Patran 2008 r1 Interface To LS-DYNA Preference Guide

Patran 2008 r1
Interface To LS-DYNA
Preference Guide
Main Index
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Contents
Patran Interface to LS-DYNA Preference Guide
1 Overview
Purpose 2
LS-DYNA Product Information 4
What is Included with this Product? 5
LS-DYNA Preference Integration with Patran 6
Patran LS-DYNA Preference Components 7
Configuring the Patran LS-DYNA Execute File 10
2 Building A Model
Introduction to Building a Model 12
Coordinate Frames 18
Finite Elements 19
Nodes 20
Elements 21
Multi-Point Constraints 22
Material Library 30
Materials Form 31
Element Properties 62
Element Properties Form 62
Loads and Boundary Conditions 91
Loads and Boundary Conditions Form 92

Object Tables 100
Load Cases 110
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ii Patran Interface to LS-DYNA Preference Guide
==
3 Running an Analysis
Review of the Analysis Form 112
Analysis Form 113
Translation Control 115
Solution Parameters 116

Solution Control 117
Relaxation Parameters 118
Global Damping 119
Material Viscosity Defaults 119
Energy Calculation 120
Shell Control 121
Contact Defaults 122
Select Load Case 123

Output Requests 124
Output Controls 133
Select Groups for Set Cards 134

Setting LSDYNA IDs 135
4 Read Results
Review of the Read Results Form 138
Read Results Form 139
Subordinate Forms 141

Select State File Subordinate Form 141
Select Times 142
Select Results 143
Results Created in Patran 144
Results File Size 145
5 Read Input File

Review of Read Input File Form 148
Read Input File Form 149
Data Translated from the LS-DYNA Input File 152
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CONTENTS iii
Reject and Error File 156
6 Files
Files 158
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iv Patran Interface to LS-DYNA Preference Guide
==
Main Index
Chapter 1: Overview
1 Overview

Purpose 2
LS-DYNA Product Information 4

What is Included with this Product? 5

LS-DYNA Preference Integration with Patran 6
Patran LS-DYNA Preference Components 7

Configuring the Patran LS-DYNA Execute File 10
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2 Patran Interface to LS-DYNA Preference Guide
Purpose
Purpose
Patran is an analysis software system developed and maintained by MSC.Software Corporation. The core
of the system is Patran, a finite element analysis pre- and post-processor. The Patran system also includes
several optional products such as advanced postprocessing programs, tightly coupled solvers, and
interfaces to third party solvers. This document describes one of these interfaces.
The Patran LS-DYNA Application Preference provides a communication link between Patran and LS-
DYNA. It also provides customization of certain features that can be activated by selecting LS-DYNA
as the analysis code “Preference” in Patran.
The LS-DYNA Preference is fully integrated into Patran. The casual user will never need to be aware
separate programs are being used. For the expert user, there are four main components of the preference:
a PCL function, load_lsdyna3d(), which will load all LS-DYNA specific definitions, like element
types and material models, into the currently opened database, pat3lsdyna to convert model topology
from the Patran database into the analysis code input file, and to translate model data from an LS-DYNA
input file, and lsdynapat3 to translate results and/or model data from the analysis code results file into
the Patran database.
Selecting LS-DYNA as the analysis code under the “Analysis Preference” menu modifies Patran forms
in five main areas:
1. Materials
2. Element Properties
3. Finite Elements/MPCs and Meshing
4. Loads and Boundary Conditions
5. Analysis forms
The PCL function load_lsdyna3d() can be invoked by simply typing its name into the Patran
command line. It will load LS-DYNA specific definitions into the Patran database currently opened. LS-
DYNA specific definitions can be added to any Patran database (which does not already contain LS-
DYNA specific definitions) at any time. Obviously, a Patran database must be open for
load_lsdyna3d() to operate correctly. See LS-DYNA Preference Integration with Patran (p.4) for
complete information and a description of how to create a new template database.
pat3lsdyna translates model data between the Patran database and the analysis code-specific input file
format. This translation must have direct access to the originating Patran database when an LS-DYNA
input file is being created.
lsdynapat3 translates results and/or model data from the analysis, code-specific results file into the Patran
database. This program can be run so the data is loaded directly into the Patran database, or if
incompatible computer platforms are being used, an intermediate file can be created.
lsdynapat3 executes a program that is written and supported by Ove Arup Computing Systems, 13
Fitzroy Street, London W1P 6BQ (Tel: (44) 020-7465-2500, Fax: (44) 020 7465 2211). Ove Arup
distribute and support LS-DYNA in the UK. They contribute actively to the development,
documentation, and quality assurance of LS-DYNA and develop their own translators between LS-
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Chapter 1: Overview 3
Purpose
DYNA and third party pre and post processing systems. They have collaborated with MSC to ensure that
LS-DYNA is effectively and efficiently interfaced to Patran.
pat3lsdyna also translates model data from the analysis, code-specific input file into the Patran database.
Reading LS-DYNA Input Files

This release of the Patran LS-DYAN3D interface provides support for reading LS-DYNA input files.
Nodes, elements, coordinate systems, some materials and some properties are read from an input file.
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LS-DYNA Product Information
LS-DYNA Product Information

LS-DYNA is a general-purpose explicit finite element computer program for nonlinear dynamic analysis
of structures in three dimensions.
The program is developed, supported, and maintained by Livermore Software Technology Corporation
(LSTC), 2876 Waverley Way, Livermore, California 94550 (Tel: 925-449-2500, Fax: 925-449-2507).
See the LS-DYNA User’s Manual for a general description of LS-DYNA3D’s capabilities.
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What is Included with this Product?
What is Included with this Product?

The LS-DYNA Preference product includes the following items:
1. A PCL function contained in p3patran.plb which will add LS-DYNA specific definitions to
any Patran database (not already containing such definitions) at any time.
2. A PCL library called lsdyna3d.plb and contained in the <installation_directory>
directory. This library is used by the analysis forms to produce analysis code specific translation
parameter, solution parameter, etc. forms.
3. On Windows, a library called lsdyna3ddra.dll contained in the
<installation_directory>/bin/exe directory. On Unix, a library called
liblsdyna3ddra in the <installation_directory>/lib.
4. A script file called LsDyna3dExecute is contained in the
<installation_directory>/bin/exe directory on Unix.
5. This Patran LS-DYNA Preference Guide is included as part of the product. An online version is
also provided to allow the direct access to this information from within Patran.
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LS-DYNA Preference Integration with Patran
LS-DYNA Preference Integration with Patran

Creation of an LS-DYNA Template Database
Two versions of the Patran database are delivered with Patran. Both occur in the
<installation_directory> directory and they are named base.db and template.db. The
base.db database is a Patran database into which no analysis code specific definitions, such as element
types and material models, have been stored. The template.db database is a version of the Patran
database which contains every analysis code specific definition needed by the MSC supplied interfaces.
In order to create a template database which contains only LS-DYNA specific definitions, the user should
follow these steps:
1. Within Patran open a new database using base.db as the template.
2. Enter load_lsdyna3d() into the command line.
3. Save this database under a name like lsdyna.db to be your new “LS-DYNA only”
template database
4. From then on, when opening a new database, choose lsdyna3d.db as your template database.
Any databases derived from base.db may not contain the needed LS-DYNA specific definitions
needed to run the LS-DYNA Preference. But, LS-DYNA specific definitions can be added to any
database at any time by simply typing load_lsdyna3d() into the Patran command line while the
target database is the database currently opened by Patran. Due to the savings in size and for the sake of
simplicity it is highly recommended template.db not be used as a template database and that users
create their own unique template database which contains only the analysis code specific definitions
pertaining to the analysis codes of immediate interest. For more details about adding analysis code
specific definitions to a database and/or creating unique template databases, refer to the Patran
Installation and Operations Guide.
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Patran LS-DYNA Preference Components

The diagrams shown below indicate how the functions, scripts, programs and files which constitute the
LS-DYNA Preference affect the Patran environment. Site customization, in some cases, is indicated.
Figure 1-1 shows the process of running an analysis. The lsdyna3d.plb library defines the
Translation Parameter, Solution Type, Solution Parameter, and Output Request forms called by the
Analysis form. When the Apply button is pushed on the Analyze form pat3lsdyna is executed. pat3lsdyna
reads data from the database and creates the LS-DYNA input file. A message file is also created to record
any translation messages. If pat3lsdyna finishes successfully, and the user requests it, the script will then
start LS-DYNA.
Figure 1-1 Forward Translation
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Figure 1-2 shows the process of reading information from LS-DYNA State or Time History files. When
the Apply button is selected on the Read Results form, either a .jbm or .jbr file is created, depending
on whether model or results data is to be read. The LsdynaPat3Submit script is also started. The
script, in turn, starts the lsdynapat3 results translation. The Patran database is closed while this translation
occurs.
lsdynapat3 reads the data from the LS-DYNA State and Time History Files. If lsdynapat3 can find the
desired database, the results will be loaded directly into it. However, if it cannot find the database (e.g.,
you are running on incompatible platforms), lsdynapat3 will write all the data into a flat file. This flat file
can be taken to wherever the database is, and read by using the read file selections.
Figure 1-2 Results File Translation
Figure 1-3 shows the process of translating information from a LS-DYNA input file into a Patran
database. The behavior of the main Analysis/Read Input File form and the subordinate file select form is
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dictated by the lsdyna3d.plb PCL library. The Apply button on the main form activates the
pat3lsdyna program which reads the specified LS-DYNA input file into the Patran database.
Figure 1-3 LS-DYNA Input File Translation
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Configuring the Patran LS-DYNA Execute File
Configuring the Patran LS-DYNA Execute File

The LsDyna3dExecute script file controls the execution of the LS DYNA analysis code. Please see the
LS-DYNA documentation and comments in the LsDyna3dExecute script for details of how to configure
this script.
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Chapter 2: Building A Model
2 Building A Model

Introduction to Building a Model 12
Coordinate Frames 18

Finite Elements 19

Material Library 30
Element Properties 62

Loads and Boundary Conditions 91

Loads and Boundary Conditions Form 92
Load Cases 110
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Introduction to Building a Model

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 on the Patran main form, is a selection for Analysis that defines the intended analysis
code to be used for this model.
The analysis code may be changed at any time during model creation.This is especially useful if the
model is to be used for different analyses, in different analysis codes. As much data as possible will be
converted if the analysis code is changed after the modeling process has begun. The analysis option
defines what will be presented to the user in several areas during the subsequent modeling steps.
These 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 The Analysis Form (p. 8) in the
MSC.Patran Reference Manual.
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Chapter 2: Building A Model 13
Table 2-1 summarizes the various LS-DYNA commands supported by the Patran LS-DYNA Preference.
Table 2-1 Supported LS-DYNA Entities

