Welcome to Adams/Vibration

Introduction to Adams/Vibration
Adams/Vibration is an Adams plugin for performing frequency-domain analyses. Using
Adams/Vibration, you can study forced vibrations within your Adams models. For example, you can
simulate driving an automobile over a bumpy road an measure its frequency response. Both inputs and
outputs are described in the frequency domain.

Using Adams/Vibration, you can:

• Analyze the forced response of a model in the frequency domain over different operating points.
• Include the effects of hydraulics, controls, and user-subsystems in the frequency analysis.
• Transfer your linearized model from Adams products to Adams/Vibration completely and
quickly.
• Create input and output channels for vibration analyses.
• Specify frequency domain input functions, such as swept sine amplitude/frequency, power
spectral density (PSD), and rotational imbalance.
• Create user-defined, frequency-based forces.
• Solve for system modes over frequency range of interest.
• Evaluate frequency response functions for magnitude and phase characteristics.
• Animate forced response and individual mode response.
• Tabulate system modal contributions to forced vibration response.
• Tabulate contribution of model elements to kinetic, static, and dissipative energy distribution in
system modes.
• Perform modal stress recovery of flexible bodies.
• Specify direct kinematic inputs.
• Plot Stress/Strain FRFs
2 Adams/Vibration
Welcome to Adams/Vibration

Adams/Vibration Process
Using Adams/Vibration, you can assemble models of various subsystems, perform linear vibration
analysis, and use Adams post-processing tools to view results as plots and animations.

How You Benefit from Using Adams/Vibration

Adams/Vibration enables you to work faster and smarter, letting you replace physical testing for vibration
studies using shaker devices with virtual testing. Physical testing with shaker devices in the test lab or in
the field is expensive and can typically only occur at later stages of the design process. Using
 3
Welcome to Adams/Vibration

Adams/Vibration, you can perform these tests early in the design process cutting down on design time
and expense.
It is impossible to eliminate all vibration from products that are made up of flexible components. It is
possible, however, to design products that do not have bothersome vibrations. For example, at certain
speeds, poorly designed automobiles can have annoying noises that are due to vibrations of certain
components. Some companies have design guidelines that indicate acceptable ranges of vibration
frequencies.
Adams/Vibration output data can be used in noise/vibration/harshness (NVH) studies to predict the
impact of vibration on the rider's experience in an automobile, train, plane, and so on.

Loading and Unloading Adams/Vibration

Adams/Vibration runs as a plugin to several products: Adams/View, and Adams/Car. After you start a
core product, you then load the Adams/Vibration plugin. To work with an existing Adams model, you
can load the Adams/Vibration plugin either before or after you import the model. You can also create a
model in another Adams product and then load the Adams/Vibration plugin.
When you import a model that already contains Adams/Vibration data, you do not have to load the
Adams/Vibration plugin manually; the core product automatically loads the plugin for you. This section
shows you how to load the Adams/Vibration plugin into Adams/View. Loading the plugin into other core
products is similar.

To load Adams/Vibration:
1. From the Tools menu, point to Plugin Manager.
2. Select the Load checkbox next to Adams/Vibration.
3. Select OK.
The Adams/Vibration plugin loads in Adams/View. If you get an error message, you might have
a problem with your licensing. Contact your system administrator or your Adams contact person.

To unload Adams/Vibration:
1. From the Tools menu, point to Plugin Manager.
2. Clear the Load checkbox next to Adams/Vibration.
3. Select OK.

Starting Adams/Vibration
To start Adams/Vibration, you must first start Adams/View (or one of the Adams vertical products), and
then load the Adams/Vibration plugin.

To start Adams/View and import your model:

1. Do either of the following depending on the platform on which you are running Adams/View:
4 Adams/Vibration
Welcome to Adams/Vibration

• On UNIX, type the command to start the Adams Toolbar at the command prompt, and then
press Enter. Select the Adams/View tool.
• On Windows, from the Start menu, point to Programs, point to MSC.Software, point to
MD Adams 2010, point to AView, and then select Adams - View.
The Welcome dialog box appears in the Adams/View main window.
2. Select Import a File.
3. Select the Find Directory tool next to the Start in text box. This displays the Find Directory
dialog box.
The Start in text box specifies the working directory that Adams/Vibration uses as the default
directory for reading and writing files.
4. Navigate to the working directory.
5. Select OK
This ensures that all your work gets stored in the working directory you selected.
6. Select OK.
The File Import dialog box appears.
7. Right-click the File to Read text box, and select Browse.
8. Select your model file.
9. Select OK.
Adams/Vibration opens and displays the model.
10. Load the Adams/Vibration plugin. Learn how.
Building Your Model

FD Dampers
When you are given experimentally measured component force magnitude and phase data in the
frequency domain, you can use a frequency-dependent (FD) element to represent it in an Adams
simulation. Using an FD identification tool, you can compute FD coefficients to best fit the measured
data. There are four different forms of FD components:
• Pfeffer Linear
• Simple FD
• Simple FD Bushing
• General

The Pfeffer model has a specific representation (see Reference 2 below).

Once you create and verify an FD modeling element in Adams/Vibration, you can use it in a time-domain
analysis.

References:
1. Knowledge Base Article 12294: AVB-013: Frequency Dependent (FD) Modeling Elements
(http://support.adams.com/kb/faq.asp?ID=kb12294.html).
2. Pfeffer, P. and Hofer, K. Simple non-linear model for elastomer and hydro mountings, ATZ
Worldwide, 104, 5/2002, May, 2002, 5-7, ISSN: 000 12785.

To create or modify an FD damper:

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Build, point to FD Damper or FD 3D Damper, and then
select New (to create an FD damper) or Modify (to modify an FD damper).
2. Depending on the type of FD damper you are creating or modifying, follow the instructions in the
dialog box help for Create/Modify FD 3D Damper or Create/Modify FD Damper.
3. Select OK.

To delete an FD damper:
1. From the Vibration menu, point to Build, point to FD Damper or FD 3D Damper, and then
select Delete.
2. From the Database Navigator, select the FD damper you want to delete.
3. Select OK.

Input Channels
Input channels provide a port into your system so you can plot the frequency response or drive your
system with an input force using a vibration actuator. You must create an input function to vibrate your
8 Adams/Vibration
Building Your Model

system. A vibration actuator applies an input force to vibrate the system. A vibration actuator can contain
expressions that let you use both time and frequency inputs. Each input channel must reference only one
vibration actuator. Each vibration actuator, however, can be associated with multiple input channels.

To create an input channel:

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Build, point to Input Channel, and then select New.
2. Follow the instructions in the dialog box help for Create/Modify Vibration Input Channel.
3. Select OK.

To delete an input channel:

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Build, point to Input Channel, and then select Delete.
2. From the Database Navigator, select the input channel you want to delete, and then select OK.
3. In the message window that appears, select one of the following:
• Delete All - Deletes the input channel and all of its dependents.
• Remove Parametric Expressions - Deletes the input channel after removing all of its
parametric dependencies.
• Cancel - Stops the process without deleting the input channel.

