Mesh generation

Ramsolid accepts 4-noded and 10-noded tetrahedra as the elements that define the solid. So, it is possible to mesh the volumes with either Normal or Quadratic tetrahedras (see Meshing->Quadratic Elements).

Use always quadratic tetrahedras except when, due to the complexity of the geometry, the minimum final amount of nodes is too big for the computer capacity. They give much more precision in the results for the same amount of nodes.

If more elements are used to mesh the geometry, more accuracy in the results will be obtained. At the same time, more computer time and RAM memory is needed. Use Calculate->View process info after doing a preliminary analysis, in order to obtain information of the memory requirements and the computer time needed.

It is also interesting to mesh smaller elements in the zones of the solid that will have a bigger gradient in the results.

To estimate the precision of the results related to the number of nodes in the mesh and the type of tetrahedras, check the test graphics given in following sections.

To obtain the desired sizes of the elements, use GiD options to control the mesh size like:

            Meshing->Assing unstr. Sizes->Points

            Meshing->Assing unstr. Sizes->Lines     

Meshing->Assing unstr. Sizes->Surfaces

            Meshing->Assing unstr. Sizes->By cordal error

To generate the mesh use:

            Meshing->Quadratic elements->Quadratic

            Meshing->Generate 0.2

In this model, 10-noded tetraedras are used and a default size of 0.2 is chosen for the elements. The total amount of nodes is 3056 and the total amount of tetrahedras is 1702.