CATEGORY KEYWORD
BOUNDARY *BOUNDARY_SPC_SET
*BOUNDARY_CYCLIC
*BOUNDARY_PRESCRIBED_MOTION_SET
*BOUNDARY_PRESCRIBED_MOTION_NODE
CONSTRAINED *CONSTRAINED_EXTRA_NODES_SET
*CONSTRAINED_GENERALIZED_WELD
*CONSTRAINED_GENERALIZED_BUTT
*CONSTRAINED_GENERALIZED_FILLET
*CONSTRAINED_GENERALIZED_SPOT
*CONSTRAINED_JOINT_SPHERICAL
*CONSTRAINED_JOINT_REVOLUTE
*CONSTRAINED_JOINT_CYLINDRICAL
*CONSTRAINED_JOINT_PLANAL
*CONSTRAINED_JOINT_UNIVERSAL
*CONSTRAINED_JOINT_TRANSLATIONAL
*CONSTRAINED_LINEAR
*CONSTRAINED_NODAL_RIGID_BODY
*CONSTRAINED_NODAL_RIGID_BODY_INERTIA
*CONSTRAINED_RIVET
*CONSTRAINED_SHELL_TO_SOLID
*CONSTRAINED_SPOTWELD
*CONSTRAINED_TIE-BREAK
*CONSTRAINED_TIED_NODES_FAILURE
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CATEGORY KEYWORD
CONTACT *CONTACT_AUTOMATIC_ONE_WAY_SURFACE_TO_SURFACE
*CONTACT_AUTOMATIC_SINGLE_SURFACE
*CONTACT_AUTOMATIC_ SURFACE_TO_SURFACE
*CONTACT_CONSTRAINT_NODES_TO_SURFACE
*CONTACT_CONSTRAINT_SURFACE_TO_SURFACE
*CONTACT_NODES_TO_SURFACE
*CONTACT_ONE_WAY_SURFACE_TO_SURFACE
*CONTACT_RIGID_BODY_ONE_WAY_TO_RIGID_BODY
*CONTACT_RIGID_BODY_TWO_WAY_TO_RIGID_BODY
*CONTACT_RIGID_NODES_TO_RIGID_BODY
*CONTACT_SINGLE _SURFACE
*CONTACT_SLIDNG_ONLY
*CONTACT_SLIDING_ONLY_PENALTY
*CONTACT_SURFACE_TO_SURFACE
*CONTACT_TIEBREAK_NODES_TO_SURFACE
*CONTACT_TIEBREAK_SURFACE_TO_SURFACE
*CONTACT_TIED_NODES_TO_SURFACE
*CONTACT_TIED_SURFACE_TO_SURFACE
CONTROL *CONTROL_BULK-VISCOSITY
*CONTROL_CPU
*CONTROL_CONTACT
*CONTROL_COUPLING
*CONTROL_DYNAMIC_RELAXATION
*CONTROL_ENERGY
*CONTROL_HOURGLASS
*CONTROL_OUTPUT
*CONTROL_SHELL
*CONTROL_TERMINATION
*CONTROL_TIMESTEP
DAMPING *DAMPING_GLOBAL
*DAMPING_PART_MASS
*DAMPING_PART_STIFFNESS
DATABASE *DATABASE_BINARY_D3PLOT
*DATABASE_BINARY_D3THDT
*DATABASE_BINARY_XTFILE
*DATABASE_EXTENT_BINARY
*DATABASE_HISTORY_NODE
*DATABASE_HISTORY_BEAM
*DATABASE_HISTORY_SHELL
*DATABASE_HISTORY_SOLID
*DATABASE_HISTORY_TSHELL
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CATEGORY KEYWORD
DEFINE *DEFINE_COORDINATE_SYSTEM
*DEFINE_CURVE
*DEFINE_SD_ORIENTATION
ELEMENT *ELEMENT_BEAM
*ELEMENT_DISCRETE
*ELEMENT_MASS
*ELEMENT_SHELL_THICKNESS
*ELEMENT_SOLID_ORTHO
*ELEMENT_TSHELL
INITIAL *INITIAL_MOMENTUM
*INITIAL_VELOCITY
*INITIAL_VELOCITY_NODE
LOAD *LOAD_BEAM_OPTION
*LOAD_BODY_GENERALIZED
*LOAD_NODE_OPTION
*LOAD_SEGMENT
*LOAD_SHELL _OPTION
*LOAD_THERMAL_CONSTANT
*LOAD_THERMAL_CONSTANT_NODE
*LOAD_THERMAL_VARIABLE
*LOAD_THERMAL_VARIABLE_NODE
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CATEGORY KEYWORD
MAT *MAT_ELASTIC_OPTION
*MAT_PLASTIC_KINEMATIC
*MAT_VISCOELASTIC
*MAT_BLATZ-KO_RUBBER
*MAT_ISOTROPIC_ELASTIC_PLASTIC
*MAT_SOIL_AND_FOAM
*MAT_JOHNSON_COOK
*MAT_STRAIN_RATE_DEPENDENT_PLASTICITY
*MAT_RIGID
*MAT_COMPOSITE_DAMAGE
*MAT_ENHANCED_COMPOSITE_DAMAGE
*MAT_PIECEWISE_LINEAR_PLASTICITY
*MAT_HONEYCOMB
*MAT_MOONEY-RIVLIN_RUBBER
*MAT_RESULTANT_PLASTICITY
*MAT_CLOSED_FORM_SHELL_PLASTICITY
*MAT_FRAZER_NASH_RUBBER_MODEL
*MAT_LAMINATED_GLASS
*MAT_LOW_DENSITY_FOAM
*MAT_COMPOSITE_FAILURE_MODEL
*MAT_VISCOUS_FOAM
*MAT_CRUSHABLE_FOAM
*MAT_RATE_SENSITIVE_POWERLAW_PLASTICITY
*MAT_LINEAR_ELASTIC_DISCRETE_BEAM
*MAT_NONLINEAR_ELASTIC_DISCRETE_BEAM
*MAT_NONLINEAR_PLASTIC_DISCRETE_BEAM
*MAT_SID_DAMPER_DISCRETE_BEAM
*MAT_SPRING_ELASTIC
*MAT_DAMPER_VISCOUS
*MAT_SPRING_ELASTOPLASTIC
*MAT_SPRING_NONLINEAR_ELASTIC
*MAT_DAMPER_NONLINEAR_VISCOUS
*MAT_SPRING_GENERAL_NONLINEAR
*MAT_SPRING_MAXWELL
*MAT_SPRING_INELASTIC
*MAT_SOIL_AND_FOAM_FAILURE
NODE Gklab
PART Gmôq|lmqflk
RIGIDWALL Gofdfatîi|dbljbqof`|pbsboî=lmqflkp
Gofdfatîi|mi^kô|pbsboî=lmqflkp
Main Index

CATEGORY KEYWORD
SECTION Gpb`qflk|_b^j
Gpb`qflk|afpòbqb
Gpb`qflk|pebii
Gpb`qflk|plifa|lmqflk
Gpb`qflk|qpebii
SET Gpbq|klab|lmqflk
Gpbq|_b^j|lmqflk
Gpbq|afpòbqb|lmqflk
Gpbq|pbdjbkq
Gpbq|pebii|lmqflk
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Gpbq|qpebii|lmqflk
TITLE Gqfqib
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Coordinate Frames
Coordinate Frames
Coordinate frames will generate unique *DEFINE_COORDINATE_SYSTEM entries.
Only Coordinate Frames which are referenced by nodes, element properties, or loads and boundary
conditions can be translated. For more information on creating coordinate frames see Creating
Coordinate Frames (p. 393) in the Geometry Modeling - Reference Manual Part 2.
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Finite Elements
Finite Elements
Finite Elements in Patran allows the definition of basic finite element construction. Created under Finite
Elements are the=åçÇÉë, element topology, and multi-point constraints.
For more information on how to create finite element meshes, see Mesh Seed and Mesh Forms (p. 25)
in the Reference Manual - Part III.
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Finite Elements
Nodes
Nodes in Patran will generate unique *NODE entries. Nodes can be created either directly using the Node
object, or indirectly using the Mesh object.
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Finite Elements
Elements
Finite Elements in Patran assigns element connectivity, such as Quad/4, for standard finite elements. The
type of LS-DYNA element created is not determined until the element properties are assigned. See the
Element Properties Form for details concerning the LS-DYNA element types. Elements can be created
either directly using the Element object or indirectly using the Mesh object.
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Finite Elements
Multi-Point Constraints
Multi-point constraints (MPCs) can also be created from the Finite Elements menu. These elements
define a rigorous behavior between several specified nodes. The forms for creating MPCs are found by
selecting MPC as the Object on the Finite Elements form. The full functionality of the MPC forms are
defined in Create Action (Mesh) (p. 11) in the Reference Manual - Part III.
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Finite Elements
MPC Types
To create an MPC, first select the type of MPC to be created from the option menu. The MPC types that
appear in the option menu are dependent on the current settings of the Analysis Code and Analysis Type
preferences. The following table describes the MPC types which are supported for LS-DYNA.
MPC Type Analysis Type Description

Tied Shell to Solid Structural Defines a tie between a shell edge and solid elements.
Rivet Structural Defines pairs of nodes representing a rivet connection.
Cyclic Structural Describes cyclic symmetry boundary conditions for a
segment of the model.
Symmetry
Explicit Structural Creates a constraint equation between one degree of
freedom of one node and selected degrees of freedom of
other nodes.
Spherical Joint Structural Creates a spherical joint between two rigid bodies.
Revolute Joint Structural Creates a revolute joint between two rigid bodies.
Cylindrical Joint Structural Creates a cylindrical joint between two rigid bodies.
Planar Joint Structural Creates a planar joint between two rigid bodies.
Universal Joint Structural Creates a universal joint between two rigid bodies.
Translational Joint Structural Creates a translational joint between two rigid bodies.
Extra Nodes Structural Defines extra nodes for a rigid body. These are mainly used
in conjunction with joint definition.
Note that the LS-DYNA definition of joints requires the definition of coincident pairs of nodes.
Coincidence is not required of the Patran model. The mean position will be calculated during translation.
Note that some of the LS-DYNA *CONSTRAINED entries are supported as LBC’s rather than MPC’s.
This is generally because they require more data than can be entered for an MPC or for the sake of
consistency with other analysis preferences.
Degrees-of-Freedom
Whenever a list of degrees-of-freedom is expected for an MPC term, a listbox containing the valid
degrees-of-freedom is displayed on the form. A degree-of-freedom is valid if:
1. It is valid for the current Analysis Code Preference.
2. It is valid for the current Analysis Type Preference.
3. It is valid for the selected MPC type.
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Finite Elements
In most cases, all degrees-of-freedom, which are valid for the current Analysis Code and Analysis Type
Preferences, are valid for the MPC type. The following degrees-of-freedom are supported for the various
analysis types:
Degree-of-freedom Analysis Type

UX Structural
UY Structural
UZ Structural
RX Structural
RY Structural
RZ Structural
Note: Care must be taken to make sure that a degree-of-freedom that is selected for an MPC
actually exists at the nodes. For example, a node that is attached only to solid structural
elements will not have any rotational degrees-of-freedom. However, Patran will allow you
to select rotational degrees-of-freedom at this node when defining an MPC.
Tied Shell to Solid

