Connections
What is the difference between connection types?
| Contact Condition | Description | Force Transfer | Separation Allowed | Friction | Graphical Icon Color |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bonded | Parts are connected as if stuck together, fully transferring loads. | Full transfer of loads | No | N/A | Red |
| Sliding Without Friction | Allows parts to slide relative to each other in the tangential plane without penetration or separation. | Only normal forces | No | Frictionless | Yellow |
| Separating | Parts may partially or completely separate under load; forces only transfer through connected regions. | Limited transfer based on contact area and friction coefficient | Yes | 0.0 (sliding) to 1.0 (bonded) | Green |
| Separating/Closing | Parts may separate or close an existing gap; only contact area can open or close. | Limited transfer based on contact area and friction coefficient | Yes | 0.0 to 1 | Cyan blue |
| Disable Contact | Parts act as if disconnected; may separate or penetrate under load, with no force transfer. | None | Yes | N/A | Black |
| Alignment | Parts tend to align during analysis, with internal loads applied to bring them closer. | Internal load application | No | N/A | Pink |
| Clamping | Parts align in the normal direction only, allowing sliding; internal loads clamp parts together. | Internal load application, normal direction only | No | N/A | Purple |
Why are the part contact conditions in "Review part contact condition" different from the contact tree connections?
The review part contact conditions display the contact conditions specific to the selected subcase. In contrast, the project tree shows the default contact conditions for all connections within the model. When a subcase does not have any custom contact conditions defined, both the review section and the project tree will present the same contact conditions.
Is it possible to create connections between spots?
SimSolid allows creating virtual connections between spots.
Is it possible to apply spring/dampers connections?
Yes, this is allowed via shock absorbers virtual connections.
Is it possible to create press-fit simulations?
Yes, can be performed using align contact condition or using a separating-closing contact which always resolves any penetrations.
What type of solids can represent adhesives?
SimSolid allows converting cylindrical shaped parts to adhesives.