To modify an input channel:

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Build, point to Input Channel, and then select Modify.
2. Select the input channel you want to modify.
3. Select OK.
4. Modify the vibration actuator, as needed, by performing the following:
• If you want to associate the input channel with a new actuator, select Actuator Parameters, and
enter the appropriate information.
• If you want to create a new vibration actuator, select Existing Actuator, and perform one of the
following:
• Enter the name of the vibration actuator you want to reference.
 9
Building Your Model

• Right-click, select Vibration_Actuator and use the Guesses or Browse to select the
vibration actuator.
5. If you want to, modify other parameters as described in Create/Modify Vibration Input Channel.
6. Select OK.

Output Channels
Output channels provide ports in your system at which you examine the frequency response of the
system. You can think of output channels as instrumentation ports where you can measure system
response and report the results directly in the frequency domain. Output channels can be any valid
Adams/Solver run-time function, but are typically displacements, velocities, or accelerations.

To create an output channel:

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Build, point to Output Channel, and then select New.
2. Follow the instructions in the dialog box help for Create/Modify Vibration Output Channel.

Note: Measures are not fully supported. To avoid syntactical warnings or errors, be sure to enter
the run-time function directly.

3. Select OK.

To delete an output channel:

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Build, point to Output Channel, and then select Delete.
2. From the Database Navigator, select the output channel you want to delete, and then select OK.
3. In the message window that appears, select one of the following:
• Delete All - Deletes the output channel and all of its dependents.
• Remove Parametric Expressions - Deletes the output channel after removing all of its
parametric dependencies.
• Cancel - Stops the process without deleting the output channel.

To modify an output channel:

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Build, point to Output Channel, and then select Modify.
2. Enter the name of the output channel you want to modify.
3. Modify the output channel, as needed, as described in Create/Modify Vibration Output Channel.
4. Select OK.
10 Adams/Vibration
Building Your Model

Vibration Actuators
Vibration actuators are an Adams/Vibration function definition, such as a periodic sine curve, a step, or
a spline curve, used to drive an input channel during a forced vibration analysis. The different types are:
• Power Spectral Density
• Rotating Mass
• Swept Sine
• User-Defined Function

Power Spectral Density

The PSD vibration actuator is defined using a spline function. You can specify either a force PSD or a
displacement PSD.
You can specify that different PSD input channels are in cross correlation with each other; the
corresponding off-diagonal terms are automatically created for the frequency domain analysis. See the
PSD Cross Correlation dialog box.

Learn about computing Power Spectral Density (PSD).

Note: You cannot combine vibration actuators of the non-PSD-type with PSD-type vibration
actuators in the same vibration analysis.

Rotating Mass
A rotating mass applies a frequency-dependent force. This actuator represents the force due to a rotating
mass located at a specified offset from an axis of rotation. The axis of rotation is defined by the input
channel to which this vibrational actuator is applied.

2
f = m    r
where:

•  is the frequency
• f    is the unbalanced mass forcing function
• m is the unbalanced mass
 11
Building Your Model

• r is the radial distance of the unbalanced mass from the axis of rotation

Similarly, a rotating mass placed at a distance offset along the axis of rotation results in an unbalanced
moment.

2
t = m    r  d
where:

• t    is the moment due to unbalanced mass with offset

• d is the distance of the unbalanced mass perpendicular to the plane

Swept Sine
Swept sine defines a constant amplitude sine function being applied to the model. The amplitude of the
sine function and the starting phase angle are required and must be specified in the Create Vibration
Actuator dialog box.
12 Adams/Vibration
Building Your Model

f    = F   cos    + j  sin    
where:

• f is the forcing function

• F is the magnitude of the force

•  is the phase angle

•  is the frequency

User-Defined Function
You can define any function of the independent variable omega:

f  = g 
where:

•  is the frequency
• g    is the general function of omega

Note: When the function is evaluated, omega is populated with each frequency from the vibration
analysis.

Macro for Removing Vibration Objects

You can use a utility macro to clean out all vibration entities from a model. This is useful when you want
to share your model with other Adams users who will not be using the model for Adams/Vibration
analysis, allowing them to start with a clean model.
Issue the command associated with the macro from the command line. For example:
mdi vibration model cleanup model=YourModel retain_fd_dampers=no

Note: • YourModel is the name of the model from which you want the objects deleted.
• retain_fd_dampers defines whether or not FD damper elements will remain in
the model. If set to no, they are deleted. If set to yes, FD damper elements will
remain, but all other vibration entities, such as input or output channels, will be
removed.
Testing Your Model
28 Adams/Vibration
Analyses and Scripts

Analyses and Scripts

Creating and Running a Forced Vibration Analysis

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Test, and then select Vibration Analysis.
2. Select New Vibration Analysis.
3. Create your analysis as described in the dialog box help for Perform Vibration Analysis, being sure
to select Forced Vibration Analysis.
4. Optionally select Create Multi-Run Script and following the instructions in Create Vibration
Multi-Run Script.
5. Select OK.
Adams/Vibration performs a forced vibration analysis. The process runs quickly. If no error
messages appear, you can assume the vibration analysis completed correctly. If you receive error
messages, correct the problem, and rerun your analysis.

Note: You cannot combine vibration actuators of the non-PSD-type with PSD-type vibration
actuators in the same vibration analysis.

Creating and Running a Normal Modes Analysis

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Test, and then select Vibration Analysis.
2. Select New Vibration Analysis.
3. Create your analysis as described in the dialog box help for Perform Vibration Analysis, being sure
to select Normal Modes Analysis.
4. Optionally, select Create Multi-Run Script and follow the instructions in Create Vibration Multi-
Run Script.
5. Select OK.
Adams/Vibration performs a normal modes analysis. The process runs quickly. If no error
messages appear, you can assume the vibration analysis completed correctly. If you receive error
messages, correct the problem, and rerun your analysis.

Modifying Existing Analyses

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Test, and then select Vibration Analysis.
2. Select Vibration Analysis.
3. In the corresponding text box, enter the name of your existing vibration analysis.
4. Make changes as necessary.
5. Select OK to run your analysis.
 Testing Your Model 29
Analyses and Scripts

Vibration Analysis Calculation Methods

Vibration analysis is a frequency domain simulation of Adams models. This simulation can be a normal
modes analysis in which the Eigenvalues and mode shapes for the model are computed. The frequency
domain simulation can also be a forced response analysis using the input and output channels along with
the vibration actuators.
• Frequency Response
• Modal Coordinates
• Power Spectral Density (PSD)
• Transfer Function

Frequency Response
Frequency response is the magnitude and phase response produced by a given input channel, at a given
omega, for a given output channel.
For frequency response computation, the linearized model is represented as:
sx(s) = Ax(s) + Bu(s)
y(s) = Cx(s) + Du(s)
where:
• s is the Laplace variable
• A, B, C, and D are state matrices for the linearized model

The system transfer function can be represented as:

ys
H  s  = ---------- = C  sI – A  –1 B + D
us
where:
• H(s) is the transfer function for the model
• I is the identity matrix of dimension equal to the number of system states

For a given vibration analysis, the system frequency response is given as:

y  s  = H  s u  s 

Modal Coordinates
Modal coordinates are states in the frequency domain solution associated with a specific mode. Modes
most active in a frequency response can be identified from the modal coordinates. The modal coordinates
are computed as:

x  s  =  sI – A  – 1 Bu  s 
30 Adams/Vibration
Analyses and Scripts

Power Spectral Density (PSD)

PSD of output channels for given input PSDs is given as:

p  s  = H  s   U  s   H  s 
where:

• p(s) is the matrix of power spectral density

• H*(s) is the complex conjugate transpose of H(s)
• U(s) is the matrix of input spectral density

The matrix of input spectral densities is a diagonal matrix with the vibration actuator PSDs on the
diagonal locations. Off-diagonal locations of this matrix are populated with cross-correlation PSD
specification.

