17.11.4 Parametric modeling

A useful feature of the Mesh module is the ability to regenerate partitions and mesh attributes—such as element type assignments, seeds, and mesh controls—after a part has been modified. (You must always recreate the mesh itself after modifying a model.)

For example, the model shown in Figure 17–81 has been partitioned into four regions and then seeded to specify an approximate element size of 3.

Figure 17–81 Seeded model with small hole.

You can return to the Part module and modify the hole at the center of the model so that it is slightly larger. When you return to the Mesh module, the partitions and the seeds are regenerated, as shown in Figure 17–82.

Figure 17–82 Seeds are regenerated after the part is modified.

In addition, settings in the Mesh Controls and Element Type dialog boxes (such as element shape, element type, and meshing technique) are also regenerated. (You can display these two dialog boxes by selecting MeshControls and MeshElement Type from the main menu bar.)

Note: If you drastically modify the part, the seeds and partitions may fail to regenerate. In these cases you must create new seeds and partitions after reentering the Mesh module.