Define Hinge Axis that updates with assembly deformation in abaqus

[mitsyeti]

Hello everyone,

I am looking to model an assembly that rotates and translates in space, it contains a hinge. Can i define the hinge axis such that its local axis (basically the x axis that it rotates about) updates as the assembly moves in space in Abaqus ?

Thanks and Regards,
Mitul Shah

 

[Mustaine3]

Use Connector elements - they do this by default. For example the Hinge connector allows one relative rotation of two nodes in a local coordinates system.

 

[FEA way]

Yes, hinge connector will account for this. It combines both JOIN and REVOLUTE connector types. So it joins two points and allows rotation about a single axis. Just keep in mind that you will have to define local coordinate system with X axis along hinge’s axis for this connector. You can use Connector Builder to speed up this process.

 

[mitsyeti]

Hi,

I should have better explained the problem.

I am using a connector element for the hinge joint. 2 nodes at the end of the hinge define the hinge axis, the hinge axis is a local co-ordinate system with the x axis aligned to be axis of rotation for the hinge setup.
What I am trying to achieve is the hinge axis updating / moving as the 2 nodes that represent the end of the hinge move in space. What I am noticing is, in CAE, when we define the hinge axis, it does not update the axis orientation as the hinge moves / rotates.

Thanks and Regards,
Mitul Shah

 

[Mustaine3]

I doubt that. If you have a nonlinear procedure and NLGEOM is active, then the directions of the connector will update.