is located at the origin of the part or assembly. Plane1 is the top reference plane that appears in the FeatureManager design tree and can have a different name. The reference triad shows the global X-, Y-, and Z-directions. All other coordinate systems are referred to as local coordinate systems.
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| Using a Reference Axis |
A reference axis defines a radial direction, a circumferential direction, and an axial direction. When applying restraints and loads, select the Show preview check box in the PropertyManager to identify the positive directions. Use negative values for the opposite direction.
When specifying a circumferential translation, you specify an angle (Θ) in degrees. This sets the translation in the circumferential direction (v) to: v = r.Θ.π/180, where r is the radius of the node at which the restraint is applied relative to the reference axis.
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| Using a Cylindrical Face |
This is similar to using a reference axis. The axis of the cylindrical face is used as the reference axis.
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| Using a Straight Edge
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A straight edge defines one direction. When applying restraints and loads, select the Show preview check box in the PropertyManager to identify the positive direction.
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