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Modeling, Integrated Design & Analysis SoftwareGetting Started


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Introduction

1.1 Introduction

FX+ is a general pre and post processor that provides the state-of-art finite element

analysis modeling tools. FX+ is equipped with advanced geometric modeling functions,

powerful mesh generation algorithms, various analysis conditions, and exceptional output

displays with the latest graphic technology.

The General Pre/Post Processing Program , MI DAS/FX+


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FX+family products are listed in the table below.

Product Description

Function Availability

Modeling

(Geom/Mesh)Load/B.C. Analysis Post

FX+ General Pre/Post Processing

ProgramO O Mec 1 O

FX+ Modeler

FEmodeler

FEmodelerX

Civil/Building Detailed Analysis

Specialized Modeling Program

(Module of MIDAS/Civil, Gen)

O X X 2 X

FEPartner Customized version for a special

solver of FX+(OEM)

O O O 3 O

FEA Non-linear Detailed Analysis O O O O

1. MIDAS/Mec(Mechanical Analysis System) is sold separately, and various product lines of MEC present

depending upon the analysis function.

2. The analysis of FX+ Modeler is only coupled with MIDAS/Civil or MIDAS/Gen.

3. The analysis of FEPartner is performed by other solvers, and the solver vendors do not share the intellectual

property of their solvers with MIDAS Information Technology Co., Ltd


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1.2 Installation

1.2.1 System Requirement

FX+operates on IBM compatible Personal Computer (PC) in Windows environment.

In addition, FX+requires the following minimum configuration.

Operating System Microsoft Windows 2000 / ME / XP /

NT 4.0 SP3 + Y2K Patches

(Recommend Microsoft Windows 2000 or later version)

CPU Pentium III 700MHz

(Recommend Pentium IV 1 GHz or greater)

Memory (RAM) 256 MB

(Recommend 512 MB or greater)

HDD Space 1 GB

Video Memory 32 MB or greater

Video Card Recommend TNT/GeForce Type Videocard

Windows XP / 2000 (30.82 Version or later)

http://www.nvidia.com/view.asp?IO=winxp-2k_30.82

Windows NT ( 29.42 Version or later)

http://www.nvidia.com/view.asp?IO=winnt_29.42

Printer Windows compatible Printer or Plotter
http://www.nvidia.com/view.asp?IO=winxp-2k_30.82http://www.nvidia.com/view.asp?IO=winxp-2k_30.82http://www.nvidia.com/view.asp?IO=winxp-2k_30.82http://www.nvidia.com/view.asp?IO=winnt_29.42http://www.nvidia.com/view.asp?IO=winnt_29.42http://www.nvidia.com/view.asp?IO=winnt_29.42http://www.nvidia.com/view.asp?IO=winnt_29.42http://www.nvidia.com/view.asp?IO=winxp-2k_30.82


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1.2.2 Installation Sequence

Installing FX+

Follow the steps below to install FX+.

1. Insert the MIDAS/FX+CD in the CD-ROM drive.

2. If the Shift key is not pressed when the CD is inserted, installation will proceed

automatically and the MIDAS/FX+CD will process automatically. Select the setup

language as either English or Korean, and click button.

MIDAS/FX+ Choose Setup Language Dialog Box

If the installation does not proceed automatically, select the Run command in the

Startmenu of Windows. Once the CD-ROM drive is assigned, enter the following

command:

D:\Install\Setup

(Note: This is in case the CD-ROM drive is assigned to the directory D)

Click to start the installation of the program.

3. Once the installation program is initiated, the dialog box shown in the figure above

is displayed and the installation of MIDAS/FX+ begins. The installation will

proceed step-by-step to the subsequent phases following the displayed information.


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To proceed to the next step, click . To return to the previous step,

click .

MIDAS/FX+ Installation Dialog Box

4. When the license agreement dialog box is displayed, read the agreement carefully.

If you agree with the agreement, check on I accept the terms of the license

agreement. Click , and the installation will continue.

5. Enter the users registration information and click .

6. The Choose Destination Location dialog box will appear. Select the folder in

which MIDAS/FX+will be installed. MIDAS/FX+will be installed in the default

folder by clicking . To change the folder, click and

select the folder to install MIDAS/FX+.


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7. The Select Feature dialog box will appear. To select all the features, click

and proceed. If not, uncheck on the unnecessary features, and click

.

8. To return to the previous step, click . To start the installation, click

.

MIDAS/FX+ Install Protection Lock Driver Dialog Box

9. Select the type of lock driver and click to proceed.

10. When the lock driver is installed, MIDAS/FX+installation will be completed.


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1.2.3 Installing Sentinel/Pro Driver

The Sentinel Driver is used to drive the Lock key of the Sentinel hardware. To run

MIDAS/FX+and the Lock key, the driver has to be installed. The Sentinel Driver is

installed automatically during the installation process of MIDAS /FX+. For upgrading or

replacing a damaged Lock driver, follow the procedure outlined below.

To install the Sentinel Driver manually follow these steps.

1. Press the Shiftkey on the left side of the keyboard and insert the MIDAS/Civil CD

in the CD-ROM drive.

2. Select the Run command in the Start menu. Once the CD-ROM drive is assigned,

enter the following command:

D: \I nstall \protection drivers\setup



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To uninstall the Sentinel Driver follow these steps.

1. Press the Shiftkey on the left side of the keyboard and insert the MIDAS/Civil CD

in the CD-ROM drive.

2. Select the Run command in the Startmenu. Once the CD-ROM drive is assigned,

enter the following command:

D: \I nstall \Protection Dr ivers\Setup


3. In the Program Maintenance dialog box, select Remove to start uninstalling the

lock driver.

Program Maintenance Dialog Box


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1.2.4 Registering the Protection Key

To operate MIDAS/FX+ properly, register the serial number after connecting the protection

key to the parallel port.

1. Connect the Protection Key to the Parallel Port or the USB Port.

2. Execute MIDAS/FX+.

3. The Register Protection Key is located in theHelpcommand of theMain M enu.

4. Select Register Protection Keyin the Helpmenu.

5. Enter the Protection Key ID provided in the Program CD Case in the Protection

Keyfield.

6. Select Stand-alonein Key Type.

7. Click .

Register Protection Key Dialog Box


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2. Understanding FX+

2.1 Before Getting Started

2.1.1 Work Sequence of FX+

General work sequence of FX+ is as follows;

A. Geometry Modeling

B. Mesh Generation

C. Analysis Condition

D. Analysis

E. Post-processing and Result Evaluation


The generation of geometric model is the foundation of completing the finite element

analysis model in FX+. Based on the geometry data, mesh generation and other additional

modeling processes will follow. The geometry modeling of FX+ can be generated directly

in FX+ using its own modeling functions. In addition, FX+ provides the data exchange

capability which enables import of a geometry data file created by other Computer Aided

Design(CAD) software.

When the geometry data file is imported from other programs, it often requires some

special operations such as simplifying shapes, healing damaged geometries, or cleaning-up

disordered shapes in order to create the finest analysis model.


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Repaired Geometry Model after I mported from Geometry Data Fi le

Cleaned Geometry M odel f or the Optimal M esh Generation

Solid Geometry M odel I mported

from CAD Data File

Geometry Model Created Dir ectly in F X+


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B. Mesh Generation

Mesh is generated on the previously created geometry model. Generally, it is

recommended to use hexahedron elements or quadrilateral elements for more accurate

analysis result. However, for a complex model, it is reasonable to use tetrahedron elements

or triangular elements produced by the Auto-mesh generation function provided by FX+.

To maximize its workability, FX+ provides various mesh control functions and 3

different mesh generation methods; Auto-mesh, Mapped-mesh, and Protrude-mesh.

Auto-mesh Generated with Solid Tetra Mesh

Mapped-mesh Generated with Sur face Quad M esh Auto-mesh Generated with Surf ace Quad-dominant Mesh

Mapped-mesh Generated with Solid Hexa Mesh


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C. Analysis Condition

FX+ provides a variety of materials, physical properties, load types, and boundary

conditions. The load and boundary conditions can be applied not only to nodes and elements,

but also directly to geometric shape so that it is effectively used when a model has a very

complex shape.

