Appropriate solver for sliding assembly?

[JDenney]

I'm modeling a structure that slides along a rail with various applied loadings. I've been using the static solver in the past, however, we recently upgraded to full Simulation package. In order to use the static solver, I had applied fixed constraints on the assembly where it would connect and slide along the rail (1DOF), then applied appropriate axial inertial loads hoping they would somewhat mitigate axial reaction forces at that sliding location. Obviously this isn't the appropriate boundary condition to use. Would the static nonlinear solver, or dynamic solver, help me model this sliding assembly more appropriately?

 

[kellnerp]

Do you have a freebody diagram (FBD) of what you are trying to do?

What is not clear is why you would have axial forces at all? There is no friction with a 1DOF constraint as a slide.

If acceleration/deceleration is an important part of the loading then the dynamic solver or kinetics is more appropriate.

Generally if accel/decel is important you can probably treat the structure as a rigid body and use Motion to solve for static loads on the structure and then apply those loads to an FEA model.

TOP
CSWP, BSSE

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[JDenney]

I have external applied axial forces to the system...thrust, drag, etc. Inertial response is important...as well as the system to handle the applied external forces. There is some friction at the sliding interface though it is considered negligible.

Again, now that we have the full Simulation package, I believe there are better tools to use than just by force balancing in the static solver.

I don't have much guidance or experience in this area, hence why I'm asking for advice...

I appreciate the response! I'll look into your suggestions...

 

[kellnerp]

Again, a free body diagram would be a big help in understanding what you are doing.

TOP
CSWP, BSSE

http://www.engtran.com

http://www.niswug.org

http://www.linkedin.com/in/engineeringtransport

Phenom IIx6 1100T = 8GB = FX1400 = XP64SP2 = SW2009SP3
"Node news is good news."