XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX''"> Importing CAD Models
In many cases, it is much more efficient to use an existing CAD geometric model created outside of Patran rather than constructing a new model. Importing CAD models may avoid repetitive modeling efforts and ensure better accuracy between a CAD design model and its analysis model. Patran supports direct interfaces to all major CAD systems.
• Unigraphics
• PRO/Engineer
• CATIA
• ACIS
• IGES and other CAD file formats
Many other third-party modeling packages can be supported via the use of the ANSI industry standard IGES (Initial Graphics Exchange Standard) protocol.
To import a CAD model:
1. Select File/Import from the Patran Main menu.
Selecting File/Import displays an Import form that you use to import a CAD geometric model or an Patran database.
2. On the Object drop-down menu, select Model.
The Object can be either a Model or Results.
3. Specify a Source from the Source drop-down menu.
The Source can be one of several CAD packages or intermediate files that hold exported models.
4. Click Apply.
Import Options
In general, the CAD model contains more data than you need for the CAE simulation model. Patran provides a number of options for specifying which data to import and which data to filter out. When you specify a CAD package on the Import form, one or more subordinate forms appear so that you may define the filtering options. You can filter based on entity type, surface type, or CAD layers. Plan ahead in your CAD modeling, and use layers or colors to separate out entities that you want to exclude from the
analysis model.
