Datum coordinates systems are used throughout ABAQUS/CAE; for example, to define material orientations and to define connector orientations. To help you keep track of your datum coordinate systems, you can name the systems when you create them, and the name appears alongside their entry in the Model Tree. When you choose CSYS from the Create Datum dialog box, the Method list displays the following methods for creating a datum coordinate system:
3 points
Define a rectangular, cylindrical, or spherical coordinate system by selecting the origin and, optionally, two additional points. In the case of a rectangular system, the second point defines the X-axis, and the X–Y plane passes through the second and third points, as shown in Figure 40–29. This is the most versatile tool for creating a datum coordinate system, and you should use it when possible. For detailed instructions, see “Creating a datum coordinate system defined by three points,” Section 40.9.1.
Offset from CSYS
Select a coordinate system; and provide the location of the rectangular, cylindrical, or spherical datum coordinate system by specifying an offset, as shown by the example involving a rectangular system in Figure 40–30. You can specify the offset by entering a value or by selecting a point. For detailed instructions, see “Creating a datum coordinate system at an offset from another coordinate system,” Section 40.9.2.
2 lines
Select two edges that define the rectangular, cylindrical, or spherical coordinate system. In the case of a rectangular system, the first edge defines the X-axis and the X–Y plane passes through the second edge, as shown in Figure 40–31. For detailed instructions, see “Creating a datum coordinate system defined by two lines,” Section 40.9.3.
