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Module 04: Postprocessing, Validation, CAD, and Parameters

Introduction to ANSYS Mechanical

1 © 2016 ANSYS, Inc. March 11, 2016

 Module 04 Topics
This module covers Postprocessing, validation, CAD, and parameter management topics that are
common to all mechanical analysis disciplines:
1. Demonstration: ANSYS Mechanical 10. Stress Singularities
Postprocessing 11. Convergence and Scoping
2. Section Planes 12. CAD Import
3. Probe Tool 13. Defining Parameters in Workbench
4. Charts 14. Using the Parameter Workspace
5. Scoping Results 15. Updating CAD Parameters
6. Coordinate systems 16. Workshop 04.1: Processing Results
7. Linearized Stress 17. Workshop 04.2: Parameter
8. Error Estimation Management
9. Convergence 18. Appendix 04.1: Additional
Postprocessing

2 © 2016 ANSYS, Inc. March 11, 2016

 04.01 Demonstration: ANSYS Mechanical Postprocessing

This demonstration provides an overview of common

postprocessing functionality:
− Viewing Results
− Legend Controls
− Contour Controls
− Postprocessing Utilities
− Scoping Results
− Exporting Results

[video file: 04-Postprocessing.mp4]

3 © 2016 ANSYS, Inc. March 11, 2016

 04.02 Section Planes
Section Planes are used to slice the model for viewing.
− Select the “Draw Section Plane” icon, then click-drag with
the left mouse button.
− Section planes can be turned on/off using the check box in
the details view.
− Delete section planes using the delete icon.
− Edit section planes by highlighting desired plane name and
using the ‘handle’ in the Graphics window.
− Can use local coordinate systems to automatically create a
section plane (XY plane).
Click on one side of bar to cap view

RMB Move a slice plane by dragging handle

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 04.03 Probe Tool
The Probe Tool:
• Can be scoped to numerous entities depending on the
probe type and results can be made parametric.
• The orientation of the result item can be with respect to
global or local coordinate systems.

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 04.04 Charts
Combine results data from multiple steps (static or transient) into charts and/or tables:
− Select “New Chart and Table” icon.
− From the details “Apply” the desired result(s).
• Use the CTRL key to select multiple results.
− Select desired display items in details.

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 04.05 Scoping Results
Some examples of scoping results on surfaces/parts:

Result scoped to a single part

Result scoped to selected surfaces

Result scoped to a nodal

named selection

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 04.05 Scoping Results
We can also scope results to nodes and elements directly:
1. Select the Node or Element toolbar button selection filter.
2. Select the desired entities in the graphics window.

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 04.05 Scoping Results
Contour plots across multi-body parts are
available:

When you select Averaged as the display

option, setting detail Average Across Bodies
to ”Yes” (the default value is ”No”) averages
the results across separate bodies the model.

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 04.05 Scoping Results

For more in-depth information on this and

several other postprocessing topics, see
Appendix 04.1: Additional Postprocessing

10 © 2016 ANSYS, Inc. March 11, 2016

 04.06 Coordinate Systems
Results containing directional components can be transformed into a local
coordinate system:
− In result details select coordinate system from the drop down list.
Stresses in Local Cylindrical Y-Direction

11 © 2016 ANSYS, Inc. March 11, 2016

 04.07 Linearized Stress
Using the path plot feature a linearized stress calculation can be plotted
(commonly used various structural codes such as ASME).

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 04.08 Error Estimation
You can insert an Error result based on stresses (structural), or heat flux (thermal) to help
identify regions of high error.
• These regions can indicate where the model could benefit from a more refined mesh.

Error plots are used to

identify regions where large
energy changes occur
between adjacent elements.

Mesh Refinement

The actual energy value in

the legend is of little
significance on its own.

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 04.09 Convergence
In most finite-element analyses as the mesh is refined one expects to get mathematically more
precise results. How much refinement is “enough” usually requires experience and engineering
judgment. The Mechanical application has a convergence tool that can help assess the mesh
quality.
Obtaining an optimal mesh requires:
− Having criteria to determine if a mesh is adequate.
− Adding more elements only where they’re needed.