By taking the advantage of the Windows based GUI environment, FX+ maximizes the

simulation capability to display the load and boundary conditions in a practical manner. As

a result, the simulation function tremendously reduces the data input error which can be

easily made by user.

D. Analysis

Once the generated model is completed with proper analysis conditions, the analysis

model can be analyzed. If the model is generated in Mec (Mechanical Analysis System),

which is the integrated solution with FX+ and a mechanical analysis solver, it can be simply

solved by its own solver. Otherwise, the users need to export the analysis model to

preferring solvers such as Nastran, ABAQUS, Ansys, or other analysis programs.

Mec is equipped with the numerous finite element analysis engines. The different

types of analysis which can be solved by Mec are:

Linear Static Analysis

Eigenvalue Analysis

Buckling Analysis

Time History Analysis

Response Spectrum Analysis

Exampl e of Applying Non-unif orm Pressure Load Example of Applying Boundary Condition Usingthe Cyli ndri cal Coordinate System


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Material Nonlinear Analysis

Geometry Nonlinear Analysis

Contact Analysis,

Linear/Nonlinear Hear Transfer Analysis

Fluid Flow Analysis

FEPartner, an OEM version of FX+, also includes the analysis capability which is

engineered with the integrated solver from other vendors.

E. Post-processing and Result Evaluation

After the analysis is completed properly, FX+ will organize and provide the post data

result for design process.

FX+ offers numerous outstanding graphical result displays including the thrilling

animation maker. In addition, all the tables provided in FX+ allows the user to view the

analysis result at a glance, and they are compatible with MS-Excel which is the most widely

used data analyzing software. Thus, the revolutionary post-processing capability of FX+

will define the new standard of the post-processor in the Computer Aided

Engineering(CAE) industry.

Example of Vari ous Post Processing of FX+

Analysis Result

(Contour Plot)

Result Table

Graph

Clipped Plot

A Variety of Displays


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2.1.2 Modeling Process of FX+

FX+ allows the user to create highly sophisticated geometrical data and to generate

mesh with any dimension or shape.

Especially, due to its advanced geometry modeling tools and high-performance auto-

meshing functions, the user can model a complex shape much quicker and simpler than

traditional modeling programs which mostly employ the manual node and element method.

In this chapter, the geometry modeling and mesh generation will be discussed in detail.


A geometry model is fundamentally formed by the interlocking relationship of various

geometric entities. The geometric entities in FX+ are listed in the following table.

Entity Definition

Compound Group of independent entities

ShapeGeneral term to call an independent entity

(An entity that is not forming any other entity)

SolidPart of 3-D space bound by a shell

Property Volume

Surface

ShellA collection of Faces connected by some of the

Edges of their Wire boundaries

Face

Part of a plane (in 2-D geometry) or a surface (in 3-

D geometry) bounded by a closed Wire

Plane surface, cylinder, sphere, etc

Property Area

Curve

Wire A sequence of Edges connected by their Vertices

Edge

A shape corresponding to a curve, and bound by a

Vertex at each extremity Straight line, circle, ellipse, arc, etc

Property Length

Vertex

A zero-dimensional shape corresponding to a point

in geometry

Property Coordinate

Filtering enables to

select shapes by its

geometry type.

Higher

Level

Entity

Lower

Level

Entity


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Extruding an Edge

creates a Face.

Extruding a Wirecreates a Shell. This

Shell shares the same

sub-Shapes with a

group of Faces which

is generated by the

extrusion of the

original Wires sub-

Edges.

The user may

interchange freely

b/w closed Wire and

Face or b/w closed

Shell and Solid

because they share

the same sub-Shapes.

Compound is

generally used to

sort shapes easily.

(ex: grouping

hundreds of Curves

imported from

Autocads .dxf file

into a single

Compound.

Vertex in 3-dimensional space

1 Edge bound by 2 Vertices

1 Wire connected by

4 Edges

1 Face limited by 1 closed Wire

(4 Edges)

1 Shell connected by 6 Faces

(empty)

1 Solid bounded by 1 closed Shell

(filled)

Face is a Shape which

exists independently

A Wire and 4 Edges cannot be a Shape

because they are sub-Shapes of a Face

A Compound which is grouped by 4 independent

Shapes

The boundary of a

Face consists of one

Wire, and the

boundary of a Solid

consists of one Shell.


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The following examples will help to more comprehensively understand the topology.

Highest Shape One (Face)

Sub-

Shape

WireOne (Faces Boundary)

Group of E1 through E5

Edge Five (E1~E5)

Vertex Five (V1~V5)

Highest Shape One (Face)

Sub-

Shape

WireTwo (Inner/outer boundary)

same as E1, E2

Edge Two (E1, E2)

Vertex

Two (V1, V2)

Starting and ending points of

edges

Highest Shape One (Shell)

Sub-

Shape

Face Two (F1, F2)

Wire Two (Boundary of each face)

EdgeSeven (E1~ E7)

They share E4

Vertex Six

Highest Shape One (Solid)

Sub-

Shape

Shell One (Solids Boundary)

Face Six

Wire Six (Boundary of each face)

Edge

Twelve

4 for each face, 12 edges are

shared

Vertex Eight

When the user sews two

neighboring Faces into a

Shell, one or more

Edge(s) will be sharedbetween Faces. In the

diagram, two independent

Faces have a total of 8

edges, but the combined

Shape, a Shell, has only 7

edges.

V3

Face

V1

V2

V4

V5

E1

E2

E3

E4

E5

V1V2

E1, W1E2, W2

Face

No matter how many

edges exists, a

boundary of a Face

will be always

regarded as a Wire.

In a closed Edge like

a circle, starting and

ending vertices are

identical.

F1 F2

E1

E2

E3

E4

E5

E6

E7

Shell

Topology means the

relationship of

geometric entities.

F1

F2

Shell (F:2, W:3, E:8)

Solid


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FX+ provides both Top-down Modeli ng and Bottom-up Modeling methods. Therefore,

the user can choose either method or a combination of both depending on beneficial

characteristics of the particular model.

Top-down Modeling Method

In this method, the user makes the highest level Shape, and its sub-Shapes will be

automatically formed. The user does not need to waste a lot of effort to model each

sub-Shapes. The method often exercised for a simply shaped model or for a

preliminary design process.

If a cube is created with the primitive box feature of FX+, all sub-Shapes of this

solid such as Faces, Wires, and Edges are automatically generated

Bottom-up Modeling Method

In this method, the user starts to model from the lowest level entities first. With these

independently generated sub-Shapes, the final shape is assembled together. The

operation may take a lot of time more than the Top-down method. However, by this

method, the user can generate a very complex shape which cannot be accomplished by

the other method. In most of the geometry modeling practices, the Bottom-up

Modeling Method is widely used.

A surface model of terrain is extremely difficult to model directly at once.

Therefore, Vertices and Edges, which express the Face, will be made first, and theFace will be generated by using those Vertices and Edges.

3D Surface Generation with the NURBS Face

(Bottom-up Modeling: EdgeFace)

A Box Creation by the Primitive Box Function

(Top-down Modeling: Solid)


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The actual modeling process of the Bottom-up Modeling is shown below;

The Fl ow Chart of Geometry Modeling Process of FX+

Modify Edge/Wire

Modify Face/Shell

Modify Solid

Mesh Generation

--- --- ---: Possible Starting Points : Modeling Process : Completion

Create Vertex

Create Edge/Wire

Create Face/Shell

Create Solid

Import Geometry Data File

Modify Geometry Data

It is not necessary

to start modeling

from the vertex for

the Bottom-up

Modeling Method.

If possible, the mid-

steps between the

bottom shape and

the top shape can

be eliminated.


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B. Mesh Generation

FX+ provides various types of elements. Each element type is defined by the structural

characteristic of its engaged nodes.