For example, for a model with two input channels with actuators of type PSD:

U 1  s  U 12  s 
Us =
U 21  s  U 2  s 

where:

• U1(s) is the PSD of input channel 1

• U2(s) is the PSD of input channel 2
• U12(s) is the cross correlation PSD of input channel 1 to input channel 2
• U21(s) is U12(s)

Transfer Function
Transfer function is a basic property of a model, and is computed as the magnitude and phase response
at a given output channel for a given input channel with a unit swept sine vibration actuator.
For frequency response computation, the linearized model is represented as:
sx(s) = Ax(s) + Bu(s)
y(s) = Cx(s) + Du(s)
where:

• s is the Laplace variable

• A, B, C and D are state matrices for the linearized model
 Testing Your Model 31
Analyses and Scripts

The system transfer function can be represented as:

ys
H  s  = ---------- = C  sI – A  –1 B + D
us
where:

• H(s) is the transfer function for the model

• I is the identity matrix of dimension equal to the number of system states

Creating a Multi-Run Script

You can create a simulation Script that you can use during multi-run simulations (such as Design study,
Design of experiments (DOE), and so on).

To create a multi-run script:

1. Perform one of the following:
• From the Vibration menu, point to Test, and then select Create Multi-Run Script.
• From the Vibration menu, point to Test, and then select Vibration Analysis. In the Perform
Vibration Analysis dialog box, select Create Multi-Run Script.
2. Complete the dialog box as described in Create Vibration Multi-Run Script.
3. Select OK.

Specifying Solver Settings

You can specify the default solver options for your simulation.

To specify the solver settings:

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Test, and then select Solver Settings.
2. Complete the dialog box as described in Solver Settings - Executable.
3. Select OK.
32 Adams/Vibration
Batch Mode Analysis

Batch Mode Analysis

Overview of Batch Mode Analysis

In Adams/Vibration, you can perform batch mode vibration analysis. This functionality is available in
the Python scripting environment. The Python scripting language was selected for its ease of use, power,
and flexibility. A basic understanding of the python language is prerequisite to using batch mode
analysis. For more information on the Python scripting language see http://www.python.org.
To perform vibration batch mode analysis, you must have an existing Adams model in the form of a
dataset (.adm) file. Based on this model, you are required to create a Python script to perform the
following:
1. Set up the model for vibration analysis.
a. Define vibration actuator
b. Define vibration input channels
c. Define vibration output channels
d. Define vibration analyses
2. Perform vibration analysis
a. Create a vibration model
b. Perform the vibration analysis
3. Export analysis results for postprocessing
a. Export simulation data to a stand-alone file in the .xml format. This file may be imported in
third-party packages for plotting.
b. Export an Adams/View command file, which can be imported into Adams/PostProcessor for
postprocessing of Adams/Vibration analysis data.
4. Check out and check in Adams/Vibration license (optional, but good practice)
Once you've created the Python script, you can run it using one of the following commands:
• On Windows, from a command prompt:
mdadams2010 python my_model.py
• On UNIX, in a UNIX shell:
mdadams2010 -c python my_model.py
where my_model.py is the python script file.
Alternatively, you can also type the commands contained in this file directly into the Python interpreter
to perform the same analysis.
 Testing Your Model 33
Batch Mode Analysis

Python Examples
Your installation directory contains many examples that use Python scripts to perform various
Adams/Vibration activities. The following table lists the location and description of each example.

Note: All example directories are located in install_dir/vibration/examples, where install_dir is

the directory where Adams is installed.

Example directory: Instructions file: Description of example:

achassis_demo Readme.txt Using an Adams/Chassis vehicle
model, runs batch mode analysis in the
frequency domain using
Adams/Vibration.
mechanical_transfer_functions Readme.txt Illustrates the calculation of mechanical
transfer functions in the frequency
domain using Adams/Vibration. Also
saves vibration results in a .res file.
multi_point_analysis Readme.txt Using a concept vehicle model, runs a
batch-mode analysis in the frequency
domain using Adams/Vibration. The
analysis calculates the compliance
matrix of the model at multiple
operating points during the simulation.
python_batch_analysis Readme.txt Using a concept vehicle model, runs a
batch-mode analysis in the frequency
domain using Adams/Vibration.
python_plotting Readme.txt Illustrates the plotting of vibration data
in Python. Each Python script produces
a different kind of plot.
34 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Classes
Actuator
#############################################################################
#############################################################################
#############################################################################
#
# Copyright (C) 2004 by MSC.Software, Inc., Santa Ana, CA, USA
# All Rights Reserved. This code may not be copied or reproduced in
# any form, in part or in whole, without the explicit permission of
# the copyright owner.
#
# Intent+: Python Qt interface for Adams/Vibration
# Intent-:
#
# Caveats+:
# Caveats-:
#
#############################################################################
#
#############################################################################
#
# Copyright (C) 2004 by MSC.Software, Inc., Santa Ana, CA, USA
# All Rights Reserved. This code may not be copied or reproduced in
# any form, in part or in whole, without the explicit permission of
# the copyright owner.
#
# Intent+: Python Qt interface for Adams/Vibration
# Intent-:
#
# Caveats+:
# Caveats-:
#
######################################################################

Modules
msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAPIc os struct types
libsip re sys
math string traceback

Functions
Actuator(self, ActInfo)

Data
MEDissipativeEnergy = 0
MEEndMode = -99
MEHeader = 0
MEKineticEnergy = 0
MENormalizedCoordinates = 0
MEStartMode = -1
MEStrainEnergy = 0
__author__ =
__date__ = '11 Dec. 2003'
__file__ = './Actuator.pyc'
 Testing Your Model 35
Classes

__name__ = 'Actuator'

Av2Nastran
#############################################################################
#############################################################################
#############################################################################
#
# Copyright (C) 2004 by MSC.Software, Inc., Santa Ana, CA, USA
# All Rights Reserved. This code may not be copied or reproduced in
# any form, in part or in whole, without the explicit permission of
# the copyright owner.
#
# Intent+: Python interface for Adams/Vibration
# Intent-:
#
# Caveats+:
# Caveats-:
#
#############################################################################

Modules
fileinput libsip string traceback

msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAMDc math struct types

msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAPIc os sys

msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvASOLc re tempfile

Classes
Av2Nastran
AvBdfFile
AvBdfFileEigen
AvBdfFileFrf
AvRes2Nastran
AvStates
MKC

class Av2Nastran
Create a linear system model from an Adams non-linear system.

