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Integrated tie rod modeling with gap options enable users to quickly create comprehensive expansion joint models for more realistic reactions. Click the pull-down arrow at 'Expansion Joint data' to reveal tie rod modeling options.
Users can define and reuse expansion joint components in their model without having to reenter data each time.
In each direction users can specify Rigid, Simple (linear spring), or Advanced multilinear plastic spring stiffness. The Advanced option enables users to define multilinear force/displacement and moment/rotation relationships to specify allowable movements in each selected degree of freedom, making it also suitable for modeling ball joints, couplings, telescoping slip joints, and flexible hoses among other applications. Please note that rotational stiffness is entered using radians, with no current option to enter in degrees.
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