Complete Multibody Dynamics Analysis with Adams

ADM701 Workshops
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 Contents
Workshop

1 Stamping Mechanism
2 Valve Train Mechanism
3 Adams Postproccessor Overview
4 Falling Stone
5 Projectile Motion
6 One DOF Pendulum
7 Inclined Plane
8 Lift Mechanism I
9 Lift Mechanism II
10 Lift Mechanism III
11 Suspension System I
12 Suspension System II
13 Suspension-Steering System
14 Spring Dmaper
15 Nonlinear Spring
16 Suspension-Steering System II

3 | TOC – ADM701 © MSC Software Corporation

 Contents
Workshop

17 Hatchback I
18 Hatchback II
19 Hatchback III
20 Hatchback IV
21 CAM-Rocker-Valve
22 Target Practicce
23 FE_PART
24 Switch Mechanism

Appendix
A Answer Key

4 | TOC – ADM701 © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 1
Stamping Mechanism

Control link
Stamp

Inking pad

Parcels
Conveyor
 • Workshop Objectives
• To understand the virtual prototyping process by improving the design of the stamping mechanism.
• Software Version
• Adams 2020
• Files Required
• aview.cmd
• Located in the directory exercise_dir/mod_01_stamper
• Problem Description
• This model represents a mechanism for stamping parcels that are moving along a conveyor belt.
• During the work cycle, the stamp does not contact the parcels that it is supposed to label.
• To fix this design flaw, modify the length of the control link.

3 | Stamping Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Suggested Exercise Steps
1. Start Adams View from Windows and import a file, or
2. Start Adams View from UNIX and import a file.
3. Change the length of the control link
4. Simulate the model
5. Investigate the results
6. Manually find the correct height
7. Perform a design study
8. Perform an optimization study

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 Step 1. Start Adams View from Windows and Import a File
If you are working on a Unix machine, skip to Step 2.
To start Adams View in Windows:
a. Click Start > All Programs > Adams 2020 > Adams View.
Alternatively, if you have the shortcut on your desktop you can double-click that.
b. From the Welcome dialog box, select Existing Model.
c. Click the file folder icon.
d. Select the directory Exercise_dir/mod_1_stamper. Executing Adams View in this directory
ensures that all saved data gets sorted here.
e. Click Select Folder. d b
f. Click on the file folder icon of the File Name.
g. Select the file aview.cmd and click Open

f
c

5 | Stamping Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Start Adams View from Windows and Import a File (Cont.)

a. Click OK on the Open Existing Model dialog box.

b. Read the information describing the model, and then in the upper right corner
select Close. Skip to step 3.

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 Step 2. Start Adams View from UNIX and Import a File

To start Adams View in Unix:

a. At the command prompt, enter the command to start the Adams Toolbar and then j
press Enter. The standard command that MSC Software provides is adamsx, where
x is the version number, for example adams2020.
b. From the Adams toolbar, right-click the Adams View tool .
c. Select Change Settings for AView. The Change Settings for AView dialog box
appears.
d. Select Working directory.
e. Right-click the Working directory text box, and then select “Select a Directory”. The
Select a Directory dialog box appears.
f. Select the directory mod_01_Stamper (exercise_dir/mod_01_stamper).
g. Select OK.
h. From the Change Settings for A/View dialog box select OK.
i. From the Adams toolbar, select the Adams View tool. Adams View starts and
automatically imports the commands to build:
• Model named stamp
• Fully customized version of Adams View
• After importing the commands, the information window appears.
j. Read the information describing the model, and then, in the upper right corner,
select Close.

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 Step 3. Change the Length of the Control Link

To change the length of the control link:

a. Select Stamper > Setting Up Model. The Stamper_Setup dialog box appears.
b. Use the left and right arrow buttons to modify the length of the control _link.
• The buttons shift the location of the top of the control_link upward and downward 3 mm at a time.
• The parts connected to the control link are parameterized in such a way as to move the
appropriate amount automatically whenever you adjust the length of the control link.
c. Watch the model change as you press these buttons.
d. To reset your model to the original configuration, select Reset. Leave the Stamper_Setup dialog box
open and continue with the next step. b d

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 Step 4. Simulate the Model

To simulate the model:

a. Select Stamper > Simulate. The Stamper_Simulate dialog box b
appears.
b. Choose single to simulate the current design variation,
c. Note: The default setting for Model Update is set to Never. If you
were to change Model Update from Never to At Every Output Step
the model would update on the screen but would not solve faster.
d. To solve the equations of motion for the current design, select
Apply. c
e. When a single simulation is completed, Adams View tells you what d
the penetration was during the simulation. A positive number
indicates penetration. To continue, click OK.
Leave the Stamper_Simulate dialog box open, and continue with the
next step.

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 Step 5. Investigate the Results

e
a

To investigate the results:

a. Select Stamper > Investigate Results. The Stamper_Investigate dialog
appears.
b. To see the motion resulting from the last simulation, select Animate Results.
c. If necessary, use the stop sign in the lower right corner of the window to stop
an animation before it has completed.
d. To plot the vertical travel of the stamper with respect to the parcel tops versus
time, as calculated from your last simulation, select Measure Stamp Height
above Parcels.
e. A stripchart appears, which shows a plot of the height of the stamp above the b
parcels. Note, your stripchart may look different depending on the value you
used in the Stamper_Setup dialog. In this example that value was 254 d
f. To save an existing curve so that the next simulation will not overwrite the
exiting curve but will be superimposed on the saved curve, select Save f
Curve.

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 Step 6. Manually Find the Correct Height

To manually find the correct Height:

a. Repeat the steps on the previous pages using 3 mm increments until you can identify
the control_link length at which the stamp makes contact with the parcels. Use this
value to answer Question 1 in the Workshop 1, Review section.

b. Helpful hint:
• If the stamp_height > 0, the stamper does not make contact with the parcels
• If the stamp_height < 0, the stamper makes contact with parcels.

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 Step 7. Perform a Design Study

The design study automatically analyzes the model using the specified
upper and lower limits for control_link length and the specified number
of runs. To perform a design study:
a. Choose Design Study on the Stamper_Simulate dialog box,. a
b. Default values for the upper and lower limit are given, but you can
modify these if you wish.
c. In this case, leave the number of Runs at 5.
d. Select Never as model update, to speed up the simulation,. b c
e. Click Apply to submit the design study.
d

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 Step 7. Perform a Design Study (Cont.)

a. The design study automatically analyzes the model. Click d

Close on the Information Dialog that informs you that the
design study was successful.
b. After the study is complete a stripchart and information
window appear.
c. From the information window, identify the range of the
control_link length values within which the stamp makes
contact with the parcels. Use this range to answer
Question 2 in the Workshop 1, Review section. a
d. Close the information window.
c

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 Step 8. Perform an Optimization Study

During an optimization study, Adams View systematically varies the control_link

length and runs a number of simulations until the specified penetration is a
achieved to within a set tolerance. To perform an optimization study:
a. Choose Optimization as Simulate the Model.
b. Enter Desired Penetration as 4.0 mm. You do not have to enter the units, b
Adams View will automatically use the default units set for the model.
c. Select Never as Model Update.
d. Click Apply to submit the optimization study.
c
e. The Information window appears displaying the control_link length for d
maximum penetration of 4mm.
f. Use this displayed value of the control link length to answer Question 3 in the
Workshop 1, Review Questions.
g. Click OK. e

f
g

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 Workshop 1, Review Questions

1. Using 3 mm increments, at what control link length do you first notice penetration?
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________

2. From the design study, what control link length results in penetration? How does this compare with your previous
results?
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________

3. If you specify a maximum desired penetration of 4 mm, what is the optimal length of the control link? How close is the
maximum actual penetration to the maximum desired penetration?
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________

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 Workshop 1, Review Questions

4. How many moveable parts does the model consist of?

_______________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________

5. How many joints does the model consist of ?

_______________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________

6. What would happen if you deleted the conveyor belt?

_______________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________

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 Workshop 2
Valve Train Mechanism

Rocker

Rod

Guide (ground)

Cam Valve
 • Workshop Objectives
• Use Adams View to manipulate, inspect, simulate, and animate the valvetrain mechanism.
• Software Version
• Adams 2020
• Files Required
• valve.cmd
• Located in the directory exercise_dir/mod_02_aview_interface directory

3 | Valve Train Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Problem Description

• The model represents a valvetrain mechanism.

• The cam is being rotated at a given velocity.
• The rod (follower) moves translationally based on its constraint to the cam.
• The rocker pivots about a pin attached to the engine block.
• The spring is always in compression to try and keep the rod in contact with the cam.
• The valve moves vertically as the rocker rotates.
• When the valve moves, it lets small amounts of air into the chamber below it (not modeled here).

Rocker

Rod

Guide (ground)

Cam Valve

4 | Valve Train Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Tips before you start. While working on this exercise, notice:

1. The use of the right mouse button

2. The function of single-clicks and double-clicks
3. The messages on the Status bar
4. The animation options

Suggested Exercise Steps

1. Import the file valve.cmd

2. View the list of keyboard shortcuts.
3. Use the zoom shortcut.
4. View the model from different angles.
5. Rename the parts.
6. Inspect the model.
7. Simulate the model.
8. Save the Simulation.
9. Animate the Results.
10. Save your work.

5 | Valve Train Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Import File

b
To import a file:
a. Start Adams View.
d
b. From the Welcome dialog box, select Existing Model.
c. Select file folder icon, and the Select Directory dialog box
appears.
d. Find and select the directory
Exercise_dir/mod_2_aview_interface.
e. Click Select Folder.
f. Click on the file folder icon of the File Name, select the file
valve.cmd and click Open. f

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 Step 1. Import File

a. Click OK on the Open Existing Model

dialog box.

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 Step 2. View the List of Keyboard Shortcuts

To view the list of keyboard shortcuts:

a. Move the cursor away from the model and then right-click in the Adams View window.
A menu appears listing the keyboard shortcuts.
b. To close the menu, left-click away from the menu.
c. In the space below, write the shortcut keys for performing the following view
operations.
• Rotate:__________________________
• Translate:________________________
• Zoom with a box:__________________
• Zoom into a specific Area:___________
• Fit:_____________________________
• Front View:_______________________

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 Step 3. Use the Zoom Box Shortcut

To use the zoom Box shortcut:

a. Zoom into the cam area by using the shortcut <w>.
b. Notice the instructions in the status bar instruct you to select the area.
c. Click the left mouse button in the place were you want the top left corner of
your zoomed in rectangle to be. c
d. Now the status bar instructs you to: drag to select size of view.
e. Draw a rectangular box around the cam.
f. You should now be zoomed into the cam area. e
g. Use the fit shortcut <f> to return to the original view.

f
d

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 Step 4. View the Model from Different Angles

To view the model from the top:

a. Use the Top shortcut <T> (Shift+t) and the view changes to a
top view.

Top View
To view the model from the right:
b. Use the Right shortcut <R> (Shift+r) and the view changes to
the right view.

To view the model in an isometric view:

c. Use the ISO view shortcut <I> (Shift+i) and the view changes b
to an isometric one.

If you wish you may continue to try the other shortcut keys.

Right View
Isometric View
10 | Valve Train Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation
 Step 5. Rename the Parts
Rocker

Rod
Guide
(ground)
Cam Valve
As you go through these instructions notice that right-clicking
always give you a list of choices while left clicking selects an
object.

To rename the parts to match the ones given in the diagram to the
right: a
a. From Model Browser, select the part displayed under the
Bodies tree. Same part will be selected and highlighted.
b. Right click and select Rename from the displayed menu.
c. In the Rename dialog box, change the name according to the
given diagram.
d. Click OK to change the part name.
e. Repeat the above steps a through e for the Rod, Cam, Guide,
and Valve.

b
c
d

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 Step 6. Inspect the Model

a
To inspect the model to determine the number and type of constraints: b
a. Right-click the small arrow on the Information tool stack on the
right side of the Status Bar at the bottom of the screen.
b. Select the Model topology by constraints tool.
c. From the Information window that appears, note the number and
type of constraints and use them to answer Question 1 in the
Workshop 2, Review Questions.
d
d. Close the Information window.

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 Step 6. Inspect the Model (Cont.)

To inspect the mode to check if the model verified successfully:

a. Right-click the small arrow at the bottom of the Information tool stack. b
b. Select the verify tool.
c. From the Information window that appears, notice that the model verified
successfully
d
d. Close the Information window.

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 Step 7. Simulate the Model
a
b

To run a simulation:
a. Select the ribbon Simulation. g f
b. From the options available select “Run an Interactive Simulation.”
c. In the Simulation Control dialog box select End Time. c d
d. In the text box adjacent to End Time, enter 2.0 e
e. In the text box adjacent to Steps enter 100.
f. Click Play tool.
g. When the simulation is complete, click the Reset tool.

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 Step 8. Save the Simulation

To save the simulation:

a. To save the last simulation results to the database under a new
name, select the Save simulation tool. The Save Run Results
dialog then appears
b. In the Name text box, enter a name for the simulation results, such
as first_results.
c. Click OK.
d. Close the Simulation Control dialog box.

b aa

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 Step 9. Animate the Results
i
c b
f
d e
d
To Animate the results in the default mode with icons off:
a. Switch to Animation Controls from Simulation Control.
b. To see the animation, click the Play button.
c. When the animation is complete, click the Reset tool.
d. To see the animation in incremental steps click either the +Inc to move
forward or the -Inc to rewind the animation.
e. The step number will be listed in the center between these two buttons.
f. When finished, click the Reset tool.

To animate the model with icons turned on:

g. At the bottom of the Animation Controls dialog box, enable Icons.

h. Repeat the step from b. to f. a
i. Close the Animation Controls dialog box.

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 Step 10. Save Your Work

To save your work so that the saved file contains only the model information:
a. Click File > Export.
b. Set File Type to Adams View Command File.
c. Enter valve1 as File Name Text box.
d. Enter valve as Model Name.
e. Click OK.
a
b
Since this is the last step for the workshop, you may manipulate the model c
and experiment with it as time permits. d

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 Workshop 2, Review Questions

1. How many constraints are there in this system? What type of constraints are they?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

2. Is it possible to have more than one model in a database?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

3. Is geometry a direct child of a model? If not, what is geometry a child of?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

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 Workshop 2, Review Questions

4. If you are in the middle of an operation and you are not sure what input Adams View wants next, where should you
look?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

5. If you are working with our technical support staff and you want them to look at one of your files, what file format
would you send them, a .cmd or .bin? Why?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

19 | Valve Train Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 3
Adams Postprocessor Overview

Rocker

Rod

Guide (ground)

Cam Valve
 • Workshop Objectives
• Use Adams View to manipulate, review, and refine the results of the valvetrain model, which you simulated in the
previous workshop.
• Software Version
• Adams 2020
• Files Required
• valve.cmd
• Located in the directory exercise_dir/mod_03_ppt_interface

3 | Adams Postprocessor Overview © MSC Software Corporation

 Problem Description

• The model represents a valvetrain mechanism.

• The cam is being rotated at a given velocity.
• The rod (follower) moves translationally based on its constraint to the cam.
• The rocker pivots about a pin attached to the engine block.
• The spring is always in compression to try and keep the rod in contact with the cam.
• The valve moves vertically as the rocker rotates.
• When the valve moves, it lets small amounts of air into the chamber below it (not modeled here).

Rocker

Rod

Guide (ground)

Cam Valve

4 | Adams Postprocessor Overview © MSC Software Corporation

 • Suggested Steps
1. Import the file valve.cmd.
2. Simulate the model.
3. Plot the Displacement vs Time.
4. Plot the Force in Spring vs Time.
5. Find the spring coefficient.
6. Modify the spring coefficient and simulate.
7. Overlay the plots for force in spring for both simulations.
8. Use the on-line help to get plot statistics.
9. Modify the plot title.
10. Modify the vertical axis label
11. Modify the legend text and placement.
12. Add an animation next to the plot.
13. Adjust the view of the animation model.
14. Play an animation of the results.
15. Change the color of the cam.
16. Modify the animation window view.
17. Enlarge the graphics that illustrate force.

5 | Adams Postprocessor Overview © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Import File

b
To import the file.
a. Start Adams View.
b. From the Welcome dialog box, select Existing Model. d
c. Click the file folder icon, and the Select Directory dialog box
appears.
d. Find and select the directory
Exercise_dir/mod_03_ppt_interface.
e. Click Select Folder.
f. Click on the file folder icon of the File Name, select the file
valve.cmd and click Open.
f

6 | Adams Postprocessor Overview © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Import File (Cont.)

a. Click OK on the Open Existing Model dialog box.

7 | Adams Postprocessor Overview © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Simulate the Model
a
b

To run a simulation:
a. Select Simulation.
b. Select “Run an Interactive Simulation.” g f
c. In the Simulation Control dialog box select End Time. c d
d. In the text box adjacent to End Time, enter 2.
e
e. In the text box adjacent to Steps, enter 100.
f. Click on the Play tool.
g. When the simulation is complete, click the Reset tool.
h. Save the simulation results with the name second_results just as you did
in Workshop 2.

8 | Adams Postprocessor Overview © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Plot Displacement vs Time

To Plot Displacement of the Valve verses Time:

a. Select Results > Adams PostProcessor tool or press F8.
b. In the dashboard at the bottom of the window, in the simulation section,
select the name of the results set you just saved (second_results) in the
previous step.
c. In the same section of Simulation, set Source to Measures.
d. From the Measure list, select Valve_Displacement.
e. In the right corner of the dashboard, click Add Curves.

b
d e

9 | Adams Postprocessor Overview © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Plot the Force in Spring vs Time

a
e
To Plot the Force in the Spring verse Time:
a. From the toolbar, select the Create a New Page tool. b
b. Notice that now in the treeview, on the left side of the Adams
PostProcessor window, you have two pages.
c. From the Measures list, select Force_in_Spring.
d. Click Add Curves.
e. To return to Adams View, in the upper right corner of the main
toolbar, select the Adams View tool or press F8.
Note: if you resized the Adams PostProcessor window the Adams
View tool may no longer be visible. If this happens, then stretch the
window to see the tool again.
d

10 | Adams Postprocessor Overview © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Find the Spring Coefficient value

a
a
To find the spring stiffness coefficient:
a. In the Model Browser, Under Forces, select SPRING_1. The
related spring will be highlighted as shown in the snapshot.
b
b. Right-click the SPRING_1 and select Info.
c. The Information window appears.
d. Note the value of the spring stiffness coefficient. Use that value to
answer Question 2 in the Workshop 3, Review Questions. c
e. Click Close on the information window. e

11 | Adams Postprocessor Overview © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 6. Modify the Spring Coefficient value and Simulate

a
To modify the spring stiffness to 200 lb/foot:
a. Right-click the SPRING_1 in Model Browser as done in previous step and then
select Modify. The Modify a Spring-Damper Force dialog box appears.
b. In the Stiffness Coefficient text box, enter 200 (lbf/foot). Note: in this case the
parentheses for the units are necessary because they are compound fractional
units.
c. Click OK.
d. Run a simulation, similar to how you did earlier in workshop 2 (page WS2-14), for
2 seconds with 100 steps, and then save the simulation results as third_results,
similar to how you did in workshop 2, page WS-15.

c
12 | Adams Postprocessor Overview © MSC Software Corporation
 Step 7. Overlay Plots of Force in Spring for Both Simulations

To overlay plots:
a. Select Results > Adams PostProcessor tool.
b. From the toolbar, select the Create a New Page tool. b
c. From the Simulation list, select both the second_results and the
third_results.
d. Select Measures as Source.
e. From the Measure list, select Force_in_Spring.
f. In the bottom right corner of the dashboard, under Independent Axis,
ensure that Time is selected.
g. Click Add Curves.

c g

e
f
d

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 Step 8. Zoom and Pan Within a Plot

a e
c

To Zoom a plot:
a. From the toolbar, select the Zoom Into Area tool or use keyboard
shortcut “w”.
b. Click and drag a box to zoom in that area.

To Pan within a plot

c. From the toolbar, select the Pan Plot tool or use keyboard shortcut “p”. b
d. Pan the plot by mouse left click, drag and release or with keyboard
arrow keys.
e. From the toolbar, select the Fit tool or use keyboard shortcut “f” to refit
the plot to its extent.

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 Step 9. Use Online Help to get Plot Statistics

a
To use the help to get the Plot statistics tool:
a. From the Adams Post-Processor’s help menu, select Adams PostProcessor
Help.
b. Select Building Plots > Plot Basics > Displaying Plot Statistics About
Curves.
c. After reading the information, use the Plot Statistics toolbar to find the maximum
Force_in_Spring value in the third simulation, when the spring coefficient was 200
lbf/foot.
d. Once you find the Force_in_Spring value, use it to answer Question 3 in the
Workshop 3, Review Questions.

15 | Adams Postprocessor Overview © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 10. Modify the Plot Title

To modify the plot title:

a. In the treeview, click on the + sign to expand page_3. a
b. Click on the + sign to expand plot_3.
c. Select title.
d. In the property editor below the treeview, clear the current title
valve, and then enter the new title Spring Force vs Time.
b

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 Step 11. Modify the Vertical Axis Label

To change the vertical axis label:

a. In the tree view, select vaxis for page_3. a
b. In the Property editor, select the Labels tab.
c. Change the label to Spring Force (lbf).

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 Step 12. Modify the Legend Text and Placement

To modify the Legend Text:

a. In the treeview, select curve_1 under page_3.
b. In the property editor below, change the Legend text box to K = d
100 (lbf/foot)
c. Repeat steps a and b for curve_2, only change the Legend text
box to K = 200 (lbf/foot).

To modify the legend placement:

d. In the treeview, select legend_object, for page 3.
e. In the property editor below, set Placement to Top right.
b

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 Step 13. Add an Animation Next to the Plot

To add an animation next to your plot:

a. In the treeview, select page_2
b. Split the screen by right-clicking on the Page Layout tool b
stack in the main toolbar. c
c. Select the Split Screen tool.
a

19 | Adams Postprocessor Overview © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 13. Add an Animation Next to the Plot

a. Set the new viewport to Animation by right-clicking in the b

viewport and choosing Load Animation from the pop-up menu.
b. From the Database Navigator, select the third_results.
c. Click OK.

20 | Adams Postprocessor Overview © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 14. Adjust the View of the Animation model

To adjust the view of the animation model:

a. Adjust your view of the model on your screen using the tools in the main
toolbar. The figure below highlights the tools that are available. Try
experimenting with these tools.

Center View Zoom

Dynamic Translate
Dynamic Rotate View Fit
Front, top, side, back, bottom, and
Select
isometric views

Wireframe/Shaded toggle
Icon Visibility toggle

21 | Adams Postprocessor Overview © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 15. Play an Animation of the Results

To play an animation of the results:

a. Verify that the animation window is selected.
b. To play the animation, press the play button.
c. To pause the animation, press the pause button.
d. To Play the animation backwards, press the Rewind button.
e. When finished animating the results, press the Reset button.

e d c b

22 | Adams Postprocessor Overview © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 16. Change the Color of the Cam
b

To change the color of the Cam:

a. Verify that you have the animation window selected. From the tree view,
expand the model by clicking on the + sign next to the model named valve.
b. Select Cam.
c. In the property editor, set Color as Coral.

23 | Adams Postprocessor Overview © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 17. Modify the Animation Window View
a
b g
c h
d i l
e j k
f

To modify the animation window view:

a. Click View Tab.
b. Enable the Display Icons box , and notice the icons are now displayed on the model.
c. Enable the Perspective box, and see that the model now has perspective added to it.
d. Enable the Title box, and the title is added to the window in the upper left corner.
e. Enable the FPS in Title box, and the frames per second is displayed with the title.
f. Enable the Display Triad box, and the triad is displayed in the lower right corner.
g. Left click and drag the Light intensity slide bar to change the light intensity, you may also enter a value to the right.
h. Left click and drag the Ambient Light slide bar to change the ambient light, you may also enter a value to the right.
i. Left Click and drag the Light Angle slide bar to change the light angle, you may also enter a value to the right.
j. To toggle light reflections, enable Light Reflections.
k. To toggle two-sided lighting, enable Two-Sided Lighting.
l. You can change the light source by clicking on the light source direction that you desire. Note: This will affect the Light Intensity value.

24 | Adams Postprocessor Overview © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 18. Create Appearance rule
l
a
b

To create an Appearance rule which will change the color of Valve part, when spring force is non-zero: c
a. Click on the Appearance Tab.
d
b. Click on New Rule, which displays the Create Animation Appearance Rule dialog box. e
c. Fill an appearance rule description, as Valve_Movement_Color. f
d. Right click in Entity to Modify field and pick Valve. g
e. Select Attribute to Modify as Color from the drop down menu.
f. Right click in Modified Setting field and select color as RED. h j k
g. Set Re-Evaluate as Persistence from the drop down menu. i
h. Set Result-Set as Quantity from the drop down menu.
i. Right click and select result set component as Force_in_Spring.
j. Set > as Condition from the drop down.
k. Set 0 as Value and click OK.
l. Play the animation again to check the effect of Appearance rule.

25 | Adams Postprocessor Overview © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 19. Enlarge the Graphics that Illustrate Force
f

To Enlarge the graphics that illustrate

force:
a. From the Edit menu, select
Preferences. The PPT Spring
Preferences dialog box appears. Force
b. Enter 100 for the Force Scale. a g
c. Click Save.
d. Note: Verify that you save your
changes in this dialog box before
you close it. If you do not save
your changes, they will not be
made.
e. Click Close.
f. On the main toolbar, click
b
Wireframe/Shaded.
g. Now you can animate (play
button) the model and view the
position and direction of the
reaction force.
h. Return to Adams View, and Save
your work.

c e
26 | Adams Postprocessor Overview © MSC Software Corporation
 Workshop 3, Review Questions

1. What is the mass of the valve? What is this mass currently based on?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

2. What was the stiffness coefficient of the spring when you first opened the model?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

3. What was the maximum spring force when the spring coefficient was 200 lbf/foot?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

27 | Adams Postprocessor Overview © MSC Software Corporation

Workshop 4
Falling Stone
 • Workshop Objectives
• For a stone falling under the influence of gravity with zero initial velocity, find the displacement, velocity, and
acceleration of the stone after one second.
• Software Version
• Adams 2020
• Files Required
• none
• Use the directory exercise_dir/mod_04_falling_stone.
• Problem Description
• A stone is falling due to the influence of gravity.