Methods defined here:

A(self)
Return the system A matrix
AcfToScript(self, iFile)
AddState(self, j, states, Ns)
36 Adams/Vibration
Classes

B(self)
Return the system B matrix
BDFBushing(self, bdfFile, bush, gId, nId, comment)
BDFConectionList(self, bdfFile)
BDFJoint(self, bdfFile, joint, gId, nId, comment)
BDFSpringDamper(self, bdfFile, spdp, gId, nId, comment)
C(self)
Return the system C matrix
CheckAMat(self, rList)
CheckCMat(self, cList)
CleanDepList(self, p)
D(self)
Return the system D matrix
Eigen(self, fName, Continuation='+AV0001')
FRF(self, fName, st, ed, nStep, logSpace, Continuation='+AV0001')
Input(self, FDList)
InputChannels(self)
Return the system inputs
MakeOutputChannelList(self, FlexList)
Ok(self)
OutputChannels(self)
Return the system inputs
RemoveStates(self, rList)
Simulate(self, simScript, damping, fList, sName)
SubSystem(self)
Time(self)
__init__(self, amdModel, inputList, flexList, FDList, simScript, damping, solverLib,
mFunc=<function Adm2NasMessage>)
# def __init__(self, amdModel, inputList, outputList, FDList, simScript, damping, fList, dList, C
onList, sName):

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = 'Create a linear system model from an Adams non-linear system.'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
 Testing Your Model 37
Classes

If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

__module__ = 'Av2Nastran'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

class AvBdfFile

Methods defined here:

AdvanceLine(self)
BulkMatrix(self, Name, mat, Symetric, Offset)
Close(self)
Continuation(self, continuation)
FilterLine(self, line)
FilterLineE(self, line)
__init__(self, fName, continuation)
write(self, line)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'Av2Nastran'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

class AvBdfFileEigen(AvBdfFile)

Methods defined here:

Bulk(self, M, B, K, Offset=1)
Case(self, Name)
Exec(self, Name)
__init__(self, fName, continuation='+AV0001')

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'Av2Nastran'
str(object) -> string
38 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Return a nice string representation of the object.

If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Methods inherited from AvBdfFile:

AdvanceLine(self)
BulkMatrix(self, Name, mat, Symetric, Offset)
Close(self)
Continuation(self, continuation)
FilterLine(self, line)
FilterLineE(self, line)
write(self, line)

class AvBdfFileFrf(AvBdfFile)

Methods defined here:

Actuator2Table(self, act, fr)
Bulk(self, st, ed, nStep, logSpace, M, B, K, lB, C, D, actList, ND, NS, offsetS, offsetG, gLoc,
P2G)
Bulk2(self, st, ed, nStep, logSpace, M, B, K, lB, C, D, actList, ND, NS, offset)
BulkCMatrix(self, NameK, matK, NameC, matD, matC, ND, NS, offsetS, offsetG)
BulkCMatrix2(self, NameK, matK, NameC, matD, matC, ND, NS, offsetS, offsetG)
BulkVector(self, Name, vec, offset)
Case(self, Name, nOut, Offset=1)
Case2(self, Name, nOut, Offset)
Exec(self, Name)
MapRow(self, r, ND, NS)
__init__(self, fName, continuation='+AV0001')

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'Av2Nastran'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Methods inherited from AvBdfFile:

AdvanceLine(self)
 Testing Your Model 39
Classes

BulkMatrix(self, Name, mat, Symetric, Offset)

Close(self)
Continuation(self, continuation)
FilterLine(self, line)
FilterLineE(self, line)
write(self, line)

class AvRes2Nastran
Create a linear system model from an Adams non-linear system.

Methods defined here:

Eigen(self, fNameBase, Continuation='+AV0001')
FRF(self, fNameBase, st, ed, nStep, logSpace, Continuation='+AV0001', actList=[])
Ok(self)
__init__(self, amdModel, kRes, mFunc=<function Adm2NasMessage>)
# def __init__(self, amdModel, inputList, outputList, FDList, simScript, damping, fList, dList, C
onList, sName):

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = 'Create a linear system model from an Adams non-linear system.'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.
__module__ = 'Av2Nastran'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

class AvStates
# LEVEL = ['INFO :', 'WARNING: ', 'ERROR :', 'FAULT :']
# if msg and len(msg):
# if level <4:
# print '%s %s'%(LEVEL[level], msg)
# else:
# print 'Level(%d): %s'%(level,msg)
#
###############################################################
#########################
40 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Methods defined here:

Displacement(self, type, id, coord)
NumDisplacement(self)
NumStates(self)
State(self, type, id, coord)
__init__(self, S)
Data and non-method functions defined here:
__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'Av2Nastran'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

class MKC

Methods defined here:

Matrix(self, which)
NumDisplacement(self)
NumStates(self)
__init__(self, A, S)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'Av2Nastran'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Functions
Adm2NasMessage(level, msg)
HandleStep(Type, EventInput=0, EventOutput=0)
PrintEigen(Mat)
PrintPatern(lab, mat)
PrintSubSystem(A, B, C, D, S)

Data
MEDissipativeEnergy = 0
 Testing Your Model 41
Classes

MEEndMode = -99
MEHeader = 0
MEKineticEnergy = 0
MENormalizedCoordinates = 0
MEStartMode = -1
MEStrainEnergy = 0
__author__ =
__date__ = '1 Sept. 2004'
__file__ = './Av2Nastran.py'
__name__ = 'Av2Nastran'

AvActuator
This the entry point for the Actuators

Modules
msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAPIc os struct types

libsip re sys

math string traceback

Classes
AvActuator
AvActuatorPSDFunction
AvActuatorRotatingMass
AvActuatorSweptSine
AvActuatorUserFunction

class AvActuator

Methods defined here:

CrossActuator(id)
DVAType(self)
EvalPSD(self, w)
Evaluate(self, w)
HasCrossActuator(id)
Name(self)
PSD(self)
__init__(self, Name)
42 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvActuator'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

class AvActuatorPSDFunction(AvActuator)

Methods defined here:

Actuator(self)
WritePy(self, oFile, space)
WriteXML(self, oFile, space)
PSD Function
__init__(self, Name, Type, Func, Args, CrossList)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvActuator'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Methods inherited from AvActuator:

CrossActuator(id)
DVAType(self)
EvalPSD(self, w)
Evaluate(self, w)
HasCrossActuator(id)
Name(self)
PSD(self)

class AvActuatorRotatingMass(AvActuator)

Methods defined here:

Actuator(self)
Create an actuator from the dialog box data
 Testing Your Model 43
Classes

WritePy(self, oFile, space)

WriteXML(self, oFile, space)
Rotating Mass
__init__(self, Name, Type, Leading, Mass, Offset, Normal=None)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvActuator'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Methods inherited from AvActuator:

CrossActuator(id)
DVAType(self)
EvalPSD(self, w)
Evaluate(self, w)
HasCrossActuator(id)
Name(self)
PSD(self)

class AvActuatorSweptSine(AvActuator)
Methods defined here:
Actuator(self)
WritePy(self, oFile, space)
WriteXML(self, oFile, space)
Swept sine
__init__(self, Name, Type, Mag, Phase)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvActuator'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.
44 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Methods inherited from AvActuator:

CrossActuator(id)
DVAType(self)
EvalPSD(self, w)
Evaluate(self, w)
HasCrossActuator(id)
Name(self)
PSD(self)

class AvActuatorUserFunction(AvActuator)

Methods defined here:

Actuator(self)
WritePy(self, oFile, space)
WriteXML(self, oFile, space)
User
__init__(self, Name, Type, Func, Args)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvActuator'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Methods inherited from AvActuator:

CrossActuator(id)
DVAType(self)
EvalPSD(self, w)
Evaluate(self, w)
HasCrossActuator(id)
Name(self)
PSD(self)

Data
MEDissipativeEnergy = 0
MEEndMode = -99
MEHeader = 0
 Testing Your Model 45
Classes

MEKineticEnergy = 0
MENormalizedCoordinates = 0
MEStartMode = -1
MEStrainEnergy = 0
__file__ = './AvActuator.pyc'
__name__ = 'AvActuator'

AvAMD
From Adams/Vibration.AvAMD import *

Constructor:
AvAMD(fName)
Constructor
Returns: object

Parameters:
string fName: Name of the adm file with the Adams/Solver
model in it

ADAMS_OBJECT Model()
Get the key to the model
Returns: int - the key to the model
Parameters: None

ADAMS_OBJECT Ground()
Get the key to the ground object
Returns: int - the key to ground
Parameters: None

int AdamsID(Object)
Get the objects ADAMS ID
Returns: int - the id assigned to the object
Parameters:
Object - ADAMS_OBJECT database object to get the id from

ADAMS_OBJECT CreateVariable(func)
Create a solver variable in the database
Returns: int - the key to the variable
Parameters:
func - string solver function

list PartList()
Get a list of parts in the model
Returns: list - list of keys
Parameters: None

list MarkerList(part)
Get a list of markers for the given part
Returns: list - list of markers
Parameters:
46 Adams/Vibration
Classes

part - ADAMS_OBJECT part to get the markers from

list StateMatrixList(results)
Get a list of state matrix objects for the given results object
Returns: list - list of state matrix
Parameters:
results - ADAMS_OBJECT results object to get the state
matrix from

ADAMS_OBJECT PartFromMarker(markerID)
Get the markers parent
Returns: ADAMS_OBJECT - key of the parent part

Parameters:
markerID - int ADAMS ID of the marker

ADAMS_OBJECT CreateMarker(partId, dir)

Create a marker in the database
Returns: ADAMS_OBJECT - key of the marker
Parameters:
partID - int ADAMS ID of the parent part
dir - char direction to align Z axis

string ObjName(dbObject)
Get the name of the database object
Returns: string - Name of the object
Parameters:
dbObject - ADAMS_OBJECT database object to get name from

string MarkerName(markerID)
Get the name of the marker
Returns: string - Name of the marker
Parameters:
markerID - int ADAMS ID of the marker

ADAMS_OBJECT CreateSForce(iMarkId, jMarkId, action, type, func)

Create an SFORCE in the database
Returns: ADAMS_OBJECT - key to the SFORCE
Parameters:
iMarkId - int ADAMS ID of the I marker
jMarkId - int ADAMS ID of the J marker
action - string "ACTIONONLY" or None
type - string "Translational" or "Rotational"
func - string solver function

ADAMS_OBJECT CreateResults()
Create a results object in the database
Returns: ADAMS_OBJECT - key to the results object
Parameters: None

bool WriteADM(fName)
Write the model to a solver database file
Returns: bool - true for success
Parameters:
 Testing Your Model 47
Classes

fName - string name of the adm file to write

ADAMS_OBJECT CreatePInput(varIDs)
Create a plant input object in the database
Returns: ADAMS_OBJECT - key to the plant input object
Parameters:
varIDs - list list of ADAMS ID's of the solver variables for
the plant input

ADAMS_OBJECT CreatePOutput(const int*) const;

Create a plant output object in the database
Returns: ADAMS_OBJECT - key to the plant output object
Parameters:
varIDs - list list of ADAMS ID's of the solver variables for
the plant output

double DM(iMarkID, jMarkID)

Get the distance between two markers
Returns: double - distance between markers
Parameters:
iMarkID - ADAMS ID of the I marker
jMarkID - ADAMS ID of the J marker

int DiffID()
Get the ADAMS ID to assign to the next DIFF
Returns: int - ADAMS ID of the DIFF
Parameters: None

ADAMS_OBJECT CreateDiff(id, func, IC)

Create a DIFF object in the database
Returns: ADAMS_OBJECT - key to the DIFF object
Parameters:
id - ADAMS ID if the DIFF to create
func - string solver function for the DIFF
IC - double DIFF initial value for the DIFF

ADAMS_OBJECT CreateMatrix(nRow, nCol, order, data)

Create a matrix object in the database
Returns: ADAMS_OBJECT - key to the matrix object
Parameters:
nRow - int number of rows
nCol - int number of columns
order - string Row order or Column order of the data
data - list matrix values

ADAMS_OBJECT CreateArray(which, data)

Create an array object in the database
Returns: ADAMS_OBJECT - key to the array object
Parameters:
which - character X, Y, U, I
data - string optional values for the array used with I & U

ADAMS_OBJECT CreateLSE(xArray, uArray, yArray, icArray, aMat,

bMat, cMat, dMat)
48 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Create an LSE object in the database

Returns: ADAMS_OBJECT - key to the LSE object
Parameters:
xArray - int ADAMS ID of the X array
uArray - int ADAMS ID of the U array
yArray - int ADAMS ID of the Y array
icArray - int ADAMS ID of the IC array
aMat - int ADAMS ID of the A matrix
bMat - int ADAMS ID of the B matrix
cMat - int ADAMS ID of the C matrix
dMat - int ADAMS ID of the D matrix

ADAMS_OBJECT CreateGSE(nIn, nOut, xArray, uArray, yArray, icArray,

xxFlag, xuFlag, yxFlag, yuFlag, Parm,
libFunc)
Create an LSE object in the database
Returns: ADAMS_OBJECT - key to the LSE object
Parameters:
nIn - int number of inputs to system
nOut - int number of system outputs
xArray - int ADAMS ID of the X array
uArray - int ADAMS ID of the U array
yArray - int ADAMS ID of the Y array
icArray - int ADAMS ID of the IC array
xxFlag - char U user function provided None other wise
xuFlag - char U user function provided None other wise
yxFlag - char U user function provided None other wise
yuFlag - char U user function provided None other wise
Parm - list user parameters or empty
libFunc - string user function lib::func names

ADAMS_OBJECT CreateGForce( const int iMarkId, const int jMarkId,

const int rMarkId, const char* Fx, const char* Fy, const char* Fz,
const char* Tx, const char* Ty, const char*Tz)
Create an GFORCE object in the database
Returns: ADAMS_OBJECT - key to the GFORCE object
Parameters:
iMarkId - int I marker ADAMS ID
jMarkId - int J marker ADAMS ID
rMarkId - int Ref marker ADAMS ID
Fx - string solver function for force in the X direction
FY - string solver function for force in the Y direction
Fz - string solver function for force in the Z direction
TX - string solver function for torque in the X axis
Ty - string solver function for torque in the Y axis
Tz - string solver function for torque in the Z axis