This subordinate MPC form appears when the Define Terms button is selected on the Finite Elements
form, and the tied shell to solid type is selected. This form is used to create a
*CONSTRAINED_SHELL_TO_SOLID entry. Note that a shell node may be tied to up to 9 brick
nodes lying along a tangent vector to the nodal fiber. Nodes can move relative to each other in the fiber
direction only.
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Finite Elements
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Finite Elements
Rivet
form, and the Rivet type is selected. This form is used to create one or more *CONSTRAINED_RIVET
entries. Note that nodes connected by a rivet cannot be members of another constraint set that constrains
the same degree of freedom, a tied interface, or a rigid body.
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Finite Elements
Explicit
form, and Explicit is the selected type. This form is used to create a *CONSTRAINED_LINEAR entry.
This MPC type is used to define a linear constraint equation.
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Finite Elements
Joint MPCs
form, and one of the joint types is selected. This form is used to create a
*CONSTRAINED_JOINT_TRANSLATIONAL entry. The Relative Penalty Stiffness for this entry is
defined on the main MPC form. The form will differ slightly for the 6 joint types. The spherical type
requires only one dependent and one independent node. The translational joint requires 3 dependent and
3 independent nodes, and the other joint types require 2 dependent and 2 independent nodes.
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Finite Elements
Extra Nodes MPCs

form, and the Extra Nodes type is selected. This form is used to create a
*CONSTRAINED_EXTRA_NODES_OPTION NODE/SET entry. This is the standard Rigid (Fixed)
MPC type of Patran.
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Material Library
Material Library
The Materials form will appear when the Material toggle, located on the Patran application selections, is
chosen. The selections made on the Materials menu will determine which material form appears, and
ultimately, which LS-DYNA material will be created.
The following pages give an introduction to the Materials form, and details of all the material property
definitions supported by the Patran LS-DYNA preference.
Only material records which are referenced by an element property region or by a laminate lay-up will
be translated. References to externally defined materials will result in special comments in the LS-DYNA
input file, with material data copied from user identified files. This reference allows a user not only to
insert material types that are not supported directly by the LS-DYNA preference, but also to make use of
a standard library of materials.
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Material Library
Materials Form
This form appears when Materials is selected on the main menu. The Materials form is used to provide
options to create the various LS-DYNA materials.
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Material Library
The following table outlines the options when Create is the selected Action.
Object Option 1 Option 2

Isotropic • Linear Elastic • Linear Elastic (MAT 1)
• Elastoplastic • Plastic Kinematic (MAT 3)
• Iso. Elasto Plastic (MAT 12)
• Strain Rate Dependent (MAT 19)
• Piecewise Linear (MAT 24)
• Rate Sensitive (MAT 64)
• Resultant (MAT 28)
• Closed Form (MAT 30)
• Viscoelastic • Viscoelastic (MAT 6)
• Rigid • Material Type 20
• Johnson Cook • Material Type 15
• Rubber • Frazer Nash (MAT 31)
• Blatz-Ko (MAT 7)
• Mooney Rivlin (MAT 27)
• Foam • Soil and Foam (MAT 5/14)
• Viscous Foam (MAT 62)
• Crushable Foam (MAT 63)
• Low Density Urethane (MAT 57)
2D Orthotropic • Glass (laminated) • Laminate Glass (MAT 32)
3D Orthotropic • Honeycomb • Composite Honeycomb (MAT 26)
• Composite • Composite Damage (MAT 22)
• Composite Failure (MAT 59)
Composite • Laminate
Isotropic
Linear Elastic
This subordinate form appears when the Input Properties button is selected on the Materials form when
Isotropic is the selected Object, and when Linear Elastic is the selected Constitutive Model on the Input
Options form.
Option 1 Option 2 Option 3

Linear Elastic Linear Elastic (MAT1) Solid
Fluid
Main Index
Material Library
Use this form to define the data for LS-DYNA Material Type 1 (*MAT_ELASTIC). If the “Material” is
set as “Fluid” the parameters required are: Density, Bulk Modulus, Viscosity Coefficient, and
Cavitation Pressure.
Elastoplastic
This subordinate form appears when the Input Properties button is selected on the Materials form, when
Isotropic is the selected object, Elastoplastic is the selected Constitutive Model, and the following is the
selected Implementation.
Option 1 Option 2
Elastoplastic Plastic Kinematic (MAT 3)
Main Index
Material Library
Use this form to define the data for LS-DYNA Material Type 3 (*MAT_PLASTIC_KINEMATIC).
Elastoplastic
Option 1 Option 2
Elastoplastic Isotropic Elastic Plastic
Main Index
Material Library
Use this form to define the data for LS-DYNA Material Type 12
(*MAT_ISOTROPIC_ELASTIC_PLASTIC).
Main Index
Material Library
Elastoplastic
Option 1 Option 2
Elastoplastic Strain Rate Dependent Plasticity
(*MAT_STRAIN_RATE_DEPENDENT_PLASTICITY).
Main Index
Material Library
Elastoplastic
Isotropic is the selected object, and one of the following combinations is selected.
Option 1 Option 2 Option 3 Option 4

Elastoplastic Piecewise Linear Plasticity Bilinear Cowper Symonds Rate Model
General Rate Model
Linearized Cowper Symonds Rate Model
General Rate Model
Use the form on the next page to define the data for LS-DYNA Material Type 24
(*MAT_PIECEWISE_LINEAR_PLASTICITY). The contents of the form will vary depending upon
which option is selected. If the bilinear option is selected then the tangent modulus is required. The
linearized option requires definition of a strain dependent field. If the General rate model is selected
instead of the Cowper Symonds model then the Yield Stress is defined as a strain rate dependent field.
Main Index
Material Library
Main Index
Material Library
Elastoplastic
Option 1 Option 2
Elastoplastic Rate Sensitive Power Law
(*MAT_RATE_SENSITIVE_POWERLAW_PLASTICITY).
Main Index
Material Library
Elastoplastic
Option 1 Option 2
Elastoplastic Resultant
Use this form to define the data for LS-DYNA Material Type 28 (*MAT_RESULTANT_PLASTICITY).
Main Index
Material Library
Elastoplastic
Option 1 Option 2
Elastoplastic Closed Form Shell
Main Index
Material Library
(*MAT_CLOSED_FORM_SHELL_PLASTICITY).
Main Index
Material Library
Viscoelastic
This subordinate form appears when the Input Properties button is selected on the Materials form,
Isotropic is the selected Object, and the Viscoelastic Constitutive model is selected. Use this form to
define the data for LS-DYNA Material Type 6 (*MAT_VISCOELASTIC).
Main Index
Material Library
Rigid
Isotropic is the selected Object, and the Rigid Constitutive model is selected. Use this form to define the
data for LS-DYNA Material Type 20 (*MAT_RIGID).
Main Index
Material Library
Johnson Cook
Isotropic is the selected Object, and one of the following combinations is selected.

Johnson Cook Material Type 15 No Iterations Minimum Pressure
No tension, Minimum Stress
No tension, Minimum Pressure
Accurate Minimum Pressure
No tension, Minimum Stress
No tension, Minimum Pressure
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Material Library
(*MAT_JOHNSON_COOK). The contents of the form do not vary.
Additional data for this form are: Effective Plastic Strain rate, Specific Heat, Failure Stress/Pressure, and
5 Failure Parameters.
Main Index
Material Library
Rubber
Isotropic is the selected Object, Rubber is the selected Constitutive Model, and the following is the
Option 1 Option 2
Rubber Blatz-Ko
Use this form to define the data for LS-DYNA Material Type 7 (*MAT_BLATZ-KO_RUBBER).
Main Index
Material Library
Rubber
Isotropic is the selected Object, Rubber is the selected Constitutive Model, and the following is the

Rubber Mooney Rivlin Coefficients
Least Square
(*MAT_MOONEY_RIVLIN_RUBBER).
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Material Library
Rubber
Isotropic is the selected Object, Rubber is the selected Constitutive Model, and one of the following
combinations is selected.

Rubber Frazer-Nash Coefficients Respect
Ignore
Least Squares Fit Respect
Ignore
(*MAT_FRAZER_NASH_RUBBER_MODEL). The contents of the form varies depending on the
option selected for defining the material response. If the model is defined as least squares fit then
specimen data and a field defining force versus change in gauge length are required instead of the
coefficients that appear on the form below. Note that a strain field must be defined, although this is
interpreted by the translator as force versus actual change in the gauge length. If the strain limits are to
be ignored then maximum and minimum strain limits are not required.
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Material Library
Main Index
Material Library
Foam
Isotropic is the selected Object, Foam is the selected Constitutive Model, and one of the following

Foam Low Density Urethane Bulk Viscosity Inactive No Tension
Maintain Tension
Bulk Viscosity Active No Tension
Maintain Tension
(*MAT_LOW_DENSITY_FOAM). The contents of the form does not vary.
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Material Library
Main Index
Material Library
Foam
Isotropic is the selected Object, Foam is the selected Constitutive Model, and the following is the selected
Implementation.
Option 1 Option 2
Foam Viscous Foam
Use this form to define the data for LS-DYNA Material Type 62 (*MAT_VISCOUS_FOAM).
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Material Library
Foam
Isotropic is the selected Object, Foam is the selected Constitutive Model, and the following is the selected
Implementation.
Option 1 Option 2
Foam Crushable
Use this form to define the data for LS-DYNA Material Type 63 (*MAT_CRUSHABLE_FOAM).
Main Index
Material Library
Foam
Isotropic is the selected Object, Foam is the selected Constitutive Model, and one of the following

Foam Soil and Foam Inactive Allow Crushing
Inactive Reversible
Active Allow Crushing
Active Reversible
(*MAT_SOIL_AND_FOAM) or Material Type 14 (*MAT_SOIL_AND_FOAM_FAILURE). Choice
between the Type 5 and Type 14 is solely on the basis of whether failure is permitted when pressure meets
the failure pressure.
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Material Library
2D Orthotropic
Laminated Glass
This subordinate form appears when the Input Properties button is selected on the Materials form, 2D
Orthotropic is the Selected Object, and when Laminated Glass is the selected Constitutive Model on the
Input Options form. Use this form to define the data for LS-DYNA Material Type 32
(*MAT_LAMINATED_GLASS).
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Material Library
3D Orthotropic
Honeycomb
3D Orthotropic is selected on the Material form, and when the Honeycomb Constitutive model is
Main Index
Material Library
selected. Use this form to define the data for LS-DYNA Material Type 26 (*MAT_HONEYCOMB).
Main Index
Material Library
Composite
3D Orthotropic is the selected Object, Composite is the Selected Constitutive Model, and the following
is the selected Implementation.
Option 1 Option 2
Composite Damage
Use the subordinate form on the following page to define the data for LS-DYNA Material Type 22
(*MAT_COMPOSITE_DAMAGE).
Main Index
Material Library
Composite Failure
This subordinate form appears when the Input Properties button is selected on the Materials form, 3D
Orthotropic is the selected Object, Composite is the Selected Constitutive Model, and the following is
the selected Implementation.