3 | Falling Stone © MSC Software Corporation

 • Suggested Steps
1. Create a new model.
2. Build the stone.
3. Rename the stone.
4. Set the mass of the stone.
5. Create measures for the falling stone.
6. Verify the Model.
7. Run the simulation.
8. Find the value of the stones displacement.
9. Find the value of the stones velocity.
10. Find the value of the stones Acceleration
11. Save Your Work
12. Optional tasks

4 | Falling Stone © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Create a New Model

To create a new model:

a. Start Adams View.
b. From the Welcome to Adams dialog box, select New Model.
c. Set the directory to exercise_dir/mod_04_falling_stone.
d. Enter Projectile as model Name.
e. Verify that Gravity is set to Earth Normal (-Global Y).
f. Verify that Units are set to MMKS - mm, Kg, N, s, deg.
g. Click OK.

d
e
f
c

5 | Falling Stone © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Build the Stone
b

To build the stone:

a. So that you will know at which coordinates you are placing the
center of the sphere, view the coordinates as you create the a c
sphere. From the View menu, select Coordinate Window. The
coordinate dialog will appear. e
d
b. From the ribbon Bodies, select Rigid Body: Sphere.
c. In the generated Definition container, select New Part from the
drop down menu.
d. Enable Radius box.
e. Enter (50mm) as Radius size.
f. Select center location of sphere (Here select global zero location
as a center for the sphere).

6 | Falling Stone © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Rename the Stone

a
To rename the stone: a
a. From Model Browser, select the part displayed
under the Bodies tree by left clicking. Sphere will be
selected and highlighted.
b. Right click and select Rename from the displayed
menu.
c. Enter .Projectile.Stone as New Name, and then click
OK. b

c
c

7 | Falling Stone © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Set the Mass of the Stone

a
To set the mass to 1 kg:
a. From Model Browser, right-click the Stone part
under Bodies tree and then select Modify.
b. Select User Input as Define Mass by.
c. Enter 1.0 as Mass.
d. Click OK.

b
c

8 | Falling Stone © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Create Measures for the Falling Stone

b
To create a measure to calculate the displacement in
the ŷg direction: c
a. From Model Browser, right-click the Stone and
select Measure, the Part Measure dialog should d
appear.
a
b. Enter displacement as Measure Name.
c. Set Characteristic as CM position.
d. Set Component as Y.
e. Enable Create Strip Chart. e
f. Click OK. f
g. A measure stripchart appears. It is empty because
you need to run a simulation before Adams View
has the necessary information for the stripchart.
g

9 | Falling Stone © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Create Measures for the Falling Stone

To create a measure to calculate the velocity of the stone in the

ŷg direction:
a. From Model Browser, right-click the stone and select
Measure. A dialog box will appear.
b. Enter velocity as Measure Name.
c. Set Characteristic as CM velocity.
d. Set Component as Y.
e. Select Create strip chart. a
f. Select OK. b

To create a measure to calculate the acceleration of the stone in c

the ŷg direction:
a. Follow the instructions above with the following changes: d
g
• Measure Name: acceleration
• Characteristic to CM acceleration.

e f

10 | Falling Stone © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 6. Verify the Model

When you verify the model, Adams View checks for error
conditions such as misaligned joints, unconstrained parts, or a
massless parts in dynamic systems and alerts you to any
possible problems in the model.

To verify the model:

a. In the right corner of the Status bar, right-click the
Information tool stack, and then select the Verify tool.
b. In the Information window, check that the model has c
verified successfully.
c. Close the Information window.

11 | Falling Stone © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 7. Run the Simulation

First you should zoom out so that the falling stone is

clearly visible while it simulates. To Zoom out:
a. Select the Zoom tool, and then click and drag the
mouse to zoom out until the entire working grid is
visible.
b. Select the Translate tool, and then drag the working
grid to the top of the screen.

b a

12 | Falling Stone © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 7. Run the Simulation a
a

To run a simulation for 1 second with 50 steps:

a. From the ribbon Simulation, select “Run an Interactive
Simulation.” e c
b. In the End Time text box, enter 1.0 and in the Steps text
box, enter 50. b
c. Click Play tool. b
d. As the stone falls, Adams View plots the corresponding
data on the displacement, velocity, and acceleration
graphs.
e. When the simulation ends, reset the model to the input
design configuration by selecting the Reset tool.
f. Animate the simulation to replay the simulation without
d
simulating again.

13 | Falling Stone © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 8. Find the Value of the Stones Displacement

To find the value of the stone’s displacement after 1 second:

a. Right-click the blank area inside the strip chart
displacement, point to Plot:scht1, and then select b
Transfer to Full Plot. c
b. Adams PostProcessor replaces the Adams View window.
c. In Adams Postprocessor, from the main toolbar, select e
the Plot Tracking tool. e
d. Because you want to know the final conditions after 1
second, move the cursor over the end point of the plot.
e. In the area below the menu bar, the value of X is
displayed as 1. Note the value of Y; this is your answer to
Question 1 in the Workshop 4, Review Questions.
f. Compare this value of Y to the results given in the
closed-form solution. See Workshop 4, Review.

14 | Falling Stone © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 9. Find the Value of the Stones Velocity

f
To find the value of the stone’s velocity after 1 second:
a. Select Surf. f
b. This lets you view a selected measure without using the
Add Curves button.
c. Set Source as Measures.
d. From the Measure list, select velocity.
e. Because you want to know the final conditions after 1
second, move the cursor over the end point of the plot.
f. In the area below the menu bar, the value of X is e
displayed as 1. Note the value of Y; this is your answer
for Question 2 in the Workshop 4, Review Questions.
g. Compare this value of Y to the results given in the
Closed-form solution, see Workshop 4, Review. a

15 | Falling Stone © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 9. Find the Value of the Stones Acceleration

g
e
To find the value of the stone’s acceleration after 1 second:
a. Set Source to Measures. f
b. From the Measure list, select acceleration.
c. To display the acceleration plot, select Surf.
d. Because you want to know the final conditions after 1 second, d
move the cursor over the end point of the plot.
e. In the area below the menu bar, the value of X will be
displayed as 1. Note the value of Y; this is your answer to
Question 3, in the Workshop 4, Review Questions.
f. Compare this value of Y to the results given in the Closed-
form solution. See Workshop 4, Review.
g. To return to Adams View and close all three plots, select the c
Adams View tool. b

16 | Falling Stone © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 10. Save Your Work

To save the model such that the file contains only the model information:
a. Select File > Export.
b. Make sure that the File Type is set to Adams View Command File.
a
a
c. Enter File Name and click OK.
b
d. If you want to further explore the model, as suggested in the next
section, leave the model open. Otherwise, proceed with the next c
step. d
e. Exit Adams View.

17 | Falling Stone © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 11. Optional tasks

Save your work before performing these tasks. Do not save your work after performing these
tasks because you will use this model in the next module. If you must save the model after
performing these tasks, give the model a different name.

To inspect the behavior of the stone after changing its mass:

a. Change the mass of the stone to 2 kg.
b. Simulate the model.
c. Compare the results of this simulation with the results of the simulation where the mass of
the stone was 1 kg.
d. Does changing the mass affect the displacement, velocity, or acceleration?
e. Measure the kinetic energy of the stone. Do these results make sense?
f. K.E. = (1/2)m*v2
g. Exit Adams View.

18 | Falling Stone © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 4, Review Questions

1. What is the displacement of the stone after one second?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

2. What is the velocity of the stone after one second?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

3. What is the acceleration of the stone after one second?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

19 | Falling Stone © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 4, Review Questions

4. What are the most basic building blocks in Adams which are used in parts, constraints, forces, and measures?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

5. Why is the ground part automatically created?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

6. Can Adams View automatically calculate mass properties for two-dimensional geometry?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

20 | Falling Stone © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 4, Review

• Closed-form solution
Analytical solution:
• s = ½ (at2) = 4903.325 mm
• v = at = 9806.65 mm/sec
• a= g = 9806.65 mm/sec2
• KE = (1/2)*1kg *(9806.65mm/sec)2 = 4.8085e7(kg*mm2/s2)
• conversion to N: 1 N = 1 (kg*m/s2)
• KE = 4.80852e7[(kg*mm/s2)(1m/100mm)]*mm = 48085.2 N*mm
• where
s = Distance (mm)
a = Acceleration (mm/sec2)
t = Time (sec)
v = Velocity (mm/sec)
m = mass (kg)

21 | Falling Stone © MSC Software Corporation

Workshop 5
Projectile Motion
 • Workshop Objectives
• To compute the range, R, when a stone is launched as a projectile with an initial speed of 6 m/s at an angle of 60o
• Software Version
• Adams 2020
• Files Required
• Saved model from Workshop 4, or stone_completed.cmd
• Located in the directory exercise_dir/mod_04_falling_stone/completed
• Problem Description
• In this workshop you will use the stone that you built in Workshop 4 – Falling Stone.

3 | Projectile Motion © MSC Software Corporation

 • Suggested Steps
1. Import file.
2. Build the plane.
3. Set up the initial conditions.
4. Create a measure for the projectile motion.
5. Run the simulation.
6. Find the time at which the stone makes contact with the plane.
7. Create a point trace of the projectile motion.
8. Find the Horizontal Displacement.
9. Save your work.
10. Optional tasks.

4 | Projectile Motion © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Import File

b
To import a file: f
c
a. Start Adams View.
b. From the Welcome to Adams dialog box, select Existing Model.
c. Set the directory to exercise_dir/mod_05_projectile.
d. Click on Select folder.
e. Find and select the model file Projectile.cmd, which you completed
in the previous workshop.
f. Note that the model file is not in the current working directory. It is
in the directory exercise_dir/mod_04_falling_stone.
e
g. If you need a fresh copy of the model, import the command file c
stone_completed.cmd from the directory d
exercise_dir/mod_04_falling_stone/completed/.
h. Click OK.
g

5 | Projectile Motion © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Build the Plane

a
Build the plane:
a. From the Settings menu, select Working
Grid.
b. Enter 4000 as Size: X. b c
c. Enter 3000 as Size: Y. d
d. Enter 50 for both the X and Y Spacing, and
then click OK.
e. Zoom out by typing a lowercase z, and then
left-click and drag the mouse until the entire
working grid is displayed on the screen.

6 | Projectile Motion © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Build the Plane

a. To turn on the coordinate window, use View > Coordinate Window.

b. From the ribbon Bodies, select the Box tool.
c. In the toolbox container: a
• Select On Ground. c
• Enable Length, and then in the Length text box, enter 3500 mm. d
• Enable Height and Depth options, and then in the Height and Depth
text boxes, enter 100 mm.
d. Use the mouse to select the corner of the box at 0, -150, 0.
e. The stone should appear balanced at the upper left corner in a front view.

Note: The box will be white if it is on ground. If the box has a different color it
is a new part and should be deleted.

7 | Projectile Motion © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Set Up Initial Conditions

To set initial conditions to

a
Vx0 = 6000*cos(60°) = 3000 mm/sec
Vy0 = 6000*sin(60°) = 5196 mm/sec:
a. From Model Browser, right-click the stone and select Modify.
b. Set Category to Velocity Initial Conditions.
c. Under Translational velocity along, enable the X axis, and
in the X axis text box, enter (6*cos(60d)(m/sec)) or
(3000(mm/sec)).
d. Under Translational velocity along, enable the Y axis, and
in the Y axis text box, enter (6*sin(60d)(m/sec)) or b
(5196(mm/sec)).
e. Click OK.
c
d

8 | Projectile Motion © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Create a Measure for the Projectile Motion

Create an object (part) measure to calculate the horizontal

displacement, xg, of the stone’s center of mass (cm) marker
when it is projected:
a. From Model Browser, right-click the Stone and then select
Measure. The Part Measure dialog should appear. a
b. Enter R_displacement as Measure Name.
c. Set Characteristic to CM position. b
d. Set Component to X.
e. Enable Create Strip Chart. c
f. Click OK.
d
g. The R_displacement strip chart should appear.

9 | Projectile Motion © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Run the Simulation
a

f
To run a simulation for 1.5 seconds, using a sampling rate of 0.02
seconds: g e
a. From the ribbon Simulation, select Run an Interactive b
Simulation. c d
b. Enter 1.5 as End Time.
c. Select Step Size.
d. Enter 0.02 as Step Size.
e. Select Play tool.
f. Adams View runs the simulation and plots the corresponding
data in the stripchart for the R_displacement measure.
g. When the simulation ends, click the Reset tool.

10 | Projectile Motion © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 6. Find the Time at Which the Stone Makes Contact with the Plane

To find the range (R):

a. From the ribbon Result, select the Animation Control
Dialog box tool. c b
f
b. Select the Play tool.
c. When the stone makes contact with the plane, select the d
Stop tool.
d. Use the Step Forward and Step Backward tools to obtain
the exact point at which the stone makes contact with the
plane. e
e. Note the time at which the stone makes contact with the
plane in the plot. (The time is displayed in the upper-left
corner of the Adams View window.) Use this to answer
Question 1 in the Workshop 5, Review Questions.
f. Click the reset tool.

11 | Projectile Motion © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 7. Create a Point Trace of the Projectile Motion

f
c d
To create a point trace to view the trajectory of the projectile
during an animation:
a. Set No Trace as Trace Marker.
b. Right-click the empty text box that appears, select Marker,
and then select Browse.
c. From the Database Navigator, select Stone.cm. The
marker name should appear in the text box.
d. Click the Play tool.
e. As the projectile is simulated it should now trace its motion.
f. Close the Animation Controls dialog box.
a

b
e

12 | Projectile Motion © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 8. Find the Horizontal Displacement

To find the horizontal displacement:

a. Right-click a blank area inside the R_displacement stripchart, point to
Plot: scht1, and then select Transfer to Full Plot. b c
b. Adams PostProcessor replaces Adams View. g
c. Select the Plot Tracking tool.
d. Because you want to know the displacement when the stone makes e
contact with the plane, move the cursor over the plot until the value of X
is equal to the time at which contact was made.
e. Note the value of displacement, Y. Use this value to answer Question 2 d
in the Workshop 5, Review Questions.
f. Compare this value of Y to the results given in the closed-form solution,
which is shown in the Workshop 5, Review Questions.
g. Click the Adams View icon to return to model.

13 | Projectile Motion © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 9. Save Your Work

To save your work (such that the file contains not only the model information,
but also the results and plots): a
a. Select File > Save Database As.
b. Enter projectile as File Name text box,, and then select OK.
c. Adams View creates a binary file that contains not only the model
information but also the results and plots.
d. If you want to further explore the model, as suggested in the next section,
leave the model open. Otherwise, proceed with the next step.
e. Exit Adams View.

14 | Projectile Motion © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 10. Optional Tasks

Save your work before performing these tasks. Do not save your work after performing
these tasks. If you must save the model after performing these tasks, give the model a
different name.

To follow the stone during an animation:

a. Zoom in on the stone.
b. From the Results ribbon, select Animation Controls.
c. Now change the reference frame while animating.
d. On the Animation Controls dialog box, change Fixed Base to Base Part. Select the
part to which you want to fix the camera.
e. Go to the Adams View online help and look up the Animation Controls dialog box to
read about the other functionality available.

15 | Projectile Motion © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 5, Review Questions

1. At what time does the stone encounter the plane?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

2. What is the range, R, of the projectile?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

3. If a part’s initial velocity conflicts with a system constraint, which will take precedence during a simulation?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

4. What modifications would be necessary to convert the stone into a pendulum?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

16 | Projectile Motion © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 5, Review Questions

• Closed-form solution for Range

• The analytical solution for R, the range covered by the projectile, is as follows:

17 | Projectile Motion © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 6
One DOF Pendulum
 • Workshop Objectives
• Find the pendulum frequency.
• Software Version
• Adams 2020
• Files Required
• No files required
• Use exercise_dir/mod_06_pendulum
• Problem description
• Find the initial force supported by the pin at A for a bar that swings in a vertical plane, given the initial angular
displacement (θ0) and initial angular velocity (θ0).

3 | One DOF Pendulum © MSC Software Corporation

 • Suggested Steps
1. Create a new model and build the pendulum link.
2. Build sphere section.
3. Rename the pendulum.
4. Set the mass.
5. Build the pivot.
6. Rename the pivot
7. Create tracking measures.
8. Create a reference marker.
9. Create angle measure.
10. Set up the initial conditions.
11. Verify your model.
12. Run simulation and determine components.
13. Determine the frequency and save.
14. Optional tasks

4 | One DOF Pendulum © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Create a New Model and Build the Pendulum Link

To create a new model:

a. Start Adams View, select New Model and set the directory to
exercise_dir/mod_06_pendulum.
b. Create a model named pendulum.
• Gravity set to Earth Normal (-Global Y) f
• Units set to MMKS - mm, Kg, N, s, deg.
To build the link:
c. Turn on the coordinate window. Click View > Coordinate window. c
d. From the ribbon Bodies select Link tool.
e. In the container:
• Select New Part.
• Select Length, and in the Length text box, enter 450 mm, and then press Enter.
• Select Width, and in the Width text box, enter 20 mm, and then press Enter.
• Select Depth, and in the Depth text box, enter 27.5 mm, and then press Enter. e f
f. Using the mouse, select 0, 0, 0 and 450,0,0 as the endpoint locations.
g. TIP: use the Location Event (right-click away from the model) to help select the endpoints. d
When you right-click the Location Event appears in the lower left corner of the Adams
View window. Enter the coordinates for the link in the upper text box and then press enter.

5 | One DOF Pendulum © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Build Sphere Section

a
To build the sphere section:
a. Select Bodies > Sphere tool.
b. In the container:
• Select Add to part.
• Select Radius, and in the Radius text box, enter (25mm), and
then press Enter.
b
c. Using the mouse, select PART_2, which is the link, as the part to
add to. c d
d. Using the mouse, select 450,0,0 as the location.

Note: The sphere should be the same color as the link; if not,
Undo the creation of the sphere then repeat while making sure
that Add to part is selected.

6 | One DOF Pendulum © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Rename the Pendulum

To rename the pendulum:

a. Right-click the part related to link and select Rename.
b. The Rename Object dialog box appears.
c. Enter .pendulum.pendulum as New Name, and then click OK.

c
c

7 | One DOF Pendulum © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Set the Mass

b
a c

To set the mass of the pendulum: d

a. Right-click the pendulum part under Bodies and select Modify.
b. Set Define Mass by as User Input.
e
c. Enter 2.0 as Mass.
d. Enter 0 as Inertia (Ixx, Iyy, Izz),.
e. Right-click the Center of Mass Marker text box, point to
pendulum.pendulum.cm, and then select Modify.
f. Enter 450, 0, 0 as Location.
g. Click OK in both dialog boxes.
f

8 | One DOF Pendulum © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Set the Mass

a. You will receive a warning in the Message Window

concerning the change in position of your center of
mass marker. b
b. Click Close to close the Message Window.
c. Your model should look like this:

9 | One DOF Pendulum © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Build the Pivot
a

To build the pivot:

a. From the ribbon Connectors, select Revolute joint tool.
b. In the container, select 2 Bod-1 Location and Normal to Grid.
c. Select Pick Body as First and then select the pendulum. b
d. Select Pick Body as Second and select the ground.
c
e. Select 0, 0, 0 as the location.
d

10 | One DOF Pendulum © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 6. Rename the Pivot

To rename the joint:

a. From Model Browser, right-click the revolute joint (JOINT_1)
and then select Rename.
b. Enter .pendulum.pivot as New Name, and then select OK.

b
b

11 | One DOF Pendulum © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 7. Create Tracking Measures
a

Create an Object (joint) measure to track the force supported by the pin in the 𝑋𝑋�𝑔𝑔
direction. To create object measure:
a. From Model Browser, right-click the pivot joint and then select Measure.
The Joint Measure dialog box will appear.
b. In the dialog box:
• Enter pivot_force_x as Measure Name.
• Set Characteristic to Force, and select X as the Component.
• Verify that the pendulum marker and Create Strip Chart are selected.
• Click Apply.
• (Note) A strip chart displays the force during simulation and animation.

Create an Object (joint) measure to track the force supported by the pin in the ŷg
direction. To create object measure:
c. In the dialog box:
• Enter pivot_force_y as Measure Name. b
• Set Characteristic to Force, select Y as the Component. c
• Verify that the pendulum marker and Create Strip Chart are selected.
• Click OK.
• (Note) A stripchart displays the force during simulation and animation.

12 | One DOF Pendulum © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 8. Create a Reference Marker

To create a reference marker:

a. Under the ribbon Bodies, select the Marker tool available in
the Construction.
b. In the container, verify that Add to Ground and Global XY
Plane are selected.
c. Using the mouse, select 600, 0, 0 as the location.
d. With the marker still selected, from the Edit menu, select
Rename. b c
e. Enter .pendulum.ground.angle_ref as New Name, and
then click OK.
d

e
e

13 | One DOF Pendulum © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 9. Create Angle Measure

Create the angle measure to track the angular displacement of the

pendulum, θ. To create an angle measure:
a. Under the ribbon Design Exploration, select Create a new
Angle Measure from Measures.
b. Click Advanced in the container.
c. Enter pend_angle as Measure Name.
d. Right-click the First Marker text box, point to Marker, and then c
select Pick.
e. On the screen, pick a marker that is on the pendulum and at its
end (for example, select the cm marker). d
f
Tip: Right-click the end of the pendulum to select the cm b
marker.
f. Right-click the Middle Marker text box, point to Marker, and
then select Pick.
g. Pick a marker that is at the pivot location.

14 | One DOF Pendulum © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 9. Create Angle Measure (Cont.)

a. Right-click the Last Marker text box, point to Marker, and

then select Pick.
b. Pick the marker that is on the ground and at the end of the a
pendulum (this is the marker that you created in the previous
b
section, .pendulum.ground.angle_ref).
Note: By aligning the marker .pendulum.ground.angle_ref with
the cm marker, the initial value of the measure will be zero.
c. Click OK. c

15 | One DOF Pendulum © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 10. Set Up the Initial Conditions

To specify the initial conditions of joint as:

Displacement initial condition θ0 = 30º a
Initial velocity condition θ0 = 300º/sec :
a. From Model Browser, right-click the pivot joint and select Modify. The
Modify Joint dialog box will appear.
b. Click Initial Conditions.
c. In the Joint Initial Conditions dialog box:
• Select Rot. Displ and, in the Rot Displ. text box, enter -30.
• Select Rot. Velo. and, in the Rot Velo. text box, enter -300.
d. Click OK in the Joint Initial Conditions box.
e. Click OK in the Modify Joint box. b
c

e d

16 | One DOF Pendulum © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 11. Verify Your Model

To verify your model:

a. Select the Verify tool (from the Status bar, right-click the
Information tool stack).
• The Information window appears as shown: a
• You may also receive a warning that the initial conditions for the
joint position does not match the design configuration. This is
what we expect.
b. Close the Information window.
b

17 | One DOF Pendulum © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 12. Run Simulation and Determine Components

c d
a
f
To simulate your model:
a. Run a simulation for 2 seconds with 100 steps.

To determine the global components (x, y) of the initial force supported by

the pivot. e
b. Right-click the blank area inside the pend_angle stripchart, point to
Plot: scht1, and then select Transfer to Full Plot. (as done in previous
workshops)
c. Adams PostProcessor replaces Adams View.
d. Select the Plot Tracking tool.
e. Move the cursor over the plot at t =0.
f. In the area below the main toolbar, note the value of Y.
g. Set Source to Measures. i
h. From the Measure list, select pivot_force_x.
h
i. Select Surf.

18 | One DOF Pendulum © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 12. Run Simulation and Determine Components (Cont.)

a. Move the cursor over the plot at t = 0.

b. In the area below the main toolbar, note the value of Y. Use this
value to answer question 1, in the Workshop 6, Review
Questions.
c. From the Measure list, select pivot_force_y. a
d. Move the cursor over the plot at t = 0.
e. In the area below the main toolbar, note the value of Y. Use this
value to answer question 1, in the Workshop 6, Review
Questions.

19 | One DOF Pendulum © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 13. Determine the Frequency and Save

To determine frequency, estimate the frequency by determining the period

(seconds) and then inverting that value to obtain Hertz:
a. From the Measure list, select pend_angle.
b. Estimate the period of the curve.
c. Invert the period to find Hertz. This is the answer to Question 2 in
b
workshop 6, Review Questions.
d. Return to Adams View.
e. Save results as Joint_res. a
f. Save the curves on all three strip charts by right-clicking each curve, and
then selecting Save curve.
Save your work:
g. Use the Save As option to save your modeling session as a binary file. This
file will contain not only the model information, but also the results and
plots. If you want to further explore the model, as suggested in the next
section, leave the model open. Otherwise, proceed with the next step.
h. Exit Adams View.

20 | One DOF Pendulum © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 14. Optional Tasks

Save your work before performing these tasks. Do not save your work after performing these tasks. If you must save the model after performing these
tasks, give the model a different name.

To find the frequency of the pendulum automatically by performing a Fast Fourier Transformation (FFT) on the plot of theta versus time:
a. Run a simulation using the following settings:
• End time = 1.65 (approximate time of one period)
• Steps = 127
b. In Adams PostProcessor, from the Plot menu, select FFT.
c. The FFT dialog box will appear.
d. When preparing for an FFT operation, we recommend that:
• The number of points be an even power of two (for example, 128, 256, 512, and so on). By solving the equation and asking for 127 steps, you
will get 128 data points; 127 + 1 for the initial conditions.
• You set Window Type to Rectangle.
• You select Detrend Input Data.
e. To perform the FFT, select Apply. To learn more about these values, press F1.
You should get approximately the same frequency as you did by calculating it manually.
The peak value of the resultant curve is at the natural frequency.
f. Return to Adams View.
g. Exit Adams View.

