You can specify that only the feature edges of a meshed part are visible, as described in Controlling edge visibility, Section 50.3. You use feature edges to mask the detail provided by a mesh; feature edges are typically the physical edges of the part being meshed and do not include all the additional element edges. Figure 505 shows a meshed part displayed at three different feature angles—0°, 5°, and 20°.
Feature edges are defined as adjacent edges with normals that differ by more than the “feature angle.” You can customize the feature angle when you select Feature mesh edge visibility. Larger angles will reduce the number of feature edges; conversely, smaller angles will cause more edges to be visible. The default mesh feature angle is 20°.
To set a mesh feature angle:
Locate the feature angle option.
From the main menu bar, select ViewPart Display Options or View
Assembly Display Options. In the dialog box that appears, click the General tab.
From the bottom of the dialog box, select Feature edges from the list of mesh edges to show.
ABAQUS/CAE displays an Angle data field to the right of Feature.
Click the Angle data entry field, and enter the desired feature angle.
Click OK to implement your changes and to close the dialog box.
Your changes are saved for the duration of the session.