Scalar Element

It consists of 1 or 2 node(s), and it does not have a geometrical characteristic. The

mass, damper, and spring elements fit in this category.

1D Element (Line)

The 1-dimensional element has a geometrical characteristic of length and consists of 2

or 3 nodes. The truss and beam elements fall in this category.

2D Element (Plane)

The 2-dimensional element, which represents either triangular or quadrilateral element,

has the geometrical characteristic of area. Plane Stress Element, Plain Strain Element,

Axisymmetric Element, and Plate Element are included in 2D Element type.

3D Element (Solid)

The 3-dimensional element such as Tetrahedron, Pentahedron (Wedge or Prism), and

Hexahedron (Brick) has a geometrical characteristic of volume.

Here, the element

types are categorized

by their geometrical

characteristics, and

the structural

behavior of elements

may be differentwithin the same type.

(ex. Truss and Beam)

The structural

behavior can be

found in the Analysis

Reference Manual.

1-Node Scalar

(Ex. Node Sprin g)

2-Node Scalar

(Ex. Element Spri ng)

0

1

1

st

Order Li ne 2

nd

Order Line

0

10

1

2

Triangular (1st, 2

ndOrder) Quadrilateral (1

st, 2

ndOrder)

0

1

2

0

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

10

2 3

0

1

2

3

4

5


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Miscellaneous

Few element types such as Rigid Links are categorized here.

A structure in real life always exists in a space, and it can be modeled by a type of

element with proper dimension. Its structural behavior can be expressed with the accurate

material model and geometrical property. To construct an analysis model of the structure, its

elements must include these 3 important characteristics; nodal connectivity material property, and additional geometric property such as a thickness.

The geometric properties that are required to be defined in each 1D, 2D, and 3D

element are listed in the following table.

Element

Type

Geometric

CharacteristicProperty

Volume

Calculation

1D Length(L) Area L A

2D Area(A) Thickness A t

3D Volume(V) N/A V

0

1

23

4

5

6

7

0

1

3

4

5

6

7

2

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

0

1

2

3

4

5

0

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

1213

2

0

1

3

2

0

1

3

4

5

6

78

9

Tetrahedron (1st, 2

ndOrder) Pentahedron (1

st, 2

ndOrder)

Hexahedron (1st, 2

ndOrder)

The table on the right is

for understanding the

basics of the geometric

property, and the list

only contains the

common items.

Depending on its

structural behavior,

each element type may

require additional

properties. For detailed

information, refer to On-

Line Manual.


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Understanding FX+

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Regardless of dimension and type, the general process of mesh generation is shown in

the following diagram:

General Process of M esh Generation

The detailed generation process of each 1D, 2D, and 3D Mesh us as follows;

1D Mesh

One dimensional elements are generated on the selected edge based on the specified

mesh size.

2D Mesh

Before generating 2D mesh, 1D mesh is produced on the boundary edges. The

program executes it automatically as a hidden process. Subsequently, 2D mesh fills out

the internal area which is bounded by the previously generated 1D mesh. The 2D

meshing algorithm can be specified either by the user or automatically by the program.

3D Mesh

After the generation of 1D and 2D mesh, the program generates 3D elements in the

internal space which is closed by the 2D boundary mesh. If necessary, 1D and 2D

mesh generations are processed internally by the program.

Generate 3D mesh in the

internal space

Select the object shape and

specify the element type.

Create 1D mesh on all

boundary edges.

Create 2D mesh on all

boundary faces .

Complete

1D Mesh

Complete

2D Mesh

2D Mesh Generation

Choose Mesh Algorithm

Specify Mesh Size


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The user must use caution for the listed items prior to the mesh generation.

In order to generate the proper 2D mesh, 1D mesh on the boundary edges must be

completely closed.Similarly, in order to generate the proper 3D mesh, the boundary

2D mesh must be completely closed.

For convenience, FX+ provides size control on various geometry type such as Solid,

Face, and Edge. Yet, the predominant factor of determining mesh size is what is given

on the Edges. Therefore, in order to mesh with desired size properly, it is

recommended to specify the mesh size on the critical edges first.

Once the lower dimensional mesh is created manually, the higher dimensional mesh

can be generated automatically based on the lower dimensional mesh.

If the boundary 2D mesh is made, the 3D mesh can be generated directly with it. Therefore,

theoretically, what requires to generate the 3D mesh is the boundary 2D mesh, not the Solid

(Geometry).

The boundary mesherror can occur more

likely during the 3D

mesh generation.


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Valence

is the number of elements which are shared by a single internal node. Depending

on the Valence, the mesh can be divided into two groups, the structured mesh and the

unstructured mesh.

Structured Mesh

In the structured mesh, the Valence of internal nodes is constant.

The Map Meshfunction in FX+ generates the structured mesh type in both 2D and 3D.

Unstructured Mesh

In the unstructured mesh, internal nodes have a different Valence.

The Auto Mesh function in FX+ generates the unstructured mesh with various auto-

meshing algorithms.

The following figure will help to understand the definition of the Valence and the difference

between the structured mesh and the unstructured mesh by using 2D mesh sets.

In the structured mesh of the above figure, all internal nodes have a Valence of 4, and they

are shared equally by 4 elements. Each element will have a corner angle of about 90

(360/4). Such elements with 90corner angle have an excellent element quality. However,

the internal nodes in the unstructured mesh may have other Valences such as 3 and 5, and

their engaged elements at each node will have a corner angle of about 120 and 72(360/)

accordingly. Thus, as the Valence sends away from 4, the element quality gets worse.

The structured mesh has an excellent mesh quality, but there are a few trade-offs. The

following diagram represents the general process of the structured mesh, and it will

introduce the required condition for the structured mesh.

Valence is also known as

Degree of Regularity or

in short Regularity.

The Valence of 4

seems the best in

generating 2D

Quadrilateral Mesh

(Structured Mesh). If

possible, it is

recommended to

keep the Valence

between 3 and 5.

=4=3

=5

=4

Structured Mesh Unstructured Mesh


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Generation Pr ocess of Structur ed Mesh

Thus, after transferring the actual 3D geometry to the 2D base geometry, the quadrilateralelements fill up the internal area of the base geometry. Again, the generated quadrilateral

mesh is mapped back to the original geometry. Due to the complicated nature of this method,

the original 3D geometry must satisfy the following two conditions.

1) In order to form the base geometry, the 4 corner vertices must be defined.

In case of convex polygons, FX+ automatically detects the 4 corner vertices.

Moreover, it also provides the user an option to define the 4 vertices manually. If the 4

vertices cannot be defined, the geometry shape must be divided into the applicable

shapes as shown in the following examples.

This type of

structured mesh

generation is known

Mapped Mesh.

Thus, the shape of

the base geometry of

2D structured mesh

is a rectangle.

Similarly, for the 3D

structured mesh, a

cube becomes the

shape of the base

geometry.

In 3D structure, 8

corner vertices must

be defined.

1

3

1

Inverse

Mapping Mapping

x

y

2D Base Geometry

(By the Grid Method)

1

x

y

Inverse

Mapping

Mapping3D Original Geometry

2

3D Original

Geometry


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2) The number of nodal divisions on an edge or an edge group must match with the

coupled edge or the coupled edge group(-, -).

It is recommended to apply the mesh size control using the Number of Division than

the I nterval Lengthto construct a structural mesh, in order to keep the same number of

mesh divisions on each side.

Unlike the structured mesh, the unstructured mesh can be applied to any shape of geometry

without any regulations such as the number of divisions and the geometrical structure.

Therefore, any complex geometry can be meshed with much less effort.

The proper selection of element type and the quality of element shape heavily affects on the

analysis result. Therefore, it is very important to choose the proper element type and to

check the nodal connectivity between the elements and the element shape in order to obtain

accurate results.

The following list introduces the essential information required before mesh generation;

1) As the element shape gets closer to the regular polygon and the regular polyhedron, the

analysis result becomes more accurate.