21 | One DOF Pendulum © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 6, Review Questions

1. What are the global components of the initial force supported by the pivot?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

2. What is the frequency of the pendulum using the initial conditions in the problem statement?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

3. If the initial velocity of a part can be set through a connecting joint and the part itself, which will Adams View use if
they are both set?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

22 | One DOF Pendulum © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 6, Review Questions

4. If a model (human_hip) had two parts (femur and hip_bone) constrained by a joint, I and J markers would be created
by Adams. If one marker were named MAR_1, and the other MAR_2, what would the complete name of the I and J
markers be?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

5. Can the I and J markers for a joint belong to the same part? Why?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

23 | One DOF Pendulum © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 6, Review Results

• Results
• Adams results
• Horizontal force supported by the pivot at A = - An cos 30.
• Vertical force supported by the pivot at A = An sin 30.
• Closed-form solution

24 | One DOF Pendulum © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 6, Review Results

• The analytical solution for the force supported by the pivot at A when θ0 = 30º and ω0 = 300 degrees/sec:

∑M A = IAα − mg(Lcos30) = (mL2 )α

gcos30 = Lα
g
α=− cos30
L
α = −18.88rad/sec 2

mgcos30 − A t = mLα
∑ F = mrα
t

A t = m(gcos30 − Lα )

A t = 0N

∑F n = mrω 2 A n − mgsin30 = mLω 2

A n = m(gsin30 + Lω 2 )

A n = 34.53N
25 | One DOF Pendulum © MSC Software Corporation
Workshop 7
Inclined Plane

or 386.4 in/sec2
 • Workshop Objectives
• Use Adams View to obtain the minimum angle at which the crate starts to slide off the ramp.
• Software Version
• Adams 2020
• Files Required
• none
• Use: exercise_dir\mod_07_inclined_plane

3 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Problem Description

• Using the properties shown below to build the model

or 386.4 in/sec2

4 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 • Suggested Steps
1. Create a new model and adjust the working grid.
2. Build the parts.
3. Rename the parts and set the mass of the crate.
4. Set the inclination angle.
5. Constrain the model.
6. Take measurements.
7. Verify the model.
8. Add joint friction.
9. Create a group.
10. Rotate the group.
11. Find inclination angle.
12. Optional tasks.

5 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Create a New Model and Adjust the Working Grid

To create a new model: c

a. Start Adams View, select New Model and set the directory to
exercise_dir/mod_07_inclined_plane.
b. Create a model named inclined_plane.
• Gravity set to Earth Normal (-Global Y) d
• Units set to IPS - inch, lbm, lbf, s, deg.
To adjust the spacing and orientation of the working grid:
c. From the Settings menu, click Working Grid.
d. Set Spacing to (1in) in the x and y direction.
e. Verify that the working grid is oriented along the global XY direction (default
setting when you open Adams View). The Set Orientation pull-down menu allows
you to choose Global XY, YZ, XZ, or custom orientation.
f. Select Global XY from Set Orientation.
g. Click OK.
e f

6 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Build the Parts

a
When creating parts, use an inclination angle of 0º. You will rotate the parts to the
desired inclination angle later in the exercise. Be sure to set the ramp geometry
to be on ground.

To build the parts:

a. From ribbon Bodies select Box under Solids. c
b. Build the ramp geometry using the following parameters: b
• On Ground
• Length: 46in
• Height: 2in
• Depth: 8in
c. Build the crate geometry using the following parameters:
• New Part
• Length: 10in
• Height: 4in
• Depth: 8in

7 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Build the Parts (Cont.)

a. Position the crate near the end of the ramp, as shown next:

Crate
Ramp a

8 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Rename the Parts and Set the Mass of the Crate

b
To rename the crate and the ramp geometry: c
a. From Model Browser, right click the ramp box geometry (BOX_1)
under Bodies tree and select Rename.
b. Enter Ramp as New Name.
c. Click OK.
d. Repeat steps a,b,c for PART_2, naming it Crate. d

To set the Mass of the crate to 100 lbm: a

e. Right-click the Crate and select Modify.

9 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Rename the Parts and Set the Mass of the Crate

a. Set Define Mass by to User Input.

b. Enter 100lbm as Mass.
c. Click OK.

a b

10 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Set Inclination Angle

Now you are going to rotate the model 15º. Because the ramp is on ground a
and you cannot rotate ground, to rotate the ramp, you are going to change the
orientation of the ramp’s corner marker to 15, 0, 0. The orientation of this
marker sets the orientation for the ramp. You’ll use the Rotate tool to rotate the
crate since it is not on ground. You’ll rotate the crate about the same axis that
you rotated the ramp about.
b
To rotate the ramp to an Inclination angle, θ = 15º:
a. Right-click the ramp’s corner marker, point to MARKER_1, and then select
Modify.
b. In the Orientation text box, change 0,0,0 to 15,0,0.

Ramp
Crate

Corner marker

11 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Set Inclination Angle (Cont.)

a. In the Standard toolbar, from the Move tool stack, right click and a
select the Align & Rotate tool.
b. In the container, in the Angle text box, enter 15 as the increment by
which to rotate the crate. After you enter this value, if your cursor does
not sweep the text box (that is, move from inside the text box to b
outside the text box), press Enter to ensure that the text box
registered the value you entered.
c. Select the crate as the object to rotate.
d. Select the z-axis of MARKER_1 (on the ramp) as the axis about
which to rotate.

Tip: To easily select the z-axis, it helps if you slightly rotate the view
around the x-axis, or right click and select desired marker.

12 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Set Inclination Angle

a. Completed rotation should look like:

13 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Constrain the Model

To create a translational joint between the ramp and the crate.

a. From the ribbon Connector select Translational Joint tool.
b. Use the options 2 Bod-1 Loc and Pick Feature.
c. Set the location of the translational joint at the crate geometry’s
base marker, MARKER_2. Join the crate and ramp c
d. Set the vector so it points up the ramp: select the x-axis of
MARKER_2.

14 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 6. Take Measurements

Create an object (part) measure (as you did in Workshop 6, page WS6-12) for
the crate’s acceleration along the ramp, use the following parameters.
a. Select Characteristic as CM acceleration
b. Choose Component as X
c. Represent coordinates in: MARKER_1 (for the location of the corner a
marker, see the Figure on page W7-12).
b

15 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 7. Verify the Mechanism

To verify the mechanism:

a. Simulate the model for 1.0 second and 50 steps. a
b. Find the value of the crate’s (constant) acceleration.
c. To verify this value, see Without friction in the Workshop
7, Closed-form solution.
d. If the values do not match, check the units in the closed-
form solution and in the model.

16 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 8. Add Joint Friction

Tip: Be sure that the only friction forces to consider are those resulting
from reaction forces.

To add friction to the translational joint:

a. Display the joint’s modify dialog box, right-click the translational joint
and select Modify. a
b. In the lower right corner of the Modify dialog box, select the Friction
tool.

17 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 8. Add Joint Friction (Cont.)

a. Fill in the coefficients of friction, μs = .3 and μd = .25.

b. Leave the remaining friction parameters at their a
default values.
c. In the Input Forces to Friction section, disable
Bending Moment and Torsional Moment.
d. Simulate the model and note if the crate slides off the
ramp.
e. Right-click on the curve in the stripchart, and then
select Save Curve.

18 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 9. Create a Group

To easily rotate both ramp and crate, create a group:

a. From the Model Browser select Groups. Right click and select New Group. a
b. Make a group, named rotated_objects, containing:
• The crate part.
• The joint.
• All of the geometry (including markers) on the ramp, but not the ground
part itself, because, remember, you cannot rotate ground.
• Tip: Right-click the Objects in Group text box, and browse for the objects
you need. You can select multiple objects by holding down the Ctrl key.
The figure to the right shows the objects you should select:

19 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 10. Rotate the Group

To rotate the group 20o:

a. In the Standard toolbar, from the Move tool stack, select the
Precision Move tool. a
b. Set Relocate the to group.
c. In the text box to the right of Relocate the, enter the group name,
rotated_objects.
d. Set the menus in the second row to About the and marker.
e. In the text box to the right of these menus, enter MARKER_1.
The Precision Move tool rotates objects in increments about a
specified axis of the marker you just selected.
f. In the rotational text box, enter 5.
b

c
d e

20 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 10. Rotate the Group (Cont.)

g. Select the Z-axis box. Note that you

can select the axis box (either X, Y, or
Z) to rotate a group to the desired
orientation. The following shows the
Precision Move dialog box after you’ve
completed this procedure.
h. Do not click OK or Apply, just click
Close.

Because you have already rotated the ramp to 15 degrees, and

now you want to rotate it to 20, enter 5 as the angle

21 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 11. Find Inclination Angle

To find the inclination angles between which the crate starts to slide:
a. Simulate the model and note if the crate slides off the ramp.
For an end time of 0.5 seconds, verify that the crate acceleration a
versus time stripchart matches the adjoining figure. The initial
spike is due to the acceleration (due to gravity) present at t=0.
b. Through trial and error, find the approximate angle (within 0.5º) at
which the crate starts to slide off the ramp. Use it to answer
Question 1 in the Workshop 7, Review Questions.
c. Save your model and, unless you want to further explore the model
as suggested in the next section, exit Adams View.

22 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 12. Optional Tasks

Save your work before performing these tasks. Do not save your work after performing
these tasks. If you must save the model after performing these tasks, give the model a
different name.

To view an animation and its corresponding plot simultaneously:

a. Open Adams PostProcessor.
b. Create two views by right-clicking the Window layout tool on the toolbar and selecting
the 2 Views, side by side tool.
c. Select the left view.
d. Plot crate acceleration versus time.
e. Select the right view, and then change the Plotting menu to Animation.
f. Right-click the right view, and then select Load Animation.
g. Run the animation.

23 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 7, Review Questions

1. What is the approximate angle (within 0.5º) at which the crate starts to slide off the ramp?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

2. How can you tell if you can automatically add friction to a joint type?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

3. What are the I and J markers?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

4. If a joint with friction enabled crosses its stiction threshold velocity (ΔVs), how does the maximum stiction
displacement (ΔXs) affect the system?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

24 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 7, Closed-Form Solution

• Without friction:

For � Fx = max ⟹ −mg ⋅ sinθ = max

ax = −gsinθ
θ = 15° , ax = −32.2sin(15° )

ax = −99.96in/sec 2 ( − 8.33ft/sec 2 )

25 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 7, Closed-Form Solution

• With friction: � Fy = 0 ⟹ −mg ⋅ cosθ + N = 0

N = mg ⋅ cosθ

Maximum angle (θ max ) at which the crate will not slide:

� Fx = 0 ⟹ Ff − mg ⋅ sinθmax = 0

μs ⋅ N − mg ⋅ sinθmax = 0

μs ⋅ mg ⋅ cosθmax − mg ⋅ sinθmax = 0

μs − tanθmax = 0

θmax = atan(μs ) = atan(0.30) = 16.7°

26 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 7, Closed-Form Solution

Once the crate starts sliding,

� Fx = max ⟹ Ff − mg ⋅ sinθ = max

μk ⋅ N − mg ⋅ sinθ = max
μk ⋅ mg ⋅ cosθ − mg ⋅ sinθ = max

For ax
μk ⋅ cosθ − sinθ =
g
ax = (μk cosθ − sinθ) ⋅ g

θ = 20° ,ax = (0.25 ⋅ cos20° − sin20° ) ⋅ 32.2ft/sec 2

ax = −40.3in/sec 2 ( − 3.45ft/sec 2 )

27 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 7, Adams Results

At angle θ = 15° ,a = 6.63e−5 ≈ 0

At angle θ = 20° , the crate accelerates down the inclined plane at:
a = −41.35in/sec 2 ( − 3.45ft/sec 2 )
Based on the angular increments of 0.5°
(16.5° < θmax < 17.0° )

28 | Inclined Plane © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 8
Lift Mechanism I

Bucket

Boom

Shoulder

Base

Mount
 • Workshop Objective
• Use Adams View to create each moving part of the lift mechanism.
• Optional – if you’d like a challenge, build this model without going through the detailed steps presented on the
following slides. Use the dimensions shown on the next page to build the following parts of the model:
• Create the base
• Create the mount
• Create the shoulder
• Create the boom
• Fillet the mount to round off the edges
• Create the bucket
• Chamfer the bottom edges of the bucket
• Hollow out the bucket
• Otherwise, continue by following the detailed instructions.
• Software Version
• Adams 2020
• Files Required
• Use the directory exercise_dir/mod_08_lift_mech_1

3 | Lift Mechanism I © MSC Software Corporation

 Problem Description

• Use the diagram and the properties shown below to help you build the lift mechanism. All units are in meters

Bucket

Boom

Shoulder

Base

Mount

4 | Lift Mechanism I © MSC Software Corporation

 • Tips before you start

• Check the three-dimensional view of the model at regular intervals to verify that the parts are being placed in the
right location.
• Rename parts as soon as you build them.
• You should save your model periodically throughout the modeling process. This becomes more important as you
start to build complex models (recall the crawl-walk-run approach introduced in Workshop 5—Projectile Motion).

• Suggested Steps

1. Create a new model and adjust the working grid.

2. Build the base.
3. Build the mount.
4. Build the boom and shoulder.
5. Build the bucket.
6. Hollow out the bucket.
7. Check model topology and save
8. Optional tasks.

5 | Lift Mechanism I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Create a New Model and Adjust the Working Grid

To create a new model:

a. Start Adams View, select New Model and set the directory to
exercise_dir/mod_08_lift_mech_1.
b. Create a model named lift_mech.
• Gravity set to Earth Normal (-Global Y) c
• Units set to MKS - m, kg, N, s, deg.

To adjust the working grid:

d
c. Adjust the grid based on the measurements given in the diagrams on
slide 4. The grid must be slightly larger than the maximum height and
width of the model. (20 m x 20 m grid, with 1 m spacing in each
direction should be good.)
d. Because the grid spacing is much greater than the default, you’ll have
to zoom out to see the grid on your screen

6 | Lift Mechanism I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Build the Base

To build the base refer to the diagrams on slide 4:

a. Build the base part.

Tip: Note the orientation of the block with respect to the XY plane. To get the marker
coordinates, right-click on the location where you started to draw the base, point to the
name of the marker, and then select Info. Bring up coordinate window. c
b
b. By default, the screen icons are set for models in millimeters. Because your model
is in meters, you should adjust the icon sizes so you can see the icons. To adjust
the icons, from the Settings menu, select Icons.
c. Set New Size to 1.

7 | Lift Mechanism I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Build the Mount

To build the mount refer to the diagrams on slide 4: d

a. Build the main feature of the mount part by creating a block.

Apply fillets to the mount part using the Fillet tool:

b. In both the Radius and End Radius text boxes, enter 1.5 m.
c. Left-click each edge, and then right-click to create. Refer to the image
below to see the edges you should select.
d. Inspect your model. Note that the mount must be centered on the
base. If necessary, use the vector option of the Point-to-Point tool
(also known as the Position: Move-Translate tool) on the Move tool
stack to slide the mount along the base, in the global z direction, by
2.25 m.

8 | Lift Mechanism I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Build the Boom and Shoulder

a. Before building the shoulder, set the working grid to cut

through the center of the block representing the mount part:
Settings > Working Grid e
b. For Set Location select Pick, and then select the cm marker
of the mount.
c. Change the spacing of the working grid to 0.5 m. If you do not
change the spacing, you will notice that when you try to create c
the shoulder part, Adams View snaps to the nearest grid point,
thus building the shoulder in a position that is not parallel to the
base part.
d. Use the Cylinder tool to build the shoulder part.
e. Build the boom part.
f. Use the Location Event, as you did in building the pendulum
link (Workshop 6, page 5) to start the cylinder 2 meters over
from the center-of-mass (cm) marker of the mount part. d
b

9 | Lift Mechanism I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Build the Boom and Shoulder (Cont.)

a. The filleted mount part should look as shown.

10 | Lift Mechanism I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Build the Bucket

b
To build the bucket:
a. Build a block with the largest dimensions of the bucket:
• Length = 4.5 m
• Height = 3.0 m
• Depth = 4.0 m
b. Chamfer the front and back bottom edges of the block using
the Chamfer tool available under ribbon Bodies > Features:
• In the Width text box, enter 1.5 m.
• Left-click each edge, and then right-click to create. Refer
to the next figure to see the edges you should select.

11 | Lift Mechanism I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Build the Bucket (Cont.)

12 | Lift Mechanism I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 6. Hollow out the Bucket

a. Hollow out the solid bucket using the Hollow (out a solid) tool.
• Enter 0.25 as Thickness,. b
• Pierce the top face of the bucket.
b. The hollowed bucket should look as shown to the right.

13 | Lift Mechanism I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 7. Check Model Topology and Save

To check model topology:

a. Check model topology by parts (from the Status bar, right-click a
the Information tool stack, and then select the Model
topology by parts tool) to ensure that there are no floating
parts that are not accounted for.
b. There should be six parts, including ground.

Save your work

a. Save your work such that the saved file contains only the model
topology and not the results (File > Export).

14 | Lift Mechanism I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 8. Optional Tasks

To refine the geometry of the lift mechanism:

a. Using the Torus tool, add tires to the lift mechanism.
b. Using the Fillet tool, round the edges of the base.

15 | Lift Mechanism I © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 8, Review Questions

1. What is the basic difference between construction geometry and solid geometry?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

2. In this workshop were instructions for changing the position of parts. Name three of the four methods introduced.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

16 | Lift Mechanism I © MSC Software Corporation

Workshop 9
Lift Mechanism II
 • Workshop Objective
• In this workshop, you will use the model you previously built in (Workshop 8-Lift Mechanism I) and create joints.
• Optional:
• If you’d like a challenge, add the following joints and motions without going through the detailed steps presented on
the following slides.
• Rotational motion to the mount-to-base joint.
D(t) = 360d*time
• Rotational motion to the shoulder-to-mount joint.
D(t) = STEP5(time, 0, 0, 0.10, 30d)
• Translational motion to the boom-to-shoulder joint.
D(t) = STEP5(time, 0.8, 0, 1, 5)
• Rotational motion to the bucket-to-boom joint.
D(t) = 45d*(1-cos(360d*time))
• Otherwise, continue by following the detailed instructions.

3 | Lift Mechanism II © MSC Software Corporation

 • Software Version
• Adams 2020
• Files Required
• Use directory exercise_dir/mod_08_lift_mech_1
• Tips before you start
• Use the figure on slide 8 to find out what type of constraints you need.
• Simulate the model at regular intervals to check the constraints.
• Rename joints as soon as you create them.
• Adjust icon sizes whenever necessary (see Set up the working environment on slide 7 of Workshop 8 — Lift
Mechanism I.)

4 | Lift Mechanism II © MSC Software Corporation

 • Problem Description
• Use the diagram below for the placement of the joints.

5 | Lift Mechanism II © MSC Software Corporation

 • Suggested Steps
1. Import model and construct constraining parts.
2. Verify and simulate.
3. Add joint motion.
4. Run simulation and export.
5. Perform optional tasks.

6 | Lift Mechanism II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Import Model and Constrain Parts

To import model:
a. From the Welcome dialog box, select Existing Model.
b. Set the Working directory to exercise_dir/mod_09_lift_mech_2.and disable Use File
Directory as Working Directory.
c. Find and select the model file which you completed in the previous workshop from the directory
exercise_dir/mod_08_lift_mech_1,
d. If you need a fresh copy of the model, select and opens the command file,
lift_mech_I_completed.cmd, from the directory
exercise_dir/mod_08_lift_mech_1/completed.

In this section, you’ll constrain the parts that you created in the previous workshop. To constrain the
parts:
f
e. Use the Fixed joint tool to fix the base to ground.
f. Constrain mount to base (revolute joint):
• Use the options 2 Bod-1 Loc and Pick Geometry Feature.
• Place the joint at the mount’s cm marker.
• Select the + x-axis of the cm marker of the mount part as the axis for the rotation.

7 | Lift Mechanism II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Constrain Parts

a. Constrain shoulder to mount (revolute joint):

• Use the option Normal To Grid.
• Right-click to select the cylinder’s anchor marker.
b. Constrain the boom to the shoulder (translational Joint):
• Use the option Pick Feature.
c b
• Select the z-axis of the anchor marker as the axis for the
translation.
c. Constrain the bucket to the boom (revolute joint): a
d. Use the option Normal To Grid.
• Select the end point of the cylinder.

8 | Lift Mechanism II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Verify and Simulate

To verify your model:

a. Check model topology by connection (from the Status bar, right-
click the Information tool stack, and then select the Model
topology by connections tool) to ensure that all the parts are
constrained as expected.
b. Perform a simulation.
a
c. Are the visual results of the simulation (the animation), what you
expected?

9 | Lift Mechanism II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Add Joint Motion

B
A

Add joint motions to your model:

a. Build the joint motions using the default expressions in the container
and then modify the expressions using the Motion Generators, use
Rotational Joint Motion (A) for revolute joint and translational
motion (B) for Translational Joint.
• Follow Modify dialog box (right-click the joint, point to the joint
name, and then select Modify).

To add joint motions: a

b. Use the Rotational Joint Motion tool to add a motion to the mount-
to-base joint such that:
• D(t) = 360d*time
b

10 | Lift Mechanism II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Add Joint Motion (Cont.)

a
a. Add a motion to the shoulder-to-mount joint such that:
• D(t) = -STEP5(time, 0, 0, 0.10, 30d)
• Note: By using Normal to Grid, the motion will be opposite the illustration
in Problem statement (by the right-hand rule). When a motion is opposite
of what you expect, add a negative sign in front of the expression, in the
Modify Motion dialog box.
We will discuss the specifics of the STEP function in the next module, Lift
Mechanism III.
b. Add a translational motion to the boom-to-shoulder joint such that:
• D(t) = -STEP5(time, 0.8, 0, 1, 5)
• Note: if arm is angled downwards, remove (-). Right hand rule.
c. Add a motion to the bucket-to-boom joint such that:
• D(t) = 45d*(1-cos(360d*time))
b c

11 | Lift Mechanism II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Run Simulation and Export

Run a simulation:
a. Run a simulation such that the mount achieves one
full rotation.

Save your work:

a. Save the model such that the saved file contains only
the model topology and not the results (File >
Export).

12 | Lift Mechanism II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Run Simulation and Export (Cont.)

• During the simulation the module should look like below

13 | Lift Mechanism II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Optional Tasks

If you did not already do so as explained in the Optional tasks for Lift Mechanism I:
a. Add tires to your model using the Torus tool.
b. Constrain the tires to the base using revolute joints.

14 | Lift Mechanism II © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 9, Review Questions

1. What are the markers that a joint refers to called?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

2. When motion is applied to a joint, what dictates its direction (positive versus negative)?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

3. Are motions considered a constraint? Why?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

4. Is it possible to determine the torque required to achieve a prescribed motion imposed on a revolute joint? How?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

15 | Lift Mechanism II © MSC Software Corporation

Workshop 10
Lift Mechanism III
 • Workshop Objective
• Constrain the bucket such that the base of the bucket always maintains its horizontal orientation (thus keeping the
bucket passenger safe) as shown next:

3 | Lift Mechanism III © MSC Software Corporation

 • Problem description
• In this workshop, you use the model you saved in (Workshop 9 — Lift Mechanism II) to create a passenger safe
bucket ride.
• Software Version
• Adams 2020
• Files Required
• Use directory exercise_dir/mod_09_lift_mech_2

4 | Lift Mechanism III © MSC Software Corporation

 • Suggested Steps
1. Import the model.
2. Constrain the bucket.
3. Verify the orientation of the constraint.
4. Verify the module and perform simulation.
5. Export your work.
6. Perform optional tasks.

5 | Lift Mechanism III © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Import Model

To Import Model:
a. Select Existing Model and start Adams View from the directory
exercise_dir/mod_10_lift_mech_3.
b. From the directory exercise_dir/mod_09_lift_mech_2,
search and opens the model that you created in the previous module.
c. If you need a fresh copy of the model, open the command file,
lift_mech_II_completed.cmd, from the directory
exercise_dir/mod_09_lift_mech_2/completed.
d. Module should look like so:

6 | Lift Mechanism III © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Constrain the Bucket

Now you will constrain the bucket to ground using the appropriate joint
primitive. To constrain the bucket:
a. Delete the motion on the bucket-to-boom joint.
b. Verify the model. The model should have only one degree of freedom.
c. From the ribbon Connectors go through the Primitives. c
d. Select the appropriate joint primitive and use it to constrain the bucket:
• Use the construction method 2 Bodies - 1 Location and see Example
of I and J markers in a perpendicular joint primitive in Section 11,
slide 6, for assistance.
• Select the bucket and then select the ground. d
• When selecting the markers, note that I marker can be any marker on
the bucket part and the J marker can be any ground marker (note that
there is one at the fixed joint location, pick both locations for the
markers on the joint.).
d
• When selecting the direction, select the first direction as the x
direction of the I marker, and the second direction as the y direction
of the J marker.

7 | Lift Mechanism III © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Verify the Orientation
a

Now you will confirm that you created your joint primitive correctly by verifying b
the orientation of its I and J markers. To verify the orientation:
a. Get information on the perpendicular joint primitive that you just created
by right-clicking on the joint icon and selecting Info.
b. Note the names of the I and J marker, and then select Close.

• I marker name: _______________________________

• J marker name: _______________________________

c. Select the I marker (on the bucket) and verify that the z-axis of the marker
on the bucket is pointing in the (positive or negative) global x direction.
d. Select the J marker (on the ground part) and verify that the z-axis of the
marker on ground is pointing in the (positive or negative) global y
direction. d
Note: If the I and J markers for your joint primitive do not match the
orientations in steps 3 and 4, then you may have made a mistake when you
created this joint.