ADAMS_OBJECT ReadResultsFile(analysisName, fileName)

Read a results file
Returns: ADAMS_OBJECT - key to the results object
Parameters:
analysisName - string name for the analysis
filename - string name of the .res file
 Testing Your Model 49
Classes

bool WriteResultsFile(analysisObject, filename)

Write a results file
Returns: boolean - true if file written successfully false
otherwise
Parameters:
analysisObject - ADAMS_OBJECT key of the analysis to write
filename - string name of the .res file

ADAMS_OBJECT CreateResultsVariable(analysisObject, variableName,

comment1, comment2, data)
Create a results variable
Returns: ADAMS_OBJECT - key of the variable
Parameters:
analysisObject - ADAMS_OBJECT key of the analysis
variableName - string name of the new variable
comment1 - string variable comment
comment2 - string variable comment
data - list values to assign to variable

AvAPI_Matrix StateMatrix(smObject, which)

Get a matrix from a state matrix object
Returns: AvAPI_Matrix - the matrix
Parameters:
smObject - ADAMS_OBJECT key to the state matrix object
which - char matrix to get A, B, C, D

double StateMatrixTime(smObject)
Get the time from a state matrix object
Returns: double - simulation time the state matrix object was
created
Parameters:
smObject - ADAMS_OBJECT key to the state matrix object

bool StateMatrixABCD(smObject)
Determine if a state matrix object has B, C, D matrix
Returns: Boolean - true if B, C, and D exist false otherwise
Parameters:
smObject - ADAMS_OBJECT key to the state matrix object
<![endif]>int NodeID(Marker)
Get the objects Node ID of a marker
Returns: int - the id of the node
Parameters:
Marker - ADAMS_OBJECT database object to get the id fromlist
DependList(Object)
Get a list of dependants for the given object
Returns: list - list of objects
Parameters:
Object - ADAMS_OBJECT to get the dependants from

list ReferenceList(Object)
Get a list of objects that reference the given object
Returns: list - list of objects
Parameters:
50 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Object - ADAMS_OBJECT to get the references from

list MKCList(results)
Get a list of MKC objects for the given results object
Returns: list - list of MKC objects
Parameters:
results - ADAMS_OBJECT results object to get the MKC from

list FlexList()
Get a list of parts in the model
Returns: list - list of keys
Parameters: None

ADAMS_OBJECT Marker(Id)
Get a marker key given the id
Returns: ADAMS_OBJECT
Parameters:
Id - ADAMS id of the marker

ADAMS_OBJECT FixedJointMarker(Fixed, IorJ)

Get a marker key of a fixed joint given I or J
Returns: ADAMS_OBJECT
Parameters:
Fixed - key to the fixed joint
IorJ - character 'I' marker or 'J' marker

ADAMS_OBJECT GForceMarker(GF, IorJ)

Get a marker key of a GFORCE given I or J
Returns: ADAMS_OBJECT
Parameters:
GF - key to the GFORCE
IorJ - character 'I' marker or 'J' marker

void Delete(k_obj)
Delete an object from the database
Returns: None
Parameters:
k_obj - key to the object to be removed

list MarkerLocationOrientation(Marker, Analysis);

Returns the location and orientation of a marker
Returns: a six long list [X, Y, Z, Ax, Ay, Az]
Parameters:
Marker - ADAMS_OBJECT marker to get information for
Analysis - ADAMS_OBJECT non-zero Analysis will
return the current information
zero Analysis will return the initial
information

void ForceOnElement(k_obj, Analysis)

Returns the force action on the object
Returns: a six long list [FX, FY, FZ, Tx, Ty, Tz]
Parameters:
k_obj - ADAMS_OBJECT key to the object
 Testing Your Model 51
Classes

Analysis - ADAMS_OBJECT Analysis to return the

forces from

AvAPI_Matrix MKC(k_obj, which)

Get a matrix from a MKC object
Returns: AvAPI_Matrix - the matrix
Parameters:
k_obj - ADAMS_OBJECT key to the MKC object
which - char matrix to get M, K, C (B)

ADAMS_OBJECT CreateFixedJoint(iMark, jMark)

Create a fixed joint between the given markers
Returns: ADAMS_OBJECT - key to the fixed joint
Parameters:
iMark - ADAMS id of the I marker
jMark - ADAMS id of the J marker

ADAMS_OBJECT CreateAnalysis(model, name)

Create an analysis object
Returns: ADAMS_OBJECT - key to the analysis
Parameters:
model - ADAMS_OBJECT key to the model
mane - string name of the analysis

char* UnitString(unit)
Get the unit string for the given unit
Returns: string - unit string
Parameters:
unit - eUNIT any of the following
enum eUNIT
{
eNONE,
eANGLE,
eFORCE,
eFREQUENCY,
eLENGTH,
eMASS,
eTIME,
eINERTIA,
eVELOCITY,
eACCELERATION,
eANGULAR_VEL,
eANGULAR_ACCEL,
eSTIFFNESS,
eDAMPING,
eTORSION_STIFF,
eTORSION_DAMP,
eAREA,
eVOLUME,
eTORQUE,
ePRESSURE,
eAREA_INERTIA,
eDENSITY,
eENERGY,
52 Adams/Vibration
Classes

eFORCE_TIME,
eTORQUE_TIME,
eFLOWRATE_PRESSURE_D,
eFLOW_RATE,
eF_PER_ANG,
eC_PER_ANG,
eCOMPOSED
};

AvAPI Class
Public Methods:
bool AcquireLicense(void)
Check out an Adams/Vibration license
Returns: bool - true on success false otherwise
Parameters: None
void ReleaseLicense(void)
Check in Adams/Vibration license
Returns: void
Parameters: None -
bool CheckLicense(void)
Check to see if process has a vibration license
Returns: bool - true on success; false otherwise
Parameters: None -
vib_message_handler PushMessageHandler(mh, Args)
Sets the current function to handle vibration messages
Returns: Current message handler
Parameters:
stringmh - Name of the function func(msg, type, args)
string MSG - Message being sent
character type - Type of message [e, i, w]
list args - Argument list given by user when function was set
listArgs - user data to send back to the handler
vib_message_handler PopMessageHandler(void)
Replace the current function to handle vibration messages with the pervious one
Returns: Current message handler
Parameters: None -
 Testing Your Model 53
Classes

AvAPI_Actuator Class
Constructors:
AvAPI_Actuator(fdva, mag, phase)
Swept sine Constructor
Returns: Object pointer
Parameters:
char fdva - type of actuator [‘F’, ‘D’, ‘V’, ‘A’]
F = Force
D = Displacement
V = Velocity
A = Acceleration
double mag - magnitude of sine
double phase - phase of sine
AvAPI_Actuator(isForce, isLeading, mass, offset, dnormal)
Rotating mass Constructor
Returns: Object pointer
Parameters:
bool isForce - true for force; false for moment
bool isLeading- true for leading; false for lagging
double mass - mass of rotation
double offset - radial distance to the imbalance
double dnormal - perpendicular distance to the plane (moment only)
AvAPI_Actuator(fdva, ufunc, data)
User function Constructor
Returns: Object pointer
Parameters:
char fdva - type of actuator [‘F’, ’D’, ‘V’, ‘A’]
F = Force
D = Displacement
V = Velocity
A = Acceleration
string ufunc - name of the user function must be in the global dictionary
complex ufunc(data , w)
54 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Returns: complex f(w) actuator value at w