Attach convergence to a
result item and set the
“allowable change” in the
convergence details.

Specify maximum number of

iterations in the Solution
details.
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 04.09 Convergence
After the solution is complete one can view the results normally:
− The Convergence history shows the trend for each refinement loop.
− Displaying elements in the results plot shows the last mesh (the mesh branch
always displays the original mesh).
− Symbol next to convergence branch indicates success or failure.

Convergence Divergence

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 04.09 Convergence

The Convergence tool cannot be used if:

• The model contains mesh connection object
• You have an upstream or a downstream analysis link
• You import loads in the analysis
To use Convergence, you must set “Calculate Stress” to “Yes” under
Output Controls in the Analysis Settings details panel.

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 04.10 Stress Singularities
In structural analysis there are several situations that can cause singularities.
These “artificial” hot spots can adversely affect both error plots and convergence.

Crude Geometry Point Constraints Point Loads

Force
  As Area Zero  
Area
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 04.10 Stress Singularities
Consider the affect on error plots when a singularity is present. This situation will also cause
a convergence monitor to “chase” the singularity.

Point Load

High Energy Gradient

To remedy this we need to either remove the singularity (e.g., with more realistic loads
and/or geometry) or we need to avoid the problem areas. We can avoid problem
areas/singularities by scoping convergence results.

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 04.11 Convergence and Scoping
A useful technique to avoid stress singularities when using convergence is to
scope results away from them.
If a singularity region is not an area of interest, one can scope results to selected
part(s) or surface(s) and add convergence controls only to those results.

Example:
Possible stress
singularity

Region of interest

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 04.11 Convergence and Scoping
Convergence controls added to the
entire model.
Geometric discontinuity causes a
stress singularity causing
divergence.
Solution becomes very costly by
including the stress singularity.

Convergence controls on scoped

results allows adaptive refinement
only in user-specified locations.
Provides more control over the
mesh and the adaptive solution.
Accurate stresses realized in the
region of interest.

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 04.12 CAD Import
Numerous Geometry Interfaces are available for commercial CAD systems:
− For the latest information on CAD geometry interfaces and supported platforms see the
ANSYS Workbench Mechanical documentation.
Geometry Interface licenses can be run in reader mode for all licenses.
Geometry Interfaces can be run in plug-in mode for the CAD software listed under
“Associative”.
DesignModeler is the Workbench geometry application and supports all the functions
and capabilities listed for commercial CAD systems.
• Note the SpaceClaim Direct modeler also supports these features.
Please note: Not all import capabilities described here are available with all CAD systems.
Features depend on CAD capabilities and the support provided through the CAD vendor’s
API.

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 04.12 CAD Import
Workbench geometry properties control the import of
numerous CAD items in addition to geometry:
− Parameters, Coordinate Systems, Material properties, etc.
To display geometry import properties:
• RMB > Properties, or
• View > Properties.
Geometry Interface Availability
ACIS (.SAT) ×
AutoCAD ×
Autodesk Inventor ×
Catia V4 ×
Catia V5 ×
Catia V6 ×
Creo Parametric ×
Design Modeler ×
Gambit ×
IGES ×
JT Reader ×

Monte Carlo N-Particle ×

NX ×
Parasolid ×
Solid Edge ×
SolidWorks ×
SpaceClaim ×
STEP ×

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 04.12 CAD Import
Import solid, surface, or line bodies:
− Assemblies with mixed solids and surfaces are OK.
− Select desired geometry type to filter import.
− Cannot import a part with mixed solids and surfaces.
Use Associativity:
− Allows updating CAD geometry in Mechanical without redefining
material properties, loads, supports, etc..
Smart CAD Update:
− only modified components of a CAD assembly are updated.

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 04.12 CAD Import
Local Coordinate systems:
− Allows local CS from CAD models to import with geometry.
See current documentation for CAD system support.