8 | Lift Mechanism III © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Verify the Module and Run Simulation

To verify the model and run a simulation:

a. Verify the model. The model should have zero degrees of freedom.
b. From the Settings menu, point to Solver, and then select Display.
a
c. Set Icons to On.
d. Simulate the model.

d b

9 | Lift Mechanism III © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Export Work

To save your work:

a. Save the model such that the saved file contains only the
model topology and not the results (File > Export).
b. Unless you want to further experiment with the model, as
instructed on the following page, exit Adams View.

10 | Lift Mechanism III © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 6. Optional Tasks

To complete extra tasks from previous module:

a. If you did not already do so as mentioned in the Optional tasks, of Lift
Mechanism 1, Workshop 8:
• Add tires to your model using the Torus tool.
• Constrain the tires to the base using revolute joints.
To make the bucket transparent:
b. From the View menu, select Render Mode, and then select Shaded.
c. Right-click bucket from the Model Browser and select Appearance.
d. To set the transparency of the part, use the slider bar:
e. 0%: fully visible, 100%: completely invisible.

11 | Lift Mechanism III © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 6. Optional Tasks (Cont.)

To check graphical topology of the model:

a. From the Tools menu, select Database Navigator.
b. Set the menu at the top of the Database Navigator to Graphical Topology.
c. Browse to the bucket and notice how many constraints act on the bucket.

12 | Lift Mechanism III © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 10, Review Questions

1. When you use the construction method of 2 Bod-2 Loc, how does the order in which you select parts affect the order
in which you select the locations and orientations?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

13 | Lift Mechanism III © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 11
Suspension System I
 • Workshop Objective
• Inspect the toe angle that the wheel exhibits throughout its vertical travel of 80 mm in jounce and rebound.
• Software Version
• Adams 2020
• Files Required
• Use file suspension_parts_start.cmd
• Imported from suspension_parts_start.cmd

3 | Suspension System I © MSC Software Corporation

 • Problem description
• The given model is a geometric representation of a short-long arm (SLA) suspension subsystem.
• The steering_rack and body_ground are constrained as shown in the following figure:
• A translational joint connects the steering_rack to the body_ground.
• A fixed joint connects the body_ground to ground.

4 | Suspension System I © MSC Software Corporation

 • The lower_arm and lower_strut are constrained as shown next:
• A spherical joint connects the lower_strut to the lower_control_arm.
• A revolute joint connects the lower_arm to the body_ground.

5 | Suspension System I © MSC Software Corporation

 • The upper_arm and upper_strut are constrained as shown next:
• A revolute joint connects the upper_arm to the body_ground.
• A hooke joint connects the upper_strut to the body_ground.

6 | Suspension System I © MSC Software Corporation

 • Suggested Steps
1. Open the model.
2. Inspect the model.
3. Constrain the suspension subsystem model.
4. Apply motion to the model.
5. Verify, simulate and save the model
6. Perform optional tasks.

7 | Suspension System I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Import Model

To start the workshop:

a. Select Existing Model and start Adams View from the directory
exercise_dir/mod_11_suspension_1.
b. Open the model command file suspension_parts_start.cmd.
c. This file contains commands to build a model named suspension
and the following parts with geometric representation:

8 | Suspension System I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Inspect the Model

b
In this section, you’ll investigate the model to note its movement and c
topology, especially that of the part tie_rod. To inspect the model:
a. Simulate the model, noting the movement of tie_rod.
b. From the Tools menu, select Database Navigator.
c. Set the pull-down menu at the top of the Database Navigator to
Graphical Topology.
d. Double-click suspension, and then select tie_rod. d

9 | Suspension System I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Constrain the Suspension Subsystem Model

• Constrain the tie_rod shown below as shown in the next slide:

10 | Suspension System I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Constrain the Suspension Subsystem Model (Cont.)

a. To constrain the model with a spherical joint:

• Select the 2 Bod-1 Loc option, Normal to Grid
• First body: Spindle_Wheel
• Second body: tie_rod
• Set the location to HP8
Note: HP8 belongs to ground. We are simply referencing its location
for the creation of the new markers (I and J) that represent the joint.

11 | Suspension System I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Constrain the Suspension Subsystem Model (Cont.)

a. Use the Hooke joint tool to create a hooke joint:

• Select the 2 Bodies - 1 Location option, Pick Feature
• First body: tie_rod a
• Second body: steering_rack
• Set the location to HP7 a
• Set the first direction from vector HP7 to HP8
• Set the second direction from vector HP7 to HP13
Tip: When setting the direction, move your cursor in the direction of the ending
vector (HP8 and HP13, respectively), until its name appears on the screen.
When the name appears, left-click to select it.
b. Inspect the tie_rod again, and notice the connection representations to the
steering_rack and spindle_wheel.
c. Simulate the model.

12 | Suspension System I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Apply Motions
a

To apply motions:
a. At the marker .Spindle_Wheel.Center, apply a point motion in the Y direction a
of the Spindle_Wheel.Center.
Tip: Verify Construction is set to 1 Location, Pick Feature.
b. Modify the motion to use the function, Displacement(time) =
80*sin(360d*time).
c. Modify the translational joint, rck_body_joint, between the steering_rack and
the body_ground to be a fixed joint, so that the steering_rack is unable to
translate during a simulation.
c

13 | Suspension System I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Verify, Simulate and Save the Model
Verify and simulate the model
Now, to see the model’s full range of motion, verify and simulate the modulate simulate it:
a. Verify the model.
b. Run a one-second, 50-step simulation.

To save your work:

c. Save your model as suspension_parts.cmd
d. If you want to further explore the model, as suggested in the next section, leave the model b
open. Otherwise, proceed with the next step.
e. Exit Adams/View.

14 | Suspension System I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 6. Optional Tasks

To modify hardpoint locations:

a. From the Tools menu, select Table Editor.
b. From the options along the bottom of the Table Editor, select Points.
c. Change the Loc Z value of HP3 from 351.05 to 400.
d. As you make this change, note how the upper arm’s connection to the spindle changes.

15 | Suspension System I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 6. Optional Tasks (Cont.)

Make scripts for different hardpoint configurations:

a. Open the Command Window (F3) and change a hardpoint location in the model.
b. Note the command that appeared when the hardpoint was modified. It should be something
like:
point modify point_name=.suspension.ground.HP3 &
location=0.0, 0.0,400 relative_to=ground
c. Create a script that modifies several hardpoint locations and name it something like
‘config1.cmd’.
d. Use the F2 key to read config1.cmd into Adams View: all hardpoint locations should update
as per the settings in the file.

Note: see the example files config1.cmd, config2.cmd in the /completed directory for
examples.

16 | Suspension System I © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 11, Review Questions

1. What is the difference between a point motion and a joint motion?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

17 | Suspension System I © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 12
Suspension System II
 • Workshop Objective
• In this workshop, you use the model you built in (Workshop 11 — Suspension System I) to inspect the toe angle that
the wheel exhibits throughout its vertical travel of 80 mm in jounce and rebound.
• Software Version
• Adams 2020
• Files Required
• Use file suspension.cmd (command file from previous workshop)
• Imported from exercise_dir/mod_11_suspension_1

3 | Suspension System II © MSC Software Corporation

 • Problem description
• Use the diagram below for placements of parts.

4 | Suspension System II © MSC Software Corporation

 • Suggested Steps
1. Open the model and simulate.
2. Create a point-to-point measure.
3. Use a Function Measure to Create a Toe Angle.
4. Plot graph.
5. Import CAD-based geometry.
6. Turn off spindle geometry.
7. Save your model.
8. Perform optional tasks.

5 | Suspension System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Import Model and Simulate

To import a model:
a. Select Existing Model and start Adams View from the
directory exercise_dir/mod_12_suspension_2.
b. From the directory
exercise_dir/mod_11_suspension_1, search and
opens the model that you created in the previous workshop.
If you need a fresh copy of the model, open the command file,
suspension_1_completed.cmd, from the directory
exercise_dir/mod_11_suspension_1/ completed.
c. Simulate the model to verify the motion.

6 | Suspension System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Create Point-to-Point Measure

a
To create measures:
a. Create a point-to-point measure, named .suspension.Wheel_Height, for the relative
wheel displacement in the YG direction:
• To Point: Spindle_Wheel.Center
• From Point: ground.WH_ref

Tip: From the ribbon Design Exploration, select Create a Point to Point measure.
b. Run a one-second, 50-step simulation.
Adams View displays the relative wheel displacement as shown.

7 | Suspension System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Use a Function Measure to Create a Toe Angle

a
Using an Adams Solver function measure, create a toe angle measure
using the markers Spindle_Wheel.Center and Spindle_Wheel.TA_ref a
(see Figure on slide 9)
Tip: From the ribbon Design Exploration, select Create a New Function a
Measure.
a. Fill in the Function Builder as shown.
b. Before selecting OK, select Verify to check the syntax of your function.
Note: You must run a simulation after creating the function to view its plot.
Hint: To get help while working in the Function Builder, press F1
b

8 | Suspension System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Markers for Toe Angle Measure

9 | Suspension System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Plot Graphs

In Adams PostProcessor, plot toe angle versus wheel height.

a. Set Source to Measures.
b. Set Independent Axis to Data.
c. Select Wheel Height.
d. Select OK.
e. From the Measure list, select Toe_Angle.
f. Select Add Curves.
g. Return to Adams View. e f

b
a

10 | Suspension System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Import CAD-Based Geometry

Import CAD-based geometry

a. Now, you’ll import more realistic, CAD-based spindle/wheel
geometry, as shown next.

11 | Suspension System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Import CAD-Based Geometry (Cont.)

The two geometry files that make up the spindle/wheel are:

• wheel.slp
• knuckle.slp
b. They are render files, which have an extension of .slp. They were created in Pro/ENGINEER.
By default, when you import the files, Adams View names the geometry based on the
Pro/ENGINEER assembly from which they came and not based on their file names. In this
case, the CAD geometry came from a model named suspensn. Therefore, Adams View names
the geometry suspensn and suspensn_2.
c. When you export your model, Adams View exports one .cmd file (suspension.cmd) and one
.shl file for each CAD geometry (suspensn.shl and suspensn_2.shl).

12 | Suspension System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Import CAD-Based Geometry (Cont.)
d
e

g
To import the geometry:
Import the geometry files located in
exercise_dir/mod_12_suspension_2/suspension_cad:
d. From the File menu, select Import. d
e. Set File Type to Render.
f. Browse File To Read and select wheel.slp and knuckle.slp
g. Attach the geometry to the part named Spindle_Wheel. i
h. Set Orientation to 90,-90,-180
i. Import one file, select Apply, and then import h
the other.

13 | Suspension System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 6. Turn off Spindle Geometry

Turn off the appearance of Adams View spindle geometry a

so that only the CAD geometry is visible:
a. From the Edit menu, select Appearance.
b. Highlight the following at the right. b
c. Click OK. d
d. Change the Visibility setting to Off.
e. Click OK.

e
c

14 | Suspension System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 7. Save Your Model

To save your work:

a. Save your model as
suspension_parts.cmd.
• If you want to further explore
the model, as suggested in the
next section, leave the model
open. Otherwise, proceed with
the next step.
b. Exit Adams View.

15 | Suspension System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 8. Optional Tasks

Replace other Adams View geometry with CAD geometry:

a. From the directory
exercise_dir/mod_12_suspension/suspension_cad/more_susp_c
ad, open the rest of the CAD-based suspension component geometry.

Tips: Remember to associate each CAD geometry with the appropriate part
in the Adams View model. Not all the CAD geometry is associated with the
Spindle_Wheel part. These geometry files are called render files, which have
an extension of .slp. There is one file for each Adams View part.

b. Turn off the appearance of Adams View geometry so that only the CAD
geometry is visible.

16 | Suspension System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 8. Optional Tasks (Cont.)

Import a parasolid file into Adams View

c. Start a New Model in Adams View from the directory exercise_dir/mod_12_suspension_2.
d. Create a model named parasolid, with Gravity set to Earth Normal (-Global Y), and Units set
to MMKS - mm, Kg, N, s, deg.

Import the parasolid file

e. From the File menu, select Import.
f. Set File Type to Parasolid.
g. Import the file piston.xmt_txt from exercise_dir/mod_12_suspension_2/completed.
h. Enter .parasolid for the model name and hit OK.

Note: You can store the geometry under a model or part name

Note: You can also use the shell file piston.shl which can also be found under
$install_dir/durability/examples/engine sub-folder

17 | Suspension System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 8. Optional Tasks (Cont.)

Assign mass to the imported Parasolid

i. Right-click the piston part and select Modify.
j. Use the pull-down menu to change the ‘Define Mass By’ option from User Input to Geometry and Material Type.
k. Right-click the Material Type and select the steel material.
l. Click OK.
m. You will now see a center of mass ‘piston.cm’ has been created and mass and inertia properties have been
assigned to the piston part.

Add geometry to the existing part

n. From Settings > Working Grid select the location to be the center of mass of the piston part.
o. Click on the Link tool and choose the option of ‘Add to Part.’
p. Specify length = 20.0 cm, width = 4.0 cm and depth = 2.0 cm.
q. Select the piston part.
r. Select .piston.cm as one of the ends and drag to the other end.
s. Note that the position of the center of mass of the part is now based on the new geometry that consists of the
Parasolid and the link geometry.
t. Also note that the mass and inertia is calculated based on the new geometry.

18 | Suspension System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 12, Review Questions

1. Is there any difference between a point-to-point measure and a function measure using a displacement function (for
example, DX(I, J, R))?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

2. Where does a CAD file fall in the model hierarchy? What is the CAD file a child of?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

19 | Suspension System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 13
Suspension-Steering System
 • Workshop Objective
• Assemble a suspension-steering system and inspect the toe angle that the wheel exhibits at steering wheel angles of
45º, 0º, and -45º.

3 | Suspension-Steering System © MSC Software Corporation

 • Problem description
• You will use the following two models in this workshop:
• A geometric representation of a short-long arm (SLA) suspension subsystem.
• A geometric representation of a rack-and-pinion steering system.
• The rack-and-pinion steering model is constrained as shown next:

• Software Version
• Adams 2020
• Files Required
• Use file exercise_dir/mod_12_suspension_2/completed/suspension_2_completed.cmd

4 | Suspension-Steering System © MSC Software Corporation

 • Suggested Steps
1. Import the model and change the directory.
2. Import the Steering model.
3. Constrain the steering model.
4. Add motion and couple to the joints.
5. Assemble the suspension and steering models.
6. Verify the model.
7. Delete unwanted joints.
8. Simulate models and compare results.
9. Compare the results.
10. Save your work.

5 | Suspension-Steering System © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Import Model and Change Directory

To import a model:
a. Select Existing Model and start Adams View from the directory
exercise_dir/mod_12_suspension_2.
b. From this directory, open the model that you created in the previous module.
c. If you need a fresh copy of the model, change your working directory to
exercise_dir/mod_12_suspension_2/completed, then open the
command file, suspension_2_completed.cmd.

To change the working directory to exercise_dir/mod_13_susp_steer:

d. From the File menu, select Select Directory.
e. Change to exercise_dir/mod_13_susp_steer. e
d

6 | Suspension-Steering System © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Import the Steering Model

Import the steering model, shown below. It is in the command file

steering_parts_start.cmd. The file contains a model named
rack_and_pinion_steering.To import the model:
a. Import the Adams View model command file
steering_parts_start.cmd.

7 | Suspension-Steering System © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Constrain the Steering Model

Now you’ll constrain the steering model. Each time you add a
modeling element, you’ll simulate the model to verify its
movement. To constrain the steering model:
a. Apply a rotational joint motion to the revolute joint,
strwheel_body_rev, on the steering_wheel_column.

8 | Suspension-Steering System © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Add Motion and Couple Rotation

a. Right-click the motion icon, point to Motion: MOTION_1, and then select
Modify.
b. In the Function (time) text box, enter the following function:
45d*sin(360d*time) (verify that Type is set to Displacement).
c. Run a one-second, 50-step simulation.

9 | Suspension-Steering System © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Add Motion and Couple Rotation (Cont.)

a
a. Use the Coupler tool to couple the rotation
(strshft_body_cyl) of the steering_shaft with the translation
(rck_body_trans) of the steering_rack. Coupler
b. Right-click the coupler icon, point to Coupler: COUPLER_1,
and then select Modify.
c. Modify the coupler so that for every 7º of rotation the
steering_rack travels 1 mm:
d. To verify that the steering_rack travels as expected, simulate
the model.

10 | Suspension-Steering System © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Assemble the Suspension and Steering Models
c

Assemble the rack_and_pinion_steering model with the suspension

model:
a. From the Tools menu, select Command Navigator.
d
b. In the Command Navigator, double-click model, and then double-click
assemble.
a
c. Name the model steering_suspension.
d. Right-click the Model Names text box, point to Guesses, and then
select *. Selecting * prompting Adams View to include in the text box
every item that is displayed under the Guesses option.
e. To display the assembled model, from the View menu, select Model.
f. Double-click steering_suspension.
e

b
f

11 | Suspension-Steering System © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Assemble the Suspension and Steering Models (Cont.)

a. Your model should look like so

(shading turned on):

12 | Suspension-Steering System © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 6. Verify the Model

a
Verify the model to ensure it is not overconstrained. To ensure
that the model is not overconstrained, look for duplicate joints b
as explained next. To verify the model:
c
a. From the Tools menu, select Database Navigator.
b. Set the top pull-down menu in the Database Navigator to
Graphical Topology.
c. Double-click the new model name, steering_suspension,
and then select body_ground.

13 | Suspension-Steering System © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 7. Delete Unwanted Joints

Delete the unwanted joints by right-clicking them from the Model

Browser and selecting Delete: c
a

a. Delete the fixed joint between body_ground and ground,

(body_grnd_fixed_2).
b. Delete the fixed joint, (rck_body_joint) between body_ground
and steering_rack. d

Note: Leave both the rotational motion and the revolute joint between
body_ground and steering_wheel_column because both are needed.
c. To redisplay the measures you created in Create measures, in
Workshop 12, slide 7, from the ribbon Design Exploration, select
Display a Measure .
d. Select both measures, Wheel_Height and Toe_Angle. (both
measure graphs will appear)

14 | Suspension-Steering System © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 8. Simulate and Compare

In this section, you’ll run three simulations, each with different steering
wheel angles. You’ll then compare the results of the simulations. a
To run and compare a series of simulations:
a. Modify the motion you created in Step 4 on slide 9 to be a constant 45º
steering wheel angle (Displacement(time) = 45d).
b. Simulate the model.
c. Save the simulation results as right_turn. Save the results just as you e
did in to save the simulation results in Workshop 2, slide 15. d
d. Run a simulation with a 0º steering wheel angle (Displacement(time) =
0d).
e. Save the simulation results as straight.
f. Run a simulation with a -45º steering wheel angle (Displacement(time)
= -45d).
g. Save the simulation results as left_turn.
h. Launch Adams PostProcessor. f

15 | Suspension-Steering System © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 9. Compare Results

a. Plot toe_angle versus wheel height for

all three simulations, on the same plot. a
(as done in the last workshop)

16 | Suspension-Steering System © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 10. Save Your Work

To save your work:

a. Save the database so you retain the analyses.
b. Exit Adams View.

17 | Suspension-Steering System © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 13, Review Questions

1. What information do you need to provide Adams View to create a coupler?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

2. What is the default name that Adams View assigns to simulation results?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

18 | Suspension-Steering System © MSC Software Corporation

Workshop 14
Spring Damper
 • Workshop Objective
• Create and investigate the linear spring-damper system, using different types of simulations in Adams.
• Find the force and frequency in a dampening spring.
• Software Version
• Adams 2020
• Files Required
• New model saved to exercise_dir/mod_14_spring_damper

3 | Spring Damper © MSC Software Corporation

 • Problem Description
• Build the model to have the specifications of the model below.

4 | Spring Damper © MSC Software Corporation

 • Suggested Steps
1. Create, build and constrain new model.
2. Add the pre-defined spring damper.
3. Find the force in spring damper at static equilibrium.
4. Run a simulation and create a measure.
5. Find the natural frequency.
6. Save your work.
7. Perform optional tasks.

5 | Spring Damper © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Create, Build and Constrain New Model

To create a model:
a. Start New Model in Adams View from the directory
exercise_dir/mod_14_spring_damper. c
b. Create a model named spring_mass.

To build and constrain the model:

c. Build the block with the given mass. (slide 4)
Tip: Right-click the part and select Modify. Set Define Mass By to User Input.
d. Constrain the block with a translational joint to move only in the ŷg direction.
e. To verify the expected behavior, simulate the model.

6 | Spring Damper © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Add the Pre-defined Spring Damper

To add a pre-defined spring damper:

a. To ensure that the spring damper is aligned with the ŷg direction, a
move the working grid to the cm of the block (see Build all parts
except for the bucket in Workshop 8, slide 11).

Use the Translational spring damper tool to create the spring damper, b
aligned along the ŷg direction, between the CM marker of the block and a
point on ground 400 mm above it (make sure to use the K and C d
values from the Problem description). To set the second location, use
the Location Event (see Build the pendulum link in Workshop 6): c
b. Right-click anywhere on the ground to display the Location Event.
c. Change from Rel. To Origin to Rel. To Grid.
e
d. Enter 0, 400, 0.
e. Select Apply.
f. To ensure that the spring damper has a free length (q0) of 400 mm f
with a preload of 0, from the Tools menu, select Measure Distance
to measure the spring.

7 | Spring Damper © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Find the Force in Spring Damper at Static Equilibrium

To find the force at static equilibrium: b c

a. Run a Static Simulation.
b. Note the value of the force graphic.
Tip: To display the force value, from the Settings menu, select a
Force Graphics. Select Display Numeric Values.
c. Zoom out until you can see the force value.
The block’s mass is 187.224 kg. Therefore, to balance the force of
gravity, the spring damper must generate:
187.224 kg * 9806.65 mm/s2 = 1836.04 N

8 | Spring Damper © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Run a Simulation and Create a Measure

To create a measure and run a simulation:

a. Create a point-to-point measure, named spring_length, to measure
the spring’s length. Measure to the upper spring-damper
attachment point from the block’s cm marker.
• The measured value at t=0 should be 400 mm.
b. To see the oscillation, run a 2-second, 50-step dynamic simulation.

9 | Spring Damper © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Find the Natural Frequency

To find the natural frequency: b

a
a. Run another static equilibrium simulation. d
b. Do not reset the model.
c. Select the Compute Linear Modes tool.
d. Select Show Table to view the results.
e. Note the natural frequency, and compare this value with
that given in Closed-form solution.
e
c

10 | Spring Damper © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 6. Save Your Work

To save your work:

a. Save the model.
• If you want to further explore the model, as
suggested in the next section, leave the
model open. Otherwise, proceed with the
next step.
b. Exit Adams View.

11 | Spring Damper © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 7. Optional Tasks

Add a DOF to the model:

a. Modify the translational joint to be a cylindrical joint.
b. Linearize about the static equilibrium position.
Do the resulting modes make sense?
c. Add a torsional spring damper that resists the rotation of the cylindrical joint.
d. Linearize about the static equilibrium position.
Are the results different from those above (no torsional spring damper)?
e. Do not save your work.

12 | Spring Damper © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 14, Review Results

• Adams results

ωn = 0.8222Hz
ωn = (0.8222Hz) (2 ⋅ π rad) = 5.168rad/sec

13 | Spring Damper © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 14, Review Questions

1. At design configuration, do the 𝑧𝑧̂ directions of markers referenced in a revolute joint have to be aligned? Does this
information get reported when verifying a model?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

14 | Spring Damper © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 14, Review Results

• Closed-form solution
Checking the natural frequency of the system:
• At equilibrium:
𝑚𝑚𝑥𝑥̈ + 𝑐𝑐 𝑥𝑥̇ + 𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘 = 0

𝑐𝑐 𝑘𝑘
𝑥𝑥̈ + 𝑥𝑥̇ + 𝑥𝑥 = 0
𝑚𝑚 𝑚𝑚
• Laplace Transform is:

𝑐𝑐 𝑘𝑘
𝑠𝑠 + 𝑠𝑠 + = 0 ⇔ 𝑠𝑠 2 + 2𝜁𝜁𝜔𝜔𝑛𝑛 𝑠𝑠 + 𝜔𝜔𝑛𝑛2 = 0
2
𝑚𝑚 𝑚𝑚

15 | Spring Damper © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 14, Review Results

• Therefore:
k
ω2n =
m

k
ωn =
m

k = 5N/mm = 5000N/m
m = 187.224kg

5000
ωn = rad/sec
187.224

ωn = 5.168rad/sec

16 | Spring Damper © MSC Software Corporation

Workshop 15
Nonlinear Spring
 • Workshop Objectives
• Use Adams View to investigate the differences between a linear spring and a nonlinear spring using a spline
function.
• Software Version
• Adams 2020
• Files Required
• File to Read: exercise_dir/mod_15_nonlinear_spring/spring_data.txt

3 | Nonlinear Spring © MSC Software Corporation

 • Problem Description
• You will be using the model you previously built (Workshop 14 Spring Damper) that has the characteristics described
in the diagram below.

4 | Nonlinear Spring © MSC Software Corporation

 • Suggested Exercise Steps
1. Open file and replace the predefined spring damper.
2. Measure action-reaction force.
3. Change to a nonlinear spring.
4. Create spline.
5. Compare the forces.
6. Optional tasks.

5 | Nonlinear Spring © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Import File and Replace the Predefined Spring Damper
e

To import file:
a. Start New Model in Adams View from the directory
exercise_dir/mod_15_nonlinear_springs.
b. From the directory exercise_dir/mod_14_spring_damper import the f
file you saved in the previous workshop.
c. If you need a fresh copy of this then import spring_mass_completed
from exercise_dir/mod_14_spring_damper/complete.