Composite Failure Ellipsoidal
Faceted
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Material Library
Use the subordinate form on the following page to define the data for LS-DYNA Material Type 58
(*MAT_COMPOSITE_FAILURE_MODEL).
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Element Properties
Element Properties
The Element Properties form appears when the Properties toggle, located on the Patran main form, is
chosen.There are several option menus available when creating element properties. The selections made
on the Element Properties menu will determine which element property form appears, and ultimately,
which LS-DYNA element will be created.
The following pages give an introduction to the Element Properties form, and details of all the element
property definitions supported by the Patran LS-DYNA Preference.
Element Properties Form

This form appears when Properties is selected on the main menu. There are four option menus on this
form, each will determine which LS-DYNA element type will be created and which property forms will
appear. The individual property forms are documented later in this section. For a full description of this
form, see Element Properties Forms (p. 67) in the Patran Reference Manual.
Main Index
Element Properties
Main Index
Element Properties
The following table outlines the option menus when Analysis Type is set to Structural.
Object Type Option 1 Option 2

0D • Mass
• Grounded Spring Linear
Non-Linear
Elastoplastic
General Non-Linear
Viscoelastic
Inelastic
• Grounded Damper Linear
Non-Linear
1D • Beam General Section
Dimensioned Section
• Rod
• Spring Linear Scalar
Follower
Non-linear Scalar
Follower
Elastoplastic Scalar
Follower
General Non-Linear Scalar
Follower
Viscoelastic Scalar
Follower
Inelastic Scalar
Follower
• Damper Linear Scalar
Follower
Non-Linear Scalar
Follower
Side Impact
• Discrete beam Linear
Non-Linear
Non-Linear Plastic
• Weld Spot Standard
General
• Fillet
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Element Properties
Object Type Option 1 Option 2

• Butt
• Integrated Beam Rectangular Hughes Liu
Belytschko Schwer
Tubular Hughes Liu
Belytschko Schwer
• Part Inertia 1D General Section
Dimensioned Beam
2D • Shell Homogeneous Hughes Liu
Belytschko Tsay
BCIZ Tri Shell
Co Tri
S/R Hughes Liu
S/R Co-rotational
Belytschko Levialthan
Bely Wong Chiang
Fast Hughes Liu
Laminate Hughes Liu
S/R Hughes Liu
Fast Hughes Liu
Default
• Membrane Bely T Membrane
Fully Integrated
• Part Inertia 2D
3D • Solid Constant Stress
S/R 8 Node
Quadratic 8 Node
S/R Tetrahedron
• Thick Shell 1 Point
2 x 2 point
• Part Inertia 3D
Mass
This subordinate form appears when the Input Properties button is selected on the Element Properties
form when the following options are chosen.
Action Dimension Type Topologies

Create 0D Mass Point
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Element Properties
Use this form to create an *ELEMENT_MASS entry. This defines a lumped mass element of the
structural model.
Grounded Spring
Action Dimension Type Option(s) Topologies

Create 0D Grounded Spring Linear, Non-Linear, Elastoplastic, Point/1
General Non-Linear, Viscoelastic,
Inelastic
Use this form to create a *ELEMENT_DISCRETE entry and one of the *MAT_SPRING_type and
*SECTION_DISCRETE data entries. This defines a scalar spring element of the structural model. Only
one node is used in this method. The other node is defined to be grounded. The data on this form will
vary upon the spring type.
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Element Properties
Grounded Damper

Create 0D Grounded Damper Linear/Non-Linear Point/1
Use this form to create an *ELEMENT_DISCRETE entry=and one of the *MAT_DAMPER_type and
*SECTION_DISCRETE data entries. This defines a scalar damper element of the structural model. Only
one node is used in this method. The other node is defined to be grounded.The data on this form will vary
upon the damper type.
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Element Properties
Beam (General Section)

Action Dimension Type Option(s) Option 2 Topologies

Create 1D Beam General Section Bar/2
Use this form to create an *ELEMENT_BEAM entry together with its associated *SECTION_BEAM
and *INTEGRATION_BEAM data entry. This defines a simple beam element of the structural model.
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Element Properties
This is a list of Input Properties, available for creating a resultant beam that were not shown on the
previous page. Use the menu scroll bar on the input properties form to view these properties.
Property Name Description

Axial Damping Defines the axial damping factor. This property is optional.
Mass Damping Defines the mass damping factor. This property is optional.
Stiffness Damping Defines the stiffness damping factor. This property is optional.
Bending Damping Defines the bending damping factor. This property is optional.
Beam (Dimensioned Section - Hughes-Liu)


Create 1D Beam Dimensioned Section Hughes -Liu Bar/2
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Element Properties

Main Index
Element Properties
Beam (Dimensioned Section - Belytschko-Schwer)


Create 1D Beam Dimensioned Section Belytschko Schwer Bar/2
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Element Properties

Axial Damping Defines the axial damping factor. This property is optional.
Bending Damping Defines the bending damping factor. This property is optional.
Rod

Create 1D Rod Bar/2
Use this form to create *ELEMENT_BEAM and *SECTION_BEAM data entries. This defines a
tension-compression-torsion element of the structural model.
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Element Properties
Scalar Spring
Action Dimension Type Option 1 Option 2 Topologies

Create 1D Spring Linear, Non-Linear, Elastopastic, Scalar, Bar/2
General Non-Linear, Viscoelastic,
Inelastic
Use this form to create an *ELEMENT_DISCRETE entry and one of the *MAT_SPRING_type and
*SECTION_DISCRETE data entries. This defines a scalar spring element of the structural model. The
data on this form will vary upon the spring type. Additional parameters are available to define the
dynamic values based on static data.
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Element Properties
Scalar Damper

Create 1D Damper Linear, Non-Linear Scalar Bar/2
Main Index
Element Properties
Use this form to create an *ELEMENT_DISCRETE entry and one of the *MAT_DAMPER_type and
*SECTION_DISCRETE data entries. This defines a scalar damper element of the structural model. The
data on this form will vary upon the damper type.
Follower Damper

Create 1D Damper Linear, Non-Linear Follower Bar/2
Main Index
Element Properties
Use this form to create an *ELEMENT_DISCRETE entry and one of the *MAT_DAMPER_type and
*SECTION_DISCRETE data entries. This defines a follower damper element of the structural model.
The data on this form will vary upon the damper type.
Side Impact Damper

Action Dimension Type Option Topologies

Create 1D Damper Side Impact Bar/2
Use this form to create an *ELEMENT_BEAM entry and *MAT_SID_DAMPER_DISCRETE_BEAM

and *SECTION_BEAM data entries. This defines a side impact damper element of the structural model.
Additional properties required to fully define the damper behavior are input by scrolling down the form.
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Element Properties
Discrete Beam

Create 1D Discrete Beam Linear, Non-Linear, Non-Linear Plastic Bar/2
Use this form to create an *ELEMENT_BEAM entry together with its associated
*MAT_type_DISCRETE_BEAM and *SECTION_BEAM data entries. This defines a simple beam
element of the structural model. The data on this form will vary upon the beam type.
Main Index
Element Properties
Spot Weld

Create 1D Weld Spot Standard/General Bar/2
Use this form to create a *CONSTRAINED_SPOTWELD or

*CONSTRAINED_GENERALIZED_WELD_SPOT entry. This defines a spot weld connecting two
nodes of the model. The data on this form will vary upon the weld type.
Main Index
Element Properties
Fillet Weld

Create 1D Weld Fillet Bar/2
Use this form to create a *CONSTRAINED_GENERALIZED_WELD_FILLET entry. This defines a

fillet weld between two parts of the model.
Main Index
Element Properties
This is a list of Input Properties available for creating a Fillet Weld that were not shown on the previous
page. Use the scroll bar on the Input properties form to view these properties.

Width of Flange, w Define width of flange. This property is required.
Width of Weld, a Define width of fillet weld. This property is required.
Weld Angle, Alpha Define the weld angel, Alpha. This property is required.
Main Index
Element Properties
Butt Weld

Create 1D Weld Butt Bar/2
Use this form to create a *CONSTRAINED_GENERALIZED_WELD_BUTT entry. This defines a butt

weld between two parts of the model.
Main Index
Element Properties
Integrated Beam

Create 1D Integrated Beam Rectangular, Belytschko Schwer, Bar/2
Tubular Hughes -Liu
Use this form to create an *ELEMENT_BEAM together with its associated *SECTION_BEAM and
*INTEGRATION_BEAM data entries. This defines a simple beam element of the structural model. The
data entry will vary upon the formulation option.
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Element Properties
Part Inertia 1D

Create 1D Part Inertia 1D Bar/2
Main Index
Element Properties
Shell
Action Dimension Type Option Formulation Topologies

Create 2D Shell Homogeneous Hughes Liu, Belytschko-Tsay, Tri/3, Quad/4
BCIZ Tri Shell, Co-Tri, S/R
Hughes Lui, S/R Co_rotational,
Belytschko Levialthan, Bely
Wong Chiang, Fast Hughes Liu.
Laminate Hughes Liu, S/R Hughes Liu,
Fast Hughes Liu, Default.
Use this form to create an *ELEMENT_SHELL_OPTION entry together with the associated
*SECTION_SHELL entry. The data varies upon the type of element formulation.
Main Index
Element Properties
Membrane

Create 2D Membrane Bely T Membrane, Tria/3, Quad/4
Fully Integrated
Use this form to create an *ELEMENT_SHELL_OPTION entry together with the associated
*SECTION_SHELL entry.
Main Index
Element Properties
Part Inertia 2D

Main Index
Element Properties
Solid
Action Dimension Type Option 1 Topologies

Create 3D Solid Constant Stress, S/R 8 Node, Quadratic Hex/8
8 Node, S/R Tetrahedron
Use this form to create an *ELEMENT_SOLID entry together with the associated *SECTION_SOLID
entry.
Main Index
Element Properties
Thick Shell
Action Dimension Type Option 1 Topologies

Create 3D Thick Shell 1 Point Hex/8
2x2 Point
Use this form to create an *ELEMENT_TSHELL entry together with the associated
*SECTION_TSHELL entry.
Main Index
Element Properties
Note: The correct node numbering is essential for correct use. To ensure proper orientation,
extreme care must be used in defining the connectivity. (See the LS-DYNA User’s Manual
for further details.)
Part Inertia 3D

Main Index
Element Properties
Main Index
Loads and Boundary Conditions
Loads and Boundary Conditions

The Loads and Boundary Conditions form will appear when the Loads/BCs toggle, located on the Patran
application selections, is chosen. When creating a loads and boundary conditions there are several option
menus. The selections made on the Loads and Boundary Conditions menu will determine which loads
and boundary conditions form appears, and ultimately, which LS-DYNA loads and boundary conditions
will be created.
The following pages give an introduction to the Loads and Boundary Conditions form, and details of all
the loads and boundary conditions supported by the Patran LS-DYNA Analysis Preference.
Main Index
Loads and Boundary Conditions Form

This form appears when Loads/BCs is selected on the main form. The Loads and Boundary Conditions
form is used to provide options to create the various LS-DYNA loads and boundary conditions. For a
definition of full functionality, see Loads and Boundary Conditions Form (p. 27) in the Patran Reference
Manual.
Main Index
The following table outlines the options when Create is the selected action.
Object Type
Displacement Nodal
Force Nodal
Pressure Element Uniform
Temperature Nodal
Initial Velocity Nodal
Velocity Nodal
Acceleration Nodal
Initial Momentum Element Uniform
Contact Element Uniform
Geometric Rigid Wall Nodal
Planar Rigid Wall Nodal
Tied Shells Element Uniform
Tied Shell Edges Element Uniform
Nodal Rigid Body Nodal
Nodal Inertial Load Nodal
Static (Not Time Varying)

This subordinate form appears when the Input Data button is selected on the Loads and Boundary
Conditions form when the Current Load Case Type is Static. The Current Load Case Type is set on the
Load Case form, for more information see Loads and Boundary Conditions Form. The information on the
Input Data form will vary depending on the selected Object. Defined below is the standard information
found on this form. Note that this form is not used with the LS-DYNA Preference.
Main Index
Transient (Time Varying)

