Final conclusion: Python in Abaqus unusable for automated analysis 1

[vasekx1]

Why? The Abaqus programmers has deleted the very useful part of Python - various functions for generating random numbers (so I have to write my own, which is really time + money consuming operation).. After I wanted to test about a half of my Genetic optimization algorithm, which I wanted to use in combination of a model, I found out, that many functions, which are basically present in regular Python, are ripped off in Abaqus... Python + Abaqus ... nevermore that nightmare.

Does anybody knows, how (or if) the scripting interface with C++ works?

 

[brep]

What version of ABAQUS are you referring to?

If it is V6.6 then I suggest you RTFM (Read The Fine Manuals) and see that it is possible to import ANY external Python modules (vtk, scipy, matplotlib... in fact you can create you own module in the form of a dll by wrapping your c++ code)

In fact, you have lost nothing, but gained a lot.

Finally, if your post was designed as a flame to incite a reponse, then it worked. Otherwise, you should check facts before committing your words to a public forum.

 

[vasekx1]

brep: ok, I made one mistake - the fine manuals does not contain any combination of words RANDOM NUMBER and does not contain any detailed information about libraries required to import (I also could not presume, that so basic functions are hidden in specialized library - in the pure Python, these are "ready to use" just from the program start-up). But just few minutes ago, I had a possibility to talk with someone, who is "abaqus specialist", and he told me, that there is a solution:
>>> from random import *

But still it doesn't change my opinion about Python in Abaqus - building a x-ten-thousands' dollar system on a free programming language with no support or detailed documentation is a complete madness... I really spent a lot of time on finding solutions for differently documented features, which would not happen with ie. C++ or PERL (which is also free, but much better documented).

Just a little question: how come, that you every time come out like a defender of Abaqus its "relatives"? You have never used anything better? ;o)

 

[brep]

I'm quite at liberty to defend obvious inaccuracies, and encourage/help genuinely interested parties. (I think I have even earned some "star" for being helpful)

The ABAQUS documentation is focused on the ABAQUS Scripting Interface. There are numerous references (online and print) available for basic Python support. In fact, look at section 4.2 of the Scripting Users' Guide... Google is not a bad place to look too. (BTW, Google is a staunch supporter of Python, amongst others

PS.
>>> import random
>>> print random.random()

 

[xerf]

The C++ part of ABAQUS Scripting Interface cannot generate models. It can be used only for postprocessing.

I think (the developers of) ABAQUS did not rip off parts of Python but rather they did not include some modules (which are quite powerful) in their Python distro.


Yes, it is amazing how such an expesive software was developed using mostly free tools. However, I wonder if a similar FE tool (or better ...if any ) ensures so much flexibility.