Parameters:
list data - user data given when actuator was constructed
double w - frequency of evaluation
list data - user data to be returned when ufunc is called
AvAPI_Actuator(fdva, ufunc, data, crossList)
PSD Constructor
Returns: Object pointer
Parameters:
char fdva - type of actuator [‘F’, ‘D’, ‘V’, ‘A’]
F = Force
D = Displacement
V = Velocity
A = Acceleration

string ufunc - name of the user function must be in the global dictionary
complex ufunc(data , w)
Returns:complex f(w) actuator value at w
Parameters:
list data - user data given when actuator was constructed
double w - frequency of evaluation
list data - user data to be returned when ufunc is called
listcrossList - list of cross correlation actuators
b. Public Methods:
AvAPI_Matrix Evaluate(Omega)
Actuator evaluation multiple frequencies
Returns:AvAPI_Matrix - vector of complex values
Parameters:
AvAPI_MatrixOmega - Vector of frequencies to evaluate at
AvAPI_Complex Evaluate(Omega)
Actuator evaluation single frequency
Returns:AvAPI_Complex - complex value
Parameters:
doubleOmega - Frequency of evaluation
 Testing Your Model 55
Classes

char DVAType(void)
Type of actuator
Returns: char [‘F’, ‘D’, ‘V’, ‘A’]
F = Force
D = Displacement
V = Velocity
A = Acceleration
Parameters: None
boolPSD(void)
PSD type actuator
Returns: bool True if PSD actuator False otherwise
Parameters: None
AvAPI_Actuator CrossActuator(iIC)
Get the cross correlation actuator for given input channel
Returns: AvAPI_Actuator cross correlation actuator
Parameters: int iic input channel index
bool HasCrossActuator(int iic)
Determine if cross correlation actuator exists
Returns: bool True if the given input channel has a cross correlation actuator False
otherwise
Parameters:
int iic input channel index.
If iic is less than zero the function returns True if any input channel has a cross
correlation actuator.

AvAPI_Complex Class
Constructors:
AvAPI_Complex(void)
AvAPI_Complex default Constructor
Returns: Object pointer real and imaginary set to zero
Parameters: None
AvAPI_Complex(r, i)
AvAPI_Complex Constructor
Returns: Object pointer
56 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Parameters:
doubler - real part
double i - imaginary part
Public Methods:
AvAPI_Complex& byMP(magnitude, theta)
Set real and imag parts using the magnitude and phase given
Returns:AvAPI_Complex& - reference to this object
Parameters:
double magnitude - for values
double theta - phase angle in degrees
Note: real = magnitude * cos(ang)
imag = magnitude * sin(ang)
double real(void)
Return the real part of the complex number
Returns: double - real part
Parameters: None -
double imag(void)
Return the imaginary part of the complex number
Returns: double - imag part
Parameters:None -
double Mag(void)
Return the magnitude of the complex number
Returns: double - magnitude
Parameters: None -
double Phase(void)
Return the phase of the complex number
Returns: double - phase angle in degrees
Parameters: None -

AvAPI_Matrix Class
Constructors:
AvAPI_Matrix(nRow, vals)
Vector Constructor
Returns:Object
 Testing Your Model 57
Classes

Parameters:
intnRow- Number of rows of data
list of double or complex vals - Data values column wise

AvAPI_Matrix(nRow, nCol, vals)

Dense column wise Constructor
Returns:Object pointer
Parameters:
intnRow- Number of rows of data
int nCol - Number of columns of data
list of double or complex vals - Data values column wise
AvAPI_Matrix(vals, nRow, nCol)
Dense row wise Constructor
Returns:Object pointer
Parameters:
int nRow- Number of rows of data
int nCol - Number of columns of data
list of double or complex vals - Data values row wise

AvAPI_Matrix(nSlot, nRow, nCol, vals)

Dense 3D Constructor
Returns:Object pointer
Parameters:
intnSlot- Number of slots of data
intnRow- Number of rows of data
int nCol - Number of columns of data
list of double or complex vals - Data values slot wise column wise

Methods:
double Value(row)
Value at mat[row,0]
Returns:double- Value of the matrix location[row,0]
Parameters:introw- Location to get the value
double Value(row, col)
58 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Value or location
Returns:double- Value of the matrix location[row,col]
Parameters:
int row- Location to get the value
int col - Location to get the value
double Value(slot, row, col)
Value or location
Returns:double- Value of the matrix location[row,col]
Parameters:
int slot- Location to get the value
int row- Location to get the value
int col - Location to get the value
AvAPI_Complex ValueC(row, col)
Value at location
Returns:AvAPI_Complex- Value of the matrix location[row,col]
Parameters:
int row- Location to get the value
int col - Location to get the value
AvAPI_Complex ValueC(slot, row, col)
Value at location
Returns:AvAPI_Complex- Value of the matrix location[row,col,slot]
Parameters:
int row- Location to get the value
int col - Location to get the value
int slot - Location to get the value

int Size(dim)
Matrix dimension
Returns: int - size of the matrix int the given dimension
Parameters:
int dim- Dimension to get the size 0, 1, or 2
list MultMv(vector)
Multiply the vector by the matrix
Returns: list - output vector
 Testing Your Model 59
Classes

Parameters:
list vector- List of double or complex values

AvAPI_System Class
Constructor:
AvAPI_System(Time, A, B, C, D, actuatorList, modeList)
Constructor for a license system
Returns:Object pointer
Parameters:
double Time - Simulation time of linearization
AvAPI_Matrix A - system A matrix from ADAMS
AvAPI_Matrix B - system B matrix from ADAMS
AvAPI_Matrix C - system C matrix from ADAMS
AvAPI_Matrix D - system D matrix from ADAMS
list actuatorList - list of actuators
list modeList - list of modes by index to use in system calculations; NULL for including
all modes.
Public Methods:
AvAPI_ActuatorActuator (iIC)
Actuator
Returns:AvAPI_Actuatoractuator for given input channel
Parameters:int iicindex of the input channel
int Inputs(void)
Inputs
Returns:int- number of system inputs
Parameters: None
intOutputs(void)
Outputs
Returns:int- number of system outputs
Parameters: None
intDefective(which)
defective eigen value index
Returns:int- index of eigen value if equal to which eigen value is not defective
Parameters: int which - index of eigen value
60 Adams/Vibration
Classes