This subordinate form appears when the Input Data button is selected on the Loads and Boundary
Condition form when the Current Load Case Type is Time Dependent. The Current Load Case Type is
set on the Load Case form, for more information see Loads and Boundary Conditions Form and Load
Cases. The information on the Input Data form will vary, depending on the selected Object. Defined
below is the standard information found on this form.
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Contact Toolkit
Introduction
This section describes the user interface provided by Patran to access the contact features of explicit
dynamics finite element codes. This interface is used during definition of the Contact LBC types: Self
Contact, Master/Slave Surface, Master/Slave Node, and Subsurface.
Main Index
Tools have been provided to enable the user to quickly and easily define contact conditions. Specification
of contact is conceptually simple, involving either one or two contact surfaces, and a set of contact
parameters which control the interaction of the surfaces.
Contact Types
A contact condition in which a single logical surface may come into contact only with itself is described
as self-contact, and requires the specification of a single Application Region. A contact condition in
which two logical surfaces may contact each other is described as Master/Slave contact, and requires
specification of two Application Regions. Master/Slave contact is further subdivided by the definition of
Master/Slave Surface and Master/Slave Node. Master/Slave Surface describes the condition in which
both the master and slave surfaces are described using element faces, whereas Master/Slave Node
describes the condition in which the Slave surface is described using only nodes.
Contact Construction
Tools are provided to enable the construction of contact surfaces, using the standard Patran select tool
mechanisms (2D elements, 3D element faces), or groups. Contact subsurfaces can also be constructed
using these tools, and later used to define a complete logical contact surface. This functionality allows
the user to use the select tool to specify application regions on Patran geometry or the associated FEM
entities or to define a more complex contact surface that is assembled from a mixture of 2D and 3D
element faces, and to simply combine groups of 2D elements taking into account the direction of the
contact outward normal. (For 2D elements, the outward normal can be reversed for contact purposes
without modifying the underlying element topology.) Use of the group select mechanism is restricted to
FEM entities only. Visualization of the specified contact condition is provided by graphically previewing
but is not currently supported for geometry entities.
“Simple” contact surfaces include surfaces which may be described entirely by the faces of 3D elements,
or by 2D elements whose outward normals are aligned with the desired contact normal direction. These
contact surfaces may be constructed entirely using a single select mechanism (either Select Tool or Group
method). Simple contact surfaces may not include a mixture of 3D element faces and 2D elements, or 2D
elements whose outward normals are not all aligned with the desired contact normal direction.
“Complex” contact surfaces are defined as those surfaces which consist of a mixture of 2D elements and
3D element faces, or all 2D elements but with some of the outward normal incorrectly aligned. Contact
conditions which include complex contact surfaces must be constructed using “Subsurfaces,” where each
subsurfaces is a “Simple” contact surface. Definition of contact surfaces is limited to one method; i.e., it
is not permissible to mix “Select Tool,” “Group,” or “Subsurface” within the definition of a contact
surface.
The following section describes how each of the contact surface creation methods is used to describe a
simple contact surface.
Use of the Select Tool

The select tool is use to graphically select the desired entities from the model. When this method is
selected, the user must specify which dimensionality the intended object has, i.e. 3D, 2D or Nodal. If the
selected dimensionality is 2D, then the user can further specify whether the top, bottom or both surfaces
Main Index
are required. Selection of top will result in a contact surface whose outward normal is coincident with the
element outward, whereas selection of bottom will result in a contact surface whose outward normal is
in the opposite direction to the element outward normal. The user can toggle between Top, Bottom or
Both at any time during selection, however all of the selected entities will be assigned the same logical
direction. Selection of 3D allows the user to select either all or all free faces of 3D elements. No user
specification of the contact normal direction is required for 3D elements since the program automatically
specifies this direction. No contact direction is applicable to Nodal contact surfaces.
It is not permissible to mix 3D, 2D and Nodal entities within a single Application Region. (This
functionality is provided through the use of contact subsurfaces). The select tool can be used to select on
the basis of either FEM or Geometry entities.
Use of the Group Tool

The Group tool is used to define simple contact surfaces on the basis of Patran group names. When this
method is selected, the user must specify which dimensionality the intended object has, i.e. either 3D, 2D
or Nodal. The entities which will be selected for use in the contact surface in this case are either all 3D
free surfaces in the group, all 2D elements or all nodes contained in the selected group. In the case of 2D
elements, the user may specify whether the contact normal direction is coincident with the element top,
bottom or both faces. Multiple groups may be selected. However, it should be noted that both the selected
element dimensionality and contact normal direction apply across all selected groups.
Use of the Subsurface Tool

Contact Subsurfaces may be defined using either of the above methods. Subsurfaces may then be used in
the specification of Master, Slave or Self contact surfaces. When this option is used, the user may not
specify element dimensionality or contact normal direction since this information has already been
defined during subsurface definition. As many sub-surfaces as required may be selected to form the
desired complex contact subsurface.
Contact: Application Region

This form is used to define contact surfaces. The form will vary depending upon which options are
selected, however two basic configurations are used depending on whether the contact condition requires
specification of a single contact surface or two contact surfaces.
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Single Application Region

The following form is used to define a single surface contact or a subsurface.
Main Index
Dual Application Region

The following form is used to define either of the master-slave contact types.
Main Index
Contact: Input Data

The Input Data form is used to specify parameters which control the behavior of the contact condition.
The contents of the form will vary depending upon which option is selected. No Input Data is required
for the Subsurface option since subsurfaces do not constitute a contact condition on their own.
Object Tables
There are areas on the static and transient input data forms where the load data values are defined. The
data fields which appear depend on the selected load Object and Type. In some cases, the data fields also
depend on the selected Target Element Type. The following Object Tables outline and define the various
input data that pertains to a specific selected object:
Main Index
Displacement
Object Type Analysis Type

Displacement Nodal Structural
If the displacement/rotational component is zero, it will result in generation of a

*BOUNDARY_SPC_OPTION NODE/SET entry, which defines translational and rotational constraints
in the prescribed coordinate system. If the values are non-zero then this will result in generation of a
*BOUNDARY_PRESCRIBED_MOTION_OPTION NODE/SET entry.
Input Data Description

Translations (T1,T2,T3) Defines the enforced translational displacement values in the specified
coordinate system. These are in model length units.
Rotations (R1,R2,R3) Defines the enforced rotational displacement values in the specified
coordinate system. These are in degrees.
Force

Force Nodal Structural
This defines a *LOAD_NODE_OPTION POINT/SET entry. For transient load cases an auxiliary
*DEFINE_CURVE entry is defined from the time dependent field selected.

Force (F1,F2,F3) Defines the applied forces in the translation degrees-of-freedom in the specified
coordinate system.
Moment Defines the applied moments in the rotational degrees-of-freedom in the
(M1,M2,M3) specified coordinate system.
Pressure
Object Type Analysis Type Dimension

Pressure Element Uniform Structural 2D
Creates a *LOAD_SHELL_OPTION ELEMENT/SET entry depending upon whether one or more shell
elements are selected.
Main Index

Top Surf Pressure Defines the top surface pressure load on shell elements.
Bot Surf Pressure Defines the bottom surface pressure load on shell elements.
Edge Pressure Defines the edge pressure load on shell elements.

Pressure Element Uniform Structural 3D
Creates a *LOAD_SEGMENT.

Pressure Defines the face pressure value on solid elements. If a spacial field is referenced,
it will be evaluated once at the center of the applied region.
Temperature

Temperature Nodal Structural
When the load case type is static this creates a *LOAD_THERMAL_CONSTANT or a

*LOAD_THERMAL_CONSTANT_NODE entry depending upon the application region. When the load
case type is transient this creates a *LOAD_THERMAL_VARIABLE or a
*LOAD_THERMAL_VARIABLE_NODE entry depending upon the application region.

Temperature Defines the temperature which will be constant if the load case is static or
scaled by the load curve if the load curve is transient.
Initial Velocity

Initial Velocity Nodal Structural
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Creates a *INITIAL_VELOCITY or *INITIAL_VELOCITY_NODE entry (The latter when there is

only a single node). The exempted node option is not supported for the former entry as Patran provides
more natural methods of defining nodal sets. Note that is an Analysis coordinate frame is specified the
values are transformed into the global coordinates system.

Trans Veloc (v1,v2,v3) Defines the Velocity fields for translational degrees-of-freedom.
Rot Veloc (w1,w2,w3) Defines the Velocity fields for rotational degrees-of-freedom.
Velocity

Velocity Nodal Structural
If the load case type is transient this will result in generation of a

*BOUNDARY_PRESCRIBED_MOTION_OPTION NODE/SET entry. There is no corresponding data
for static load cases.

Trans Veloc(v1,v2,v3) Defines the enforced translational velocity values in the specified
coordinate system. These are in model length units per unit time.
Rot Veloc (w1,w2,w3) Defines the enforced rotational velocity values in the specified coordinate
system. These are in degrees per unit time.
Acceleration

Acceleration Nodal Structural
If the load case type is transient this will result in generation of a

*BOUNDARY_PRESCRIBED_MOTION_OPTION NODE/SET entry. There is no corresponding data
for static load cases.
Main Index

Trans Accel (A1,A2,A3) Defines the enforced translational acceleration values in the specified
coordinate system. These are in model length units per unit time squared.
Rot Accel (a1,a2,a3) Defines the enforced rotational acceleration values in the specified
coordinate system. These are in degrees per unit time squared.
Initial Momentum

Initial Momentum Element Uniform Structural 3D
Creates a *INITIAL_MOMENTUM entry. Note that global coordinates apply only. This applies only for
solid elements.

Momentum (m1,m2,m3) Defines the Velocity fields for translational degrees-of-freedom.
Deposition Time Time at which energy is deposited in solid elements.
Contact
Four types of contact exist. Three of these are complete definitions and have associated input data. The
fourth is the subsurface type which is used to define part of a contacting surface.
Object Type Option 1

Contact Element Uniform Self Contact
Subsurface
Master-Slave Srrface
Master-Slave Node
Main Index
The contact options for each of the contact types are defined in the following table.
Master Master
Self Slave Slave
Input Data Option Contact Surface Node
Contact Type Single Surface (4) x
Surface to Surface (3) x
One-way Surface to Surface(10) x
Tied surface to Surface (2) x
Tie break Surface to Surface(9) x
Sliding Only (1) x
Sliding Only Penalty (p1) x
Rigid Body One way(21) x
Rigid body Two way(19) x
Nodes to Surface (5) x
Tied nodes to Surface (6) x
Tie break Nodes to Surface (8) x
Rigid Nodes to Body(20) x
Contact Method Automatic x x x
Standard x x x
Constrain x x
Constraint Fully Symmetric x x
(Only available when Constrain to Slave x x
Contact Method =
Constrain) Constrain to Master x x
Thickness definition Define x x x
Scale x x x
Surface Behavior Penalty x x x
Soft-Constraint x x x
Small penetration On x x x
check Off x x x
Diagonal x x x
Interface output None x x x
Slave x x x
Master x x
Both x x
Main Index
The contact input parameters are defined in the following table.
Master Slave Master Slave

Input Data Self Contact Surface Node
Static Friction Coefficient x x x
Dynamic Friction Coefficient x x x
Exponential Decay Coefficient x x x
Viscous Friction Coefficient x x x
Viscous Damping Coefficient x x x
Birth Time x x x
Death Time x x x
Scale Factor on Slave Stiffness x x x
Scale Factor on Master Stiffness x x
Master Surface Thickness x x
Slave Thickness Scale Factor x x x
Scale Factor to Constraint Forces x x x
Max. Param Coord in Search x x x
Cycles between Bucket Sorts x x x
Cycle between Force Updates
Maximum Penetration x
Geometric Rigid Wall

Planar Rigid Wall Nodal Structural
Four types of geometric rigid wall exist:

