There are many aspects to building a finite element analysis model. In several cases, the forms used to create the finite element data are dependent on the selected analysis code and analysis type. Other parts of the model are created using standard forms.

Under preferences from the main form in MSC Patran, there is a selection entitled Analysis. The Analysis Preference form accessed by that selection identifies/defines the analysis code which is to be used for
this model.

The specified code may be changed at any time during model creation. As much data as possible will be converted if the analysis code is changed after the modeling process has already begun. However, the user must check that the analysis codes support identical or equivalent functionality. If they don’t, the translation may be approximate.

The setting of the Analysis Preference determines what will be presented to the user in several areas during the subsequent modeling steps.

These customized areas include the material and element libraries (including multi-point constraints), the applicable loads and boundary conditions, and the analysis forms. The selected Analysis Type may also affect the allowable selections in these same areas. For more details, see Analysis Codes (p. 434) in the Patran Reference Manual.

The following table lists the SAMCEF structural element types which are supported by the SAMCEF Analysis Preference.

The following table lists the element supported in a Thermal analysis