A C++ version of FELBOW

This example illustrates the use of a C++ program to read selected element integration point records from an output database and to postprocess the elbow element results. The program creates X–Y data that can be plotted with the X–Y plotting capability in Abaqus/CAE. The program performs the same function as the Fortran program described in Creation of a data file to facilitate the postprocessing of elbow element results: FELBOW.

The program reads integration point data for elbow elements from an output database to visualize one of the following:

  1. Variation of an output variable around the circumference of a given elbow element, or

  2. Ovalization of a given elbow element.

The program creates either an ASCII file containing X–Y data or a new output database file that can be viewed using Abaqus/CAE.

To use option 2, you must ensure that the integration point coordinates (COORD) are written to the output database. For option 1 the X-data are data for the distance around the circumference of the elbow element, measured along the middle surface, and the Y-data are data for the output variable. For option 2 the X–Y data are the current coordinates of the middle-surface integration points around the circumference of the elbow element, projected to a local coordinate system in the plane of the deformed cross-section. The origin of the local system coincides with the center of the cross-section; the plane of the deformed cross-section is defined as the plane that contains the center of the cross-section.

You should specify the name of the output database during program execution. The program prompts for more information, depending on the option that was chosen; this information includes the following:

  • Your choice for storing results (ASCII file or a new output database)

  • File name based on the above choice

  • The postprocessing option (1 or 2)

  • The part name

  • The step name

  • The frame number

  • The element output variable (option 1 only)

  • The component of the variable (option 1 only)

  • The section point number (option 1 only)

  • The element number or element set name

Before program execution, compile and link the C++ program using the abaqus make utility: 

abaqus make job=felbow.C

After successful compilation, the program's object code is linked automatically with the Abaqus object codes stored in the shared program library and interface library to build the executable program. Refer to Customizing the Abaqus environment to see which compile and link commands are used for a particular computer.

Before executing the program, run an analysis that creates an output database file containing the appropriate output. This analysis includes, for example, output for the elements and the integration point coordinates of the elements. Execute the program using the following command: 

abaqus felbow <filename.odb>

The program prompts for other information, such as the desired postprocessing option, part name, etc. The program processes the data and produces a text file or a new output database file that contains the information required to visualize the elbow element results.

Elastic-plastic collapse of a thin-walled elbow under in-plane bending and internal pressure contains several figures that can be created with the aid of this program.