To replace the spring damper that is already in the model with a user-defined d
linear spring damper:
d. Use Model Browser > Right Click SPRING_1 > Delete to delete the g
predefined spring damper.
e. Create a single-component, action-reaction force h
f. Select Run-time Direction: Two Bodies
g. Select Characteristic: K and C
h. Enter K: 5.0 and C: 0.05

6 | Nonlinear Spring © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Measure Action-Reaction Force

a. Right-click SFORCE_1, and then select Info. Note that the syntax of
the function matches that of a spring damper, introduced in Magnitude
based on stiffness and damping coefficients in Section 14, slide 7.
Note: You could have entered the linear spring-damper function a
manually in the Function Builder.
b. Right-click SFORCE_1 and select Measure. b
c. Create a measure, named spring_force:
f
d. Select Characteristic as Force
e. Select Component as mag
f. To see oscillations, run a 2-second, 50-step simulation.

c
d
e

7 | Nonlinear Spring © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Measure Action-Reaction Force (Cont.)

g. Plot spring_force versus Spring_Length.

Note that the slope at the beginning of this plot is 5 (K). The time-
dependency of damping (C=.05) results in a deviation from a
slope of 5 (slope ~ stiffness +/- damping).
h. Save the simulation results as linear_force. g

8 | Nonlinear Spring © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Change to a Nonlinear Spring

In this section, you change the spring damper you just created to a nonlinear spring. It can be
done by one of the two ways. a

To change the spring by importing data:

a. To import the spring stiffness data, from the File menu, select Import.
b. Set the following parameters, and then select OK.
• File Type: Test Data
• Select Create Splines
• File to Read: exercise_dir/mod_15_nonlinear_spring/spring_data.txt b
• Independent Column Index: 1 (Because the first column is the independent column)
• Units: Force
• Model Name: .spring_mass
• Disable “Names in File”
Note: If you are following the above method, skip the next slide WS15-10 or else continue to
next slide.

9 | Nonlinear Spring © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Change to a Nonlinear Spring (Cont.)
c

To change the spring by using spline element:

c. Select the ribbon Elements.
d. From the options available select “Build 2D or 3D Data Spline.”
e. Open excel file
exercise_dir/mod_15_nonlinear_spring/spring_data.xls, verify
for number of rows of data in excel file and set the same numbers of rows in f
Create spline window.
f. Copy data from excel file and paste into Create spline table and override
existing data.
g. Set the following parameters, and then select OK. g
• Enter y=f(x) (2D)
• View as: Tabular Data
• X Unit: length
• Y Unit : force

10 | Nonlinear Spring © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Create Spline

a. To open SPLINE_1 in the Spline Editor, from a

the Model Browser, under Data Elements
right click SPLINE_1 select Modify.
b. View the plot to understand the relationship
between the deformation (x-axis) and stiffness
force (y-axis).
Tip: In the upper right corner, set View as to
Plot.
c. From the Model Browser, right-click
SFORCE_1, and then select Modify to c
replace the force function describing the
single-component force with an Akima Spline
function. d
d. The AKIMA spline function should look like the
one shown below:
The I and J markers in the DM
function
might be different in your model.

11 | Nonlinear Spring © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Compare the Forces

a
To compare the forces:
a. Verify that the nonlinear spring is working properly by running a 2-second, 50-step
dynamic simulation.
b. Save the simulation results as non_linear_force.
c. Overlay the two plots:
• spring_force vs. Spring_Length for the linear_force simulation
• spring_force vs. Spring_Length for the non_linear_force simulation
Note: that in the nonlinear case, the curve changes slope as Spring_Length increases.

12 | Nonlinear Spring © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 6. Optional Tasks

Save the model. If you want to further explore the model, as suggested below, leave the model
open. Otherwise, exit Adams View.

To add further detail, create a spline force representing nonlinear damping:

a. From the Ribbon menu, Select Elements tab and then select Build 2D or 3D Data Spline.
b. Add a spline function representing nonlinear damping to the single-component force function.

Tip: You will need to change the AKIMA spline function so that the first independent variable tracks
velocity (VR function) rather than displacement. Use the same markers from existing expression
for simplicity.

13 | Nonlinear Spring © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 15, Review Questions

1. What are the four inputs for a spline function?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

2. If you are not sure what inputs are required for an Adams Solver function, where in the online help would
you look for assistance?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

14 | Nonlinear Spring © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 16
Suspension-Steering System II
 • Workshop objective
• Investigate the effect on toe angle when you replace the idealized constraint between the lower control arm and
ground with bushings while the steering wheel is held at an angle of 0º.

3 | Suspension-Steering System II © MSC Software Corporation

 • Problem description
• The model is the short-long-arm front suspension model combined with a steering model that you created in a
previous workshop.
• A spring damper has been added to represent the force input of a coil-over shock.
• Currently, a revolute joint connects the lower control arm to the frame of the vehicle.
• You are going to replace the revolute joint with two bushings and investigate the differences.
• Software Version
• Adams 2020
• Files Required
• Use file susp_steer_2_start.cmd from exercise_dir/mod_16_susp_steer_2

4 | Suspension-Steering System II © MSC Software Corporation

 • Suggested Steps
1. Import model and run a baseline simulation.
2. Deactivate the revolute joint.
3. Create bushing.
4. Modify bushings.
5. Create second bushing.
6. Run a static simulation.
7. Review the results.
8. Overlay animations.
9. Save your work.
10. Perform optional tasks.

5 | Suspension-Steering System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Import Model and Run a Baseline Simulation

To import model:
a. Start Adams View and select Existing Model from the directory d
exercise_dir/mod_16_susp_steer_2.
b. Open the command file, susp_steer_2_start.cmd.
c
Run a baseline simulation:
You’ll start by running a simulation with the model as it currently is to see how it
performs with a revolute joint.

To run a baseline simulation:

c. Verify that the steering wheel angle is a constant 0º (Displacement(time) = 0d).
d. Run a simulation for 1 second with 50 output steps.
e. Save the simulation results as with_joint.

e e

6 | Suspension-Steering System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Deactivate the Revolute Joint

Deactivate the revolute joint

Now, instead of removing the revolute joint, you’ll just deactivate it so
it is not used in simulations.
To deactivate the revolute joint:
a. Right-click the lowerarm_grnd_rev revolute joint that currently
exists between Lower_Arm and ground.
b. Select (De)activate.
c. Clear the selection of Object Active.
d. Note the deactivated sign in Model Browser. b

a d

7 | Suspension-Steering System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Create Bushings a

Create bushings between Lower_Arm and ground. You will need to create two bushings
because there are two connection points between Lower_Arm and ground.
To create bushings: b
a. From the ribbon Forces, select Bushing in Flexible Connections.
b. Create the rear bushing with the following properties, using the options 2 Bod-1 Loc,
Pick Feature:
c. Select First Part > Lower_Arm
d. Select Second Part > ground
e. Select Location > HP4
f. Select Direction Vector (+z axis) > Z-direction of marker
.Lower_Arm.bushing_ref.

Tip: To easily find the marker .Lower_Arm.bushing_ref, find and select bushing_ref
under Lower Arm tree in the Model Browser, which will highlight it in Adams View
Model.

8 | Suspension-Steering System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Modify Bushings

Modify the bushing to reflect the following properties in the matrix:

a. K translational
b. C translational
c. K Rotational
d. C Rotational

a
b

c
d

9 | Suspension-Steering System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Create Bushings-2

Create the forward bushing with the following properties: e

a. Select First Part > Lower_arm
b. Select Second Part > ground
c. Select Location > HP5
d. Select Direction Vector (+z axis) > Z-direction of marker
.Lower_Arm.bushing_ref
e. Modify the bushing to reflect the properties given in Step 4 on slide 9.

10 | Suspension-Steering System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 6. Run a Static Simulation

To run a simulation:
a. Run a static equilibrium.
b. Run a dynamic simulation for 1 second with 50 output steps.
c. Save the simulation results as with_bushings.

11 | Suspension-Steering System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 7. Review the Results

To review the results:

a. Launch Adams PostProcessor.
b. Create a plot that contains the Toe_Angle measure using the
simulation results with_joint and with_bushings as a function of
time.
• Independent axis: time
• Source: measures
• Choose with_joint from simulation box. then Toe_angle from
measure box. Then add to curves
• Repeat the above step but with_bushings instead of joint
c. Estimate the difference in the maximum toe angle between the two
simulations and use it to answer Question 1 in Module review.

12 | Suspension-Steering System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 8. Overlay Animations

To overlay animations:
a. Set Adams PostProcessor to Animation mode.
b. From the dashboard, select the Overlay tab.
b
c. Select both with_joint and with_bushings analyses.
d
d. In the Offset text box, enter 0.0, 40.0, 0.0. c
e. Select the Animation tab.
f. Set the Speed Control slider to approximately 50%.
g. Select Play.

Hint: use view zoom button on top of postprocessor bar. g

Note: To emphasize the difference, zoom in on the lower arm. e
f

13 | Suspension-Steering System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 9. Save Your Work

Save your model.

a. If you want to further explore the model, as suggested in
the next section, leave the model open. Otherwise,
proceed with the next step.
b. Exit Adams View.

14 | Suspension-Steering System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 10. Optional Tasks

Replace the constraint on the upper arm with bushings, too:

a. Replace the revolute joint between Upper_Arm and ground with two
bushings. Use the same bushing properties given for the bushing between
Lower_Arm and ground.
b. Run a static simulation followed by a dynamic simulation for 1 second with
50 output steps.
c. Save the simulation results as with_all_bushings.
d. Compare these toe_angle results with those from the previous two
simulations.

15 | Suspension-Steering System II © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 16, Review Questions

1. What was the approximate difference in the maximum toe angle that was a result of removing the revolute joint and
replacing it with bushings?
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________

2. Why did you perform a static simulation before the dynamic simulation after you added the bushings?
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________

3. Why did you not have to perform a static simulation before the dynamic simulation when the Lower_Arm was
constrained with the revolute joint?
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________

16 | Suspension-Steering System II © MSC Software Corporation

Workshop 17
Hatchback I
 • Workshop Objectives
• Create the forces required to open the hatchback for the given Mazda MX-6 model.
• Software Version
• Adams 2020
• Files Required
• hatchback_start.cmd
• Located in exercise_dir/mod_17_hatchback_1

3 | Hatchback I © MSC Software Corporation

 • Problem description
• When compressed, the force in each gas shock is 550 Newtons.
• The motion of the assembly is limited by stops in the gas shocks at full extension.
• Parts are constrained as shown below:

4 | Hatchback I © MSC Software Corporation

 • Suggested Exercise Steps
1. Import file and de-activate parts on the right side of the model.
2. Create markers to be used to create springs.
3. Create a spring damper on both sides of the model.
4. Create an SFORCE on the left side of the model.
5. Modify the SFORCE to a one-sided impact function
6. Create the SFORCE on the right and modify it.
7. Simulate the model and save.

5 | Hatchback I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Import File and Deactivate Parts on the Right Side of Model
c

To import file: d
a. Start Adams View, and set the directory to
exercise_dir/mod_17_hatchback_1
b. Import the model command file hatchback_start.cmd.

You must deactivate the parts on the right side of the model because they
are not needed to constrain the model. The constraints from the left side of e
the model are sufficient to constrain this rigid-body model. To deactivate the
parts right_shortarm and right_longarm:
c. From the model browser, select a list of the parts in the hatchback model.
d. Select right_shortarm and right_longarm. Tip: to make two selections
at the same time, use the Ctrl key when making the selections.
e. Select Deactivate from the Edit menu.
f. Deactivated parts looks like as shown.

6 | Hatchback I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Create Markers to be Used to Create Springs

a
c
The two markers you create will be the two end points of the spring on the left
between the left_piston and the left_cylinder. To create the markers:
a. Use the marker icon to create a marker named lpiston_ref, at POINT_5, located
on left_piston.
b. Make sure to select Add to Part.
c. From the screen, select the left piston and then select POINT_5. b
d. Create a marker, named lcyl_ref at POINT_6, located on the left_cylinder.

The next two markers you create will be the two end points of the spring on the right
between the right_piston and the right_cylinder. To create the markers: d
e. Repeat steps a through d for the right side with the following parameters:
• Marker name : rpiston_ref, located at point _7, on right_pistion
• Marker name: rcyl_ref, located at point_8, on right_cylinder

7 | Hatchback I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Create a Spring Damper on Both Sides of the Model

a
To create the springs:
a. Create a spring damper between left_piston (first body) and
left_cylinder (second body) using the markers that you just created
lpiston_ref (first location) and lcyl_ref (second location):
b. Enable the K box, and for the stiffness Coefficient enter 0.21578
(N/mm)
c. Enable the C box, and for the Damping Coefficient enter 2.0 (N-
sec/mm)
d. Modify the spring damper to add a preload of 550 N. d
e. Repeat the above steps a through d to create a spring damper
between right_piston (first body) and right_cylinder (second body)
using the markers that you just created rpiston_ref (first location) and b
rcyl_ref (second location).
c

8 | Hatchback I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Create an SFORCE on the Left Side of the Model

To create an Sforce on the left piston/cylinder to stop the hatchback motion: b

a. Use the Single Component Force icon.
b. In the container, select the Two Bodies method, and select the left_piston and the
left_cylinder.
c. For the 2 locations, use the existing markers, pis_impact (located on left_piston)
and cyl_impact (located on left_cylinder), as shown below.

Tip: Verify that you select the parts and markers in the same order. If you selected the
piston to be the action body, and the cylinder to be the reaction body, you should use the
same order when selecting the action point (pis_impact) and the reaction point
(cyl_impact).

9 | Hatchback I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Modify the SFORCE to a One-Sided Impact Function

b d
To modify the SFORCE using the Function Builder to create a one-sided impact c
function:
a. In the Modify Force dialog, clear the current function so that the function a
textbox is empty. Then, click on the Function icon next to the Function textbox.
b. In the Function Builder, from the Math Function menu, select the Contact
Functions category.
c. From the list select One-sided Impact.
d. Click Assist.
e. The displacement parameter is equal to the magnitude of the distance between
the markers, pis_impact and cyl_impact (use the DM function).
f. The velocity parameter is equal to the velocity along the line of sight between e
the markers, pis_impact and cyl_impact (use the VR function).
f
g. Enter 1e5 (N/mm) for Stiffness Coefficent g
h. Enter 1.01 for Stiffness Force Exponent h
i. Enter 100 (N-sec/mm) for Damping Coefficient i
j. Enter 25 mm for Trigger Displacement Variable. j
k. Enter 1e-3 mm for Damping Ramp-up Distance. k
Note: Do not enter units into the Function Builder.

10 | Hatchback I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Modify the SFORCE to a One-Sided Impact Function

l. While still in the Function Builder, verify the function to make

sure that the syntax is correct.
m. The function should look as shown to the right.
m

11 | Hatchback I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 6. Create an SFORCE on the Right and Modify

a. Create another SFORCE on the right piston/cylinder, to stop the

hatchback motion. Use the existing markers pis_impact (located on
right_piston) and cyl_impact (located on the right cylinder) . Refer back
to Step 4 on page WS17-9.
c
b. Modify the Sforce using the Function Builder to create a one-sided
impact function. Refer back to Step 5 for the same parameters that you
used on the left.
c. The function should look like the one shown to the right.
d. While still in the Function Builder, verify the function to make sure that the
syntax is correct.

Note: This syntax reflects the piston as the action part. If you chose the
cylinder as the action part, the syntax should be opposite.

Note: For information on selecting parameters for real life, see the
Workshop 17, Review section.
d

12 | Hatchback I © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 7. Simulate the Model and Save

a. Simulate the model to make sure that the hatchback opens and stops at
a reasonable angle.
b. After simulation, the model should look the one to the right.
c. Save your model.
d. If you want to further explore the model, as suggested in the next
section, leave the model open. Otherwise, proceed with the next step.
e. Exit Adams View.

13 | Hatchback I © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 17, Review Questions

1. Are there any limitations to the trigger distance used in an IMPACT function? In other words, can you
choose any value?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

2. If you wanted to stop the hatchback from opening at a 45-degree angle, what steps would you take?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

14 | Hatchback I © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 17, Review

• Selecting parameters for a real-life model

• For information on how to select parameters for a real-life model, refer to the following knowledge base articles:
• Modeling Impact: http://simcompanion.mscsoftware.com/infocenter/index?page=content&id=KB8013895
• Suggestions for debugging your IMPACT function:
http://simcompanion.mscsoftware.com/infocenter/index?page=content&id=KB8013033
• Example of using Hertzian Contact Theory to estimate contact stiffness:
http://simcompanion.mscsoftware.com/infocenter/index?page=content&id=KB8014125

15 | Hatchback I © MSC Software Corporation

Workshop 18
Hatchback II
 • Workshop Objectives
• Find the approximate maximum force at the winglet required to close the lid in three seconds for the given Mazda
MX-6 hatchback model
• Software Version
• Adams 2020
• Files Required
• Use file hatchback.cmd
• Located in the directory exercise_dir/mod_17_hatchback_1
• Problem Description
• In this workshop, you will use the model you built in Workshop 17 - Hatchback I.

3 | Hatchback II © MSC Software Corporation

 Model Overview

4 | Hatchback II © MSC Software Corporation

 • Suggested Steps

1. Import model.
2. Measure the rotation of the Lid.
3. Close the Lid.
4. Create a simulation script.
5. Perform a simulated script.
6. Create a torque measure.
7. Inspect the torque measure.
8. Save your work.

5 | Hatchback II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Import Model

To import model:
a. Start Adams View from the directory exercise_dir/mod_18_hatchback_2.
b. From the directory exercise_dir/mod_17_hatchback_1, import the model that
you created in the previous module.
c. If you need a copy of the completed model you can import the command file named
hatchback_1_completed.cmd which is found in the directory
exercise_dir/mod_17_hatchback_1/completed.

6 | Hatchback II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Measure the Rotation of the Lid
a

b
To measure the rotation of the lid:
a. Right-click l_shortarm_rev joint and create a measure, named
shortarm_rotation, of the rotational displacement:
• Characteristic: Ax/Ay/Az Projected Rotation
• Component: Z
• From/At: .ground.MAR_8
b. Run a 5-second, 50-step simulation.
d
c. In Adams PostProcessor, plot the shortarm_rotation versus time.
d. From the shortarm_rotation plot, use the Plot Tracking tool to
determine the steady-state angle of the left_shortarm.
The steady-state angle is 96.0693 d.

7 | Hatchback II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Close the Lid

a. Currently the lid opens because of the preload in the springs and stops opening because of the impact forces.
b. To close the lid, you will rotate the left_shortarm part back to its original position as shown next. To rotate the
left_shortarm, apply a joint motion to the left_shortarm_rev joint as explained next.

8 | Hatchback II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Close the Lid

To create a motion to close the lid:

c. Create a joint motion on the joint l_shortarm_rev, named
closing_motion.
d. Use a STEP function to modify the motion to drive the lid back to its
closed position:
• Start the STEP function at the steady-state rotation (determined later in
the workshop) of the left_shortarm at 4 seconds.
• End the STEP function at 0º rotation of the left_shortarm at 7
seconds.
• The function should look as shown next:
STEP(time, 4.0, 96.0693d, 7.0, 0.0d)

9 | Hatchback II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Create a Simulation Script
a

In this section, you’ll create a simulation script containing Adams Solver commands that
deactivate the motion and run a simulation, then activate the motion and run a second
simulation.
To create the script: b
a. From the ribbon Simulation, select an icon Create a New Simulation Script. c
b. Name the script, script_1.
c. Set Script Type to Adams Solver Commands.
d. Enter the following Adams Solver commands: d
• DEACTIVATE/MOTION, id=1
• SIMULATE/DYNAMIC, END=4, STEPS=40
• ACTIVATE/MOTION, id=1
• SIMULATE/KINEMATIC, END=7, STEPS=30
e. Click OK.

10 | Hatchback II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Perform a Scripted Simulation

To perform a scripted simulation:

a
a. From the ribbon Simulation, select Run a Scripted c
Simulation.
b. Enter the name of the script that you created, script_1.
c. Select the Play tool. b

11 | Hatchback II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 6. Create a Torque Measure

Measure the torque:

You now create a measure of the torque required to
close the lid.

To create the measure:

a. Create a motion measure, named
a
closing_torque_measure (right-click
closing_motion, and then select Measure):
• Characteristic: Torque
• Component: Z

12 | Hatchback II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 7. Inspect the Torque Measure

To inspect the torque measure:

a. In Adams PostProcessor, plot torque in the motion versus time (the
closing_torque_measure).
b. The figure represents the approximate amount of torque required to close the lid.

a
b

13 | Hatchback II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 7. Inspect the Torque Measure (Cont.)

Edit the torque curve to find the approximate force required to lower the lid in
three seconds. To find this force, use the Scale a Curve tool to divide the motion
torque by a moment arm of 700 mm:
c. To display the Scale a Curve tool, from the View menu (inside Adams
PostProcessor), point to Toolbars, and then select Curve Edit Toolbars.
d. A new toolbar appears.
e. Select the Scale a Curve tool.
f. Set Scale to 1/700.
g. Select the curve on the graph.
c

d
e
f

14 | Hatchback II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 7. Inspect the Torque Measure (Cont.)

h. To display only the force curve, delete the motion torque curve.
i. The figure represents the approximate amount of force required to close the lid.
j. Note the approximate maximum force required to close the lid. Use the value to answer Question 1 in Module review.

15 | Hatchback II © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 8. Save your work

To save your work:

a. Save your model.
b. Exit Adams View.

16 | Hatchback II © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 18, Review Questions

1. What is the approximate maximum force required to close the lid?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

2. Is it possible to modify a force from one constant value to another instantaneously, such as shutting off a motor’s
torque?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

3. Is it possible to use different output step sizes over different intervals by submitting an interactive simulation?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

17 | Hatchback II © MSC Software Corporation

Workshop 19
Hatchback III
 • Workshop Objectives
• Use Adams Solver to simulate the given Mazda MX-6 hatchback model.
• Software Version
• Adams 2020
• Files Required
• Saved file from Workshop 18 or Hatchback_2_completed.cmd
• located in exercise_dir/mod_18_hatchback_2/completed

3 | Hatchback III © MSC Software Corporation

 • Problem Description
• In this workshop you will use the model saved in Workshop 18. Recall the parts of this model are constrained as
follows:

4 | Hatchback III © MSC Software Corporation

 • Suggested Steps
1. Import file and export a database file.
2. Create a command file.
3. For windows open a command window.
4. For UNIX open a UNIX shell.
5. Perform the simulation.
6. Modify the spring stiffness in the dataset (.adm) file
7. Modify the Adams Solver command file (.acf).
8. Perform a simulation and import results.
9. Check that both analyses are children of the model.
10. Scale the curves by a moment arm (1/700).
11. Investigate the new curves.
12. Optional tasks

5 | Hatchback III © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Import File and Export a Dataset file

To import file:
a. Start Adams View, and set the directory to
exercise_dir/mod_19_hatchback_3.
b. From the directory exercise_dir/mod_18_hatchback_2, import the model
that you created in the previous section. d
c. If you need a fresh copy of the model, import the command file,
hatchback_2_completed.cmd, from the directory
exercise_dir/mod_18_hatchback_2/completed

To export a dataset (.adm) file:

d. From the File menu, select Export.
e. Enter the following, and select OK:
• File Type: Adams Solver Dataset
• File Name: hatchback.adm
f. Adams View exports this file to your current working directory,
exercise_dir/mod_19_hatchback_3.

6 | Hatchback III © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Create a Command File

To create a command file (.acf):

a. Open a text editor (unix: vi or Jot; Windows: Notepad or
WordPad)

b. Create an Adams Solver command file (.acf) that contains

the commands seen in the top picture:

c. Save the file as hatchback.acf in your current working

directory, exercise_dir/mod_19_hatchback_3

7 | Hatchback III © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. For Windows Open a Command Window

If you are running on UNIX, skip to step 4. For windows:

a. From the Start menu, point to All Programs > Adams 2020 >
Command Prompt
b. Change directories to your working directory,
exercise_dir/mod_19_hatchback_3
c. Use table 1 as a reference for the commands. a
d. Leave the window open because you will be running Adams Solver
from this window.
e. Skip to step 5.

8 | Hatchback III © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. For Unix Open a UNIX Shell

For UNIX:
a. Open a UNIX shell
b. Change the directories to your working directory,
exercise_dir/mod_19_hatchback_3
c. Use Table 2 as a reference for the UNIX Commands. c
d. Leave the shell open because you will be running Adams Solver
from this shell.

9 | Hatchback III © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Perform the Simulation a

To perform a simulation in stand-alone Adams Solver using the command file you just created
(hatchback.acf), for Windows use the following commands:
a. To display the Adams Program menu use:
• adams<version #> - for the MSC version of Adams
b. ru-s - runs Adams Solver with standard Adams executable
c. Hatchback.acf - identifies the .acf Adams Solver file and runs the simulation
d. Exit - exits Adams Solver
e. Leave the window open because you will be using it again soon.
b

To perform a simulation in stand-alone Adams Solver using the command file you just created c
(hatchback.acf), for UNIX use the following commands:
f. adamsxx –c - to display the Adams program menu. (where xx is the version number, for
example adams2020 –c )
g. ru-s - runs Adams Solver with standard Adams executable
h. Hatchback.acf - identifies the .acf Adams Solver file and runs the simulation
i. Exit - exits Adams Solver
j. Leave the window open because you will be using it again soon.

• Note: As common practice, you should open the message file (.msg) and search for errors
and warnings. Correct the model or the .acf file to eliminate the errors and warnings.

