Connectors

A connector is a mechanism that defines how an entity (vertex, edge, face) is connected to another entity or to the ground. Using connectors simplifies modeling because, in many cases, you can simulate the behavior of models with connected parts without having to create the detailed geometry of connectors or define contact conditions.

The following connectors are available:

	General Spring	Defines a spring with six stiffness parameters between flat, non-flat, and concentric cylindrical or spherical faces.
	Pin	Connects cylindrical faces of two components.
	Bolt	Defines a bolt connector between two components or between a component and the ground.
	Bearing	Applies a bearing connector between a shaft and a housing component. A bearing fixture applies the bearing support between a component and the ground.
	Spot Welds	Connects two or more thin overlapping metal sheets at small areas (spots) without using any filling material.
	Edge Weld	Estimates the appropriate size of a weld to attach two metal components.
	Rigid	Defines a rigid link between faces from two distinct bodies.
	Linkage Rod	Defines a linkage rod connector between two components. You specify the connector’s end joints as rigid, pivot, or spherical, and the cross section geometry.
	Spring	Defines a spring that can resist tension only (cables), compression only, or tension and compression.
	Elastic Support	Defines an elastic foundation between the selected faces of a part or assembly and the ground.
	Link	Ties any two locations on the model by a rigid bar that is hinged at both ends.
	Cable	Defines a cable connector that can resist tension only between two components in an assembly or between two regions within a part.