Gap Element

Analysis > Connectors > Gap Element

The Gap Element tool is used to create gap element between nodes as well as to define its properties. It can be created between two bodies, faces, edges, nodes or vertices. It defines the connection between two entities.

Description

Gap Elements for OptiStruct / Nastran (or) Abaqus solvers can be defined.

  • OptiStruct / Nastran Gap element

    • Gap element can be defined with respect to a local coordinate system.
    • The following properties of Nastran / OptiStruct gap element can be defined
      • Initial Gap Opening
      • PreLoad value
      • Axial Stiffness for closed gap (KA)
      • Axial Stiffness for open gap (KB)
      • Transverse Stiffness when gap is closed (KT)
      • Coefficient of friction in Y transverse direction (Y Friction)
      • Coefficient of friction in Z transverse direction (Z Friction)
    • The Create MPC option connects the mid nodes with the corner nodes through MPCs (Multi Point Constraints). MPCs will be created for every Tet10 element that is in contact with another element.

    • The Include mid node toggle is used to consider the mid nodes of the higher order elements for gap element creation.
  • Abaqus Gap element

    • The following properties of Abaqus gap element can be defined
      • Initial separation distance (gap) between two nodes
      • Unidirectional gap element - To define the gap element along a particular direction
      • Cylindrical gap element - To define the gap element between two rigid tubes
      • Spherical gap element - To define the gap element between two rigid spheres

Cards supported for various solvers

Solver Supported Cards
Nastran/OptiStruct CGAP,PGAP
Abaqus *GAP