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 04.12 CAD Import
Parametric CAD dimensions can be imported into Mechanical.
− Check Parameters:
• The “Parameter Key” provides a filter. When used, only
parameters whose names contain the key will be imported
(default is “DS”).
• Note, multiple filters can be used by separating each with “;”
(e.g. NS; AB; VR).
• To import all CAD parameters leave the parameter key field
blank.
CAD parameters will appear in the Details view for the part.

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 04.12 CAD Import
Groups defined in CAD systems can be imported as Named
Selections.
Check the “Named Selections” box:
− The Named Selection key provides a filter. When used only
groups containing the specified prefix in their name will be
imported (default is “NS”).
• Note, multiple filters can be used by separating each with
“;” (e.g. NS; AB; VR).
− To import all groups leave the named selection key field
blank.
− Imported Named Selections appear in the tree.

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 04.12 CAD Import
For most CAD systems Workbench offers an alternate way of working with
groups of geometry via the Named Selection Manager in the CAD system.
− Access the NS Manager from the ANSYS menu within the CAD system.
− Once opened the NS Manager allows groups to be created independent of the internal
CAD groups. Create, Select, Delete, etc. operations

Sample menu from

CAD

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 04.12 CAD Import
Material Properties assigned in a CAD system can
be imported to Workbench (Engineering Data).
Check “Material Properties”:
• Materials imported from CAD will appear in “Engineering Data”
• Material assignments will match the CAD material assignments.

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 04.13 Defining Parameters in Workbench
Example of input parameters
Parameters are defined in Mechanical by toggling the parameter flag on/off.
• Click in the square and a blue “P” will appear.
• Material properties are parameterized in the engineering data application.

Example of output parameters

• CAD parameters must be flagged as well to allow access in Workbench

(otherwise they are read-only). Example of CAD input parameters

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 04.14 Using the Parameter Workspace
Workbench Mechanical uses the Parameter Set workspace to manage parametric data
from analysis and geometry sources.
Derived parameters and constants can be created and managed as well.

Double click or “RMB > Edit” the

“Parameter Set” to access parameters:

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 04.14 Using the Parameter Workspace
Parameter information is presented in a series of tables:
− Outline: lists all input, output or derived parameters.
− Property: lists information regarding the parameter highlighted in the outline.

Table of DP
Outline
Table of Design Points: allows multiple
parameter configurations to be
Properties prepared before solving

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 04.14 Using the Parameter Workspace
To modify a parameter value one can enter a new value in the “Value” field in the Outline
window then Update/Refresh the project.

Create custom parameters by entering expressions. Expressions can be created using

functions or by using already existing parameters.
Units can be entered
using braces as necessary.

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 04.14 Using the Parameter Workspace
Use the Table of Design Points to enter multiple sets values for the input
parameters. This allows a number of scenarios to be predefined for study.

Once the Table of Design Points is complete, choose “Update All Design Points”
to automate the solving of each scenario.

By default, each scenario overwrites the results of the previous one, retaining
only the output parameter values. If you wish to retain complete results sets,
check the “Retain” box for any or all rows.
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 04.14 Using the Parameter Workspace
Example using design points: A CAD dimension has been
promoted to a WB input parameter.
• The stress in a particular region of the model is promoted
as an output parameter.
• The mass of the geometry has also been promoted to a
parametric output.

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 04.14 Using the Parameter Workspace
Example . . .
Opening the parameter workspace,
the parameters can be seen in the
outline.

In the table of design points, 3 new

values are added to the current CAD
parameter value.

From the top menu “Update

All Design Points” initiates the
process.
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 04.14 Using the Parameter Workspace
Example . . .
The progress of the updates is reflected in the
table.
With updates complete various charts can be
created to investigate the data.

Stress vs Fillet Radius

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 04.14 Using the Parameter Workspace
Additional processing in the parameter workspace:
Parameter Parallel Chart shows configuration of all parameters per DP

DP3
Each XY intersection provides a snapshot of all
parameters for a particular DP
DP2
DP0
Colored lines represent
design points.
DP1

Vertical lines represent

parameters (P1, P2, …).