1. Flat
2. Prismatic
3. Cylindrical
4. Spherical
The options are as follows:
1. Motion: Static/Defined Velocity/Defined Displacement
2. Friction: Frictionless/No Slip/Frictional
Main Index
The input data for geometric rigid walls are as follows:

Friction Coefficient For frictional behavior only.
Length of l (x) edge Applies for prism cylindrical and flat surface.
Length of m (y) edge Applies for prism and flat surface.
Length n (z) Applies for prism.
Radius Applies for cylinder and sphere.
Motion Time History Defines motion in the coordinate system of the geometric entity.
Applies for moving walls only.
Note that the user must select a local coordinate system that is used when generating the geometry of the
wall. The local z axis is always the n axis in the LS-DYNA definition. The velocity is defined as a time
field in the local z direction.
Planar Rigid Wall

Planar Rigid Wall Nodal Structural
Two types of planar rigid wall exist:

1. Finite
2. Infinite
The options are as follows:
1. Motion: Static/Moving
2. Friction: No Slip/Frictionless/Isotropic Frictional/Orthotropic Frictional
Note that the orthotropic frictional behavior is available only for a static rigid wall.
The input data for planar walls is as follows:

Friction Coefficient(s) Only for Isotropic & Orthotropic frictional (Option 2)
Mass Only for moving walls.
Initial Velocity (Vo) Only for moving walls (Option 1). Defined relative to the local
coordinate system used to define the wall.
Main Index

Length of l (x) Edge Length of the l edge of a finite plane.
Length of m (y) Edge Length of the m edge of a finite plane.
Note that the user must select a local coordinate system that is used when generating the geometry of the
wall. The local z axis is always the n axis in the LS-DYNA definition. The velocity is defined as a time
field in the local z direction.
Tied Shells

Tied Shell Nodes Element Uniform Structural 2D
This defines a *CONSTRAINED_TIED_NODES_FAILURE data entry. Edges of shell elements

be selected.

Plastic Strain at Failure The tied nodes, which must be coincident at the corners of each shell,
separate when the average weighted plastic strain reaches this value.
Tied Shell Edges

Tied Shell Nodes Element Uniform Structural Dual Application
This defines a *CONSTRAINED_TIE-BREAK data entry. This requires a dual application region. Both
master (primary) and slave (secondary) must be the edges of shells.

Plastic Strain at Failure The tied nodes separate when the average weighted plastic strain
reaches this value.
Nodal Rigid Body

Nodal Rigid Body Nodal Structural
Main Index
This defines a *CONSTRAINED_NODAL_RIGID_BODY entry. Note that the user must define a local
coordinate system with origin at (0,0,0) on the wall and x direction normal to the wall and pointing into
the body. The option INERTIA will be generated if the second or third of the following options are
selected:
1. Computed (no input data required)
2. Defined Globally
3. Defined Locally (Local analysis coordinate frame selected).
The input data is tabulated below.

Mass Translational mass of rigid body.
Inertia Ixx xx component of inertia tensor.
Inertia Ixy Not required if a local coordinate system is defined.
Inertia Ixz Not required if a local coordinate system is defined.
Inertia Iyy yy component of inertia tensor.
Inertia Iyz Not required if a local coordinate system is defined.
Inertia Izz zz component of inertia tensor.
Trans. Veloc (v1,v2,v3) Translational velocity.
Rot Veloc (w1,w2,w3) Rotational velocity.
Nodal Inertial Load

Nodal Inertial Load Nodal Structural
Creates *LOAD_BODY_OPTION or *LOAD_BODY_GENERALIZED entries depending upon

whether the condition is applied to the complete body or some subset of the body. Note that only one
scale factor can be applied to the loads. Note also that the selected coordinate system defines the centre
of rotation for angular velocity.

Trans Accel (A1,A2,A3) Defines the base acceleration.
Rot Velocity (w1,w2,w3) Defines the angular velocity.
Main Index
Load Cases
Load Cases
Load cases in Patran are used to group a series of load sets into one load environment for the model. Load
cases are selected when preparing an analysis, not load sets. The usage for LS-DYNA is consistent,
however only one loadcase can be selected for translation. For information on how to define static and/or
transient load cases, see Overview of the Load Cases Application (p. 162) in the Patran Reference
Manual.
Main Index
Chapter 3: Running an Analysis
3 Running an Analysis

Review of the Analysis Form 112
Translation Control 115

Solution Parameters 116

Select Load Case 123
Output Requests 124

Output Controls 133

Select Groups for Set Cards 134
Main Index
Review of the Analysis Form

The Analysis form appears when the Analysis toggle, located on the Patran switch, is chosen. To run an
analysis, or to create an LS-DYNA input file, select Analyze as the Action on the Analysis form. Other
forms brought up by the Analysis form are used to define and control the analysis to be conducted and to
set global defaults, where appropriate. These forms are described on the following pages. For further
information see The Analysis Form (p. 8) in the MSC.Patran Reference Manual.
Main Index
Chapter 3: Running an Analysis 113
Analysis Form
This form appears when the Analysis toggle is chosen on the main form. When preparing for an analysis
run, select Analyze as the Action.
Main Index
The following table outlines the selections for the Analyze action.
Object Method
Entire Model Analysis Deck
Full Run
Select Group Analysis Deck
Full Run
The Object indicates which part of the model is to be analyzed.

• Entire Model is selected if the whole model is to be analyzed.
• Select Group allows one or more groups to be selected from a form and written to the deck.
The Method indicates how far the translation is to be taken.

• Analysis Deck is selected if an analysis file translation is to be done, plus all load case, analysis
type and analysis parameter data are to be translated. A complete input file, ready for LS-DYNA,
should be generated.
• Full Run is selected if, in addition to writing an analysis file, LS-DYNA is to be executed.
Main Index
Translation Control
Translation Control
The translation parameters form allows the user to control the manner in which the LS-DYNA input file
is generated.
Main Index
Solution Parameters
Solution Parameters
The solution parameters form provides access to subordinate forms upon which are defined the
parameters controlling execution of an LS-DYNA analysis.
Main Index
Solution Parameters
Solution Control
The solution control subordinate form defines data to be written to the *CONTROL_CPU,
*CONTROL_TERMINATION and *CONTROL_TIMESTEP entries.
Main Index
Solution Parameters
Relaxation Parameters
The solution control subordinate form defines data to be written to the *CONTROL_DYNAMIC
RELAXATION entry.
Main Index
Solution Parameters
Global Damping
The solution control subordinate form defines data to be written to the *DAMPING_GLOBAL entry
with defines mass weighted nodal damping that applies globally to all deformable bodies.
Material Viscosity Defaults

The solution control subsidiary form defines data to be written to the *CONTROL_BULK_VISCOSITY
and *CONTROL_HOURGLASS entries.
Main Index
Solution Parameters
Energy Calculation
The solution control subsidiary form defines data to be written to the *CONTROL_ENERGY entry.
Main Index
Solution Parameters
Shell Control
The solution control subsidiary form defines data to be written to the *CONTROL_SHELL entry.
Main Index
Solution Parameters
Contact Defaults
The solution control subsidiary form defines data to be written to the *CONTROL_CONTACT entry.
Main Index
Select Load Case
Select Load Case

This form appears when the Select Load Case button is selected on the Analysis form. Use this form to
select the load case to be included in this run.
Main Index
Output Requests
Output Requests
This form allows the definition of what results data is desired from the analysis code. The settings can be
accepted, as altered, by selecting the OK button on the bottom of the form. If the Cancel button is selected
instead, the form will be closed without any of the changes being accepted. Selecting the Defaults button
resets the form to the initial default settings.
Main Index
Output Requests
The following table outlines the selections for the Results Types and selection possibilities.
Object Type
Binary State File *DATABASE_BINARY_D3PLOT
*DATABASE_EXTENT_BINARY
Binary History File *DATABASE_BINARY_D3THDT
*DATABASE_BINARY_XTFILE
*DATABASE_HISTORY_BEAM
*DATABASE_HISTORY_NODE
*DATABASE_HISTORY_SHELL
*DATABASE_HISTORY_SOLID
*DATABASE_HISTORY_TSHELL
Cross Section Forces *DATABASE_SECFORC
*DATABASE_CROSS_SECTION_SET
*DATABASE_RWFORC
Wall Forces *DATABASE_GLSTAT
Global Data *DATABASE_SSSTAT
Subsystem Data *DATABASE_EXTENT_SSSTAT
Discrete Elements *DATABASE_DEFORC
Material Energies *DATABASE_MATSUM
Nodal Interface Force *DATABASE_NCFORC
Result Interface Force *DATABASE_RCFORC
Deformed Geo File *DATABASE_DEFGEO
SPC Reaction Force *DATABASE_SPCFORC
Nodal Const Reaction *DATABASE_SWFORC
Air Bag Statistics *DATABASE_ABSTAT
Nodal Force Group *DATABASE_NODFOR
BC Forces and Energy *DATABASE_BNDOUT
Rigid Body Data *DATABASE_RBDOUT
Geo Contact Entities *DATABASE_GCEOUT
Sliding Int Energy *DATABASE_SLEOUT
Joint Force File *DATABASE_JNTFORC
Seat Belt Output *DATABASE_SBTOUT
AVS Database *DATABASE_AVSFLT
*DATABASE_EXTENT_AVS
Movie *DATABASE_MOVIE
*DATABASE_EXTENT_MOVIE
MPGS *DATABASE_MPGS
*DATABASE_EXTENT_MPGS
Trace Particle History *DATABASE_TRHIST
*DATABASE_TRACER
Thermal Output *DATABASE_TPRINT
Main Index
Output Requests
To define the *DATABASE_EXTENT_BINARY entry associated with a

*DATABASE_BINARY_D3PLOT record the following subordinate form is used. This form is invoked
when Input Data is selected and Binary State File is the active Result Type. Note that the first data item,
“Exclude Discrete Springs and Dampers” is written to the *DATABASE_BINARY_D3PLOT record.
Main Index
Output Requests
To define the *DATABASE_HISTORY_option entry associated with a

*DATABASE_BINARY_D3THDT record the following subordinate form is used. This form is invoked
when Input Data is selected and Binary History File is the active Result Type. Note that the last data item,
“Extra Time History Data” results in generation of a *DATABASE_BINARY_XTFILE record.
Main Index
Output Requests
To define the *DATABASE_CROSS_SECTION_SET entry associated with a

*DATABASE_SECFORC record, the following subordinate form is used. This form is invoked when
Input Data is selected and Cross Section Forces is the active Result Type.
Main Index
Output Requests
To define the *DATABASE_OPTION entry, the following subordinate form is used, when Input Data is
selected and one of the following options is the active Result type: Wall Forces, Global Data, Discrete
Element Material Energies, Nodal Interface Force, Result Interface force, Deformed Geo File, SPC
Reaction Force, Nodal Const. Reaction, Air Bag Statistics, Nodal force group, Geo contact entities,
Sliding Int Energy, Joint Force file, Seat Belt output, Thermal Output.
To define the *DATABASE_EXTENT_OPTION entry associated with a *DATABASE_OPTION

record, the following subordinate form is used,. This form is invoked when Input Data is selected and
AVS Database,Movie or MPGs is the active Result Type.
Main Index
Output Requests
To define the *DATABASE_TRACER entry associated with a *DATABASE_TRHIST record, the

following subordinate form is used,. This form is invoked when Input Data is selected and Trace Particle
History is the active Result Type.
Table 3-1
Component
Variable Type Number Quantity
Nodal 1-3 x,y,z-displacements
4-6 x,y,z-velocities
7-9 x,y,z-accelerations
10 temperature
Brick Element 1 x-stress
2 y-stress
3 z-stress
4 xy-stress
5 yz-stress
6 zx-stress
7 effective plastic strain
Main Index
Output Requests
Table 3-1 (continued)