2) The duration of analysis is a facto that should not be ignored during modeling.Therefore, it is important to keep the number of elements within a reasonable range. A

careful planning of element distribution can prevent a massively sized model. Finer

mesh must be considered in the following cases; (a) where the analysis is critical, (b)

where the geometry radically changes, (c) where the material or the property changes,

(d) where the load varies, and (e) where dramatic results are expected. The balance

area can be meshed coarsely since the analysis results do not seem to be heavily

affected.

Hence, we call the

unstructured mesh

as Free Mesh.

Detailed information

on various free

meshing algorithmscan be found in the

On-line Manual.

Side View

Linear

Grading

Linear

Grading

Front View

Linear

Grading

Model

(3D View)

Example of a Geotechnical Model where a finer Mesh is Generated near the Tunnel

(The selected element sizes should be such as to enable a smooth transition)


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Since the triangular element is relatively stiffer than the quadrilateral element, a model

with quadrilateral elements is expected to produce better results. Similarly, the

hexahedral element is preferred to the tetrahedral element.

The first degree element is also stiffer than the second degree element. Therefore, it is

recommended to use second degree elements, especially when a model is assembled

with triangular and tetrahedral elements.

3) Upon the completion of the mesh generation, the nodal connectivity between the

generated elements should be checked. The separated nodes will cause free edges in

2D and free faces in 3D mesh .

4) The mesh quality checking tools in FX+ make it possible to verify the feasibility of

mesh shape in an analysis model. The user must mesh carefully in the area where the

geometry radically changes because unacceptable elements may occur. In addition,

Jacobian Ratio for the quadrilateral element must be checked to determine whether

non-convex quadrilateral elements exist or not. In addition, the collapsed tetra, a nearly

flat element, must be removed.

However, good

quality triangular or

tetrahedral elements

are better than poor

quality quadrilateral

or hexahedral

elements.

Free edge and free

face can be checked

in the Check MeshFunctionof FX+

In FX+, the user can

check mesh quality

with various criteria.

Detailed information

on the mesh quality

function is available

in the On-line

Manual.

Example of F ree Edge in 2D Mesh at the Beam and Column Connection

Free Edges are made in

connection


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Understanding FX+

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2.2 Organization of Windows and Menu System

The Menu System of FX+ permits an easy access to all the functions related to the entire

process of input, output and analysis and minimizes the mouse movement.

Organ ization of Windows and Menu System

FX+ consists of a total of 6 windows.

Work Window

The Work Window deals with modeling and interpretation of analysis results by means

of GUI (Graphic User Interface) of FX+.

Main Menu

Works Tree

Property Window

Work Window

Output Window

Toolbar (Icon Menu) Context Menu

Table Window


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Table Window

The Table Window displays all types of data entry, analysis and results in the Spread

Sheet format. Various types of data modification, additional input, compilation,

arrangement for different characteristics and searching capabilities are provided in

Table Windows. They allow transfers with common database software or MS-Excel.

Works Tree Window

The Works Tree stores all the data of the current project such as geometry, mesh, load,

boundary condition, analysis control, and analysis results. They are organized in the

tree format which is similar to Windows Explorer.

Property Window

The Property Window shows general information about the individual entity that the

user selects from the Work Window or the Works Tree. Basic modification, such as its

name and color, can be also done through the Property Window.

Depending on the working mode (pre-processing and post-processing), the Property

Window has an unique format and function.

Output Window

The Output Window displays all types of information necessary for modeling,warnings and error messages.

FX+ has the following menu system:

Main Menu

The Main Menu has commands for all the built-in functions necessary to run FX+.

Toolbar (Icon Menu)

The Icon Menu helps the user promptly invoke functions frequently used in FX+.

Each icon is regrouped with the icons of similar purposes by Tab in order to be

recognized more easily by the user.

Curve Tab: The group of tools that are frequently used to create and modify curves


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Each Toolbar can be easily dragged with the mouse to the desired position on the

screen. They may be edited to appear selectively on the screen or modified by using

View>Toolbars>Customize. For more information on any icon in the Toolbar, place

the mouse cursor on the icon in question and Tool Tipwill provide a short description.

Context Menu

In order to minimize the physical motions of the mouse, simply right click the mouse.

FX+ automatically brings a menu system, which offers related functions or frequently

used functions reflecting the working circumstances of the user.

2.2.1 Work Window

When the user starts FX+, only the Start Page will show up on the screen. When opening a

new project, the user will see the Work Window where actual modeling will take place.

The Start Page is a window that is hyperlinked to MIDAS IT Corporation s Homepage

(http://www.MidasUser.com) and the User Support Center.

The Work Window deals with modeling and interpretation of analysis results by means of

GUI (Graphic User Interface) of FX+.

The display related options, including the modification of the background color, can be

controlled in Main Menu > View > Display Optionor Display Optionicon in the Icon

Menu.

It is better for the

beginners of FX+ to

manipulate the

commands with Main

Menu, to understand

about the program

more thoroughly.

However, once users

are familiar with the

system, it is much

more convenient to

use the Icon Menu.


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The user can switch between the Start Page, Work Window, and Table Window by clicking

their Tabs.

2.2.2. Works Tree Window

FX+ provides Pre-Works Tree and Post-Works Tree depending on working modes.

Pre-Works Tree

The Pre-Works Tree is structured similar to the Windows Explorer. It stores all pre-

processing modeling information of geometry, mesh, load, and boundary conditions.

The user also can perform the basic modeling operation using the Pre-Works Tree such

as Show/Hide objects.

The following are the featured functions of the Pre-Works Tree:

The user can select objects from the Pre-Works Tree as well as from the Work

Window.

Depending on the selected entity, the Pre-Works Tree provides a customized

When dealing with a

complex model, users

often have trouble in

selecting and modifying

entities from the Work

Window. However, using

Works Tree and

Context Menu, they can

select and modify the

entities much more

easily and conveniently.

Since Context Menu

changes depending on

the selected entity,

users must try out each

case.

In Display Option, the user can change various

display settings of the Work Window.


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Structur e of Pre-Works Tree and I ts Functions

The contour plot canl

be drawn by double-

clicking the result

data.

Structure of Post-Works Tree

Analysis Step

Result Type

Result Data

Provides numerical

results in table format.


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2.2.3 Property Window

The Property Window provides a set of information about the object that has been selected

from the Work Window or the Works Tree. Depending on actual working mode, the

Property Window functions differently. Therefore, the Property Window will have a

different structure for each mode (Pre-Processing and Post-Processing).

Pre-Processing Mode

The Pre-Processing Mode displays general information about selected object, and

simple modification of basic properties such as name and color, can be done in theProperty Window. The structure of the Pre-Processing Property Window may change

depending on the selected entity, but the general structure is shown in the following

figure:

Example of I nformation Di splay in Pre-Processing Property Window

In order to invoke the

Property Window,

only a single object

must be selected.

The selections name

and color can be

changed in the

Property Window.

Mesh Set

Geometry

Mesh

Material

Property

Name, Color,

Shape Type,

Geometric

Characteristic

Name, Type

Color, Material

Total Number of

Nodes/Elements

Name, ColorNode/Element


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Post-Processing Mode

Instead of showing information like the one in the Pre-Processing Mode, the Property

Window in the Post-Processing Mode is used to specify options for the post-

processing operations.

Once an option is specified in the Property Window, it applies to all post processing

operations. In addition, it saves into the registry so that the same options can be

applied for other projects.

Structure of the Property Window in the Post-Processing Mode

2.2.4 Output Window

The Output Window displays all types of information that are necessary for modeling,

analysis, warnings, and error messages.

The displayed messages in the Output Window can be copied to the Clip Board, and they

can be used in other text program.

Example of Messages in Output Window and it s Context Menu

The post-options are

specified in the

Property Window,

and the post-

operations are

controlled in the

Icon Menu

Selected Text

can be copied.

