ABAQUS Python (API) - Surface normal of surface set 1

[boek]

I have defined a surface in the CAE where one side is positive. I want to obtain the positive normal of this surface using Python scripting. Is it possible to do this in the visualization model using the OdbSet object? I do not manage to find anything in the documentation but it is possible to plot the surface normals under options->commmon->normals.

 

[FEA way]

Try using getNormal() method. It will give you the normal direction for the element face.

 

[boek]

That almost works!

Using the getNormal() method returns the normal of the element. I need the normal to be positive in the surface direction. The getNormal() method does not give the right sign if the surface normal is opposite of the element. The positive normal direction is defined in the CAE when choosing between purple or brown.