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Finite Element Mesh

Last modified by Iwona Budny Bjergø on 2022/01/18 12:23

Finite Element Method is used in calculation engine as it is also visible in the name of program (Finite Element Method = FEM). This chapter introduces the main concepts, features and functions of the built-in finite element method.

Element Types

Depending on the applied FEM-Design module, the engine uses the following line and 2D (rectangular and triangular) finite elements.

FEM-Design ModuleFinite Elements
Line element2D element3D element
“Standard”“Accurate”“Standard”“Accurate”“Standard”“Accurate”
1585283936395-928.png 1585284003385-882.png   1585284338571-882.png    1585284345045-753.png
8-node    6-node
  
1585284331773-415.png 1585284378769-839.png
Beam
 

1585284634926-866.png   1585284640430-195.png

9-node    6-node

  
1585284404468-380.png

1585284513216-336.png

Truss

1585284519249-788.png

Beam

1585284553890-705.png   1585284561776-271.png

4-node    3-node

1585284567449-345.png   1585284573884-853.png

9-node    6-node

  
1585284419793-514.png

1585284513216-336.png

Truss

1585284519249-788.png

Beam

1585284555924-547.png   1585284563294-388.png

4-node    3-node

1585284568864-479.png   1585284575335-532.png

9-node    6-node

1585284431164-331.png1585284436735-255.png1585284454407-999.png
4-, 6-, 8 - nodes
1585284442074-438.png1585284447150-457.png1585284460408-988.png
10-, 17-, 27 nodes

Table: Finite element types by FEM-Design modules

In the 3D modules, you can choose between “standard” and “accurate” 2D element types. With standard elements you can run 4-times faster but less accurate analysis than with the fine elements. In case of bar elements, the program assigns 2-node line elements to each beam and column element by default:

  • 1 piece when choosing “standard” elements, and
  • 2 pieces when choosing “accurate” mode.
warning.pngThe program divides curved beam objects by several line elements in number depends on the central angle of the arc.

The element type “standard” or “accurate” can be set in the calculation dialog (Analysis > Calculate > Analysis > Finite element types).

1585286020955-903.png

Figure: Finite element types by FEM-Design modules

warning.pngModification on the geometry of a structural object causes the deletion of its finite elements.

Mesh Generation

FEM-Design offers a fully automatic finite element mesh generation by using optimized (factory default) or custom mesh settings. Of course, the generated mesh can be modified with special easy-to-use edit and modify functions.

Fully automatism means that the program generates the mesh with elements having average element size optimized for the structure and its environment (supports and loads). The process can contain automatic element refinement and peak smoothing algorithm according to the settings.

Automatic mesh generation can be done according to the mesh settings:

  • Before calculations
    Click 1585286062284-192.png  Prepare in the 1585286068748-871.png  tabmenu. You can see and check the finite element suggested. The mesh will be visible by activating the Surface elements layer automatically. If you do not edit the mesh and modify the structural model, the later calculations will use the mesh generated by Prepare, so no further mesh generation will be done.
  • As the result of calculations
    If the program does not find previously generated finite element mesh, running calculations (analysis or design) by 1585286110777-660.png  Calculate generates it automatically. The mesh can be displayed by activating the Surface elements layer in the current structural or result view mode or just by returning to 1585286073978-102.png  mode.

1585286127114-183.png

Figure: Automatic finite element mesh generation

Mesh Settings

The settings of the automatic mesh generation are available only in 1585286087875-822.png  mode and at Settings> All...> FEM > Mesh and Calculation.

1585286143394-817.png

Figure: Settings affect automatic mesh generation (Prepare)

“General” settings

1585286149995-843.png

  • Merge objects
    The program merges fixed points, fixed lines, supports, beams, columns and walls (only in the Plate module) to plate and/or wall regions (the border of the regions). It is decided randomly which objects will be let in their place or removed. The objects shorter than a merging distance will be deleted. The objects being at the same place (covering) and having same properties will be deleted except one.

    The program also merges columns and/or beams together. It is decided randomly which line elements will be let in their place or removed. The bars shorter than the merging distance will be deleted. After that, the supports fit to the bars. The objects being at the same place (covering) and having same properties will be deleted except one.

