Contour plots, symbol plots, model probing, and X–Y plots of results along a model path all show the values of a particular field output variable at a specified step and frame of your analysis. Similarly, when you form a display group or specify color coding based on results, these results pertain to a particular field output variable. The variable whose values are shown is called the primary field output variable.
Deformed plots show the shape of your model based on the values of a nodal variable (such as displacement) at a specified step and frame of your analysis. The variable whose values are shown is called the deformed field output variable.
You can choose to display contour and symbol plots on either the undeformed or deformed model shape. When you use the deformed model shape, the contours or symbols represent the values of the primary field output variable, while the shape of the underlying model is determined by the values of the deformed field output variable.
To select field output:
Locate the Field Output options.
From the main menu bar, select Result
Field Output. The Field Output dialog box appears.
Tip: You can also access these options by clicking the Field Output button in any dialog box in which it appears.
Select the primary and deformed field output variables that you want as described in the following sections:
The model plot in the current viewport changes to show the variables you have selected. If active, the text in the legend and state block changes to identify the variables associated with the plot. For more information on the legend and state block, see “Customizing the legend,” Section 37.1, and “Customizing the state block,” Section 37.3. In addition, ABAQUS refreshes all dialog boxes in which the currently selected variables are identified.