Component
Beam element 1 x-force resultant
2 y-force resultant
3 z-force resultant
4 x-moment resultant
5 y-moment resultant
6 z-moment resultant
Shell and Thick Shell 1 midsurface x-stress
2 midsurface y-stress
3 midsurface z-stress
4 midsurface xy-stress
5 midsurface yz-stress
6 midsurface zx-stress
7 midsurface effective plastic strain
8 innersurface x-stress
9 innersurface y-stress
10 innersurface z-stress
11 innersurface xy-stress
12 innersurface yz-stress
13 innersurface zx-stress
14 innersurface effective plastic strain
15 outer surface x-stress
16 outer surface y-stress
17 outer surface z-stress
18 outer surface xy-stress
19 outer surface yz-stress
20 outer surface zx-stress
21 outer surface effective plastic strain
22 bending moment-mxx (4-node shell)
23 bending moment -myy(4-node shell)
24 bending moment-mxy (4-node shell)
25 shear resultant-qxx (4-node shell)
26 shear resultant-qyy (4-node shell)
27 normal resultant-nxx (4-node shell)
28 normal resultant-nxx (4-node shell)
29 normal resultant-nxy (4-node shell)
30 thickness
Main Index
Output Requests
Table 3-1 (continued)

Component
Shell and Thick Shell 31 element dependent variable
(continued) 32 element dependent variable
33 innersurface x-stress
34 innersurface y-stress
35 innersurface z-stress
36 innersurface xy-stress
37 innersurface yz-stress
38 innersurface zx-stress
39 outer surface x-stress
40 outer surface y-stress
41 outer surface z-stress
42 outer surface xy-stress
43 outer surface yz-stress
44 outer surface zx-stress
45 internal energy
46 midsurface effective stress
47 inner surface effective stress
48 outer surface effective stress
49 midsurface max. principal strain
50 through thickness strain
51 midsurface min. principal strain
52 lowersurface effective strain
53 lowersurface max. principal strain
55 lower surface min.principal strain
56 lowersurface effective strain
57 lower surface min.principal strain
59 upper surface max.principal strain
60 upper surface effective strain
Main Index
Output Controls
Output Controls
This form provides control over data generated during execution. Most of this data is entered on the
*CONTROL_OUTPUT entry. The settings can be accepted, as altered, by selecting the OK button on the
bottom of the form. If the Cancel button is selected instead, the form will be closed without any of
thechanges being accepted. Selecting the Defaults button resets the form to the default settings.
Main Index
Select Groups for Set Cards
Select Groups for Set Cards

The Select Group for Set Cards form allows you to select any of the groups in the model and write them
to the deck.
Main Index
Setting LSDYNA IDs
Setting LSDYNA IDs

Normally the LSDYNA ID is set using the corresponding Patran entity ID. EG If a material is created
that has a Patran ID of 1, then the ID of 1 will be used for the LSDYNA *MAT card in the deck.
However, the user can set the ID by using the naming convention "Name.ID" for the Patran entity. This
applies for materials, property sets, fields and LBCs. If, for example, the user wants to manually set the
IDs of the materials, then he/she must make sure that every Patran material name is followed by a unique
ID ( 0 is not allowed ). Otherwise the IDs will not be changed. When the IDs are changed, a message is
printed by the translator to the xterm.
Main Index
Setting LSDYNA IDs
Main Index
Chapter 4: Read Results
4 Read Results

Review of the Read Results Form 138
Subordinate Forms 141

Results Created in Patran 144

Results File Size 145
Main Index
Review of the Read Results Form

The Analysis form will appear when the Analysis toggle, located on the Patran control panel, is chosen.
Read State File, as the selected Action on the Analysis form, allows the model and/or results data to be
accessed from within Patran or read into the Patran database, from an LS-DYNA State file. Subordinate
forms of the Analysis form define the data to be accessed, and the files from which to fetch the data.
These forms are described on the following pages.
Main Index
Chapter 4: Read Results 139
Read Results Form

Setting the Action option menu to Read State File indicates that results are to be accessed.
Main Index
Options on the Read Results Form

The following table defines the options that can be exercised from the Read Results Form.
Action Object Method Subsidiary Forms

Read State File Results Entities Attach Select State File
Translate Select State File
Select Times
Select Results
Model Data Attach Select State File
Both Attach Select State File
Select Times
Select Results
Main Index
Subordinate Forms
Subordinate Forms
The subordinate forms accessed from the “Read Results Form” will depend upon the “Action” and
“Object” selected. The various possibilities are described in this subsection.
Select State File Subordinate Form

The subordinate State file selection form allows the user to select a LS-DYNA state file from which data
is to be extracted.
Querying State File

There is no subordinate y form associated with querying the state file. The query is done automatically
once the user has selected the state file. The data returned is required by the subsequent forms.
Main Index
Subordinate Forms
Select Times
The subordinate “Select Times” form allows the user to select the cycle(s) for which results are to be
imported from a state file (“Translate” method only).
Main Index
Subordinate Forms
Select Results
The subordinate “Select Results” form allows the user to select the results to be imported (“Translate”
method only). When results are being imported from a history file the entity selection acts as a filter on
the information imported.
Main Index
Results Created in Patran
Results Created in Patran

The following table indicates all the possible results quantities which can be loaded into the Patran
database from an LS-DYNA state file.
Table 4-1 Results Supported During Model Importation

Primary Label Type Description
Displacement Nodal x, y, z displacements of nodes, in global coordinate frame.
Velocity Nodal x, y, z velocity of nodes, in global coordinate frame.
Acceleration Nodal x, y, z acceleration of nodes, in global coordinate frame.
Temperature Nodal Nodal temperature.
Forces Nodal Resultant beam forces and moments, in local beam coordinates.
Stress Element 6 components of stress tensor, at element centre and gaussian
points - top, middle, and bottom for shells.
Stress Resultants Element Stress Resultants at elements
Strain Element 6 components of strain tensor, at element centre and gaussian
points - top, middle, and bottom for shells.
Eff. Plastic Strain Element Effective plastic strain, at element centre and gaussian points -
top, middle, and bottom for shells.
Main Index
Results File Size
Results File Size

The default results file size for Patran LS-DYNA is 7 Megabytes. If the results have been created using
a different file size, then an environment variable must be set in the Patran shell before reading the results.
This environment variable is ’FAM_SIZE’. This should be calculated as follows:
1. Find the biggest ".ptf" results file, and divide its size in bytes by 1MB (1048576 bytes). If this
gives an exact result, use that, otherwise round up by one.
2. Set the environment variable accordingly prior to running the translator. Thus if the file size is
24819794 bytes, this gives 23.67MB, thus
setenv FAM_SIZE 24 (C Shell syntax)
FAM_SIZE=24; export FAM_SIZE (Bourne/Korn shell syntax)
Note: The ‘FAM_SIZE’ environment variable is not needed with the “Attach” method, which is
designed to work with arbitrary file sizes.
Main Index
Results File Size
Main Index
Chapter 5: Read Input File
5 Read Input File

Review of Read Input File Form 148
Data Translated from the LS-DYNA Input File 152

Reject and Error File 156
Main Index
Review of Read Input File Form

The Analysis form will appear when the Analysis toggle, located on the Patran main form, is chosen.
Read Input File as the selected Action on the Analysis form allows some of the model data from an LS-
DYNA input file to be translated into the Patran database. A subordinate File Selection form allows the
user to specify the LS-DYNA input file to translate.
Main Index
Chapter 5: Read Input File 149
Read Input File Form

This form appears when the Analysis toggle is selected on the main form. Read Input File, as the selected
Action, specifies that model data is to be translated from the specified LS-DYNA input file into the
Patran database.
Main Index
Selection of Input File

This subordinate form appears when the Select Input File button is selected on the Analysis form when
Read Input File is the selected Action. It allows the user to specify which LS-DYNA input file to
translate.
Main Index
Set Card Read Options

This subordinate form appears when the Set Card Read Option button is selected on the Analysis form
when Read Input File is the selected action. It allows you to specify which set of cards of the LS-DYNA
input file to translate.
Main Index
Data Translated from the LS-DYNA Input File

The Patran LSDYNA3D input file translator currently translates the model topology, some materials and
some properties from an input file. The following is a list of the data supported.
Table 5-1 Input File Translation Data

Category Keyword
BOUNDARY *BOUNDARY_CYCLIC *BOUNDARY_PRESCRIBED_MOTION_SET
*BOUNDARY_PRESCRIBED_MOTION *BOUNDARY_SPC_SET
_NODE
CONSTRAINED *CONSTRAINED_EXTRA_NODES_SE *CONSTRAINED_JOINT_TRANSLATIONAL

T *CONSTRAINED_JOINT_UNIVERSAL
*CONSTRAINED_GENERALIZED_WE *CONSTRAINED_LINEAR
LD_BUTT *CONSTRAINED_NODAL_RIGID_BODY
*CONSTRAINED_GENERALIZED_WE *CONSTRAINED_NODAL_RIGID_BODY_INERTA
LD_FILLET *CONSTRAINED_RIVET
*CONSTRAINED_GENERALIZED_WE *CONSTRAINED_SHELL_TO_SOLID
LD_SPOT *CONSTRAINED_SPOTWELD
*CONSTRAINED_JOINT_
*CONSTRAINED_JOINT_CYLINDRIAL *CONSTRAINED_TIED_NODES_FAILURE
*CONSTRAINED_JOINT_PLANAR
*CONSTRAINED_JOINT_REVOLUTE
*CONSTRAINED_JOINT_SPHERICAL
CONTACT *CONTACT_AUTOMATIC_ONE_WAY_ *CONTACT_CONSTRAINT_SURFACE_TO_SURFA