    The program merges the loads to the geometry created in the first step. Those loads that have not been merged by the previous way will be merged together. It is decided randomly which ones will be let in their place or removed. Line loads shorter than the merging distance will be deleted. If the Avoid load multiplication option (see later) is active, the loads having the same position and same properties will be deleted except one.
    warning.png

    The merge process may modify the original shape of the objects to a simpler geometry; but a simple figure cannot be changed for a more complicated one. For example the program does not fit a line load having straight action line to a curved edge although merging distance requires that.

    This version of object merge cannot merge the plate or wall regions to themselves or to each other. The user has to pay attention to the correctness of these objects.

    Using Auto merge objects (recommended) corrects structural object misplacements. If the option is inactive, geometric anomalies cause too long mesh generation process or generation failure.

    Using Inform about volume of merged objects option together with object merge sends information about the quantity of corrections.

    Distance sets the maximal investigation zone between elements, so if the objects are closer than the defined distance, they will be merged. The suggested distance value is 3 to 5cm for engineering problems.

    1585286248303-470.png

    Figure: Correction of misplaced elements (Object merge)

    Activating Merge peak smoothing region and Merge load allows the object merge to work for peak smoothing regions and loads.

    Using Avoid load multiplication deletes the loads having the same position, geometry and properties (load case host and value) by keeping only one copy.
     

  • Load handling
    By default, load positions are independent from the finite element mesh; so for example, it is not necessary to place point loads into finite element nodes and vice versa. Although it is recommended to place loads (especially the concentrated loads with high value) into nodes, it is not necessary. Adjust mesh to load positions automatically places finite element nodes in the action points, on the action line and region border of the loads depending on their types (point, line and surface load), so the mesh follows the load position and geometry.

    1585286293852-739.png
    Figure: Load handling in mesh generation
  • Auto peak smoothing region around...
    To solve the result singularity problems above supports and other critical points, the program may run peak smoothing algorith around the listed elements. Activating an element in the list, the program automatically creates peak smoothing region around it.

“Elements” settings

1585286330394-468.png

  • Calculated average element size
    By default, the program automatically calculates the optimal average size of the 2D finite elements considering the size, the geometry, the environment etc. of the structural elements. So, you do not need to give an initial value for it. The automatic calculation and the element size depend on the following settings options.
    warning.png

    Element sizes can be set manually for all model regions or by regions with the Average element size command. If you modify the default “Automatic” value for a planar structural element (wall or plate) to a given value, the automatic element size calculation will be skipped for that region, and the given size will be used for that.

    1585286380230-563.png

    Figure: The Average element size command and the “Automatic” option

    Using Region by region, the program optimizes the element size by model regions. In this case, the regions will contain meshes generated by different average element sizes. This option is recommended to use in case regions (e.g. having openings and holes) need to be refined (more dense mesh).

    Using Consider all regions together, the one optimal average element size will be determined for all model regions having “Automatic” size setting. This option is suggested for structural models contain regions with nearly same geometry and size parameters.

    1585286426945-418.png
    Figure: Calculation modes of average size of 2D elements

    In the Scale figure, the optimal average element size can be reduced or increased with a given ratio set by the scroll button. The grey mesh shows the recommended optimal size, whilst the blue one shows the modified custom size. Double clicking the Scale figure resets the element size to the optimal average element size (1:1 ratio).

    1585286450585-494.png
    Figure: The average element size will be four times bigger than the optimal size

    The Correct according to the minimum division numbers option modifies the average element size of the 2D elements, if the minimum division number (automatic or custom) of the boundary lines and edges requires that. This option is recommended for generating uniform finite element meshes. Skipping this option causes dense mesh near edges where the minimum division numbers are predefined.

    Using the According to the peak smoothing regions option considers the peak smoothing settings of model elements in the calculation of the average element size.

  • Line element parameters
    The default minimum number of the line elements can be set here for the bar elements. The meaning of the default division number depends on the applied element type: standard or accurate. For example n=2 value sets (minimum) 2 finite elements for a whole bar (if neighboring elements connect to it only in its endpoints) or a continuous part of it (in case of joined or intersected neighbors) in case standard element type and 4 elements at accurate element type.

