Specify Parts as Rigid

Define one or more parts in the model as rigid.

one of more parts can be defined as rigid. A rigid part can displace under the loading, but only as a rigid body (without deformation or strain). Rigid parts are computationally inexpensive, therefore, can be used to simplify the analysis model and reduce the analysis runtime. A typical application for rigid parts is modeling of relatively stiff parts in the assembly, for example, steel fasteners connecting plastic parts. Designating a part as rigid discards the material properties previously assigned to the part and replaces it with a total mass value. Rigid parts are indicated by the word “RIGID” in the material field of the Project Tree.

  1. In the Project Tree, click on the Assembly workbench.


    Figure 1.
  2. On the workbench, select Actions > Set rigid parts.
  3. In the modeling window, select the desired parts.
    The parts are listed in the Set parts rigid dialog.


    Figure 2.
  4. Assign mass in one of the following ways:
    • Select the Total mass of selected part(s) radio button. Specify value and unit in the text boxes.
    • Select the Assign mass based on material density radio button.
  5. Click OK.