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 04.14 Using the Parameter Workspace
By highlighting parameters, different chart configurations can be selected.

With P1 highlighted, notice that the chart options

are with respect to this parameter.
After selecting, double-click the desired chart
to configure the display.

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 04.14 Using the Parameter Workspace
As charts are created they are stored in the outline
window and can be retrieved by highlighting them.

Using a RMB in various areas of the chart,

users can “Edit Properties …” to control
colors, styles, symbols, interpolation type,
legend, line display, background, etc.

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 04.15 Updating CAD Parameters
Updating from current values in the CAD tool:
− After modifying the geometry in the CAD system, RMB the “Geometry” cell
and “Update From CAD”. This will update the Mechanical geometry to match
the CAD system.

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 04.15 Updating CAD Parameters
Updating from current values in Workbench:
• Make sure CAD parameter is promoted in Mechanical.
• Modify parameter value in WB Parameter Set.
− Refresh: causes CAD and Mechanical geometry to match new parameter values.
− Update: causes CAD and Mechanical geometry to update and remesh.

41 © 2016 ANSYS, Inc. March 11, 2016

 04.16 Workshop 04.1: Processing Results
Goal:
Analyze the mechanical arm shown below and then use some of the
advanced postprocessing features to review the stress and estimate the
error associated with the default mesh.

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 04.17 Workshop 04.2: Parameter Management
Goal:
Use the Workbench Parameter Workspace to setup multiple scenarios to
explore structural responses in the bracket shown. Material thickness will be
varied in the gusset with the bracket thickness held constant, then the process
will be reversed.

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 04.18 Appendix 04.1

Additional Postprocessing

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 04.18 Appendix 04.1: Viewing Results
The Context toolbar allows for numerous alternatives for viewing results:

Outline Display Min/Max Probe Visualisation of results

Displacement Scaling Display Method Contour Settings

Vector Display Controls

Distribute Export AVI

“Timeline” allows users

to animate results
Play Pause Markers Frame Rate Control Scale to Multisteps

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 04.18 Appendix 04.1: Viewing Results
Displacement Scaling:
− In structural analysis a default scale factor “multiplies” actual displacements.
− The scale factor can be changed using several built in values or to a user specified one.

Automatic Displacement Scaling True Scale

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 04.18 Appendix 04.1: Viewing Results
We can now view results in a worksheet form.
Multiple Post-Processing entities can be viewed in one go rather than scoping
individual entities under the solution branch.
RMB on solution allows users to view worksheet result summary.

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 04.18 Appendix 04.1: Legend Controls
Right Clicking on the legend in the graphics area allows the user to modify the
legend display.
Edit Value

Export/Import/Switch to a saved legend setting

Increase/Decrease Contour Bands Horizontal/Vertical legend

Display Date/Time

Switch to Logarithmic Scale Display Max/Min label on the legend

Switch to Scientific Notation

Number of Significant Digits

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 04.18 Appendix 04.1: Legend Controls
The legend bounds can be
manipulated to show result
distributions more clearly for
contour plots.

Max/Min values
are unchanged

Click and drag contour

dividers (or type in values) to
specify contour ranges.

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 04.18 Appendix 04.1: Legend Controls
Independent Bands allow neutral colors to represent regions of the
model above or below the specified legend limits.

Legend Contour Range

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 04.18 Appendix 04.1: Contour Controls
The “Geometry” icon controls the contour display
method. Four choices are available:
Exterior IsoSurfaces

“Exterior” is the default

display option and is most
commonly used.
“IsoSurfaces” is useful to
display regions with the
same contour value.
“Capped IsoSurfaces” will
remove regions of the model
where the contour values
Slice Planes are above (or below) a
Capped IsoSurfaces
specified value.
“Slice Planes” allow a user to
‘cut’ through the model
visually. A capped slice
plane is also available, as
shown on the left.

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 04.18 Appendix 04.1: Contour Controls
Capped IsoSurfaces are manipulated by an independent controller:
− Icons allow isosurface cap to be top or bottom.
− The cap threshold can be controlled via the slider or by typing the value directly.