    1585286487913-568.png
    Figure: Meaning of Division number in case of Standard and Accurate element types

    At curved beams, alpha parameter sets the minimum division number: minimum division number = central angle of the curved beam / alpha .
    warning.pngDivision number can be set manually for all bar elements or by line elements with the Division number command.
    light.pngFor imperfection (of steel bars), stability and dynamic calculations, it is suggested to set the default n value to more than 1; 4-5 division number is the recommended minimum for n.

“Functions” settings

1585286615230-231.png

  • Automatic refinement in surface mesh (Generate surface mesh)
    The Refine locally where needed option – as an iteration process - eliminates distorted elements, which may normally be derived from accidental geometric errors (if object merge is not used). So, the option makes the finite element mesh denser at the locations where needed. (Deactivation of this option can be used in case of searching geometric errors.) The Max. step (recommended value is 6) defines the number of the iteration step of refining. The iteration will end when generated elements have the required side-ratio or the steps of the iteration reach their maximal value. If Max. step is not enough for the optimal refining, a warning message informs you the number of iteration steps is not enough and there are critical geometry errors (if the Warn about reaching max. step option is active).
    The automatic refinement may cause too dense mesh at special geometries (e.g. at highly depressed regions), so in that case, it would be more practical to reduce the average element size with the Reduce average element size if necessary option.
     
  • Smooth surface mesh
    Smooth procedure calculates the optimal coordinates of the corner nodes of elements. It is recommended after splitting or merging elements. The best mesh can be achieved with the iterative use of the Rebuild and the Smooth commands. Smoothing of a mesh is executed with iteration technique: the procedure places the nodes of the triangle elements in such a way, that the area of the triangles will be balanced. The number of the smoothing steps can be set in the Steps field.
  • Check surface mesh
    The Check surface mesh option lets the program to check the geometry of the mesh after automatic mesh generation. The mesh can be controlled with respect to unsuitable geometry, overlaps and topology. This means that mesh errors, produced by an automatic or manual mesh generation can be easily found. If the program finds defective geometric elements in the model, it sends a warning message (error list) and displays the position of the mesh errors.

    The Geometry tool checks the geometry of finite elements, such as the angles of the elements and the ratio of the largest and smallest sides (Max. side ratio).

    The Overlap & cut tool checks overlapping and intersecting finite elements, which can be caused for example by copying or moving regions together with their finite element meshes.

    The Topology & gap tool checks the topology of the finite elements and finds possible gaps. A typical topological error, when for example a corner node of an element lies on a side edge of another element. This problem can easily arise manually by using the Split command incorrectly.

    1585286665130-634.png
    Figure: Topologic errors (unconnected nodes)
    light.pngTopological errors can be easily solved by the Rebuild and Smooth commands and quick algorithms.

“Prepare” settings

1585286707994-943.png

  • Regenerate surface mesh automatically on the changed regions
    Using this option, the program will regenerate the mesh at any geometrical changes of region elements and will generate mesh on the regions having no mesh.

    If you switch off the Regenerate surface mesh automatically... option, the program will not generate mesh on the regions modified geometrically and will send an error message. In this case you cannot start calculation until you generate mesh on those regions. And, if you would like to generate mesh manually with the edit functions, also inactivate this option.

    From the element list, you can choose element types for automatic mesh refinement around them.

    The Optimal rebuild surface mesh after refine option rebuilds the mesh automatically after refine. It is recommended to use this option, because elements having non-optimal side-ratio (after refining) will be removed. This procedure will also create more optimal quadrates from the triangles.

    If you have objects to refine, the Smooth surface mesh after refine option will smooth the mesh after generation, refine and rebuild procedures.
     
  • Check the surface mesh
    If this option is activated, the program will automatically check the mesh on regions having valid mesh and are not necessary to be regenerated. The mesh of a region is valid, if the geometry of the region has not been modified since the last generation.

Peak Smoothing

Singularity problem

As an effect of the mesh refinement the calculated results are converging to the theoretical solution. The problem is that at certain places we get infinite inner forces according to the theory, so the inner forces increase each time by refining the mesh. These places could be: point supports, end points of edge supports,

vertices of surface supports, end points of beams and columns, end points of intersection lines of adjoining surfaces, point loads, end points of line loads, vertices of surface loads etc.

In practice, usually, the singularity problem occurs at supports because they heavily influence the inner forces (e.g. negative moments) in ratio.

