Learning Forum

[Errico Maasgano]

Hi, I have a problem with ansys APDL. I can't figure out how to make these connections. In the blue circle, a hinge that coded three rods. In red, a pendulum connecting two rods.

As for the pendulum, I created an element of type LINK, but I can't figure out how I should "set" the link with the structure. How should I set the constraint?

Searching around, I understand that maybe the command line command is CP?

While as far as the hinge is concerned, I really don't know how to var understand that they are three separate rods connected by a hinge.

 

Thanks in advance to anyone who can give directions.

[Claudio Pedrazzi]

In my understanding the LINK180 element has only translational degrees of freedom in the nodes so per definition if you connect nodes with that element, they will all be "spherical joints".  Both of your examples are automatically so as you draw them.

[Errico Maasgano]

As for the part circled in blue, if it's like you said then fine. But in the case circled in red ì, they are not LINK but BEAM188. So how should I assign this internal hinge to the structure?
For greater clarity in the drawing, the thickest lines are BEAM and the light ones are LINK180

 

[Claudio Pedrazzi]

for BEAMS188 use ENDRELEASE.  Please read the help of BEAM188 and LINK180.  It is worth reading the first time you use a new element.

[Errico Maasgano]

I understand. I thank you