The structured meshing technique generates structured meshes using simple predefined mesh topologies. ABAQUS/CAE transforms the mesh of a regularly shaped region, such as a square or a cube, onto the geometry of the region you want to mesh. For example, Figure 17–42 illustrates how simple mesh patterns for triangles, squares, and pentagons are applied to more complex shapes.

You can apply the structured meshing technique to simple two-dimensional regions (planar or curved) or to simple three-dimensional regions that have been assigned the Hex or Hex-dominated element shape option. For more information about assigning element shapes to a region, see “Choosing an element shape,” Section 17.16.2.