Detailed Options of

Contour Plot


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While working with the Works Tree Window, the Property Window, and the Output Window, it

may be required to hide or change their location.

Here, the basic operation of these 3 windows will be introduced.

All three windows have the main control buttons on the top right corner. Basically, all the

operations are included in the Menu Buttonas shown in the figure, and for convenience,

FX+ provides additional individual buttons for the most frequently used functions.

Floating

The window can be located in any place in and out of the program.

Docking

The window can only be located only in the designated locations such as Right/Left/

Top/Bottom.

Auto-Hide

The window will be hidden except the title bar. When bringing the mouse over the title

bar, the whole window will appear again.

Hide

Hide the window completely. The windows Show/Hide is controlled through the Window

menu in the Main Menu.

Operations of Works Tree/Property/Output Window

Menu button is only

available in the

VS.NET 2005 format.

The window style can

be specified in

Display Option(View

> Display Option).

Floating and Docking

which do not require

a specialized button

can be controlled by

mouse-drag .

Auto-Hide can be

used only in the

Docking mode.

Auto-Hide

Menu Button

HideOnly Available in

VS.NET 2005


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To move the window location, hold down the left mouse button click at the title bar and release

it at the desired location.

To position the window in the Floating mode

After dragging the window into empty space, release the left mouse button.

To position the window in the Docking mode

Dragging into boundaries of the main frame or inside of other windows will set the

window to the Docking mode. When the window is positioned in the desired docking

location, release the mouse button to complete the operation.

The easiest method to situate the window properly in the Docking mode is:

Specify the window style as the VS.NET 2005format in the General tab of Display

Option (View > Display Op tion).

Click the title bar of the object window, and drag the mouse around. The docking

position icons will show up on the screen. The icons will be structured differently

depending on where they are to be dragged.

Bring the mouse pointer on the top of the desired docking position icon. When the

position is highlighted, release the mouse button to place the window in the

Docking position.

This method is very convenient when the user is trying to dock the window inside of

another window.

Property Window

Floating ModeWorks Tree Window

Left Docking Mode

Output Window

Auto-Hide Mode (Bottom Docking)

The default window

style is the VS.NET

2005 format.


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Example of Docking to Another Window

(Drag the positioning window to another)

Example of Docking to Programs Boundary

(Drag the positioning window to Work Window)

Locate the window

location using the

Docking buttons.

It previews the area

to postion.Release the mouse

click to finishDrag it to the top of

the button


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2.2.5 Main Menu

Main Menu includes commands and shortcut keys of all the functions that are required to

operate FX+.

File File, Print, and Data Exchange

Edit Undo/Redo

Geometry Geometry Modeling Functions (Create/Modify), Work Plane, and GridMesh Mesh Control / Mesh Generation (Auto, Map, Protrude) / Manual

Operation

Analysis Analysis Option / Analysis Control / Analysis Perform

Post Result Combination / Extraction / Post File Conversion

View Display Option / Show and Hide / Visualization Related

Window Windows Active / Inactive / Arrangement

Help On-line Help / Link to MIDAS IT Homepage / E-mail Contact


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2.2.6 Toolbar and Icon Menu

Icon Menu helps the user promptly invoke functions which are frequently used in FX+.

Each icon is regrouped with the icons of similar purposes in various Toolbars. Each Toolbar

can be easily dragged with the mouse to the desired position on the screen. For more

information on any icon in the Toolbar, place the mouse cursor on the icon in question and

Tool Tip will provide a short description.

Configuration and Arrangement of I con Menu

The Function Toolbar is one of the most outstanding features in FX+ . The Function Toolbar

is designed in the tabbed toolbar format to maximize its usability. Therefore, even a

beginner can utilize the toolbar immediately. The commands are grouped together by their

geometrical or functional type so that the user can find them more easily. For example, if

File Undo/Redo Selection Work Plane Snap

Function (Tabbed Toolbar)Zoom

View Point

Rotate (View)

Dynamic View

Display Mode

Measure & Query


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the user wants to make a planar surface, he/she can find the command in the Surface Tab.

How to find an icon in the Function Toolbar

To Create a polyline which is a

geometric type of Curve.

Curve Tab

To Trim an object which is a geometric

type of Solid.

Solid Tab

To delete a polyline or a solid Geometry Tab (a group of commonly shared

functions by multiple geometry type)

Example of E ffective Usage of the Function Toolbar

The detailed information about the Toolbars and the Icon Menu of FX+ can be found in the

Appendix, Toolbar & Icon Menu.

The Toolbars can be placed in any desired area of the program, and they can be shown or

hidden through Customize command in the Context Menu. In addition, the users can

customize the Icon Menu so that they can create their own Icon Menu.

Customization of Toolbar

Customize Toolbar Dialogue Box

Invoke Context

Menu by the right

click on top of

Toolbar

Toolbar can be edited in

Customize

Show/Hide

Check Box

Reset

In the Command Tab

of the Customize

Toolbar dialog box,

the user can edit the

Toolbars by dragging

icons in and out.

The customized

Toolbar can be

initialized by Reset All

button in the Toolbars

Tab.

After completing Solid operations in the Solid Tab in Icon Menu,

Switch to the Auto/Map-Mesh Tab, and Generate Mesh on the Solid.

Function Toolbar is

the most used Tool

bar. Therefore, it is

recommended to try

each icon.


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2.2.7 Context Menu

In order to minimize the physical motions of the mouse, simply right click the mouse. FX+

automatically selects a menu system, which offers related functions or frequently used

functions reflecting the working circumstances of the user.

Please refer to the Appendix for the detailed information on FX+Context Menu


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2.3 Selection and Manipulation of Work Window

FX+ offers various Selection methods and Work Window handling capabilities to

effectively generate a model.

2.3.1 Selection

The Selection functions are extremely important and indispensable for the overall task of

generating a model.

FX+ provides various selection methods so that users can handle complex models

effectively in any situation.

All selection methods are controlled from Selection Toolbar.

Organization of FX+Selection Toolbar

Select (0) Add to selection.

Unselect (0) Remove from selection.

Unselect All Unselect all the selected entities.

I nclude I ntersected (Ctrl )

Select all the entities that are contained inside the

selecting area as well as the entities intersecting the

defined boundaries.

Pick / Window (1)

Select the entities by clicking the mouse once each

time. Or select the entities in rectangular bounding area

defined by dragging the mouse cursor.

In order to

understand all theselection functions,

the user must know

the geometry

concept thoroughly.

If you are not familiar

with this concept

yet, please review

Chapter 2.1.2

Modeling Process of

FX+.

Select / Unselect Mode

Selection Filter

Selection Method

The number in the

parenthesis is the

shortcut key for each

selection method.

This only works

when the focus is on

the Work Window.


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Cir cle (2)Select all the entities in circular bounding area defined

by dragging the mouse cursor.

Polygon (3)

Select the entities by successively clicking the corners

of the polygon containing the relevant entities with the

mouse cursor.

Polyli ne (4)Select the entities by crossing a series of lines that

intersect the desired entities with the mouse cursor.

Query Pick (5)Select the entity from the list of the entities which are

detected at the mouse click on the Work Window.

Displayed Select all the entities which are currently shown in theWork Window.

I DSelect the node(s) or the element(s) by entering its

Node ID or Element ID .

When the user brings the mouse pointer above the desired entity, it will be highlighted with

sky blue edge. Therefore, the user can preliminarily check whether the selection will be

made correctly or not. Once the entity is selected, the boundary color will be changed to

pink.

Select

To change into the Select Mode to select the entities.

The user can change to the unselect mode by typing 0 on the keyboard or by

pressing the middle button of the mouse.

Unselect

To change into the Unselect Mode to unselect the selected entities.

The user can change to the select mode by typing 0on the keyboard or by pressing

the middle button of the mouse.

Unselect All

To unselect all the selected entities.

Double clicking the mouse scroll button also executes the function.

Include Intersected

When assigned withWindow, Circle, or Polygon, it selects all the entities that are

contained inside the selection area, as well as the entities intersecting the boundaries

of the area.