Top Capped Isosurface Bottom Capped Isosurface

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 04.18 Appendix 04.1: Contour Controls
The “Contours” icon controls the style of color bands
used when plotting results:
Smooth Contours Contour Bands

Isolines Solid Fill

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 04.18 Appendix 04.1: Contour Controls
The “Edges” icon controls the display of the
undeformed geometry or the mesh:
No Wireframe Show Undeformed Wireframe

Show Undeformed Model Show Elements

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 04.18 Appendix 04.1: Contour Controls
Vector plots can be used to display result quantities defined with directions such as
deformation, principal stresses, and heat flux.
− Activate vectors for directional quantities using the vector graphics icon:
− Once the vectors are visible the vector display controls toolbar is available:

Vector Length
Length Control
Control Vector Density
Density Control
Control

Proportional Vectors Equal Length

Length Vectors
Vectors Element Aligned
Aligned Grid Aligned
Aligned Line Form Solid Form

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 04.18 Appendix 04.1: Alerts
Alerts are simple ways of check to see if a scalar result quantity satisfies a criterion:
− Highlight the particular result branch, RMB and insert an Alert.
− In the Details view, specify the criterion.

− In the Outline tree, a green checkmark indicates that the criterion is satisfied. A red exclamation
mark indicates that the criterion was not satisfied.

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 04.18 Appendix 04.1: Windows
Multiple viewports can be used to display various images at the same time
(model or postprocessing data).
− Useful to compare multiple results, such as results from different environments or
multiple mode shapes

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 04.18 Appendix 04.1: Videos
• The animation toolbar allows user to play, pause, and stop animations:

Multi-solve results (e.g. nonlinear, transient)

Start/Stop/Pause creates animation based on solution points.

Control resolution and speed

Single solve results use distributed animation to Export video

interpolates results. (avi) file

58 © 2016 ANSYS, Inc. March 11, 2016

 04.18 Appendix 04.1: Constraint Equation Display
Various operations in Mechanical result in networks of constraint equations being
added to the model (e.g., remote boundary conditions, spot welds, weak springs, etc.).
Visibility for these connections is controlled from the Solution Information details and
Graphics tab.

Remote Force

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 04.18 Appendix 04.1: Scoping Results
Limiting the scope of results displays can be useful when postprocessing:
− Scoping automatically scales the legend to results for selected regions.
To scope contour results:
− Pre-select geometry or named selection then request the result of interest.
− The non-selected geometry will be displayed as translucent.

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 04.18 Appendix 04.1: Scoping Results
Results can be scoped to a single edge (or vertex):
− Select edge(s) for results scoping.

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 04.18 Appendix 04.1: Scoping Results
Construction geometry consists of either a path or surface.
• Paths are defined using coordinate systems, model
edges or existing points.
• Surfaces are located and oriented using coordinate
systems.
• Existing results scoped to edges can be converted to
path plots automatically (RMB).

RMB

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 04.18 Appendix 04.1: Scoping Results
Results may be mapped onto construction geometry.

Path Plot Example:

Surface Plot Example:

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 04.18 Appendix 04.1: Scoping Results
Path results may also be displayed in graphical form.
The X axis may be displayed as path location (S) or time (transient analyses).

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 04.18 Appendix 04.1: Scoping Results
In addition to contoured results, a reaction probe can be scoped to a construction
surface. Reactions across the surface are displayed and listed in the details.

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 04.18 Appendix 04.1: Exporting Results
To export result items, worksheet information and tables:
− Highlight item, RMB > Export
− For Worksheet:
• Select the branch and click on the Worksheet tab.
• Right-click the same branch and select “Export”.
Export as text or Excel *.xls file types.

Export Worksheet Export Results

Export Tables
Note: To include node location information in exports, set
the Include Node Location option to “Yes” under “Tools >
Options … > Mechanical: Export”

66 © 2016 ANSYS, Inc. March 11, 2016