SURFACE_TO_SURFACE CE
*CONTACT_AUTOMATIC_SINGLE_SU *CONTACT_NODES_TO_SURFACE
RFACE
*CONTACT_ONE_WAY_SURFACE_TO_SURFACE
*CONTACT_AUTOMATIC_SURFACE_
TO_SURFACE *CONTACT_RIGID_NODES_TO_RIGID_BODY
*CONTACT_AUTOMATIC_NODES_TO *CONTACT_TIEBREAK_NODES_TO_SURFACE
_SURFACE
*CONTACT_TIED_NODES_TO_SURFACE
*CONTACT_CONSTRAINT_NODES_T
O_SURFACE
CONTROL *CONTROL_BULK_VISCOSITY *CONTROL_HOURGLASS
*CONTROL_CPU *CONTROL_OUTPUT
*CONTROL_CONTACT *CONTROL_SHELL
*CONTROL_COUPLING *CONTROL_TERMINATION
*CONTROL_DYNAMIC_RELAXATION *CONTROL_TIMESTEP
*CONTROL_ENERGY
DAMPING *DAMPING_GLOBAL *DAMPING_PART_STIFFNESS
*DAMPING_PART_MASS
Note: The Property and Material ID in the analysis file are used as a numeric extension
to the Property Set name and Material name in the Patran database.
Main Index
Table 5-1 Input File Translation Data (continued)
Category Keyword
DATABASE *DATABASE_ABSTAT *DATABASE_TPRINT
*DATABASE_AVSFLT *DATABASE_TRHIST
*DATABASE_BNDOUT *DATABASE_RBDOUT
*DATABASE_DEFGEO *DATABASE_RWFORC
*DATABASE_DEFORC *DATABASE_BINARY_D3PLOT
*DATABASE_GCEOUT *DATABASE_BINARY_D3THDT
*DATABASE_GLSTAT *DATABASE_BINARY_XTFILE
*DATABASE_JNTFORC *DATABASE_CROSS_SECTION_SET
*DATABASE_MATSUM *DATABASE_EXTENT_AVS
*DATABASE_MOVIE *DATABASE_EXTENT_BINARY
*DATABASE_MPGS *DATABASE_EXTENT_MOVIE
*DATABASE_NCFORC *DATABASE_EXTENT_MPGS
*DATABASE_RWFORC *DATABASE_EXTENT_SSSTAT
*DATABASE_SBTOUT *DATABASE_HISTORY_BEAM
*DATABASE_SECFORCE *DATABASE_HISTORY_NODE
*DATABASE_SLEOUT *DATABASE_HISTORY_SHELL
*DATABASE_SPCFORC *DATABASE_HISTORY_SOLID
*DATABASE_SSSTAT *DATABASE_HISTORY_TSHELL
*DATABASE_SWRFORC *DATABASE_TRACER
DEFINE *DEFINE_COORDINATE_NODES *DEFINE_SD_ORIENTATION
*DEFINE_COORDINATE_SYSTEM *DEFINE_VECTOR
*DEFINE_CURVE
ELEMENT *ELEMENT_BEAM *ELEMENT_SHELL
*ELEMENT_BEAM_THICKNESS *ELEMENT_SHELL_THICKNESS
*ELEMENT_DISCRETE *ELEMENT_SOLID
*ELEMENT_MASS *ELEMENT_SOLID_ORTHO
*ELEMENT_SHELL_BETA *ELEMENT_TSHELL
END *END
Main Index
Category Keyword
INITIAL *INITIAL_MOMENTUM *INITIAL_VELOCITY_NODE
*INITIAL_VELOCITY
LOAD *LOAD_BODY_GENERALIZED *LOAD_SHELL_SET
*LOAD_NODE_POINT *LOAD_THERMAL_CONSTANT
*LOAD_NODE_SET *LOAD_THERMAL_CONSTANT_NODE
*LOAD_SEGMENT *LOAD_THERMAL_VARIABLE
*LOAD_SEGMENT_SET *LOAD_THERMAL_VARIABLE_NODE
*LOAD_SHELL_ELEMENT
MAT *MAT_BLATZ-KO_RUBBER *MAT_NONLINEAR_PLASTIC_DISCRETE_BEAM
*MAT_CLOSED_FORM_SHELL_PLAS *MAT_PIECEWISE_LINEAR_PLASTICITY
TICITY
*MAT_PLASTIC_KINEMATIC
*MAT_COMPOSITE_DAMAGE
*MAT_RATE_SENSITIVE_POWERLAW_PLASTICI
*MAT_COMPOSITE_FAILURE_MODE TY
L
*MAT_RESULTANT_PLASTICITY
*MAT_CRUSHABLE_FOAM
*MAT_RIGID
*MAT_ELASTIC
*MAT_SID_DAMPER_DISCRETE_BEAM
*MAT_ELASTIC_FLUID
*MAT_SOIL_AND_FOAM
*MAT_FRAZER_NASH_RUBBER_MO
DEL *MAT_SOIL_AND_FOAM_FAILURE
*MAT_HONEYCOMB *MAT_SPRING_ELASTOPLASTIC
*MAT_ISOTROPIC_ELASTIC_PLASTIC *MAT_SPRING_GENERAL_NONLINEAR
*MAT_JOHNSON_COOK *MAT_SPRING_MAXWELL
*MAT_LAMINATED_GLASS *MAT_STRAIN_RATE_DEPENDENT_PLASTICITY
*MAT_LINEAR_ELASTIC_DISCRETE_ *MAT_VISCOELASTIC
BEAM
*MAT_VISCOUS_FOAM
*MAT_LOW_DENSITY_FOAM
*MAT_MOONEY-RIVLIN_RUBBER
*MAT_NONLINEAR_ELASTIC_DISCR
ETE_BEAM
NODE *NODE
PART_OPTION *PART *PART_REPOSITION
*PART_INERTIA
Main Index
Category Keyword
RIGIDWALL *RIGIDWALL_GEOMETRIC_ *RIGIDWALL_GEOMETRIC_PRISM_MOTION
*RIGIDWALL_GEOMETRIC_CYLINDE *RIGIDWALL_GEOMETRIC_SPHERE_MOTION
R
*RIGIDWALL_PLANAR_
*RIGIDWALL_GEOMETRIC_FLAT
*RIGIDWALL_PLANAR_FINITE
*RIGIDWALL_GEOMETRIC_PRISM
*RIGIDWALL_PLANAR_ORTHO_FINITE
*RIGIDWALL_GEOMETRIC_SPHERE
*RIGIDWALL_PLANAR_MOVING
*RIGIDWALL_GEOMETRIC_CYLINDE
R_MOTION
*RIGIDWALL_GEOMETRIC_FLAT_MO
TION
SECTION *SECTION_BEAM *SECTION_SOLID
*SECTION_DISCRETE *SECTION_TSHELL
*SECTION_SHELL
SET *SET_NODE_COLUMN *SET_SHELL_COLUMN
*SET_BEAM *SET_SHELL_LIST
*SET_BEAM_GENERATE *SET_SHELL_LIST_GENERATE
*SET_DISCRETE *SET_SOLID
*SET_DISCRETE_GENERATE *SET_SOLID_GENERATE
*SET_NODE_LIST *SET_TSHELL
*SET_NODE_LIST_GENERATE *SET_TSHELL_GENERATE
*SET_SEGMENT
TITLE *TITLE
Main Index
Reject and Error File
Reject and Error File

The input file reader places all unsupported LsDyna keywords in a reject file which has the extension .rej.
Also keywords that cannot be read due to incorrect data are placed in an error file with a line describing
the error. The error file has the extension .err
Main Index
Chapter 6: Files
6 Files

Files 158
Main Index
Files
Files
The Patran LS-DYNA Preference uses or creates several files.The following table outlines each file, and
its uses. In the file name definition, jobname will be replaced with the jobname assigned by the user.
File Name Description
*.db This is the Patran database. During an analyze pass, model data is read
from, and during a Read Results pass, model and/or results data is written
into. This file typically resides in the current directory.
jobname.key This is the LS-DYNA input file created by the interface. This file typically
resides in the current directory
jobname.ptf This is the LS-DYNA state file (family) which is read by the Read Results
pass. This file typically resides in the current directory.
jobname.his This is the LS-DYNA time history file. This file typically resides in the
current directory.
jobname.flat This file may be generated during a Read Results pass. If the results
translation cannot write data directly into the specified Patran database it
will create this jobname flat file. This file typically resides in the current
directory.
LsDyna3dExecute This is a UNIX script file which is called on to submit the analysis file to
LS-DYNA after translation is complete. This file might need customizing
with site specific data. The file contains many comments and should be
easy to edit. Please see the LS-DYNA documentation for more details on
how to edit this file. Patran searches its path to find this file, but it typically
resides in the <installation_directory>/bin/exe directory. Either use the
general copy in <installation_directory>/bin/exe, or place a local copy in a
directory on the file path which takes precedence over the
<installation_directory>/bin/exe directory.
LsdynaPat3Submit This is a UNIX script which is called on to submit the results translation
program lsdynapat3. This file does not need site specific customization.
However, this file can be modified to meet specific needs. Patran searches
its file path to find this file, but it typically resides in the
<installation_directory>/bin/exe directory. Use the general copy in the
<installation_directory>/bin/exe/ directory, or use a local version by
placing this local version in a directory higher on the Patran file path.
Main Index
jp`Kc~íáÖìÉ=nìáÅâ=pí~êí=dìáÇÉ
Index
fåÇÉñ B newlink spot_weld, 78

Index bulk data file, 148 nodes, 20
C P
coordinate frames, 18 preferences, 12
properties, 62
E
elastoplastic, 33, 34, 36, 37, 39, 40, 41 R
element properties, 62 read input file, 148
elements results
grounded scalar damper, 67 supported entities, 144
grounded scalar spring, 66, 73, 75, 76
scalar damping, 75, 76 S
scalar mass, 65 supported entities, 13
scalar spring, 73, 74
solid, 88
standard homogeneous plate, 84
T
template database, 6
standard membrane, 85
F
files, 158
finite elements, 19, 21
I
input file, 148
L
load cases, 110
loads and boundary conditions, 91
M
materials, 30
multi-point constraints, 22
N
newlink butt_weld, 81
newlink fillet_weld, 79
Main Index
Main Index

Patran 2008 r1 Interface To LS-DYNA Preference Guide

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Patran 2008 r1

What is Included with this Product? 5

LS-DYNA Preference Integration with Patran 6

Patran LS-DYNA Preference Components 7

Configuring the Patran LS-DYNA Execute File 10

Loads and Boundary Conditions Form 92

Load Cases 110

Translation Control 115

Solution Parameters 116

Select Load Case 123

Output Controls 133

Select Groups for Set Cards 134

Subordinate Forms 141

Results File Size 145

5 Read Input File

Data Translated from the LS-DYNA Input File 152

Reject and Error File 156

Reading LS-DYNA Input Files

LS-DYNA Product Information

What is Included with this Product?

LS-DYNA Preference Integration with Patran

Patran LS-DYNA Preference Components

Figure 1-1 Forward Translation

Figure 1-2 Results File Translation

Figure 1-3 LS-DYNA Input File Translation

Configuring the Patran LS-DYNA Execute File

Introduction to Building a Model

Table 2-1 Supported LS-DYNA Entities

Table 2-1 Supported LS-DYNA Entities

Table 2-1 Supported LS-DYNA Entities

Table 2-1 Supported LS-DYNA Entities

Table 2-1 Supported LS-DYNA Entities

MPC Type Analysis Type Description

Degree-of-freedom Analysis Type

Tied Shell to Solid

Extra Nodes MPCs

Object Option 1 Option 2

Option 1 Option 2 Option 3

Option 1 Option 2 Option 3 Option 4

Option 1 Option 2 Option 3 Option 4

Option 1 Option 2 Option 3

Option 1 Option 2 Option 3 Option 4

Option 1 Option 2 Option 3 Option 4

Option 1 Option 2 Option 3 Option 4

Option 1 Option 2 Option 3

Element Properties Form

Object Type Option 1 Option 2

Object Type Option 1 Option 2

Action Dimension Type Topologies

Action Dimension Type Option(s) Topologies

Action Dimension Type Option(s) Topologies

Beam (General Section)

Action Dimension Type Option(s) Option 2 Topologies

Property Name Description

Beam (Dimensioned Section - Hughes-Liu)

Action Dimension Type Option(s) Option 2 Topologies

Property Name Description

Beam (Dimensioned Section - Belytschko-Schwer)

Action Dimension Type Option(s) Option 2 Topologies

Property Name Description

Action Dimension Type Option(s) Topologies

Action Dimension Type Option 1 Option 2 Topologies

Action Dimension Type Option 1 Option 2 Topologies

Use this form to create an ELEMENT_BEAM entry and MAT_SID_DAMPER_DISCRETE_BEAM

Creates a INITIAL_VELOCITY or INITIAL_VELOCITY_NODE entry (The latter when there is