During the Include

Intersected Mode, the

selection boundary is

drawn as dotted lines.

Pay attention during

Unselect All because

depending on the double

clicking speed of the

mouse, the user may

mistakenly switch

between the select /

unselect mode.


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The user can toggle the Include Intersected Mode on and off by pressing Ctrl key

while dragging the selection area.

Pick / Window

Using the Pick Select, the desired entities can be selected by clicking the mouse once

each time. The Window Select feature can be effected by dragging the mouse from

one corner to the other.

Pick Select

Select the desired entities by clicking the mouse once each time. To unselect theselected entities, click them once again in the Select Mode.

Window Select

Click the diagonal corners

of a window area containing the entities with the

mouse cursor and select or unselect the desired entities complexly contained

within the rectangular window. Press ESC to cancel while defining the window

area.

Enter 1 key to change to the Pick/Window Selection method during the modeling

process.

Circle

Select the desired entities that are contained in the circular bounding area.

The circular area is defined by clicking the center point and dragging out to the

desired radius.

Press ESCto cancel while defining the circular area.

A

C

B

indow Selection(Include Intersected: Off)

Selection to be made : Only A

indow Selection (Include Intersected: On)

Selection to be made: A, B

A

C

B

The direction of the

dragging window is

not significant in

FX+. The inclusion of

the intersected

entities on the

window boundary is

controlled by the

Include Intersected

Mode.


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Understanding FX+

47

Enter 2key to change into the Circle Selection method during modeling process.

Polygon

Select or unselect the desired entities by successively clicking the corners of the

polygon containing the relevant entities with the mouse cursor. When clicking the final

corner, double-click the mouse to end.

Press ESCto cancel while defining the polygon.

Enter 3key to change into the Polygon selection method during modeling process.

Example of Applying the Boundary Condition using the Circle Selection

After click the

center, drag out

the mouse to

define the area.

Example of Applying the Bearing Load using the Polygon Selection

After successively clicking

the corners of the

polygon, double-click the

mouse at the final corner


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Polyline

Select or unselect entities by crossing a series of lines that intersect the desired entities

with the mouse cursor in the Model Window. When clicking the final point of the last

line, double click the mouse to end. Press ESCto cancel while defining the polyline.

Enter 4 key to change into the Polyline selection method during the modeling

process.

Query PickSelect or unselect the desired entity from the list of all the entities which are detected

at the mouse click location. Going down the list, each entity on the list will be

highlighted. Click OK button on the desired entity to select.

Enter 5 key to change into the Query Pick Selection method during the modeling

process.

Once the desired entity

is selected, press OK

button to complete the

selection.

Example of Selecting a Solid Using the Query Pick Selection

Example of Selecting Faces Using the Polyline Selection

After creating a series of

lines, double click the

mouse to complete.


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Understanding FX+

49

Displayed

Select or unselect all the entities shown in Work Window.

Simply click the Displayedicon from the Selection Toolbar.

ID

In the node and element selection mode, the user enters the Node or Element ID

directly to select the desired entity.

The user can distinguish the Node and Element Selection Mode by the Selection Filter.

If the Selection Filter

shows only Node or Element, the program is in the Node and

Element Selection mode. This mode is only active for the node and element

manipulation functions.

When the ID selection method is on, the ID Selection dialog box appears on the Work

Window. The detailed selection procedure is shown in the following;

Enter the ID of either Node or Element in the Dialog Box to make the selection.

If nodes and elements are selected by the different selection methods, the IDs of

the selected entities will appear on the dialog box. The user can modify the list of

When Work Window

is set to Zoom All,

the Displayed

selection will work

identically as the

Select All command.

Example of Selecting only Currently Displayed Elements in the Zoomed In view.

The Selection Filter

will be explained in

the next section in

detail.

The ID Selection Dialog

box behaves as an

intermediate between

the selection manager

and the Command

Dialogues

Example of the Displayed

Selection at Zoom All View

Simply click the Displayed

Select Icon


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the selection to complete.

The ID Selection dialog box consists of following buttons.

Add Add the newly entered IDs nodes or elements to the selection

Replace Unselect the existing selection, and select the newly entered IDs nodes

or elements

Clear Clear the list in the ID selection dialog box.

Close Close the ID selection dialog box.

Even after the user

clears the SelectionDialog Box, the

previously selected

entities still remain

selected.

The ID selection is

convenient to select

a specific element

when multiple

elements are located

at the same location.

The selected node are automatically

listed in the dialogue box.

IDs can be directly typed in, and

selected IDs listed in the selection

dialog can be modified.

Example of Selecting a Specific Node within

Interface Element (Duplicated).

Command Dialog Box


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Understanding FX+

51

The Selection Filter enables the user to select only by the specified entities type.

Depending on the working mode and the active command, the Selection Filter forms

differently, and the user can choose the entity type within the specially customized Selection

Filter.

The working mode in terms of the Selection Filter is basically distinguished by whether a

command is invoked or not.

Neutral Mode

The neutral mode is when the user has not called a command yet, and the Selection

Filter has set to the default. In the neutral mode, the user only can select Datums

,

Shapes, and Mesh Sets. The sub-Shape of a geometric entity and the individual

nodes and elements cannot be select.

Command Mode

The Command mode is activated when the user has called a specific command, and

the Selection Filter has formed with the relevant type of the function.

The user can

select any desired type including the sub-Shape and the individual node and element

depending the command type.

Selection Filter Working Mode Selected Entity

ShapeNeutral Mode 2 (F-1, E-1)

Command Mode 2 (F-1, E-1)

EdgeNeutral Mode 1 (E-1)

Command Mode 5 (E-1, E-a, E-b, E-c, E-d)

Di fference of the selected entity between the Neutral Mode and the Command Mode

Shape Type

F-1 Face (4 Sub-edges)

E-1 Edge

The Datum represents

reference points, lines,

and planes.

It is recommended to

set the Selection

Filter to the Shape in

the Neutral Mode.

The Selection Filter

is formed differently

by the relevant

command. Make

sure to check the

Selection Filter

before proceeding

E-1F-1

E-a

E-dE-b

E-c


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Although the same type has been specified in the Selection Filter, the selected entities turns

out differently depending on the current working mode. The difference occurs because in the

Neutral Mode, only the independent geometric entity (Shape) is allowed in the selection. This

concept may seem complicated at first, but it becomes highly beneficial when it comes down

to advanced modeling applications.

The following example explains where the selection restriction in the Neutral Mode can

effectively be used. A 3-dimensional face is created by connecting 8 curved edges.

Since the original eight edges are no longer needed, they are either to be deleted or hidden.

Let us carefully look into either case when the Sub-shape selection is restricted and when it is

allowed.

If all geometric entities including sub-Shapes are allowed in the selection

With Shape in the Selection Filter

A total of 9 Shapes (1 Face and 8 Edges) are selected

With Edge in the Selection Filter

A total of 12 Edges are selected. 4 of them are belong to the Face, and they cannot

be separately treated by the program.

If only the Shape is allowed in the selection

By having the Selection Filter in Edge, only 8 unnecessary edges will be selected so

that they can be deleted and hidden all together.

In order to perform such an operation easily, FX+ allows only the Shape to be selected in the

Neutral Mode.

In the Command Mode where modeling processes are mostly completed, both the Shape and

the Sub-shape can be used freely

. Therefore, in the actual operation, the selection

difference between the Neutral Mode and the Command Mode does not created any

problems, and it rather helps during complex modeling.

Why such a difference in selection between the working modes?

Shape (8 Edges) Shape (1 Face, 8 Edges)

Edge (Total 12, 8 of Shape and 4 of Face)

Each edge can be

picked manually one

by one, but it still

causes difficulties

since some edges

are duplicated in the

same location.

In the actual

modeling, such an

operation can be

also done easily by

the use of the Works

Tree.

Some commands

restricts the sub-

Shape in selection

due to similar reason

as this example.


