Assignment #1

By

Mahmood Ul Hasnain

04-6-1-010-2022

Report submitted to the Faculty of Engineering at PIEAS in partial fulfillment

of requirements for the Degree of M.S. Mechanical Engineering

Department of Mechanical Engineering

Pakistan Institute of Engineering & Applied Sciences

Nilore, Islamabad, Pakistan

Feb-2023
Abstract
In this assignment, we conduct Finite Element Analysis (FEA) on a 2D triangular plate to obtain
several results, including the equivalent Von-Mises stress and total deformation. Additionally, we
calculate the safety factor against yielding. Various options and settings are explored to investigate
their impact on the results, particularly focusing on the size option for meshing. By comparing
different settings, we can assess their influence on the outcomes. Furthermore, we address
numerical computation errors such as rigid body motion and examine the use of weak springs to
mitigate this issue. Finally, we employ the symmetry option, which reduces computational efforts
by analyzing only half of the geometry due to its symmetrical nature.

Geometry

Figure 1: Geometry of plate

• Explain the use of symmetry in ANSYS Mechanical analysis? Describe the limitations
and advantages? Compare the results of Weak spring and Symmetry method for
triangular plate and describe the difference.

The use of symmetry in ANSYS Mechanical allows for efficient analysis of structures with
symmetrical geometry. By exploiting the symmetry of the model, only a portion of the
structure needs to be analyzed, reducing computational resources and time. The analysis is
performed on a smaller region, such as a half or a quarter of the geometry, while applying
 appropriate symmetry boundary conditions. Results obtained from the reduced analysis can
be mirrored or multiplied to represent the complete structure accurately. This technique is
particularly useful in cases where geometry exhibits symmetry, enabling faster simulations
and more efficient resource utilization.

Figure 2: use of symmetry

Advantages
• Reduced computational effort: By utilizing symmetry, the analysis is performed on a
smaller portion of the geometry, leading to significant time and resource savings.
• Faster simulations: With fewer elements to solve, the analysis can be completed more
quickly, allowing for faster design iterations and optimization.
• Efficient resource utilization: Symmetry analysis enables efficient utilization of
computational resources, as the simulation focuses on the essential region of interest.
• Simplified post-processing: Symmetry allows for straightforward post-processing, as
results obtained from the analyzed portion can be mirrored or multiplied to represent the
entire structure accurately.

Limitations
• Non-symmetrical effects are neglected: Symmetry assumptions overlook non-symmetrical
phenomena and may result in inaccurate predictions if significant non-symmetrical
behavior exists.
 • Limited applicability: Symmetry analysis is suitable only for structures that possess
symmetrical geometry. Complex or asymmetric geometries cannot benefit from this
technique.
• Symmetry boundary conditions must be properly defined: Careful consideration is required
when applying appropriate symmetry boundary conditions to ensure accurate
representation of the complete structure.
• Reduction in detail: Symmetry analysis disregards fine details and variations in behavior
that may exist in non-symmetrical regions, which can be crucial in some engineering
problems.

Weak Spring use

The use of weak springs in ANSYS Mechanical is to prevent rigid body motion or displacement locking by
introducing small stiffnesses in the model. This technique helps stabilize the analysis and improve the
accuracy of results.

Figure 3: under-constraint with weak spring off

Figure 4: deformation result of weak spring

 • Describe the effects of global sizing function on the meshing
of a body with the help of figures?
Element size

The element size command allows us to define the element size according to our needs. When we
decrease the element size, it leads to a higher density of elements and nodes in the mesh. As a
result, ANSYS is required to perform a larger number of calculations due to the increased intricacy
of the model.

Mesh with 8 mm size

Figure 5: 8 mm size mesh

Mesh with 2 mm size

Figure 6: 2 mm size mesh

Adaptive size function

The adaptive size function in ANSYS is a feature that automatically refines the mesh in areas of
interest based on specified criteria. It allows for local refinement of the mesh to capture details or
regions with high gradients, while coarser elements are used in less critical areas. By adapting the
element size based on the solution or user-defined parameters, the adaptive size function helps to
improve the accuracy and efficiency of the analysis. This technique ensures that computational
resources are allocated efficiently and reduces the need for manual mesh refinement.

Figure 7: adaptive size function use

Proximity and curvature

Proximity and curvature are parameters used in ANSYS Meshing. Proximity controls the distance
between mesh elements and critical features or boundaries, ensuring accurate representation of
those regions. Curvature focuses on surface smoothness and generates finer elements in areas with
higher curvature. Both parameters enable local mesh refinement, enhancing analysis accuracy by
adequately resolving critical areas. Proximity captures boundary layer effects and steep gradients,
while curvature-based meshing is beneficial for complex geometries and intricate details. Overall,
these parameters improve mesh quality and contribute to more accurate analysis results in ANSYS
Meshing.

Figure 8: proximity and curvature use

What is meant by relevance and relevance center in
global meshing settings? Explain in detail with the
help of figures.
The relevance center in ANSYS Mechanical refers to a specific point or location within a model
that is used as a reference for various operations and calculations. It is often set as the origin or a
critical point within the model. The relevance center helps in defining the coordinate system,
positioning the model in the analysis environment, and determining the reference point for result
output. It is particularly useful when dealing with complex assemblies or when analyzing specific
components within a larger system. The relevance center ensures consistent and accurate analysis
by providing a consistent reference point for calculations and measurements.

Figure 9: coarse relevance centre

Figure 10: fine relevance centre

Results
Here are the results of analysis.
Total Deformation

Figure 11: total deformation

Equivalent stress

Figure 12: Von-mises stresses

Conclusion
This assignment focuses on performing FEA analysis of a triangular plate and presenting the
results in terms of equivalent stress, strain, and deformation. The discussion revolves around
exploring different functions of ANSYS meshing, including their applications and benefits.
Additionally, the utilization of weak springs and the implementation of symmetry conditions are
examined and verified for their effectiveness in the analysis.