In SolidWorks Simulation you may define external
loads known as remote loads. Upon
creation of a remote load you have the option of setting it to be either Direct
Transfer or Rigid Connection. What is
the difference?
Consider a
simply supported cantilever composed of two parts: front and back:
We may
create a simulation study that reflects the cantilever beam loading
conditions. It is fixed on one end and
has a load applied on the other end.
We can
simulate the results of this study by excluding half of the beam and applying a
remote load in place.
When
creating a remote load, the user must specify whether it is a direct transfer
or rigid connection
Direct Transfer: Assumes that the component between
the remote force and the connection point is adequately flexible, allowing the structure to deflect. The program decomposes the remote force into
a shear force and coupling moment acting on the connection face. This allows the connection face to distort. Displacements must be within the small
displacement assumption.
Rigid Connection:
Applies rigid links/ connections from the remote load to the connecting
face. As a result when the face deflects,
the face shape is maintained. High
stresses can develop near faces with rigid connections.
The results
of the remote load direct transfer is shown below:
The results
of the remote load rigid connection are shown below:
At first
glance the results are not easily distinguishable; however upon closer
inspection along the vertical axis of the connection face reveals that the
stress distribution from the direct transfer and rigid connection options are
different.
Choosing
whether the remote load will be applied as a direct transfer or rigid
connection will affect the simulation results.