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Understanding FX+

53

The general components of the Selection Filter are shown in the following table.

Selection Filter Subjected Entity

Datum Axis (A)Select Datum Axis.

To define direction (Translate/Extrude/Project), revolution axis, etc.

Datum Plane (P)Select Datum Plane.

To define the plane to project, to divide, and to mirror.

Geometry

Shape (S) Select Shape.

Solid (L) Select Solid.

Shell (H) Select Shell.

Face (F) Select Face.

Wire (W) Select Wire.

Edge (E) Select Edge.

Vertex (V) Select Vertex.

Mesh

Mesh (M)

Select Mesh Set.

To select Mesh Set itself or to select nodes and/or elements that

are included in the Mesh Set

Node Select Node

Element

Select Element.

Node/Element

Select Node and Element at the same timeTo include or exclude the nodes and elements in the Mesh Set

Element-Face

Select 3D element face.

To apply the Face Pressure Load on the 3D element face.

Element-Edge

Select 2D element edge.

To apply the Edge Pressure Load on the 2D element edge.

The sub-Shape of geometric entities will not be selected in the Neutral Mode.

Only applicable in the Node/Element modifying functions

Only applicable in the Incl/Exclfunction in the Mesh Set Menu

Only applicable in the Load and Boundary Condition functions

The specified type in the Selection Filter will be displayed at the Cursor Tip on the screen.

In the table, the letters

in the parenthesis are

the shortcut keys of the

Selection Filter

components.

The shortcut keys only

work when the focus is

on the Word Window.

The user can control

whether to display theCursor Tip or not in the

Display Option(View >

Display Option).Specifying the Selection Filter

Example of Cursor

Tip


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Since all sub-Shapes are selectable in the Command Mode, the number of selectable entities

increase tremendously for lower level entities. Therefore, it is very difficult to select the

proper entity among many duplicated items by using the mouse cursor. In order to prevent

such a problem, FX+ provides the following functions.

When the selection method is on Pick,the highlighted entity at the mouse cursor can

be alternated by pressing the Top/Down arrows of the keyboard.

The Query Pick selection can help the user to properly select the desired entity.

The user can carefully check the selection from the list of the entities which are

detected at the mouse position.

When any function related to the selection does not operate properly

, check the following

items for troubleshooting.

Check whether the selection mode is the Select Mode or the Unselect Mode.

Make sure that the entity type is correctly specified in the Selection Filter.

Try again at another mouse position.

Change the selection sensitivity (allowable tolerance).

The selection sensitivity can be modified at Fil e > PreferenceMenu.

Most cases will be resolved by ~, and must be used only in special situations

The detected shape

alternates as the

Top/Down arrows of

keyboard are pressed.

Selecting a face in the Command Mode

This method only

works in the

Command Mode.

If the selection

sensitivity is set very

high, too many objectscan be detected. Also,

this tolerance can affect

the snap tolerance as

well. Therefore, be

careful when changing

the selection sensitivity.

Most problems deal

with the Select /

Unselect Mode or the

Selection Filter.


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Understanding FX+

55

The geometric characteristic and topology can also be implemented in the modeling process

in FX+. Therefore, the geometric entities which includes special characteristics such as

direction and plane can be selected.

The following examples are the most frequently used cases of utilizing the geometric

characteristic and topology in FX+.

To Define Direction or Revolution Axis

When executing commands such as Translate, Extrude, Project, Rotate, and Revolve,

the user must define direction or revolution axis to complete the operation. In FX+, the

direction and the revolution axis can be defined using various entities which have the

relevant characteristics.

The entities that can define the direction and the revolution axis are listed in the

following table.

Allowed Entity Geometric Characteristic Selection Filter

Datum Axis

The direction of Datum Axis Datum Axi s

Datum Plane

The normal direction of Datum Plane

Datum Plane

Edge (Straight Line) The direction of straight line Edge

Edge (Circle/Arc)

The normal direction of plane defined by

circle or arc.Edge

Face (Plane Face)

The normal direction of plane face

Face

Face (Revolved

Face)

The central axis of revolved face

(cylinder, etc)Face

2 Point Vector The user-defined 2 point vector N/A

Normal of Profile The normal direction of executing object

(planar entity)N/A

The Datum Axis is set as a default in the Selection Filter for defining the direction

and the revolution axis.

Its use is limited to some special functions such as Extrude and Local Prism.


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As shown in the above examples, any directions and rotational axis can be easily

defined using the unique characteristic of the geometric entities.

In addition, FX+ provides various snap functions to define the 2 point vector and the 3

point plane, and it highly increases the workability during complex modeling

procedure.

Grid Vertex End Middle Ortho Center Quadrant Intersection Node All-Off

The Snap Toolbar of FX+

To create a pipe from a circle, the extrusion direction can be defined by the normal

direction of the plane where the circle is located.

Direction by Circle

To create stiffeners in 3D space, 2D edges are extruded in the direction of the

existing straight line.

Direction by Straight Line

Rotational Axis by Arc

To copy the propeller by rotating around the axis, it is convenient to select the

center arc as revolution axis. (The revolved body face can also be selected)


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Understanding FX+

57

To Select by Means of the Topological Relationship of Geometry Shape

Due to the topological concept in FX+, the selection of sub-Shapes can be done by

using higher level geometry. In other words, by selecting the higher level entity, the

user can select all of its sub-Shapes at once.

For example, in the above case, each edge wll be selected separately if the Selection

Filter is set to Edge. However, by setting the Selection Filter to Face, the user can

select the four sub-Edges at once.

Thus, it is recommended to make the use of higher level entity if all of its sub-Shapes

is subjected to selected.

To Select Node and Element

Similar to the geometry selection, after setting the Selection Filter to Mesh, the user

can select Mesh Sets from the Work Window or the Works Tree. Since nodes and

elements are included in a Mesh Set, all of them will be selected together at the same

time.

If mesh is generated on a geometry, its nodes and elements can be selected by the

geometry unit such as Face and Edge.

Structure of Selection Filter

Mesh Size Control along Edge

(Ready to Select Edges)

F (Face)

E1

E3

E2 E4

In order to select by

Geometry, it must be

shown on the screen.

Example of Selecting Nodes which are belong to the 3 Faces


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Other Useful Selection Tools

In order to provide the maximum workability to apply the load and boundary

conditions, FX+ offers additional selecting tools which are customized specially for

the load and boundary condition operations.

The most frequently used tools among them are the Free Face selection in 3D mesh

and the Free Edge selection in 2D mesh.

This selection method is

not using the geometry

relationship. Therefore,

it is useful when the

mesh is generated

manually without the

geometric shapes.

Example of Selecting Top Face Nodes (Free Face Node in 3D Mesh)

Select the relevant elements

(Possible to select all)

Free face nodes are found by

spreading out from the seed node

within the Feature Angle.

From this seed node,

the free face can be

found within the

specified Feature Angle.


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Understanding FX+

59

2.3.2 View Manipulation Functions

All the ViewManipulation functions of FX+ assist the user to accurately grasp the three-

dimensional views of the model input state and the analysis and results through diverse view

angles and points.

Most of the View Manipulation functions are available in Icon Menu of the View Toolbar.

The Organization of the View Toolbar

Reset View Initialize the viewpoint and the screen size to default.

Zoom All Fit the model to the screen size by scaling up/down.

Zoom WindowAssign the desired size of the window by dragging a corner of

the window with the mouse.

I so View Represent the model in a three-dimensional space.

Front View Represent the model as viewed from the Y direction.

Rear View Represent the model as viewed from the +Y direction.

Top View Represent the model as viewed from the +Z direction.

Bottom View Represent the model as viewed from the Z direction.

Left View Represent the model as viewed from the X direction.

Right View Represent the model as viewed from the +X direction.

Normal View

Represent the model as viewed from the positive normal

direction of the Work Plane.

(The +X-axis of WP is displayed on the right, and Y-axis is

displayed on the top.)

Rotate Left Rotate the model to the left (clockwise about Z-axis).

