topic Re: Addressing Cavities in the model in Simulation Mechanical Forums (Read-Only)

Addressing Cavities in the model

Anonymous — Tue, 12 Jun 2018 15:55:17 GMT

Hello,

I had a question on addressing the cavities in the mesh.

In a model with multiple parts, especially with lots of curves and edges, a lot of times adjoining surfaces of different parts separate off on meshing - creating cavities in the model.

I know refining the mesh size, or trying to use different element types are two ways to address this issue. I am trying find another method to address it though, since I already have a pretty fine mesh and still doesn't work very good.

Thank you

Re: Addressing Cavities in the model

John_Holtz — Wed, 13 Jun 2018 17:33:34 GMT

Hi @Anonymous

I think what you are describing is that the mesh on the common face between two parts is not matched. When it is not matched, the parts can separate when the load tries to pull them apart. Is my understanding correct?

There are some matching tolerances that you can change which might help with the matching.

"Mesh > Mesh > 3D Mesh Options"
"Mesh Matching > On-surface tolerance based on "Absolute length dimension" and enter a real value. (something large enough to compensate for any gaps between the parts but less than the thickness of any thin parts that are in contact)
"Virtual imprinting > Imprint tolerance" and enter a real value.

Also, using the same size mesh on the parts may be helpful. "Mesh > Mesh > 3D Mesh Settings > Options > Model" and uncheck "Use automatic geometry-based mesh size function".

It would be helpful if you could provide some examples of what you are experiencing. An archive of the model only ("app button > Archive > Create") would be the best, otherwise static images would help.

Re: Addressing Cavities in the model

KubliJ — Wed, 13 Jun 2018 17:38:00 GMT

What John said.

Thanks,

James

Re: Addressing Cavities in the model

John_Holtz — Mon, 18 Jun 2018 20:36:22 GMT

Hi @Anonymous

Just wanted to follow-up to see if you have any questions or additional information to help with this case.