Possible solutions

There are three known possibilities to solve the above-mentioned problem:

  • Choosing optimal finite element size at singularity places
    FEM-Design aids that with several built-in tools such as automatic element size adjustment, automations in mesh generation, automatic local densification etc. It is evident, that choosing optimal element size cannot be perfect, because we should have to know the appropriate values to which we adjust the average element size in advance. The functions used today for automatic element size calculation and generation are providing values with adequate precision in most cases, but it is obvious that they cannot guarantee that in any case.
     
  • More realistic and precise model definition
    Point and line loads/supports with action surface (only action points and lines) do not exist in real life. So, if you model all point/line loads and supports as surface loads/supports, then you can cease the problem derived from the singularity. This opportunity is available in FEM-Design, because the user can apply surface supports and loads with any directions and any geometry of action surface.
     
  • Peak smoothing
    Singularities always cause only local disturbance in the inner forces, they do not influence the inner forces at adequately short distance from the location of singularities. The “adequately short distance” is defined by the national standards. In the zones causing substantial changes three solutions can occur according to the codes: the peak can be cut (1), or it can be approached with a linear or higher order function (2), or a constant value may be set above the substantial area (3). In the last solution, the capacity of the inner force figure above the area may become equal with the capacity of the original figure. The last solution is the safest one, so it is accepted by every standard.

    The peak smoothing algorithm is available (for internal forces and stresses in planar elements) in every FEM-Design modules work with planar objects.

Peak smoothing region

The program defines peak smoothing regions to solve the possible singularity problems. Basically, these regions are the active zones in the environment of the singularity, where the inner forces change substantially as a result of mesh refinement.

Peak smoothing regions can be generated automatically by the mesh generator or calculation processes. Automatic generation always results circular peak smoothing regions with centre points placed in the location of the singularity. The radius of a circular smoothing region depends on the geometry of singularity locations.

light.pngPeak smoothing regions with any arbitrary shape can be defined manually with the Peak smoothing region command. That command is able to edit predefined (automatically or manually) peak smoothing regions.

Automatic generation of peak smoothing regions can be set and controlled at the General settings of mesh generation (Settings> All…> FEM> Mesh> General). At Peak smoothing region around... option you can set the places (depending on the current module) where you want the program to create circular peak smoothing regions. The radius of the circular regions is calculated from the following formula:

1585286900918-756.png

Figure: Settings of automatic peak smoothing generation

r = t / 2 + f * v,

where:

t is the characteristic geometric parameter of the object that causes singularity:

  • 0 value in case of supports (point, line and surface),
  • the diameter of circle circumscribed of a cross-section, if bar elements connect to planar elements,
  • the thickness of the plate or wall, if the peak smoothing region generated in plate/wall connection;

v is the thickness of the planar element (plate, wall) in the considered place;

is a factor can be set manually. The default value is 0.5, which means 45 degrees angle of projection starts from the connection (singularity cause) and ends in the calculation plane of the related planar element (see the figure before).

1585286924448-279.png

Figure: Examples for peak smoothing regions by different element-plate connection

Peak smoothing algorithm

The steps of the peak smoothing algorithm are the followings during calculations (inner forces):

  1. Select the peak smoothing method for moments, normal and shear forces under Settings/Calculation/Peak smoothing/Method
    1585286943483-408.png
     
  2. The program creates peak smoothing regions and/or checks the predefined active zones.
    1585286961236-916.png
    Figure: Generation of peak smoothing region at column-plate/wall connections
     
  3. Allow peak smoothing algorithm for internal force and stress calculations. It is not enough to generate peak smoothing regions, so you have to confirm the smoothing process in the Calculate dialog before starting any analysis (and design) calculations.

    1585286988123-269.png
    Figure: Peak smoothing algorithm set for analysis calculations
     
  4. The program calculates a constant value for cutting the peaks according to volume calculations of inner diagrams above the peak smoothing regions. That means, the volume at the final constant result value (Volume (smooth)) is equal with the volume derived from the peak (singularity) value (Volume (peak)) above the same peak smoothing region. Let’s see the next figure.

