load groups

[Schandra]

Dear all,

Can you tell me if it is possible to use load groups in combination with reapplying the boundary conditions. The problem I am solving is crimping of the cylinder following bending (or vice-versa).

Warm Regards,
Chandra

[Prof. R.L. Taylor]

try the following:

1. use a load group(s) to do the fist phase of the analysis

2. use the command RESEt LOAD (there are also options for the RESEt to zero ANGLe, DISPl, FORCe, BOUN if needed). this command destroys all the existing load groups and their assocated nodal values of forces and displacements.

3. set the data for the second phase you want to do.

there can be issues of transferring forces etc. from the first to the second phase that have to be treated delicately, so instead of destroying the load group you might try adding a new one.

[Schandra]

Thank you Prof. Taylor, I want to bend and then crimp the structure.
When I reset the boundary conditions I am starting from the undeformed configuration after phase 1.
I want to apply displacement on the deformed structure after phase 1, which I am unable to apply.
I have attached my input file, can you please point out the mistake.

[Prof. R.L. Taylor]

I can help with a small problem only.  I recommend you create some small problem that does the steps you want to implement. Try to do the two steps and if you need further help send that -- also you are using your own element so there is no way for me to do the simulation to see what fails.

[Schandra]

I am sorry for posting the wrong model. I shall create a simple problem and post it.

Thank you Prof. Taylor