10 | Hatchback III © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 6. Modify the Spring Stiffness in the Dataset (.adm) File

To modify the spring stiffness in the dataset (.adm) file:

a. In a text editor, open hatchback.adm, this file is located in the directory
exercise_dir/mod_19_hatchback_3.
b. Do a search for forces.
c. Modify the value of both the springs stiffness from -0.21578 to -0.30 N/mm a
d. Save the file as hatchback2.adm in the same directory.

c
d

11 | Hatchback III © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 7. Modify the Adams Solver Command File

To modify the Adam/Solver command file (.acf) to run with

hatchback2.adm:
b
a. In the text editor, open hatchback.acf from the directory
exercise_dir/mod_19_hatchback_3.
b. Modify the first and second lines of the .acf file so they are:
• Hatchback2
• Hatchback_test2
c. Save the file as hatchback2.acf.

12 | Hatchback III © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 8. Perform a Simulation and Import Results

To perform a simulation:
b
a. Using the new command file, (hatchback2.acf) perform a stand alone Adams Solver
simulation. Similar to how it was done previously on page WS19-10.

To import the results for both simulations:

b. In Adams View, from the File menu, select Import.
c. For the File Type, select Adams Solver Analysis (*.req, *.gra, *.res)
d. For the Files to Read select hatchback_test1.res.
e. For the Model Name enter hatchback
c
f. Click OK to import the results for hatchback_test1.
g. To import the results for hatchback_test2, repeat steps b through f, except change the d
File to Read to hatchback_test2.res.
e

13 | Hatchback III © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 9. Check that Both Analyses Are Children of the Model

c
To check that both analyses are children of the model:
a. Use Tools > Database Navigator.
b. In the Database Navigator, change the Filter type from
modeling to Analyses.
c. Double click the + sign of the hatchback model.
d. Check to make sure that both hatchback_test1 and
hatchback_test2 are children of the model.

b
d

14 | Hatchback III © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 10. Scale the Curves by a moment arm (1/700)
To scale the curves by a moment arm (1/700): f b
a. Activate the measure closing_torque_measure. Tip: change the filter type to
measure h
g
b. Launch Adams PostProcessor.
c. From the Simulation list, select the two analyses, hatchback_test1 and
hatchback_test2. j i
d. From the measure list, select closing_torque_measure.
e. Click Add Curves.
f. Click the Curve Edit Toolbar Icon.
g. From the new toolbar, select the Scale a Curve tool.
h. To individually scale both curves by the moment arm (1/700) enter 1/700 in the
scale textbox
i. Select both curves 1 and 2.
j. The new curves should show up in the legend.
d e

c
a

15 | Hatchback III © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 11. Investigate the New Curves

To investigate the new curves:

a. Use Edit > Delete to delete the original curves.
b. Use the Subtract one curve from another tool to find the approximate
differences between the maximum force values. Use this value to
answer Question 2 in the Workshop 19, Review section.
c. Save your model. If you want to further explore the model in the
optional tasks, then leave the model open. Otherwise Exit Adams View.

16 | Hatchback III © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 12. Optional Tasks

To Simulate the Model in Adams Solver:

a. Simulate interactively but without a script (no .acf file).
b. In an Adams Command Prompt, enter the following commands, where xx is the current version of Adams:
• adamsxx<CR>
• ru-standard<CR>
• <CR> (Because you do not have an Adams Solver command file (.acf), press the enter key).
c. Adams Solver should start.
d. At the Adams command prompt, enter commands one at a time in the same order in which they appear in the .acf file.
• The first line of the acf file is an empty line, which indicates that the analysis files will have the same name as the model file. You need to hit enter
once so that you can account for this empty line
e. After entering all the commands, exit Adams Solver and import your results into Adams View so you can inspect them using animations and plotting.

To launch Adams 2020 from Windows command prompt, set an environment variable as follows:
f. Search the PATH environment variable under system variable/user variable.
g. Edit its value as follows :
Variable Name: PATH
Variable Value : X:\MSC.Software\Adams\2020_711253\bin
*where X is location drive on which Adams is installed.
h. If this environment variable is not available, create the same as mentioned in step b.
i. Open Command prompt window and run command Adams2020 from your working Directory.

17 | Hatchback III © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 19, Review Questions

1. What is the difference between a statement and a command?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

2. What is the maximum force difference between the two tests (hatchback_test1 and hatchback_test2) you performed?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

18 | Hatchback III © MSC Software Corporation

Workshop 20
Hatchback IV
 • Workshop Objectives
• In Workshop 19 - Hatchback III, you determined the approximate force needed to close the lid. Now, you are part of
a group of design engineers for the Mazda MX-6 hatchback. Your goal is to make the model more realistic and
ensure that it meets the following criteria:
• Lid opens completely in less than 4 seconds.
• Requires less than 210 N to close the lid.
• Takes no more than 3.0 sec to close the lid.
• Software Version
• Adams 2020
• Files Required
• Saved file from Workshop 19 or Hatchback_3_completed.cmd
• located in exercise_dir/mod_19_hatchback_3/completed

3 | Hatchback IV © MSC Software Corporation

 • Problem Description
• In this workshop you will use the model saved in Workshop 19. Recall the parts of this model are constrained as
follows:

4 | Hatchback IV © MSC Software Corporation

 • Suggested Steps.
1. Import file and de-activate the Motion on the Revolute Joint.
2. Create an SFORCE to close the lid.
3. Modify the SFORCE to a Step Function and run a simulation.
4. Add a sensor.
5. Test that the sensor works properly.
6. Modify the spring preload.
7. Modify the spring stiffness.
8. Modify the closing force function to the Maximum value.
9. Create design variables.
10. Modify the springs to reference the design variables.
11. Optimize the design.
12. Optional tasks

5 | Hatchback IV © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Import File and De-active the Motion on the Revolute Joint

To start the workshop:

a. Start Adams View, and set the directory to exercise_dir/mod_20_hatchback_4
b. From the directory exercise_dir/mod_19_hatchback_3, import the file you saved from
the previous workshop.
c. If you need a fresh copy of the model, then import hatchback_3_completed, from the
directory exercise_dir/mod_19_hatchback_3/ completed.

To deactivate the motion:

d. Select the Motions:closing_motion, and then select (De)activate.
d
Alternative way: Locate the motion on the revolute joint, l_shortarm_rev, right click and select
the Motion:closing_motion, and then select (De)activate.
e. Disable Object Active.
f. Click OK.

6 | Hatchback IV © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Create an SFORCE to Close the Lid
Lid_sforce_ref

In Workshop 19 - Hatchback III, you used a motion to close the lid. In

this workshop, to make this model more realistic you will replace the
motion with a perpendicular force to close the lid

To create an SFORCE:
a. From the ribbon Forces, select the Single-Component Force.
b. Use the following parameters to create the force. b
• Run-time Direction: Body Moving
• Construction: Pick Feature (select the lid).
• Location: sforce_ref, marker on the lid.
• Direction: y direction of sforce_ref
c. Rename the SFORCE to closing_force.

7 | Hatchback IV © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Modify the SFORCE to a Step Function and Run a Simulation

To modify the SFORCE to a Step Function: a

a. Pick the SFORCE closing_force and select Modify, then in the Modify b
Force dialog make sure the Define Using is set to Function.
b. For the Function enter STEP(time, 4, 0, 4.2, -247). Note: 247 N is the
approximate force needed to close the lid, as you calculated in Workshop
19 - Hatchback III. a

To Run a Simulation:
c. Run a 7-second, 100-step simulation to verify that the force closes the
lid. Because you’re not activating or deactivating any motions during the
simulation, you can run a simple interactive simulation.
c
d. After running the simulation you will see that this approximate force is not
large enough to close the lid.

To Modify the SFORCE Step Function:

e. In the Modify Force dialog, change the SFORCE to have a maximum
value of 300 N; the new function is STEP(time, 4, 0, 4.2, -300).
e

8 | Hatchback IV © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Add a Sensor

When using an SFORCE, there is no constraint stopping the rotation of

the lid beyond the closed position. To add a sensor to stop the lid at the
closed position:
a. From the ribbon Design Exploration, point to Create a New Sensor.
b. Create a sensor based on the measure, shortarm_rotation, by a
filling in the dialog box as shown to the right.
c. Click Apply to create the sensor, and leave the dialog box open.

9 | Hatchback IV © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Test that the Sensor Works Properly

To test that the sensor is working properly:

a. Run another simulation to verify that the sensor works as expected. a
b. Why does the sensor stop the simulation when the lid doesn’t
appear to be fully closed?
______________________________________________________
______________________________________________
c. Back in the Create sensor dialog box, select Generate Additional
Output Steps at Event.
d. Click OK to make this modification to the sensor.
e. Rerun the simulation. c

10 | Hatchback IV © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 6. Modify the Spring Preload

Because the force required to close the lid is greater than the
design criteria, you need to modify the spring preload. To Modify
the spring preload:
a. Click on the left_spring and select modify. In the Modify a
Spring-Damper Force dialog box, change the Preload from
550 to 400. a
b. Repeat step a for the right_spring.
c. Run a simulation
• Notice that the sensor was triggered at time 3.5e-3,
meaning that instead of having the hatchback open, it
dropped past the closing position because the springs were
not strong enough to open the lid.
d. For each spring modify the preload again to be 470.

11 | Hatchback IV © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 7. Modify the Springs Stiffness

Because the force required to close the lid is greater than the design
criteria, you need to modify springs stiffness. To modify the springs
stiffness:
a. Click on the left_spring and select modify. From the Modify a Spring-
Damper Force dialog, change the stiffness Coefficient to .10
N/mm
a
b. Repeat step a for the right_spring.

12 | Hatchback IV © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 8. Modify the Closing Force Function to the Maximum Value

A value of 210 N is the maximum force that can used to close the lid,
as defined in our design criteria from the problem statement.
To modify the Closing Force Function to the maximum value.
a. Click on the closing_force, and select modify. Change the
STEP function for the closing_force SFORCE to have a
maximum value of 210N; the function should now look like this:
STEP(time, 4, 0, 4.2, -210).
b. Run a simulation. a
c. While the springs now open the lid, the closing force is still not
large enough.

13 | Hatchback IV © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 9. Create design variables
b
a c
d
e
Creating design variables in your model will help to speed up the design
f
iteration process. To create design variables: g
a. From the ribbon Design Exploration, select Create a Design Variable.
b. Create a design variable for the preload on the spring. Change the name
to .hatchback.preload.
c. For the units select force.
d. For the standard Value enter 460.
e. For the Value Range by select Absolute Min and Max Values
f. For the Min. Value enter 300
g. For the Max. Value enter 600
h. Click OK to create the variable. h
i. Using the chart below, repeat the above steps for the stiffness and
damping design variables.
i

14 | Hatchback IV © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 10. Modify the Springs to Reference the Design Variables.

a
Modify the springs to reference design variables:
a. Click on the left_spring and select Modify. In the Modify
Spring-Damper Force dialog box, right click in the Stiffness
textbox and select Parameters>Reference Design
Variable.
b. From the Database Navigator select the Stiffness Variable. a c
c. Click Ok and the variable appears in the Stiffness d
Coefficient textbox.
d. Repeat Step a through c for the damping coefficient and d
the preload. b
e. Click OK to make the modifications.
f. Repeat steps a through e for the right_spring.

15 | Hatchback IV © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 11. Optimize the Design

To optimize the design:

a. Use model tree, expand Design Variables.
b. Select the appropriate design variable from the list.
c. Modify the Standard Value of the design variable. c a
d. Click Apply to make the change and leave the Modify Design
Variable dialog box open. b
e. Simulate the model to see the results of the modification.
f. Continue steps a through e until the lid opens and closes as required.
g. Note: There could be many parameter combinations that would meet
the design criteria. Try a few different values to get a feel for the
sensitivity of each parameter.
h. Save the model. Exit Adams View, unless you wish to continue with
the optional tasks.

16 | Hatchback IV © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 12. Optional Task 1
Save your work before performing these tasks. Do not save your work after performing
these tasks. If you must save the model after performing these tasks, give the model a
different name.

To run an optimization to find a set of values that meet the criteria of the problem
statement.
a. Import the custom macro /misc/optimization_optional_task.cmd.
b. Note: This custom macro creates measurements, a design variable, a simulation d
script, and constraints needed to run this optimization. It also modifies your
optimization settings and the values of your design variables to allow for the model to c
quickly optimize.
c. From the ribbon Design Exploration, select Design Evaluation Tools.
d. Complete the dialog box as shown to the right.
e. select Optimizer.
f. Complete the solver Settings dialog box:
• For the category select Optimization f
• Set Algorithm to MSCADS-SUMT
e
• Click Close. g
i
g. Click Start.
h. Note: Several sets of values will meet the design criteria. Further investigation is
needed to determine the optimal design.
i. Select the tool Create tabular report of results.

17 | Hatchback IV © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 12. Optional Task (Cont.)

j. Adams View automatically updates the standard values for each design
variable to the values found during the optimization process.
k. For this problem, the values that you receive from the optimization are very
sensitive to the starting points of the design variables. If time permits, try to
modify the starting values of the design variables and run the above
optimization again. Did you find an optimal value? What went wrong?
l. Hint: Did the lid even open?

18 | Hatchback IV © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 13. Optional Task 2

a
Use a Temporary Settings File to change the spring damper design variables and run a simulation

a. Go to Start (Windows) > Adams 2020 > Settings & License

From the Adams Registry Editor window select Preferences under AView and enable tempSettings.
b. Open a new Adams View session and load the model hatchback_iv_completed.cmd from
the directory mod_20_hatchback_4\completed
c. Run a 7 second 100 steps simulation and save it as sim_set_base
d. From Design Exploration tab of the menu ribbon, select Temporary Settings e
e. From the Temporary Settings File dialog box, right click under Object Properties and select
damping.value as shown here.
f. Similarly select the values for preload and stiffness.

19 | Hatchback IV © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 13. Optional Task 2 (Cont.)

g. Temporarily change the values as shown

h. Export the temporary settings file onto the working directory
i. In the simulation control dialog box, check Temporary Settings and then right click and i
browse for the temporary settings file created in the previous step
j. Reset the model and Run a 7 second 100 step simulation and save it as sim_set_2
k
k. In the post processor, compare the graphs for the measure short_arm rotation for both
simulations.
l. In the Adams View model tree, under Design Variables check the value of the variables
damping, stiffness and preload.

Have they changed it to the new values?

____________________________

20 | Hatchback IV © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 20, Review Questions

1. Which parameters were most sensitive to meeting the design criteria?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

2. How did the design variables help to speed the iteration process?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

21 | Hatchback IV © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 21
Cam-Rocker-Valve

Rocker

Rod
Guide (ground)

Cam Valve

Valve
displacement (mm)

Time (sec)
 • Workshop Objectives
• Design a cam profile based on desired valve displacement and ensure that there is no follower liftoff when the cam is
rotated at 3000 rpm.
• Software Version
• Adams 2020
• Files Required
• valve_train_start.cmd
• Located: exercise_dir/mod_21_camrocker

3 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

 • Problem Description
• The model represents a valvetrain mechanism.
• The cam is being rotated at a velocity of 1 rotation per second.
• The rocker pivots about a pin attached to the engine block (ground).
• The valve displaces up and down as the rocker moves.
• When the valve moves, it lets small amounts of air in the chamber below it (not modeled here).

Rocker

Rod
Guide
(ground)
Cam Valve

Valve displacement
(mm)

Time (sec)

4 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

 • Suggested Exercise Steps
1. Import file.
2. Apply a motion.
3. Create a cam profile.
4. Constrain the rod to the cam.
5. Measure the force.
6. Replace the curve-on-curve constraint.
7. Create a spring.
8. Find static equilibrium.
9. Create a Measure on the Contact Force
10. Modify the spring damper to prevent liftoff.
11. Create and swap the flexible part.
12. Run a simulation and save.
13. Optional tasks.

5 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Import File

To import file:
a. Open Adams View from the directory
exercise_dir/mod_21_camrocker.
b. From the directory exercise_dir/mod_21_camrocker, import the
model command file valve_train_start.cmd.
c. The file contains a model named valve_train. c

6 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Apply a Motion

a. From the ribbon Motion select Translation Motion tool to add a

motion to the joint, Valve_Ground_Jt.
b. Use the STEP function below to define the displacement. Add the
two STEP functions together such that the final function looks as
follows:
• STEP(time, .4, 0,.6,13) + STEP(time,.6,0,.8,-13).
• Enter this function in the Function(time) textbox, on the Joint
Motion dialog. d
c. From ribbon simulation, select Interactive Controls.
d. From the simulation control Run a 1-second, 100-step
simulation to verify that the valve displaces as a result of the joint b
motion.

7 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Create a Cam Profile
b

Rod.CIRCLE_1

Use a point trace to create a cam profile.

a
a. From the ribbon Results , select Create Trace Spline to use a
point trace.
b. Select the circle on the rod, rod.CIRCLE_1 and then the part
named cam.
c. Verify that you now have a spline representing the cam profile. Cam part
d. Run a simulation to verify that the Rod appears to move along
the surface of the Cam. d

c
cam profile

8 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Constrain the Rod to the Cam

To constrain the rod:

a. Delete the joint motion on the joint, Valve_Ground_Jt.
b. From the ribbon Connectors, select Curve-Curve Constraint
tool to create a curve-on-curve constraint between the circle on
the Rod (CIRCLE_1) and the cam profile on the Cam
(GCURVE_201)
c. Run a interactive simulation to verify that the new constraint
works. c
CIRCLE_1

GCURVE_201
a

9 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Measure the Force

b
Measure the force in the curve-on-curve constraint. To measure the force:
a. Create a force measure for the curve-on-curve constraint. Right-click the a
constraint and then select Measure.
b. Measure the force along the z-axis of ref_mar, which belongs to the rod:
• Characteristic > Force
• Component > Z
• Represent coordinates in > ref_mar
c. A strip chart for the measure will be displayed.

Note: The curve-on-curve constraint applies a negative force that keeps the c
rod follower on the cam, avoiding any liftoff.

10 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 6. Replace the Curve-On-Curve Constraint
c

Make the cam-to-rod contact more realistic by replacing the curve-on-curve

constraint with a Point-to-curve contact force. To replace the curve-on-curve
constraint:
a. Deactivate the curve-on-curve constraint you created in Step 4 on page 9. a
b. From the ribbon Force, select create a contact.
c. Use the following contact parameters:
• Contact Name > cam_contact
• Contact Type > Point to Curve
• Marker > ref_mar
• Curve > GCURVE_201 a
• Normal Force > Impact
• Stiffness (K) > 1e6 (N/mm)
• Force Exponent (e) > 1.5
• Damping (C) > 10 (N-sec/mm)
• Penetration Depth (d) > 1e-3 mm
• Friction Force > Coulomb b
• Coulomb Friction > On

11 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 6. Replace the Curve-On-Curve Constraint (Cont.)

d
d. Use the following contact parameters continued:
• Static Coefficient (μs) > 0.08
f
• Dynamic Coefficient (μd) > 0.05
• Stiction Transition Vel. (vs) > 1 (mm/sec)
• Friction Transition Vel. (vt) > 2 (mm/sec)
e. Use the Change Direction tool next to the Directions textbox, to make sure
that the normal arrow points outward from the curve (GCURVE_201) as shown
to the right.
f. Run an Interactive simulation to check if liftoff occurs.
GCURVE_201

Normal
arrow

12 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 7. Create a Spring
a

Since lift off still occurs, to prevent it create a spring damper:

a. To add a marker on the valve at the location, Valve_Point:
From ribbon Bodies, select Construction Geometry > Marker
• Add to Part
• From the screen, select valve and the location Valve_Point.
b. From the ribbon Forces, select create Translational Spring-Damper
Add a spring damper between the marker you just created and the point,
Ground_Point (which is a point on ground, at the top of the guide), b
using the following parameters: b
• Stiffness (K) > 20 (N/mm)
c
• Damping (C) > 0.002 (N-sec/mm)
c. To add a preload to the spring you must modify the spring, use a pre-
load of 100 N. a

Valve point

13 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 8. Find Static Equilibrium
a
b

Note: You perform the static equilibrium to eliminate the transient effect that results
from the time-dependent damping characteristic of the spring damper. In addition, d
positioning the model in static equilibrium establishes initial contact between the a
roller and the cam.

To find the static equilibrium of the model:

a. From the ribbon simulation, select Interactive Simulation. Click Find Static
Equilibrium. Do not reset the model before going on to the next step.
b. Run a dynamic simulation to view the effects of the spring starting from static
equilibrium.
c. Modify the rotational motion on the cam.
d. The speed should be 3000 rpm, so enter the displacement function as -
50*360d*time.
e
e. To view only one rotation of the cam, run a static equilibrium followed by a
dynamic simulation for end=1/50 seconds, steps=100. Note: an easy way to
run this simulation sequence is to create a simulation script. c
e

14 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 9. Create a Measure on the Contact Force
a

To create a measure on the contact force:

a. From the ribbon Design Exploration, select Create d
new Function Measure.
b. Change the units to force.
c. Use the category Force in Object, select Contact
force and click on Assist tab.
d. Fill out the contact Force dialog as shown below.
e. Your function should look like the one shown below g
in the Function Builder.
f. Remember to Verify the function before clicking e
OK. g
g. Rerun the simulation to populate the new measure
strip chart.
c
c b
g

15 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 10. Modify the Spring Damper to Prevent Liftoff

a. Modify the spring-damper characteristics (stiffness, damping, and

preload) to prevent liftoff based on the new rotational speed of the cam.
Note: Experiment with different values until the no-lift criteria is met.
b. Save the model.

16 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 11. Create and Swap the Flexible Part using ViewFlex

You will use the ViewFlex utility to convert the rigid valve part to a
flexible valve part and transfer the constraints acting on the rigid body to a
the flexible body.
To create and swap the flexible part:
a. From the ribbon Bodies, select Rigid to Flex.
b. From the Make Flexible select Create New.
b
c. Right-click in the Part to be meshed field and select the Valve part.
d. Check Advanced Settings to open more settings

17 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 11. Create and Swap the Flexible Part using ViewFlex (Cont.)

e. Select Size option in the Element Specification

f. Set the element size =2 and minimum size =
0.5
g. Click OK.
h. The Rigid valve is now replaced by Flexible
valve as shown below:

h
f

18 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 11. Create and Swap the Flexible Part using ViewFlex (Cont.)

i. From the Tools menu, select Database Navigator.

j. Change Browse to Graphical Topology.
k. Highlight Valve_flex part.
l. Notice that the joints and spring are now attached to the
j
flexible valve part.

k l

joints

spring

19 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 12. Run a Simulation and Save

a. To view only one rotation of the cam, run a static equilibrium followed
by a dynamic simulation for end=1/50 seconds, steps=100.
b. Use Adams PostProcessor to investigate how the flexible body a
affects the model.
• Does lift off occur in the model now? ____________________
c. Save the model
d. If you want to further explore the model, as suggested in the next
section, leave the model open. Otherwise, Exit Adams View.

20 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 13. Optional Tasks

Following are the optional tasks in this workshop:

a. Swap the Rigid valve part with flexible Part:
We have already seen how to convert the rigid body into flexible body in step 10 using
ViewFlex. If you have the flexible body created outside Adams using any FE software
such as Patran and MSC Nastran, you can replace rigid body by the flexible body. The
flexible body is the modal neutral file having an extension .mnf. You will learn how to
swap the rigid body with flexible body in the following slide.
b. Change the shape of the follower:

21 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 13.1 Swap the Rigid Valve Part with Flexible Part

You will use the Flex body swap dialog box to replace the rigid valve part with
a flexible valve part and transfer the constraints acting on the rigid body to the b
flexible body.
a
Use the model saved in Step 10 (refer slide 16) for this task.

To swap the flexible part:

a. From the ribbon Bodies, select Rigid to Flex. c
b. From Make Flexible Select Import MNF d
c. Right-click in the Current Part field and select the Valve part.
d. Right-click in the MNF File field and select Browse. Select
flex_valve.mnf from the directory
exercise_dir/mod_21_camrocker/misc.

22 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 13.1 Swap the Rigid Valve Part with Flexible Part (Cont.)

e
e. Click on the Connections tab.
f. Select the Move button. Note: This will move the markers to
the corresponding nodes. This is especially important for g
markers where forces or constraints are acting.
g. Click Preserve location.
h. Click OK.
i. The part should be replaced as shown below. f

i
h

23 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 13.1 Swap the Rigid Valve Part with Flexible Part (Cont.)

j. From the Tools menu, select Database Navigator.

k. Change Browse to Graphical Topology.
l. Highlight Valve_flex part.
m. Notice that the joints and k
spring are now attached to the
flexible valve part.
l m
joints

spring

24 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 13.1 Swap the Rigid Valve Part with Flexible Part (Cont.)

a
Run the simulation
a. To view only one rotation of the cam, run a static equilibrium
followed by a dynamic simulation for end=1/50 seconds,
steps=100. a
b. Use Adams PostProcessor to investigate how the flexible body
affects the model.
• Does lift off occur in the model now? ____________________
c. Save the model with different name

25 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 13.2 Change the Shape of the Follower

a. Delete the point-to-curve contact force between the Rod circle and the
Cam curve.
b. Add a spline to the Rod that is a shape other than a circle and use that
as the follower.
c. Change the grid spacing to 5mm in the x and y directions and draw the
new follower geometry on the grid.
d. Recreate the contact force between the Rod and the Cam using the
new spline as the follower. Use a curve-to-curve contact force.

