31.3.2 Controlling data pair X-values

ABAQUS obtains results along a path in the form of X–Y data pairs, calculating the data pair X-values based on the points you have specified for the path and optionally on additional points where your path intersects the model. For more information, see Choosing the path locations at which to obtain data, Section 31.3.1.

The node labels or point coordinates that comprise a path are usually not in a form suitable for direct use as X-values. ABAQUS offers several options for you to convert this series of points to useful X-values and subsequent X–Y plot axis labels.

To control data pair X-values:

  1. Locate the XY Data from Path options.

    From the main menu bar, select ToolsXY DataCreate. From the dialog box that appears, select Path; then click Continue. The XY Data from Path dialog box appears.

  2. At the top of the dialog box, click the Path arrow to select the path for which to obtain data.

    The model plot in the current viewport changes to highlight the path you have selected.

  3. In the X Values field, choose one of the following options to convert path points to X Values:

    • True distance: X-values correspond to each point's actual distance along the path in model space coordinates, starting with zero.

    • Normalized distance: X-values correspond to each point's distance along the path as a fraction of the total length of the path.

    • Sequence ID: X-values correspond to the order in which each point occurs in the path result list.

    • X, Y, or Z distance: X-values correspond to each point's actual distance along the path in the single coordinate direction you specify, starting with zero. This option is particularly useful for generating a plot of results versus radius in an axisymmetric model.

  4. To evaluate and display the data, click Plot.

    An X–Y plot appears in the current viewport. The plot represents the data you have configured in the dialog box, which ABAQUS considers temporary data whether or not you have clicked Save As to save it.

  5. To save the X–Y data pairs you have configured as an X–Y data object , click Save As.

    Note:  To plot your saved X–Y data object, select ToolsXY DataPlot from the main menu bar and choose the X–Y data object from the pull-right menu.

  6. When you have finished, click Cancel to close the dialog box.


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