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Step 5: Solution

The only solution option available in redAnTS is static deformation. Advanced FEA packages will offer solution options such as modal, buckling, etc. Select Static under the Solver menu. This assembles and solves the global matrix. Since this is a small problem with less than 100 elements, this takes very little time. Bigger problems will take much longer for the computer to crunch through. Verify that under Current Settings, the software reports Displacements done. Let's take a look at the nodal displacement values to check that they look plausible.

Nodal Displacements

Under Plotting, select Displacement. The nodal displacements are shown below.

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Does the displacement field satisfy the imposed boundary conditions shown in this figure? Are the largest displacements where you expect them to be? Are the normal displacements zero for the sides for which this condition is imposed?

Deformed Mesh

Let's take a peek at how the elements have deformed under the applied uniaxial tension. Under Plotting, select Deformed mesh. Since the deformations are usually very small, the program asks for a maginification factor to make them more visible in the plot. Enter 500 for the magnification factor and click OK. You can move the legend out of the way by dragging it with the mouse.

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