24.2.1 Selecting a specific results step and frame

You can select a specific step and frame at which ABAQUS obtains model data and results. Available steps and frames consist of those for which analysis results have been saved. To view field output variables that you have created during the ABAQUS/CAE session, if any, you must select ResultStep/FrameSession Step. To view parametric shape variations defined in your analysis, if any, you must select ResultStep/FrameStep 0.

It is possible to open an output database for an analysis that is still in progress. As the analysis moves toward completion, the lists of completed steps and frames are updated every time you close and then reopen the Step/Frame dialog box.

For information on stepping through results frames, see Stepping through frames, Section 24.2.2.

To select a specific results step and frame:

  1. Locate the Step/Frame options.

    From the main menu bar, select ResultStep/Frame. The Step/Frame dialog box appears.

    The Step portion of the dialog lists the available steps, and the Frame portion of the dialog lists the available frames for the current output database.

    Note:  You can also access these options by clicking the Step/Frame button in the Field Output dialog box.

  2. From the Step list, click the step to display.

    The selected step is highlighted, and ABAQUS/CAE refreshes the Frame list to show only frames available for the selected step.

  3. From the Frame list, click the frame to display. Select Frame 0 to display the base state of the current step; for example, to contour initial stresses.

    The selected frame is highlighted.

  4. The model plot in the current viewport changes to show your model at the step and frame you have selected. If active, the text in the state block changes to identify the selected step and frame. For more information on the state block, see Customizing the state block, Section 37.3.

    ABAQUS refreshes the Field Output dialog box to list variables available for the selected frame. (You can access the Field Output dialog box by clicking the Field Output button on the bottom of the Step/Frame dialog box.) ABAQUS also refreshes all dialog boxes in which the current step and frame are identified.

    Your changes are saved for the duration of the session.


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