    1585287008134-672.png

    Figure: Peak smoothing algorithm (modified inner force diagram)
    1585287023608-906.png

    Figure: Internal force “graph” and “section” diagrams after using peak smoothing algorithm

light.png

Although peak smoothing is available for internal and stress calculations of planar elements, you can solve the singularity peak problem of line reactions and line connection forces. The program calculates the average value of the reaction and connection forces by finite element. That means, line reactions and connection forces can be displayed with constant (average) value by element (Distribution > Constant by element). In this case, you can easily place numeric values onto the steps of a figure (Numeric value> Find all local maximum/minimum).

1585287117798-498.png

Figure: Singularity of line reaction force solved by simple display technique

light.png

It is important to select the correct peak smoothing method cause it has big effect to the results.

Don’t smooth1585287186374-338.png
Use constant shape function1585287190320-630.png
Use higher order shape functions1585287194562-855.png

   

Edit Functions

There are numerous tools in the 1585287244359-722.png  tabmenu allow you to edit the finite element mesh generated automatically.

A short summary of the edit functions:

After editing finite element mesh, you can do automatic mesh object merge, rebuild, smooth, check etc. processes with special tools of the 1585287256085-995.png  tabmenu. Mesh generation can be done by planar regions with the Generate tool.

Adding nodes to mesh

With 1585287279140-543.png  Fixed point, nodes can be manually added to a predefined mesh in given points.

Click 1585287286656-345.png  Prepare to update the mesh according to the new nodes. Depending on mesh settings, the program automatically does refine, smooth and check processes to create an optimal mesh, if it is possible.

1585287292211-436.png

Figure: Adding nodes to a mesh

Fixed points defined in the model can be displayed with the Geometrical system object layer.

Fixing lines of mesh

With 1585287954466-742.png  Fixed line, lines (straight and curved) can be fixed in a mesh to generate nodes on it.

Click 1585287959782-521.png  Prepare to update the mesh according to the new nodes. The program defines nodes in the line endpoints and some points on the lines. Depending on mesh settings, the program automatically does refine, smooth and check processes to create an optimal mesh, if it is possible. Further node distribution of the fixed line element can be influenced by the Division number command.

1585287965400-637.png

Figure: Adding lines to a mesh

Fixed points defined in the model can be displayed with the Geometrical system object layer. In brackets, the number of line elements can be seen defined by the Division number command. If “-“ is displayed, there is no restriction on the element number.

light.png

Fixed lines display the intersection lines of structural regions (e.g. intersections of slabs and walls) too. This is very useful for defining holes/openings that connect accurately to finite element meshes (see the next figure).

1585288013712-282.png

Figure: Fixed lines used for editing regions

Editing peak smoothing regions

With 1585288047632-266.png  Peak smoothing region, the predefined peak smoothing regions can be edited (status, shape and size modification), or new ones can be defined manually.

The following functions can be done with the Peak smoothing region command:

  • Modifying the geometry of predefined peak smoothing region
    Automatic generation of peak smoothing region always results circular geometry of regions. If you would like to create regions with custom shape, draw a new one with the 1585288062093-335.png  Define tool and the different shape tools. If the new region covers an automatic one (and it is active, see later), the program will use the new region instead of the automatic one for solving the singularity.

    1585288074885-792.png
    Figure: Manually drawn peak smoothing regions with custom shape

    Sometimes, you need to correct the geometry of automatic regions to avoid the creation of incorrect or too dense finite element mesh (nodes are generated in the intersections and on the edges of peak smoothing regions).
    1585288106071-833.png
    Figure: Geometry modification effect on finite element mesh generation
     
  • Creation of new peak smoothing regions manually
    With the 1585288129599-768.png  Define tool, totally new peak smoothing regions can be drawn with custom shapes, too.
     
  • Modifying the status of a predefined peak smoothing region
    Apply the 1585288139912-894.png  Properties tool and the 1585288146598-298.png  Inactive option for peak smoothing regions to modify their status from active to inactive. Inactive region will not be considered in mesh generations and in calculations too. To reset an inactive status of a region to an active one, apply the Properties tool together with the 1585288151481-416.png  Active option for the region.

    1585288171988-523.png

    Figure: Difference between active and inactive peak smoothing regions

Peak smoothing regions defined in the model are stored in the Peak smoothing regions object layer.