26 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

 Workshop 21, Review Questions

1. How many DOF are removed by adding a curve-on-curve constraint?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

2. How many DOF are removed by a curve-to-curve force?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

27 | Cam-Rocker-Valve © MSC Software Corporation

Workshop 22
Target Practice
 • Workshop Objectives
• Complete the construction of a parametric gun and find the launch-spring stiffness that will allow the marble to hit the
target.
• Software Version
• Adams 2020
• Files Required
• Target_practice_start_cmd
• Located in the directory exercise_dir/mod_22_target_practice

3 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 • Problem Description
• Currently, the model has all the geometry, parts and constraints it needs.
• There is a single-component force representing the spring force between the hammer and the launch pad.
• The single-component force is designed so that it changes characteristics depending on the type of simulation being
run (static vs dynamic):
• If a static simulation is run, the spring has a free length of 40 mm.
• If a dynamic simulation is run, the spring has a free length of 100 mm.
• Therefore, initially run a static simulation so the marble falls on the hammer and compresses the spring a little. Then,
when you run a dynamic simulation, the spring thinks it is compressed a great deal and shoots the marble.
• The model is already parameterized with variables describing the elevation angle of the launch pad and the stiffness
and damping of the spring.
• You will only modify the stiffness of the spring.
• Initially, the spring stiffness is 20 N/mm

4 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 • Suggested Steps
1. Create a marker on the hammer part.
2. Orient the working grid along the XY-plane of the new marker.
3. Create a plane to be used in the contact definition.
4. Verify Adams Solver equilibrium settings.
5. Create a contact force between the marble and the hammer.
6. Create a contact force between the marble and the launch pad.
7. Run a scripted simulation.
8. Include aerodynamic drag.
9. Compare simulation results.
10. Track when the simulation is complete.
11. Set up a design study.
12. Export a Plot Configuration File
13. Adams Explore Export and Run
14. Optional tasks

5 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Create a Marker on the Hammer Part

c
b

To create a contact between the hammer and the model:

a. Import the file: d
• Start Adams View from the directory
excercise_dir/mod_22_target_practice e
• Import the model command file target_practice_start.cmd.
b. Run a simulation to see the forces that affect the model in this current
configuration.
c. Select the marker icon to create a marker.
d. Create a marker by adding it to a part, with orientation in the Z-axis
e. For the part use the hammer, for the location right click at the face of the
hammer, and then select hammer.CYL10.E1 (center). Note that hammer.
CYL10.E1 (center) is a place holder that represents the geometry and is
only accessible when prompted for a location.
f
f. For the direction, select the x-axis of the cm marker of the marble.

6 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Orient the Working Grid Along the XY-Plane of the New Marker
a

To orient the working grid along the XY-Plane of the new marker:
a. Use Settings > Working Grid. The Working Grid Settings dialog comes up.
b. Set the spacing to 10 mm for both the X and the Y.
c. Set the location to pick… and from the model pick the marker that was just
created, MARKER_46. b
d. Set the Orientation to X-Y-Axes.
e. First select the X-axis of MARKER_46.
f. Then select the Y-axis of MARKER_46.
g. Adjust the view until the new working grids XY-plane encompasses the window, as
shown. Tip: Set the model to a right view, then rotate the model down, and turn
shading on.

g
e
d

7 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Create a Plane to be Used in the Contact Definition

To create a plane: a
a. Use the Plane tool. b
b. Select Add to Part.
c. Right click the sphere and then select hammer from the list .
d. Left-click on any grid point outside of the hammer face and drag
across, making sure to cover the entire face.
e. Reset the grid to the default position.
• Set Spacing back to 50mm for both X and Y.
• Set location to Global Origin.
• Set orientation Global XY.

e
c
e

8 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Verify Adams Solver Equilibrium Settings

To verify Adams Solver equilibrium settings:

a. From the Settings menu, point to Solver, and then select Equilibrium.
b. Verify that Error is set to 1.0E-002
c. Select Close.

b a
a

9 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Create a Contact Force Between the Marble and the Hammer

a b

To create a contact force between the marble and the hammer:

a. Click on the Contact Force icon, from the forces tool stack.
b. Change the data in the Create Contact dialog to the following:
• Contact Type: Sphere to Plane.
• Sphere: ELL3.
• Plane: PLANE_46.
• Stiffness: 100 (N/mm)
• Force Exponent : 1.01.
• Damping enter: 1.0 (N-sec/mm).
• Penetration Depth: 0.2 mm.
c. When finished entering the data, click OK.
d. The contact force should appear as shown to the right.
d

10 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 6. Create a Contact Force Between the Marble and the Launch Pad

To create a contact force between the marble and the Launch Pad:
a. Click on the Contact Force icon, from the forces tool stack.
b. Change the data in the Create Contact dialog to the following:
• Contact Type > Solid to Solid
• I Solid > ELL3
• J solid > CSG_35 a
• Stiffness > 100(N/mm)
• Force Exponent > 1.01
• Damping > 1.0(N-sec/mm)
• Penetration Depth > 0.2 mm
• Friction Force > Coulomb
• Static Coefficient > 0.3
• Dynamic Coefficient > 0.1
• Stiction Transition Vel. > 50
• Friction Transition Vel. > 200

11 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 7. Run a Scripted Simulation
c
Launchpad

Hammer

Launch spring a
To run a scripted simulation:
a. The marble is not initially in contact with the hammer; therefore,
you must precede each dynamic simulation that you submit with
a static equilibrium simulation. c
Marble d
b. Create a script that performs a static equilibrium simulation
followed by a dynamic simulation
• Use Script Type Adams Solver Commands.
• Enter the commands
• SIMULATE /STATIC
• SIMULATE /DYNAMIC, END=1.0, STEPS=100 b
c. Create a measure name x_displacement, of the marble’s global x
displacement
• Right click the marble and select Measure b
• Characteristic > CM position
• Component > X
d. Run the scripted simulation you created in step b
e. Save the simulation results as no_aero.

12 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 8. Include Aerodynamic Drag Force

Parameters for global x and y components of the drag force.

To include Aerodynamic drag force:
a. Use the parameters shown here to Create a multi- Fx = -1/2*ρ*Vx*Vm*Cd*A
component force at the marble center of mass, a
between the marble and ground, whose directions Fy = -1/2*ρ*Vy*Vm*Cd*A
are aligned with the global coordinate system.

Where:
ρ = 1.3e-9Kg/mm3 = density of air
Vx = global x component of the marble’s velocity
Vy = global y component of the marble’s velocity
Vm = magnitude of the marble’s velocity
Cd = 0.45 = drag coefficient
A = πr2 = two-dimensional area of the marble face

13 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 8. Include Aerodynamic Drag Force (Cont.)
b

b. Click on the multi-component force icon, from the ribbon

Forces.
• Select 2 bodies – 1 location
• Select Normal to Grid
• Characteristic: Custom b
c. On the model select the two bodies marble and ground, and
select the location as the marble cm.
d. In the Modify force Vector dialog, select the function tool next to
the X force.
d

14 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 8. Include Aerodynamic Drag Force (Cont.)

e. Enter the Aerodynamic Function as shown. e

f. Select Verify, and the click OK.
g. Select the function builder tool to the right of Y Force.
h. Repeat the previous steps replacing Vx with Vy.
• Verify the new function.
• Click Ok.
i. Run a simulation using the script you created in Step 7.
j. Save the simulation results as with_aero

15 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 9. Compare Simulation Results

To compare the simulation results:

a. Use the Adams PostProcessor to compare the x
displacement of the marble for each set of simulation
results (with and without aerodynamic forces)
b. The simulation results should look like the ones b
shown to the right

16 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 10. Track When the Simulation is Complete

To track when the simulation is complete:

a. Create a measure on the marble, named y-displacement.
• Characteristic: CM position a
• Component: Y
b. Create a sensor to determine when the marble passes the global
XZ plane. Have the sensor monitor the global y displacement
measure created in step a, and when it is less than or equal to 0.0
direct the sensor to:
• Generate an addition output step
• Terminate the current simulation step and stop the simulation
script.

17 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 11. Set Up a Design Study
a

First create a point-to-point measure:

a. Create a point-to-point measure of the global x distance from the
target center (.ground.target) to the marble center (.marble.cm)
and name it target_error.
• Use ribbon Design Exploration->select icon for point-to-point.
• Fill in the form as shown
• Select Advanced tab and fill in the dialog box as shown.

Then update solver settings:

b. From the settings menu, point to solver, and then select Display. a
c. Set Update Graphics to Never, then click Close.

18 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 11. Set Up a Design Study (Cont.)

d
Use ribbon Design Evaluation to set up design study:
d. Run a design study that gives the last value of
target_error over six default levels of existing design
variables, launch_spr_stiffness.
• Fill in the dialog box as shown.
d
e. Select Start.
f. Note the approximate value of stiffness at which the
marble hits the target and use it to answer Question 2
in the Workshop 22, Review section
g. Save you work.

e
f

19 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 12. Export a Plot Configuration File

a. Go to Adams PostProcessor or press F8, Select Source to be Measure and plot the y displacement, as shown on the picture below.
b. Go to File > Export and select Plot Config file, save the file name to be displacement as shown in the picture. Click OK, now you should
have a .plt file in your working directory.

20 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 13. Adams Explore Export

a. From Design Exploration tab, click on Export under Explore:

b. Specify the name of the workbook to be exported as “targetsample.xlsx” and select the model .target_practice

21 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 14. Adams Explore Export
Under the Modeling tab Various modeling parameters can be chosen for inclusion in the exported
spreadsheet. For this exercise select design variables in the model as shown, right click the field and
select guesses
Do not click OK yet as we still need to fill more tabs.

22 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 14. Adams Explore Export (Cont.)

Under the Analyses tab Check Include Analyses

a. If you intend to use your local machine as the analysis machine on which
spreadsheet-launched runs are to be performed, then click “Use Default” for the
“Analysis Machine Name” and “Port” fields; otherwise, enter the name and port
of the machine you intent to setup to accept spreadsheet-launched runs.
b. For “AView Launch Command” click “Use Default” or enter it directly if the
command Adams senses for this installation does not match what you want to
use.
c. Under “Output” select all Design Objectives in the model by clicking the select
all button next to the field.
On the “Simulation Script” tab, click “Append” and fill out the fields as shown
below. (Hint: use right-click – Guesses to get the Simulation Script) In the Plot
Configuration File, browse for the PLT file in the working directory.
d. Click OK to export the spreadsheet workbook to your current working directory.
You will get a message indicating this has been done.

23 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 15. Launch the Servers

From the machine you specified as “Analysis Machine” you need to start the Explore
web server AND job server so that analyses launched from the spreadsheet
workbook can be built (i.e., models modified) and executed:
a. Logon to the analysis machine, launch Adams View and load the Explore plugin
(of course, if you’re hosting jobs this from the same machine from which you just
exported the spreadsheet you have already done this).
b. Launch the Command Navigator via “Tools – Command Navigator”.
c. From the Command Navigator go to “aexplore – server – webserver” and click
“start”.
d. Click “OK” in the ensuing dialog (unless you know to be using some other port
number than 8080, in which case enter that port number then click OK)

24 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 15. Launch the Servers (Cont.)

a. Do the same for the job server: you will notice some command prompt windows open up logging status of the job server and web server

Notes:
• Keep these windows open. Closing them will stop the servers.
• Alternatively these servers can be started from the Adams Command Prompt. See the
Remarks section of this example for details.

25 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 16. Server Installation

If on a Windows OS machine using Excel, a one-time installation of an Excel ‘Add-In’ can be performed which will enable the Excel user to launch Adams
analyses and retrieve results without ever leaving Excel. Note: If you are using a spreadsheet program other than Excel (e.g., on a Linux OS) skip this step
and you will be directed to an alternate means of job submission later in this example.

a. Locate the Add-In file in your Adams installation. This file is named adams_explore_addin.xlam and is located in the %TOPDIR%\
aexplore\spreadsheet_software_plugins\Microsoft_Excel directory of your Adams installation, for example here:
C:\Program Files\MSC.Software\Adams\2020_711253\aexplore\spreadsheet_software_plugins\Microsoft_Excel\ adams_explore_addin.xlam

b. Copy the adams_explore_addin.xlam file into the \AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Addins found in your “User Profile” folder on Windows. To find your User
Profile directory, copy this text and paste into Windows Explorer, as shown:
%USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\AddIns

26 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 17. Excel Set Up

The process for setting up Excel is:

a. open Microsoft Excel and load a blank file
b. In Excel, navigate to: File -> Options
c. In the Excel Options dialog box, select Add-Ins
d. Ensure that the “Manage:” selection at the bottom of the screen is set to “Excel Add-Ins” and then select
the Go… button
e. The Add-Ins dialog box should list the Adams_Explore_Addin. Ensure that is checked and then select Ok.
f. A new Ribbon Bar should appear in Microsoft Excel named Adams Explore Server, as shown:

27 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 18. Adams Explore Excel
a. Navigate to your Adams View working directory and open the exported workbook file “targetsample.xlsx”.
b. Browse through the tabs to see the information you exported.
General model information is presented on the “Model” tab and the other tabs reflect the information you, from the dialog
in Adams View, requested be exported.
c. On the Analyses tab, notice the details of the analysis machine and the simulation script that were specified.

28 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Steps for Running the Example
To run this analysis, from the “Adams Explore Server” tab in the Excel ribbon:
a. Click on “Submit Job” Note: if you are not on Windows and using Excel, skip the following steps and instead use the “Webpage-Based Job
Submission Alternative” described at the end of this document.

b. This will create a new tab in the Excel workbook called “Analysis Status” which will display the very initial status as “Inactive”

c. You can then manually query the status via the “Job Status” button above or have the spreadsheet automatically update the status every
10-seconds via the “Stream Status” button.

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 Steps for Running the Example (Cont.)
d. Once “Current Analysis Status” reads “Job completed” there will be a hyperlink from which the completed workbook (i.e., one which includes the results of the
analysis) can be downloaded (you may need to click through a warning about opening a non-local file)
e. Once opened, save this locally and browse through the result tabs showing the design objective values and inspect the plots of results.

30 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Webpage-Based Job Submission Alternative

• These steps above in this example were written for those using Excel on Windows who want to submit jobs and see
results without ever leaving Excel. For those not on Windows and using Excel the following describes another means to
submit jobs and access results:

1. In the workbook exported from Adams View, go to the “Analyses” tab and click on the hyperlink next to “Analysis Machine”

2. This will launch the Adams Explore Job Monitor in your default web browser, from here click File Upload, browse for
“targetsample.xlsx” and click Submit File

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 Webpage-Based Job Submission Alternative (Cont.)

3. The spreadsheet is now uploaded to the analysis machine where the simulations will be setup and executed. You can follow the
status on this webpage which will automatically update. You can also manually refresh the page.

32 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Remarks
Adams Explore also allows one to edit an Adams model based on the values of an .xlsx file previously exported against the same model. So, in the above
example, the Adams analyst could update the target_practice model with the better configuration found by the engineer in the .xlsx file using the import button
on the ribbon tab:

In addition to the means shown earlier in this example, the Adams Explore job server and web server can also be launched from the command prompt:
• Launch the Adams Command Prompt. For example, from the Start Menu on Windows machines under Adams 2020 click “Command Prompt”
• Change the directory to the working directory.
• Enter the Adams start command (shown at the top of the window, e.g. “adams2020”), followed by the arguments “aexplore” and “ru-jobserver” like so:

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 Remarks (Cont.)

• This will launch a separate window for the job server as shown earlier in this example
• Enter the Adams start command (shown at the top of the window, e.g. “adams2020”), followed by the arguments “aexplore” and “ru-webserver” like so:

• This will launch a separate window for the web server as shown earlier in this example

34 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 19. Optional Tasks

Save your work before performing these tasks. Do not save your work after performing these
tasks. If you must save the model after performing these tasks, give the model a different name.
a. Multiply the aerodynamic forces by STEP functions to eliminate any aerodynamic effects that
might occur when the marble moves to the static position. TIP: The independent variable of the
STEP function will be DM(.marble.cm, .TIP).
b. Tighten the minimum and maximum values of the design variable of the launch-pad stiffness
and increase the number of levels to 10 to achieve a more precise solution.
c. Run additional design studies for other design variables.

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 Workshop 22, Review Questions

1. What defines the force directions (Fx, Fy, and Fz) in a force vector?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

2. What is the approximate value of stiffness at which the marble hits the target?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________

36 | Target Practice © MSC Software Corporation

Workshop 23
FE_Part
 • Workshop Objective
• Constrain the bucket such that the base of the bucket always maintains its horizontal orientation (thus keeping the
bucket passenger safe) as shown next. Model boom as a flexible component for greater realism.

3 | FE_Part © MSC Software Corporation

 • Problem description
• This workshop uses the model of the lift mechanism we completed in Workshop 10. We aim to replace the boom
with an FE_PART to see how it affects the bucket location.
• Software Version
• Adams 2020
• Files Required
• Use directory exercise_dir/mod_23_fe_part

4 | FE_Part © MSC Software Corporation

 • Suggested Steps
1. Import the model.
2. Run the Rigid model and Save Results.
3. Create an FE_Part Boom.
4. Recreate Connections to the FE_Boom .
5. Recreate the General Motion on the Translational Joint between FE_Boom and Shoulder.
6. Create Contact between FE_Boom and Shoulder.
7. Run the Model with FE_Boom.
8. Export Work

5 | FE_Part © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Import Model

To Import Model:
a. Select Existing Model and start Adams View from the directory
exercise_dir/mod_23_fe_part.
b. From the directory exercise_dir/mod_23_fe_part, search
and opens the model fe_part.cmd
c. The model should look like so:

6 | FE_Part © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Run the Rigid model and Save Results

To run the rigid model:

a. Select Run a Scripted Simulation under the Simulation
tab. b b
b. Select the Play button to run the simulation script
SIM_SCRIPT_1. b
c. Save the baseline simulation results as rigid_boom for
comparison with the later model.

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 Step 3. Create an FE_Part Boom

Here, we create an FE_PART boom to replace the rigid boom:

b
a. Click on the Create FE_PART icon under Flexible Bodies.
b. Complete the Create FE part wizard:
• Name the new FE_PART, FE_Boom.
• Set the Damping Ratio Stiffness to 1 and keep Damping ratio mass to 0 then select Next.
• For the Centerline, Change the Definition from Curve to Line From Two Points.
• For Start Point, browse for MAR_FE_1 under ground.
• For End Point, browse for MAR_FE_2 under ground, and then select Next.
• For Nodes, enter 28 for rows and select Insert.
• Select Evenly Distribute and then OK in the dialog box that appears. In this way, the wizard
automatically distributed the now 30 nodes evenly between the Start Point and End Point that we
select in the previous step.
• Right-click in the first cell under Section and select Create. Name the section boom_section.
Change the Cross Section to Solid Circular and give it a radius of 0.5 m. Then select OK.
c. Now in the wizard, select Uniform Section. Also change the Faceting Tolerance to 400 for finer mesh
on the FE_PART. The completed wizard should look like so
c

8 | FE_Part © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 4. Recreate Connections to the FE_Boom
b

Now you will delete the connections between the Boom and other parts. Instead you create those
connections between the FE_Boom and those parts:
a. Expand Connectors and delete Bucket_Boom_Rev_Joint.
b. Under Connectors tab, select Revolute Joint:
• Select Bucket as the first body.
• Select FE_Boom as the second body. e
• Select MAR_FE_2 as the location.
• Rename the new joint to FE_Boom_Bucket_Rev_Joint.
c. Back in the model tree under Connectors and delete Boom_Shoulder_Joint.
d. In the dialog box that appears, select Delete All to delete the dependent Point Motion on
this translational Joint.
e. Under Connectors tab, select Translational Joint:
• Select FE_Boom as the first body.
• Select Shoulder as the second body.
• Select Shoulder.cm as the location.
• Select Marker_33 as the direction.
• Rename the new joint to FE_Boom_Shoulder_Joint.
Note: If you find it difficult to see/select this marker, you can highlight it in the model browser and
find where it is located.

9 | FE_Part © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Recreate the Joint Motion on the new Translational Joint

Now you will create a new Joint Point Motion on the new translational joint
between the FE_Boom and the Shoulder.
a. Under Motions tab, select Translation Motion:
• Select the joint, FE_Boom_Shoulder_Joint.
• Modify the Joint Motion you just created to ramp up from 0 to 5 mm from
the time 0.8 sec to 1 sec.
• Rename the new joint to FE_Boom_Shoulder_Trans_Motion.

10 | FE_Part © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 6. Create Contact between FE_Boom and Shoulder
a

Now that we have a flexible boom, although we have a translation joint to control the general
motion of the boom with respect to the shoulder, we might have some penetration of the boom
into the shoulder due to deformations.
Therefore, here we introduce a contact between the FE_Boom and the Shoulder to avoid the b
unrealistic penetration.
a. Before creating the contact, make the shoulder cylinder hollow by cutting out a cylinder of
radius 0.5 m (as in the FE_Boom).
b. Under Forces tab and under Special Forces, select Contact:
• Select Solid to Solid as the contact type.
• Select the SHELL geometry under FE_Boom as the I Solid.
• Select the geometry under Shoulder as the J Solid.
• Name the Contact FE_Boom_Shoulder_Contact.
• The Create Contact dialog box should look like so:

Note: Do not forget to deactivate and hide the rigid Boom Part.

11 | FE_Part © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 7. Run the Model with FE_Boom

To run the model with FE_Boom:

a. Select Run a Scripted Simulation under the Simulation tab.
b. Select the Play button to run the simulation script SIM_SCRIPT_1.
c. Save the simulation results as fe_part_boom.

Note: You can ignore the warning messages.

12 | FE_Part © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 8. Export Work

To save your work:

a. Save the model such that the saved file contains only the model
topology and not the results (File > Export).
b. Unless you want to further experiment with the model, as instructed
on the following page, exit Adams View.

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 Workshop 23, Review Questions

In order to compare the results from the two runs, we can compare the displacement of the bucket CM marker in y-
direction. For this, you can go the Adams PostProcessor and compare the measure ‘bucket_cm_y_disp’ between the two
runs, namely rigid_boom and fe_part_boom.

• Workshop Questions
1. Before doing so, which y-displacement do you expect to be smaller?
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________

2. Check this in Adams PostProcessor and see if you have guessed correctly. Explain the results.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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 Workshop 24
Switch Mechanism

Base Actuator

Left follower Right follower

Left contact Right contact

 • Objective
• Determine the minimum force necessary to toggle the switch mechanism to the forward and rearward directions.
• Software
• Adams 2020
• Files Required
• switch_start_new.cmd
• Located in directory exercise_dir/mod_24_switch_workshop

3 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 • Problem description
• The given switch model contains parts with shell geometry and mass properties:

4 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 • The switch model contains construction points for adding the necessary modeling elements to address the problem
statement. They are:

• The switch model is mounted such that the model’s global negative x-axis defines forward and positive z-axis defines
up.

5 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 • Suggested Steps
1. Import model and set up modeling environment.
2. Add constraints
3. Verify model and simulate.
4. Change the constraint on the right_contact part.
5. Create a Sphere-to-Plane contact force in front
6. Create a Sphere-to-Plane contact force in rear.
7. Add spring force to right half.
8. Override default spring geometry and verify model.
9. Replace the right_follower to right_contact curve-to-curve constraint with a force and verify the model.
10. Simulate the model.
11. Create sphere and plane in front
12. Create a sphere-to-plane contact force in front.
13. Create another sphere and plane in rear.
14. Create another sphere-to-plane contact force in rear.
15. Verify the model and simulate
16. Create a force application on the actuator part and verify the model

6 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 • Suggested Steps (Cont.)
17. Create a function measure.
18. Create a sensor.
19. Create a script and simulate the model.
20. Refine the right_contact connections.
21. Create a point-to-point contact force.
22. Verify the model and simulate.
23. Connect the left follower and the left contact and verify the model.
24. Simulate the model
25. Add friction to the curve-curve contact forces.
26. Verify the model and simulate.

7 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 • There are five sections in this workshop:
• Section I: Test the right half with constraints only.
• Section II: Test the right half with front and rear contacts.
• Section III: Refine the right half of the mechanism.
• Section IV: Add the left half.
• Section V: Refine the switch.

8 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Section I

• Test the right half with constraints only

• You can think of the switch mechanism as consisting of two halves. In this exercise, first constrain the right half of the
mechanism and perform a kinematic simulation to visually verify correct motion. Then, add spring and contact forces
to the right half to ensure that the mechanism actually toggles.
• In the following sections you will add more detail to the right half, refine it, introduce the left half, refine the entire
model to account for friction, and then finally, perform a system-level simulation.
• This workshop emphasizes the crawl-walk-run method. In this section, you will crawl.

9 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Import Model and Set up Modeling Environment

To import the model:

a. Start Adams View, and set the directory to
exercise_dir/mod_24_switch_workshop.
b. Import the model command file switch_start_new.cmd.
This file contains commands to build the model named switch.

To set up the modeling environment:

c. Set the transparency of the actuator part by right clicking the c d
actuator, and then select appearance.
d. Move the transparency slider to 80%

10 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 1. Import File and Set up Modeling Environment

e. Deactivate the left_contact part.

f. Turn off the visibility of the left_contact part.
g. Repeat steps e and f for the left_follower part.
h. Using Settings > gravity, Set gravity in the global negative-z direction.
i. The model should now look like the one shown below.

11 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Add Constraints
d

To add constraints:
a. First, for easy picking of global direction vectors, establish a
c
reference marker with global orientation on the base (ground) part. Point_1
b. Setting the color and size of the marker helps in referencing it later.
c. Constrain the actuator to the base at POINT_1 such that the only
relative allowable degree of freedom is rotation about ŷg.
d. To make selecting the parts easier, turn off the visibility of the
Shell_base_main_geo.
e. Constrain the right_follower to the actuator at POINT_2 such that
the only relative allowable degree of freedom is translation along zg.
e
Point_2

ba

12 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Add Constraints (Cont.)

right_follower part

f. Constrain the tip of the right_follower to the upper curve on the

right_contact part.
g. When creating the curve-to-curve constraint, select the red circle, right_contact part
right_follower.right_follower_circle_geo_2, at the tip of the
right_follower part, parallel to the global-xz plane, and then select
right_contact_upper_bspline.

right_follower.right_follower_circle_geo_2 right_contact_upper_bspline

13 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 2. Add Constraints (Cont.)
right_contact part

Point_8
h
h. Constrain the right_contact part to the base at POINT_8 such that
the only relative allowable degree of freedom is translation along ŷg.
i. This might not seem intuitive, but it ensures that there are no
redundant constraints in the model. It is a good modeling practice
to remove all redundant constraints in your system prior to
performing a simulation.
j. Add displacement joint motion to the actuator-to-base revolute
joint such that the actuator oscillates sinusoidally with an amplitude
of 15.1 degrees and one cycle per second. base part

14 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 3. Verify the Model and Simulate

To verify the model:

a. Use the verify tool.
b. Your system should have 0 degrees of freedom and no redundant constraints at
this configuration. If it does not, inspect the model to determine the discrepancy.

