Let me give some background before I put up my question.
Typically fasteners are represented using 1D elements in FEM and our practices are no different. We got a new functionality in our FE pre-processing tool, where automatic fastener elements can be created for hundreds of them at a time and one of the inputs required is via pair of nodes (for ends of fasteners) or lines. We have found lines to be a more convenient option.
Lines can be created using the pre-processing tool but it has to be done manually for each pair and worse, one cannot reverse the orientation of line once its created. Of course one can be careful during creating lines to make sure line orientation vector is same but as of now this is a very time consuming process (especially if our panels contain hundreds of fasteners). Also, in some of the panels that we receive, the fasteners are placed in a staggered pattern which makes it difficult to use transformation tools like rectangular or circular array.
Exploring options if we can generate lines in Catia itself. Problem is that, AFAIK, I have to create a point manually for each hole before connecting them with a line. Tedious work.
Is there an easy & rapid way to do the above in Catia V5? I have not explored Structural Meshing workbench in Catia V5 & perhaps there is a way there but in other commonly used workbenches like Part & GSD, can the above be accomplished?
Thanks...
Typically fasteners are represented using 1D elements in FEM and our practices are no different. We got a new functionality in our FE pre-processing tool, where automatic fastener elements can be created for hundreds of them at a time and one of the inputs required is via pair of nodes (for ends of fasteners) or lines. We have found lines to be a more convenient option.
Lines can be created using the pre-processing tool but it has to be done manually for each pair and worse, one cannot reverse the orientation of line once its created. Of course one can be careful during creating lines to make sure line orientation vector is same but as of now this is a very time consuming process (especially if our panels contain hundreds of fasteners). Also, in some of the panels that we receive, the fasteners are placed in a staggered pattern which makes it difficult to use transformation tools like rectangular or circular array.
Exploring options if we can generate lines in Catia itself. Problem is that, AFAIK, I have to create a point manually for each hole before connecting them with a line. Tedious work.
Is there an easy & rapid way to do the above in Catia V5? I have not explored Structural Meshing workbench in Catia V5 & perhaps there is a way there but in other commonly used workbenches like Part & GSD, can the above be accomplished?
Thanks...