Click 1585288199420-664.png  Prepare to update the mesh according to the new and modified peak smoothing regions. Depending on mesh settings, the program automatically does refine, smooth and check processes to create an optimal mesh, if it is possible.

warning.pngIt is not enough to generate/define peak smoothing regions, so you have to confirm the smoothing process in the Calculate dialog before starting any analysis (and design) calculations.

Division number

Division number sets:

  • the number of line finite elements of bar elements (columns and beams),
  • the number of 2D element-edges on fixed lines and structural region edges.

In case of bar elements, the 1585288251954-638.png  Division number command can modify their default element number (value in brackets) set at “Elements” setting.
 

warning.png

In 3D modules, the meaning of division number depends on the element type sets at calculations. For example division number 2 sets 2 line elements for standard element type and 4 line elements for accurate element type. The line elements together with their node numbers can only be displayed after analysis (or design) calculations (see display settings).

1585288295873-527.png

Figure: The meaning of division number for bar elements

In case of fixed lines and structural region edges, the 1585288312883-245.png  Division number command can fix the minimum number of 2D elements (sides) will be connected to the lines/edges by the mesh generator. “-” label in brackets shows no number-restriction for lines/edges.

1585288326184-183.png

Figure: The meaning of division number for fixed lines and edges

Defined division numbers together with fixed lines, edges and structural lines of bar elements are displayed with the Geometrical system object layer (red by default).

Modifying average element size

The 1585288340835-346.png  Average element size command modifies the optimized element size(s) of 2D elements calculated by the program according to mesh settings.

Applying the command for a structural region (wall, plate etc.), a dialog shows with “Automatic” label, that the optimal element size calculation is the active by default for the region. Typing an arbitrary element size (in a field) overwrites the usage of the optimal size. Of course, the final average element size generates by the mixture of the value set by Average element size and the effect of mesh settings. Inactivating all mesh generation automatism (refine, smooth and check processes together with “Elements” settings), the a value will be the average element size for the related structural regions.

Clicking Calculate automatically button shows the optimized average element size used when “Automatic” is set for the related object region(s).

1585288350895-296.png

Figure: “Automatic” and custom average element size

Click 1585288361094-923.png  Prepare or 1585288366123-445.png  Generate (for the region only) to update the mesh according to the average element size setting.

Refine mesh manually

A predefined finite element mesh can be refined manually. Apply the 1585288386351-223.png  Refine command to refine mesh parts by picking structural objects connect to the meshed region or by clicking directly finite elements.

  • Refine mesh around objects
    Activate first the 1585288398312-746.png  Mark element mode. Pick the checkbox of object types (e.g. Region border), which you would like to allow refining the mesh around. Select objects (e.g. Walls) assigned to allowed object types on the drawing area with 1585288408768-538.png  Pick object, or click 1585288423970-581.png  Mark elements around all objects to refine mesh around all objects belongs to the checked object types. Click 1585288416837-733.png  to start the refine process.

    1585288435131-654.png
    Figure: Refined finite element mesh around columns
     
  • Refine 2D elements
    Activate first the 1585288484919-236.png  Mark element mode. Select elements of a mesh on the drawing area with 1585288499526-946.png  Pick element, or click 1585288494702-634.png  Mark all elements to refine all finite elements of the project. Click 1585288489206-393.png  to start the refine process.

    1585288469424-268.png
    Figure: Refined finite elements (element-selection)

To deselect previously selected elements (before clicking 1585288507568-696.png  to start refine), switch to 1585288512466-967.png  Unmark element mode and do the same steps mentioned for selection.

Splitting elements

2D finite elements can be refined according to splitting patterns, too. Start the 1585288520863-370.png  Split command, then chose a cut pattern, and finally select an element which you would like to apply the selected cut mode. Each pattern has a short description about its usage for rectangular and triangular 2D finite elements. At some splitting patterns, red “+” shows the click position in an element to get the requested splitting shapes.

1585288526912-428.png

Figure: Element refinement manually with Split

Modifying node positions

The position of mesh nodes can be modified with the 1585288538861-676.png  Move node command. Select node(s) you would like to move, and define the displacement vector with a start- and endpoint. The program sends an error message, if it finds nodes being out of legal moving range.

1585288542726-249.png

Figure: Modifying node positions

Deletion of mesh regions

With the 1585288554070-747.png  Delete command, predefined mesh of selected planar object (regions) can be deleted. Just select the required region(s) and the program erases the mesh.

warning.pngIf you modify the geometry of an object region (e.g. by inserting a hole, by stretching one of region corners etc.), mesh assigned to it will be automatically deleted.

