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Use of Planar Connector Elements

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eb122

Mechanical
Jul 31, 2014
1
Hi all,

As part of a larger model I'm trying to put a long, thin plate (modelled as a shell) into something that resembles pure bending. I'm doing this by connecting the ends of the plate to two discrete rigid bodies and then applying rotations to these rigid bodies.

I have managed to get the plate to bend by modelling fasteners, at the nodes connecting the plate to the rigid bodies, as beam type connector elements, thereby constraining all DOF.

However I wish to allow for any transverse curvature of the plate, my plan is to fully constrain the node at the centre of the connected edge and let the remaining nodes be free to slide along the surface of the rigid body without pulling away from it.

The planar connection type looks ideal for this type of constraint, however when used the plate still acts as if it is fully constrained along the entire edge.

I have a feeling the problem lies in the definition of the coordinate system of the fastener and the connector section. Any input as to a possible solution lie or a different way of modelling the problem is sincerely appreciated.

Many thanks,

Ed
 
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