To simulate:
c. Simulate the model kinematically to visually verify correct motion using an end
time of 1 second with 100 output steps.
d. Save your work.

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 Section II

• Test the right half with front and rear contacts

• Change the constraints on the right_contact part so that it can rotate and make contact with the right front and rear
terminals on the base part (It will rock back and forth like a see-saw). Use the curve-to-curve constraint created
earlier.
• This section you will start to walk.

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 Step 4. Change the Constraint on the right_contact Part

Right_contact part
Change the constraint on the right_contact part so that it can rotate and
make contact with the right front and rear terminals on the base part (it will
rock back and forth like a see-saw).
a. Remove the translational joint constraining the right_contact to the
base at POINT_8.
b. Constrain the right_contact to the base at POINT_13 such that the Point_13
only allowable degree of freedom is rotation about ŷg.

Base

17 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 5. Create a Sphere-to-Plane Contact force in Front

a. Create a sphere-to-plane contact force between the front end of the right_contact
part and the sphere on the front right corner of the base part. Use
right_contact.PLANE_72 and base.ELLIPSOID
b. The contact parameters should be:
• Stiffness > 1e5 (milliNewton/mm)
• Force exponent > 2.2
• Damping > 1e2 (milliNewton-sec/mm)
• Penetration depth > 1e-3 mm
• Static friction > off
• Dynamic friction > off
c. Using the ellipsoid and plane geometries will improve run time when solving.

Base.ELLIPSOID
Front end
right_contact
PLANE_72

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 Step 6. Create a Sphere-to-Plane Contact Force in the Rear

Rear end of
right_contact
a. Create a sphere-to-plane contact force between the rear PLANE_128
end of the right_contact part and sphere on the rear right
corner of the base part. Use right_contact.PLANE_128
and base.ELLIPSOID_73
b. The contact parameters should be:
• Stiffness > 1e5 (milliNewton/mm)
• Force exponent > 2.2
• Damping > 1e2 (milliNewton-sec/mm)
• Penetration depth > 1e-3 mm
Base.ELLIPSOID_73
• Static friction > off
• Dynamic friction > off

19 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 7. Add Spring force to the right half

To add a spring force to the right half:

a. You need markers to create the spring. First, create markers for each
Point_4
endpoint belonging to the appropriate parts.
b. Create a spring between the right_follower at POINT_2 and actuator at
POINT_4 using the following parameters:
• Stiffness > 600 (milliNewton/mm)
Point_2
• Damping > 0.1 (milliNewton-sec/mm)
• Free length > 9 mm

20 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 8. Override Default Spring Geometry and Verify the Model

To override the default spring geometry: Created Spring

a. With nothing selected, from the Edit menu, select Modify.
b. Filter on geometry, then double-click SPRING_1, then select spring_graphic (not
damper_graphic).
c. Override default spring geometry by using these custom parameters:
• Coil count > 10
• Diameter of spring > 2.5 mm
• Damper diameter at ij > 0, 0
• Tip length at ij > 0, 0
• Cup length at ij > 0, 0
d. To make the spring stand out, change the color to white.

To verify the model:

e. verify the model
f. The system should now have one degree of freedom and one redundant constraint. At this
time, does the redundant constraint affect what you are doing?

21 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 9. Replace the right_follower to right_contact Curve-to-Curve
Constraint with a Force and Verify the Model

right_follower part
To replace the right_follower to right_contact curve-to-curve constraint with a force:
a. Remove the curve-to-curve constraint between the tip of the right_follower
and the upper curve on the right_contact part.
b. Create a curve-to-curve contact force between the tip of the right_follower
and the upper curve on the right_contact part. Use the same curves used in
Step 2 on page WS24-12 and the following parameters:
right_contact part
• Stiffness > 1e5 (milliNewton/mm)
• Force exponent > 2.2
• Damping > 1e2 (milliNewton-sec/mm)
• Penetration depth > 1e-3 mm
• Static friction > off
• Dynamic friction > off
c. Note: After you fill in the I and J curve text boxes, press Enter in each text box
to activate the I and J Directions(s) text boxes.
To verify the model:
d. Use the verify tool.
e. Your system should have two degrees of freedom and no redundant right_contact_upper_bspline
constraints.
right_follower.right_follower_circle_geo_2

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 Step 10. Simulate the Model
c

b
Before simulating the Model:
a. Set Update Graphics to Never.
b. Turn on Debug/Eprint so you can monitor the Adams Solver performance.
To do this: a
• Click on the Interactive Simulation tool icon
• Change NoDebug to Eprint using the pull down menu.

To simulate the model:

a. Perform a 1-second, 200-step dynamic simulation.
b. The model will not animate, but the command window with the Adams
Solver information should appear. d
c. Animate the results to visually verify the correct motion.

23 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 11. Create a Sphere and Plane in Front

b
Point_10
To create a sphere:
a. Create a sphere on the actuator part at POINT_12 with a radius of 0.5
mm. This sphere will be used in the sphere-to-plane contact force.

To create a plane:
a
b. Create a plane on the base part at POINT_10, parallel to global yz
plane. This plane will be used in the sphere-to-plane contact force.
c. Note: To create this plane, you will need to relocate and reorient the
grid. Reset the location to be POINT_10 with the orientation set to the
global yz-plane. You may also need to decrease the size of the working
grid (for example, size = 20 mm). Make sure that the points you snap to
when creating the plane are on the working grid and not on the part
geometry.

Note: The size of the plane has to be large enough such that it extends
toward the travel path of the sphere for contact.

Point_12

24 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 12. Create a Sphere-to-Plane Contact Force in Front

a
a. Create a sphere-to-plane contact force between the front end of the actuator
and the base part. As the actuator rotates, its sphere strikes a surface parallel to Plane on Base
the global-yz plane on the base. Use the following parameters:
• Sphere: sphere on the actuator part at POINT_12 with a radius of 0.5 mm
• Plane: parallel to global yz-plane at POINT_10
• Contact parameters:
• Stiffness: 1e5 (milliNewton/mm)
• Force exponent: 2.2
• Damping: 1e2 (milliNewton-sec/mm)
• Penetration depth: 1e-3 mm
• Static friction: off
• Dynamic friction: off
b. After you have created the contact force, make the plane and the ellipsoid
transparent.

Sphere on actuator

25 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 13. Create Another Sphere and Plane in Rear
Point_9

b
To create another sphere on the other side of the actuator:
a. create a sphere on the actuator part at POINT_11 with a radius of 0.5 mm.
This sphere will be used in the sphere-to-plane contact force.

To create a plane on the other side of the base:

b. Create a plane on the base part at POINT_9, parallel to global yz plane. This
plane will be used in the sphere-to-plane contact force. a
c. Note: To create this plane, you will need to relocate and reorient the grid.
Reset the location to be POINT_9 with the orientation set to the global yz-
plane. You may also need to decrease the size of the working grid (for
example, size = 20 mm). Make sure that the points you snap to when creating
the plane are on the working grid and not on the part geometry.
d. Note: You will need to rotate the plane 180˚ such that the z-axis of the
geometry anchor points toward the actuator.

Point_11

26 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 14. Create a Sphere-to-Plane Contact Force in Rear

a. Create a sphere-to-plane contact force between the rear end of the Plane on Base
actuator and the base part. Use the following parameters:
• Sphere: sphere on the actuator part at POINT_11 with a radius
of 0.5 mm
• Plane: parallel to global yz-plane at POINT_9
• Contact parameters: same as in Step 12 on page WS24-25
b. After you create the contact force, make the plane and the ellipsoid
transparent.

Sphere on actuator

27 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 15. Verify the Model and Simulate
Plane should stop the actuator
when sphere contacts plane

To Verify the model:

a. Use the Verify tool.
b. Your system should have two degrees of freedom and no
redundant constraints.

To Simulate:
c. Before Simulating, change the solver setting. Use Settings >
Solver > Dynamics
d. Set the Integrator to GSTIFF.
e. Set the Formulation to SI2 Formulation.
f. Perform a static simulation followed by 1-second, 200-step
dynamic simulation.
d
e

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 Step 16. Create a Force Application on the Actuator Part and Verify the
Model
Point_15

To create a force application:

b
a. Remove the motion applied to the revolute joint constraining the actuator to b
the base.
b. Apply a force to the actuator part at POINT_15 in the positive XG direction,
moving with the body. Use the following function: f(t) = -200*time

To verify the model:

a. Use the verify tool.
b. Your system should have three degrees of freedom and no redundant
constraints.

29 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 17. Create a Function Measure

a. Create a function measure named contact_force, based on the

force magnitude of the right rear contact force between the
right_contact part and the base part.
• Use Design Exploration > Function Measure icon
• Use Force in Object and select Contact Force. Press the
assist button, the inputs are shown below.
• Note: the name for the contact force between the right rear
contact and the base may vary depending on how you named
the contact force.

30 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 18. Create a Sensor

c
a. Create a sensor that triggers when the force magnitude of the right rear
contact force (measured in the above step) is greater than or equal to 1 h
mN within a tolerance of 1e-3 mN.
b. When sensed, Adams Solver should terminate the current simulation
step and continue the simulation script.
c. For the Expression, use the function you just built, (contact_force).
You can use the Function Builder to assist in finding the function you
want.
d. First under the heading Getting Object Data select Measures.
e. Then click in the textbox next to the measure field, and select RunTime
Measure>Browse.
f. From the Database Navigator list, select the contact_force measure.
g. Click Insert Object Name.
h. The measure name should appear in the Function builder area at the top d e
of the dialog box. g
i. Click OK at the bottom of the dialog box, and the name should now
appear in the expression text box of the sensor dialog.
i

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 Step 19. Create a Script and Simulate the Model

Remember, the force applied to the switch is a function of time. Before you run the
simulation, you do not know how much force needs to be applied to toggle the switch;
therefore, you do not know how long to simulate. For that reason, you created the sensor.
You will purposely simulate for a larger amount of time than is needed, letting the sensor
stop the simulation when the switch has been toggled. b
a. Simulate the model to visually verify correct rearward toggle motion using a simulation
script based on the following Adams Solver commands:
• INTEGRATOR/SI2,GSTIFF
• SIMULATE/DYNAMIC, END=10.0, DTOUT=.01
• DEACTIVATE/SENSOR, ID=your right rear sensor id #
• SIMULATE/DYNAMIC, DURATION=0.5, DTOUT=.01
b. Note: to get the rear sensor id# use the Data Navigator and double click on the sensor.
c. Then, find the id# on the information dialog.
d. By using this simulation script, the model will simulate until the switch is toggled
(assuming it toggles before 10 seconds), at which time the sensor is deactivated and
the model simulates an additional 0.5 seconds to review follow-on transient behavior. c
e. Save your work.

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 Section III

• Refine the right half of the mechanism

• Replace the pivoting constraint at POINT_3 (the lower_contact to base revolute joint) with a more realistic
connection that accounts for dynamic phenomena like sliding and liftoff.
• Create a point-to-point contact force between the underside on the right_contact part and the mid-contact point.

33 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 20. Refine the right_contact Connections
Point_13

To refine the right_contact connections. replace the pivoting constraint at

POINT_13 (the lower_contact to base revolute joint) with a more realistic
connection that accounts for dynamic phenomena like sliding and liftoff.
a. Remove the revolute joint constraining the right_contact to the base at
POINT_13. a
b. Constrain the right_contact to the base at POINT_8 such that the only
allowable degrees of freedom are translation along zg and rotation about ŷg.
• This involves creating two joint primitives (inline and parallel).
• You must ensure that the J marker of each primitive belongs to the base
part, and not to the right_contact part. This will absolutely affect the
simulation. See the instructor if you do not fully understand this concept. b
Point_8

34 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 21. Create a Point-to-Curve Contact Force

To create a point-to-curve contact force:

a. First, create a marker on the base part at POINT_13. Point_13
b. Using this marker, create a point-to-curve contact force between the underside on
the right_contact part (curve right_contact.right_contact_lower _bspline) and the mid-
contact point, POINT_13, (created marker) on the base. Use the following
parameters:
• Stiffness > 1e5 (milliNewton/mm)
• Force Exponent > 2.2
• Damping > 1e2 (milliNewton-sec/mm)
• Penetration depth > 1e-3 mm
• Static friction > off
• Dynamic friction > off

Note: In the point-to-curve contact dialog box, when you type in the curve nam0 rather
than pick or browse for the curve, you would need to hit ENTER or TAB for it to properly
load the GCURVE. Only then will you be able to determine the contact.

35 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 22. Verify the Model and Simulate

To verify the model:

a. Use the Verify tool.
b. Your system should have four degrees of freedom and no redundant constraints.

To Simulate the model:

c. Simulate the model to visually verify correct rearward toggle motion using a simulation
script based on the following Adams Solver commands:
INTEGRATOR/SI2,GSTIFF
SIMULATE/DYNAMIC, END=10.0, DTOUT=.01
DEACTIVATE/SENSOR, ID=your right rear sensor id #
SIMULATE/DYNAMIC, DURATION=0.5, DTOUT=.01
d. Note the force at which the switch toggles to the rearward direction when accounting for
only the right_follower and right_contact parts and corresponding connections
e. Save your work.

36 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Section IV

Add the left half

• Since the right half of the switch mechanism is working
properly at this time, apply the same steps to the left half of
the mechanism. If desired, you can use a different crawl-walk-
run method to connect parts in the left half.
• To the right is a copy of the key locations that will help you
define the left half connections:

37 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 23. Connect the Left Follower and the Left Contact and Verify the
Model

To connect the left_follower and left_contact:

a. Reintroduce the left_follower and left_contact parts by reactivating
them and ultimately connect these parts to the switch mechanism the
same way that you did for the right_follower and right_contact parts.

To verify the model:

b. Use the verify tool.
c. Your system should now have seven degrees of freedom and no
redundant constraints.

38 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 24. Simulate the Model
To simulate:
a. First, use View > message window, and select settings to change the settings for the message window. Change the Display messages
only at or above severity level: from Warning to Error. Note: this prevents the Message Window from opening each time you verify or
simulate due to the difference in orientation of the markers and curves used to define the point to curve contact.
b. Simulate the model to determine rearward toggle motion using a simulation script based on the following Adams Solver commands:
• INTEGRATOR/SI2,GSTIFF
• SIMULATE/DYNAMIC, END=10.0, DTOUT=.01
• DEACTIVATE/SENSOR, ID=your right rear sensor id #
• SIMULATE/DYNAMIC, DURATION=0.5, DTOUT=.01
c. Note the force at which the switch toggles to the rearward direction when accounting for both halves of the mechanism.
d. Simulate the model to determine rearward toggle motion, and then switch to forward toggle motion using a simulation script based on the
following Adams Solver commands:
• INTEGRATOR/SI2,GSTIFF
• SIMULATE/DYNAMIC, END=10.0, DTOUT=.01
• DEACTIVATE/SENSOR, ID=your right rear sensor id #
• SIMULATE/DYNAMIC, DURATION=0.1, DTOUT=.01
• SFORCE/original input SFORCE id # , FUNCTION=100*time
• SIMULATE/DYNAMIC, DURATION=10.0, DTOUT=.01
e. Notice how you are reversing the input force applied to the actuator part through an Adams Solver command in the simulation script as
opposed to in the model’s design configuration. You can modify a force on-the-fly.
f. Note the force at which the switch toggles to the forward direction when accounting for both halves of the mechanism.
g. Save your work.

39 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Section V

• Refine the switch

• You will now refine your model to account for friction.

40 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 25. Add Friction to the Curve-Curve Contact Forces.

To add friction to the curve-to-curve contact forces:

a. Modify the curve-to-curve contact force between the tip of the right_follower and the upper curve on the right_contact part such that static
and dynamic friction is accounted for. Use the following default parameters for contact friction:
• Static Coefficient: 0.3
• Dynamic Friction Coefficient: .1
• Stiction Transition Vel.: 1 mm/sec
• Friction Transition Vel.: 10 mm/sec
b. Modify the curve-to-curve contact force between the tip of the left_follower and the upper curve on the left_contact part such that static
and dynamic friction is accounted for. Use the same contact array you used in step a.

41 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

 Step 26. Verify the Model and Simulate

To Verify the model:

a. Use the verify tool.
b. Your system should still have seven degrees of freedom and no redundant constraints.
To simulate:
c. Simulate the model to visually verify correct rearward toggle and forward motion using a
simulation script based on the following Adams Solver commands:
• INTEGRATOR/SI2,GSTIFF
• SIMULATE/DYNAMIC, END=15.0, DTOUT=.01
• DEACTIVATE/SENSOR, ID=your right rear sensor id #
• SIMULATE/DYNAMIC, DURATION=1.0, DTOUT=.01
• SFORCE/your original input sforce id #, FUNCTION=200*(time-10)
• SIMULATE/DYNAMIC, DURATION=12.0, DTOUT=.01
d. Note the force at which the switch toggles to the forward and rearward directions when accounting
for friction in the contact between the follower parts and the contact parts. Were the effects of
friction negligible in this mechanism?
e. Save your work.

42 | Switch Mechanism © MSC Software Corporation

Appendix A
Answer Key
 Appendix A – Answer Key

• Answer Key for Workshop 1

• Question 1: 269 mm
• Question 2: 269 mm. This is the same as the previous results.
• Question 3: 267.87 mm
• Question 4: Six: 5 make up the stamper mechanism, while 1 makes up the part parcels.
• Question 5: Eight: 7 are on the stamper mechanism, while 1 keeps the parcels moving translationally.
• Question 6: Nothing: the conveyor is simply a graphic attached to ground. It adds nothing to the model other than for
animation purposes.

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 Appendix A – Answer Key

• Answer Key for Workshop 2

• Shortcut Keys:
• Rotate: r
• Translate: t
• Zoom with a box: w
• Zoom into a specific Area: p
• Fit: f
• Front View: F
• Question 1: There are nine constraints (two revolute, one translational, three inplane, one orientation, one motion,
one curve_curve). Motions are considered constraints; these will be covered in detail later in the course.
• Question 2: Yes
• Question 3: No, geometry is a direct child of a part. Part geometry is a “grandchild” of a model.
• Question 4: Status bar
• Question 5: Our technical support staff prefers to receive .cmd files because they are smaller in size, and platform
independent. Using .bin files is sometimes unavoidable, however.

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 Appendix A – Answer Key

• Answer Key for Workshop 3

• Question 1: 1.635 pound mass based on geometry and density
• Question 2: 100 lbf/foot
• Question 3: Approximately 8.6 lbf

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 Appendix A – Answer Key

• Answer Key for Workshop 4

• Question 1: -4903 mm
• Question 2: -9807 mm/sec
• Question 3: -9807 mm/sec2
• Question 4: Coordinate system markers
• Question 5: The ground part is automatically created - it must exist in every model. It serves as a reference frame for
the model.
• Question 6: No, because Adams cannot calculate a volume for two-dimensional objects. You can, however, assign
mass properties to a part that is made up of two-dimensional geometry by changing Defined by to User Input.

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 Appendix A – Answer Key

• Answer Key for Workshop 5

• Question 1: ~1.06 sec (can vary slightly depending on the sampling rate chosen).
• Question 2: ~3180 mm (can vary slightly depending on the sampling rate chosen).
• Question 3: The system constraint takes precedence.
• Question 4: You would have to constrain the stone to ground with a revolute (pin) joint.

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 Appendix A – Answer Key

• Answer Key for Workshop 6

• Question 1: Fx = -29.86 N, Fy = 17.24 N
• Question 2: Approximately 0.61 Hz
• Question 3: Adams View will use the one specified by the connecting joint. This is because the initial conditions in the
constraint always override the initial conditions of a part if these two differ.
• Question 4: The marker names would be .human_hip.femur.MAR_1 and .human_hip.hip_bone.MAR_2. Which one is
I and which one is J depends on the order in which the parts were selected when creating the constraint.
• Question 5: No, a constraint constrains two different bodies to one another.

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 Appendix A – Answer Key

• Answer Key for Workshop 7

• Question 1: Between 16.5º and 17º (Exactly 16.7º).
• Question 2: You can tell because there is an icon ( ) for the joints to which you can add friction in an automated
way.
• Question 3: I and J markers are automatically created when you add a joint, motion, or force to a system. Adams
uses the I and J markers’ relative displacement, velocity, and so on to define equations that describe part movement.
• Question 4: Once the joint crosses the stiction threshold velocity, it exits the stiction phase and the maximum stiction
displacement is ignored until the joint reenters the stiction phase (comes to rest). One of these two parameters is
reached first, the other parameter is ignored until the joint enters the stiction phase again.

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 Appendix A – Answer Key

• Answer Key for Workshop 8

• Question 1: Construction geometry is two-dimensional and solid geometry is three-dimensional.
• Question 2:
• Position: Move-Translate .
• Location Event: Right-click away from the model when prompted for a position.
• Working grid: Settings > Working Grid > Set Location.
• Precision Move: Edit > Move (or )

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 Appendix A – Answer Key

• Answer Key for Workshop 9

• Question 1: I and J markers. The I marker belongs to the first body you selected when creating the joint. The J
marker belongs to the second body you selected.
• Question 2: The orientation of the I and J markers. For example, if you added translational motion to a translational
joint, the z-axis of the I and J markers would describe the axis of translation. The z-axis direction is positive.
• Question 3: Yes. Even though they do not restrict movement, they still prescribe movement, therefore, removing
degrees of freedom.
• Question 4: Yes. You must measure the torque generated by the motion, not the revolute joint.

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 Appendix A – Answer Key

• Answer Key for Workshop 10

• I marker name: .lift_mech.Bucket.MARKER_21
• J marker name: .lift_mech.ground.MARKER_22
• Question 1: The order in which you chose the bodies (parts) should be the same as the order in which you chose the
corresponding locations and orientations.

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 Appendix A – Answer Key

• Answer Key for Workshop 11

• Question 1: A joint motion uses a joint to determine its direction and location. A point motion does not require a joint;
it needs two bodies.

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 Appendix A – Answer Key

• Answer Key for Workshop 12

• Question 1: No. The point-to-point measure is just a quicker and easier way to create a function measure of the
displacement of one marker with respect to another.
• Question 2: A CAD file represents geometry in a model. Therefore, it is a child of a part.

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 Appendix A – Answer Key

• Answer Key for Workshop 13

• Question 1: You need to provide the two (or three) joints, and either the scalar coefficients, displacements, or user-
defined constraint equations.
• Question 2: Last_run

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 Appendix A – Answer Key

• Answer Key for Workshop 14

• Question 1: No, in the design configuration they do not have to be aligned. If they are not aligned, however, Adams
View warns you during a model verify or during the assemble simulation. Also, during the assemble simulation,
Adams realigns the markers for you.

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 Appendix A – Answer Key

• Answer Key for Workshop 15

• Question 1:
• First independent variable
• Second independent variable
• Spline name
• Derivative order
• Question 2: Adams Solver > Function Expressions (see the online help for reference)

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 Appendix A – Answer Key

• Answer Key for Workshop 16

• Question 1: ~0.09 degrees (0.0015708radians)
• Question 2: To remove the initial transient effects in the dynamic system because of mismatches in the preloading of
the bushings.
• Question 3: Because the model was kinematic, in this case (DOF=0), there is no initial transient response because
you have specified the motion of the system for all points in time.

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 Appendix A – Answer Key

• Answer Key for Workshop 17

• Question 1: Yes, it must be greater than zero (not negative and not zero).
• Question 2: Reposition the I and J markers of each single-component force such that the trigger distance is reached
sooner and the full impact is felt earlier. Measuring the rotation of the I marker of joint l_shortarm_rev will determine
the angle.

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 Appendix A – Answer Key

• Answer Key for Workshop 18

• Question 1: Approximately 247 N.
• Question 2: Yes, you could use a simulation script with Adams Solver commands to simulate for a while, then
DEACTIVATE or ACTIVATE the force, and simulate again.
• Question 3: Yes. For example, you could simulate the model with output step sizes of 0.01 seconds. When that
simulation is complete, don’t reset the model. Start another simulation with a step size of 0.001. The results of that
simulation will be seamless, but you will notice a change when the step size changes. The animation changes
speeds. A common reason for doing this is if you want the simulation to use smaller step sizes or be more accurate
before a contact.

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 Appendix A – Answer Key

• Answer Key for Workshop 19

• Question 1: A statement describes an element in a model, such as a part or force. A command tells Adams Solver
what to do with the model, such as simulate it or deactivate it.
• Question 2: 7.58 N.

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 Appendix A – Answer Key

• Answer Key for Workshop 20

• Question 1: Preload must be above 460 N to open the lid. Higher damping values increase the amount of time
needed to close the lid. Higher stiffness values increase the resistance in closing the lid.
• Question 2: It allowed for easy manipulation of the spring parameters. Changing the design variables changed the
parameters for both springs at the same time.

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 Appendix A – Answer Key

• Answer Key for Workshop 21

• Question 1: A curve-on-curve constraint removes two translational DOF.
• Question 2: A curve-to-curve contact force removes no DOF.

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 Appendix A – Answer Key

• Answer Key for Workshop 22

• Question 1: The reference marker (R marker)
• Question 2: Between 17 and 18 N/mm

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 Appendix A – Answer Key

• Answer Key for Workshop 23

• Question 1: The FE_Boom
• Question 2: Since the FE_Boom is flexible, it deforms under gravity –though very small– and shows a smaller y-
displacement than the rigid model.

24 | Appendix A – Answer Key © MSC Software Corporation