Object merge

The object merge process can be run any time you want by clicking the 1585288599273-228.png  Object merge command button.

Rebuild

After using manual tools (mentioned before) to edit the mesh generated automatically before, it is recommended to rebuild the mesh. The process rebuilds the current mesh of selected object regions according to the global optimum without the movement of mesh nodes.

The steps of the rebuild process are:

  1. The program builds a mesh from triangular elements using the principles of Delaunay triangular technique.
  2. It converts these triangles to quadrates corresponding to the global optimum of the mesh.

If the 1585288608220-164.png  Rebuild command results drastic changes in the mesh, smoothing algorithm is also recommended. The best, the most optimal finite element meshes can be achieved with the iterative usage of the two commands.

Smooth

Smooth process calculates the optimal coordinates of the corner element nodes. Smoothing the mesh is highly recommended after splitting or merging elements. If the mesh is modified drastically after rebuild, use smoothing for the model. The best, the most optimal finite element meshes can be achieved with the iterative use of the rebuild and the smoothing.

Just apply the 1585288624531-314.png  Smooth command for selected mesh regions. Mesh smoothing is executed with iteration technique: the procedure places the nodes of the triangular elements in such a way, that the area of the triangles will be balanced. The number of the smoothing iteration steps can be set at “Functions > Smooth surface mesh” settings.

warning.pngUndo cannot restore the mesh state before using Smooth.

Check

After using manual tools (mentioned before) to edit the mesh generated automatically before, it is recommended to check the mesh. It can be done according to “Functions > Check surface mesh” settings any time you want by clicking the 1585288657095-831.png  Check command button.

1585288661382-705.png

Figure: Topological errors found by Check

Generate (vs. Prepare)

Automatic mesh generation can be done by planar object region with the 1585288673372-600.png  Generate command. (Prepare runs automatic mesh generation for the entire structural model.) Generate takes into consideration the manual editing functions (such as Fixed point, Fixed line, Peak smoothing, Division number and Average element size) and the Mesh settings excluding the Check, the Smooth and the Prepare settings. Generate is also recommended to find defective geometric finite elements by checking (generating mesh) regions by regions.

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Figure: Mesh generation by regions (Generate)

Mesh generation is an iteration process, of which goal is to generate optimal and eurhythmic mesh by the given or automatically calculated average element size. The main and general steps of the generation process are the following:

  1. Defining the node positions of elements.
  2. Creating triangle elements by nodes.
  3. Converting triangle elements to mixed quadrate mesh where it is possible.
  4. Optimization of node coordinates (e.g. smoothing the mesh).
  5. Definition of middle points on element sides.

Renumbering and Display Settings

Renumbering

Mesh generator automatically add numbers for finite elements and nodes. If you edit the mesh (e.g. adding new nodes and elements, mesh refinement etc.), you can rerun the renumbering process with the Refresh numbering command of the Tools menu.

Display settings

The display style of node symbols and peak smoothing regions, the numbering of nodes and finite elements can be set at Settings > All... > Display > Mesh.

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Figure: Display settings of mesh items

  • 2D finite elements
    Although 2D finite elements are displayed automatically after mesh generation (if the Surface elements object layer is active), the element numbers (Number) can be displayed only after analysis or design calculations. The nodes can be displayed with circle or cross symbols any time, but with numbers (Number) after analysis and design calculations.
    1585285843194-343.png

    Figure: Finite elements displayed with numbers and nodes
     
  • Line finite elements
    Line finite elements together with their numbers (Number) can be displayed only after analysis or design calculations, if the Line elements object layer is active. The nodes can be displayed with circle, cross symbols or with numbers (Number).

The color of the elements, nodes and peak smoothing regions depends on the color of their own object layer.

Error Handling

Warning and error messages assist you when problems appear in mesh creation functions, during analysis or design calculations.cracked But, how you can find the position of these cautions to solve them later?

The program points the geometrical and mesh errors, the load misplacements and any other problems in the model, and it collects their coordinates (in the Global coordinate-system) in an error/warning dialog.

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Figure: Geometrical errors detected by the average element size calculation

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