Rotate Right Rotate the model to the right (counterclockwise about Z-axis).

Rotate Up Rotate the model upward from the horizontal plane.

Rotate Down Rotate the model downward from the horizontal plane.

Dynamic Zoom By dragging the mouse, zoom in/out the model view.

Dynamic Pan By dragging the mouse, move the model view.

Dynamic Rotate By dragging the mouse, rotate the model view.

The rotational angle at

each click of the Icon

Menu can be modified in

the Display Option.

(View >Display Option)


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The most frequently used view control functions are the Dynamic View Manipulations.

Dynamic Zoom ( , Ctrl+LB)

After clicking the Dynamic Zoom Icon, drag the mouse in the Work Window to zoom

in/out the model view. Pressing the left button of the mouse and dragging the mouse

downward or to the left reduces the window, and dragging the mouse upward or to the

right magnifies the window.To continuously zoom in/out, while pressing down both the Crtl key and the mouse

left button, drag the mouse around.

Dynamic Pan ( , Ctrl+MB)

After clicking the Dynamic Pan Icon, drag the mouse in the Work Window, and the

model will follow the course of the mouse.

To continuously pan, while pressing down both the Crtl key and the mouse middle

button, drag the mouse around.

Dynamic Rotate ( , Ctrl+RB)

After clicking the Dynamic Rotate Icon, drag the mouse in the Work Window, and the

model will rotate as per the mouse direction.

To continuously rotate, while pressing down both the Crtl key and the mouse right

button, drag the mouse around.

The Dynamic Rotate behaves differently depending on the location where the mouse

drag starts. If user drags the mouse from the left/right boundaries

of the Work

Rear View

Front ViewRight View

Left View Top View

Bottom View

Isometric View


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Understanding FX+

61

Window, the model will rotate 2-dimensionally on the current view plane.

2.3.3 Model Representation

The Model Representation functions of FX+ present the model in diverse displays and

views. These functions help the user grasp the input state of the model and manipulate the

model as much as desired.

Display Mode of Geometry

The display mode of geometry can be specified to the individual shape. To modify the

graphical display, the user selects the desired shape(s)

first and set the Display

Mode Menu which can be found in the Context Menu.

The geometric model can be displayed in 4 different modes.

It should be within

10% range of the

Work Window

boundaries

Drag from the

left/right boundary

for 2D rotation.

The Dynamic Rotate has different functionalities depending on the dragging position.

The object entity

must be Shape, so

that the multiple

entities can be

modified together.

Changing the Display Mode in the Context Menu


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Wireframe

It only displays the boundary edges of the shape.

Shading

It only displays the exterior faces of the shape.

Shading with Edge

It displays both the boundary edges and the exterior faces.

Bounding Box

Instead of displaying the actual shape, it is displayed as a bounding box. When

the user moves the mouse cursorinto the bounding box, the geometric entity will

be shown in the WireframeDisplay.

In addition, FX+ provides the Transparencyoption in the Shadingor Shading with

Edgedisplay so that the interior of the geometric shape can be seen through.

The Transparency option can be found in the Context Menu once the object shape is

selected. In the Transparency dialogue box, the transparency level can be adjusted. To

remove the Transparency from the shape, set it to 0 or click the Resetbutton.

Bounding Box

Wireframe Shading Shading with Edge


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Understanding FX+

63

The Display Mode can be applied differently to each individual Shape. Therefore, it

can be effectively used to model complex models which have numerous geometrical

shapes.

Display Mode of Mesh

The display mode of mesh can be specified to each individual Mesh Set.

Similar to the display mode of geometry, the user must select the desired Mesh Set

before selecting the Display Mode menu in the Context Menu.

The Mesh Set can be displayed in the following three different ways.

Wireframe

It hides the faces of all the elements in the Mesh Set, and it only displays the

element edges.

Shading

It shows both the edges and faces of the elements in the Mesh Set.

Example of Showing the Interior Solids by Displaying the Exteriors with Transparency

Iso View Right View Top View

Ground is expressedas Wireframe.

Example of the Transparency Display


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Feature Edge

It displays the Mesh Set with the Feature Edge. The Feature Edge represents the

edge where the angle between the two connecting free faces are greater than the

specified angle

. In this mode, the user can visually verify the shapes of

internally hidden Mesh Sets.

Similar to the graphic display capabilities of geometry, the display option can be

applied to individual mesh sets.

The user can apply the Shrink option to each Mesh Set to display its elements in

proportionally reduced size.

Its default angle is 30

degrees, and it can

be adjusted in the

Display Option (View

> Display Option).

Element Face (Free Face)

Element Edge

It is the Feature Edge

if is greater than the

specified angle.

The default displaymode of Mesh Set

can be set up in the

Display Option

(View > Display

Opt ion).

Example of the Shrink Display of the Particular 2D Mesh Set

Example of the Feature Edge DisplayExample of the Wireframe Display


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65

Perspective Mode

The Perspective Mode displays the model in a perspective 3-dimensional view.

The Perspective

Ratio can be

adjusted in the

Display Option

(View > Display

Opt ion).

In the Perspective

Mode, the Grid

Snap cannot be

used.

Perspective ModeParallel Mode


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2.3.4 Data Input Command

For convenience, FX+ provides the following data entry options.

Where several numerical data are entered consecutively in a data field, these data can

be distinguished by a , (Comma) or a (Blank).

333, 102, 101 or 333 102 101

Where the same length is repeated, the entry can be simplified by number of

repetition @lengthinstead of repeating the same number.

20, 25, 22.3, 22.3, 22.3, 22.3, 22.3, 8820, 25, [email protected], 88

The keyboard may be used to enter selected data directly. The related node numbering

or element numbering may be an arithmetic progression in series or the progression

may be incremental. Then, the data entry can be simplified by start numberto (t)final

numberor start numberto (t)final numberby increment

< Example> 21, 22, , 54, 55, 5621 to 56, 21 t 56

< Example> 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60 35 to 60 by 5, 35 t 60 by 5

Numbers and mathematical expressions can be used in combination. The majority of

the operators and parentheses applied in engineering computation can be used. 20PI* 20

35 3 sin 30 2 cos 30 sin 30 35 + 3 * (sin(30) + 2 * SQRT(cos(30)+sin(30)))

Built-in operators in FX+ are the followings:

Notation Content Remarks

( Open parenthesis

) Close parenthesis

+ Addition

- Subtraction

* Multiplication

/ Division

PI 3.141592653589793


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SQRT Ex.: 2 = SQRT(2)

SIN Sine Unit: Degree

COS Cosine Unit: Degree

TAN Tangent Unit: Degree

ASIN Arc Sine Ex.: sin-1(0.3)=ASIN(0.3)

ACOS Arc Cosine Ex.: cos-1(0.3)=ACOS(0.3)

ATAN Arc Tangent Ex.: tan-1(0.3)=ATAN(0.3)

EXP Exponential function Ex.: e0.3=EXP(0.3)

SINH Hyperbolic Sine Ex.: sinh(1)=SINH(1)

COSH Hyperbolic Cosine Ex.: cosh(1)=COSH(1)

COTAN Cosine/Sine Ex.: cotan(1)=COTAN(1)

LN Natural Logarithm

LOG Common Logarithm

Operators accept the mixed use of capital and lowercase letters.

As the operators are similar to that of an engineering calculator, the

hierarchy of operations follows the rules of common mathematical

operations.


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2.4 How to Use the On-line Manual

When using FX+, pressing F1 key or clicking the Help menu allows access to the On-line

Manual.

Every category of help is connected to related keywords by hyperlink, and all the detailed

explanations and information in connection with the keyword may be obtained.

On-line Manual of FX+

A summary of the help contents and an index of the main keywords are arranged

systematically in the On-line Manual of FX+. Read it as a reference in the order presented

in the summary. Alternatively, the information regarding the desired item may be directly

obtained using the Searchfunction of the keywords.

Download - midas_Fx+_Getting_Started

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