AvAPI_ComplexEigenvalue (indx, cyclesPerTime)

eigen value
Returns:AvAPI_Complex the eigen value
Parameters:
int indx - index of the eigen value to be returned
bool cyclesPerTime - True value is scaled by 2 
intEigenvalues(void)
number of eigen values found
Returns:int- number of eigen values
Parameters: None
AvAPI_ComplexEigenvector(which, indx)
eigen vector
Returns:the eigen vector component V[indx]
Parameters:
int which - eigen vector index
int indx - index into the vector
AvAPI_MatrixTransferFunction(Omega)
Transfer Function
Returns:AvAPI_Matrix - system transfer function3D complex matrix of the
number of output channels times the number of input channels times the number of
frequencies
Parameters: AvAPI_MatrixOmega vector of frequencies
AvAPI_MatrixFrequencyResponse (Omega)
Frequency Response
Returns:AvAPI_Matrix- system frequency response3D complex matrix of the
number of output channels times the number of input channels times the number of
frequencies
Parameters: AvAPI_MatrixOmega vector of frequencies
AvAPI_MatrixMCT (Omega, scaleMCT)
modal coordinate table
Returns:AvAPI_Matrix- modal coordinate table
Parameters:
AvAPI_MatrixOmega vector of frequencies
bool scaleMCT- ifTrue MCT matrix is scaled by the input actuators
AvAPI_Matrix MPF (iic, iOC, iFr, iMd, Omega)
 Testing Your Model 61
Classes

modal participation factors

Returns:AvAPI_Matrix- system modal participation factors
Parameters:
int iic - input channel index
int IOC - output channel index
int iFr - frequency index
int imd - mode number
AvAPI_MatrixOmega vector of frequencies
AvAPI_Complex PSD (IOC, frequency)
Compute power spectral density (PSD)
Returns:AvAPI_Complex PSD value
Parameters:
int IOC - input channel index
double frequency - frequency for evaluation
AvAPI_Matrix PSD (frequency)
Compute power spectral density (PSD)
Returns:AvAPI_MatrixPSD values
Parameters:
doublefrequency - frequency for evaluation
double Time()
Get the time of linearization
Returns:double Time given
Parameters: Nome
AvAPI_Matrix ModalMatrix (Which)
Get A,B,C, or D Matrix
Returns:AvAPI_Matrix Matrix
Parameters:
char Which - Matrix to get A B C D

AvAPI_SystemSS Class
Constructor:
AvAPI_SystemSS(Time, A, B, C, D, actuatorList)
Constructor for a state space linear system
Returns: Object
62 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Parameters:
double Time - Simulation time of linearization
AvAPI_Matrix A - system A matrix from ADAMS AvAPI_Matrix B - system B matrix
from ADAMS
AvAPI_Matrix C - system C matrix from ADAMS
AvAPI_Matrix D - system D matrix from ADAMS
list actuatorList - list of actuators
Public Methods:
double Time()
Get the time of linearization
Returns:double Time given
Parameters: Nome
AvAPI_Actuator Actuator(iIC)
Actuator
Returns:AvAPI_Actuator actuator for given input channel
Parameters:int iicindex of the input channel
int Inputs (void)
Inputs
Returns:int - number of system inputs
Parameters: None
intOutputs (void)
Outputs
Returns:int - number of system outputs
Parameters: None
AvAPI_Matrix TransferFunction(Omega)
Transfer Function
Returns:AvAPI_Matrix - system transfer function3D complex matrix of the
number of output channels times the number of input channels times the number of
frequencies
Parameters: AvAPI_MatrixOmega vector of frequencies
AvAPI_Matrix FrequencyResponse (Omega)
Frequency Response
Returns:AvAPI_Matrix - system frequency response3D complex matrix of the
number of output channels times the number of input channels times the number of
frequencies
 Testing Your Model 63
Classes

Parameters: AvAPI_MatrixOmega vector of frequencies

AvAPI_Matrix MCT (Omega, scaleMCT)
modal coordinate table
Returns:AvAPI_Matrix - modal coordinate table
Parameters:
AvAPI_MatrixOmega vector of frequencies
bool scaleMCT - ifTrue MCT matrix is scaled by the input actuators
AvAPI_Matrix MPF (iic, iOC, iFr, iMd, Omega)
modal participation factors
Returns:AvAPI_Matrix - system modal participation factors
Parameters:
int iic - input channel index
int IOC - output channel index
int iFr - frequency index
int imd - mode number
AvAPI_Matrix Omega vector of frequencies
AvAPI_Complex PSD (IOC, frequency)
Compute power spectral density (PSD)
Returns: AvAPI_Complex PSD value
Parameters:
int IOC - input channel index
double frequency - frequency for evaluation
AvAPI_Matrix PSD (frequency)
Compute power spectral density (PSD)
Returns:AvAPI_Matrix PSD values
Parameters:
double frequency - frequency for evaluation
AvAPI_Matrix ModalMatrix (Which)
Get A,B,C, or D Matrix
Returns:AvAPI_Matrix Matrix
Parameters:
char Which - Matrix to get A B C D
AvAPI_Matrix ComplianceMatrix ()
Compute the compliance matrix
64 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Returns:AvAPI_Matrix Compliance Matrix

Parameters: None

AvAPI_ToolBox
From msc.Adams.Vibration.AvAPI import *
Data Members:
AvAPI_ToolBox.eRECTANGULAR
AvAPI_ToolBox.eHAMMING,
AvAPI_ToolBox.eHANNING,
AvAPI_ToolBox.ePARZEN,
AvAPI_ToolBox.eWELCH
Methods defined here:
double Frequency(i, nFFT, dt, HZ)
return the frequency associated with the ith point of the FFT
Returns: double
Parameters:int i - point number
int nFFT - total number of points in FFT
double DT - point spacing
bool HZ - true frequency returned in HZ
AvAPI_Matrix FFT(data, n, detrend, window)
compute the Fast Fourier Transformations (FFT)
Returns: AvAPI_Matrix
Parameters:
AvAPI_Matrix& data - input data in columns
int n - number of points to use in FFT
bool detrend - true detrend data
AvAPI_ToolBox::eWindow window - window to use
AvAPI_Matrix PSD(const AvAPI_Matrix& data, AvAPI_ToolBox::eWindow window, int nSeg, int
nOverlap)
compute the Power Spectral Density (PSD)
 Testing Your Model 65
Classes

Returns: AvAPI_Matrix
Parameters:
AvAPI_Matrix& data - input data in columns
AvAPI_ToolBox::eWindow window - window to use
int nSeg - number of segments to use
int nOverlap - number of points to overlap
AvAPI_Matrix FDElementID(data)
Determine the parameters for an FD Element
Returns: AvAPI_Matrix 1D K1 - C3
Parameters:
AvAPI_Matrix& data - test data
AvAPI_Matrix FDEvaluate(AvAPI_Matrix& K1, AvAPI_Matrix& C1, AvAPI_Matrix& K2,
AvAPI_Matrix& C2, AvAPI_Matrix& K3, AvAPI_Matrix& C3, const AvAPI_Matrix& omega, bool
MagPhase)
Evaluate an FD Element
Returns: AvAPI_Matrix Element transfer function
Parameters:
double or AvAPI_Matrix& K1 - value(s) to use for K1
double or AvAPI_Matrix& C1 - value(s) to use for C1
double or AvAPI_Matrix& K2 - value(s) to use for K2
double or AvAPI_Matrix& C2 - value(s) to use for C2
double or AvAPI_Matrix& K3 - value(s) to use for K3
double or AvAPI_Matrix& C3 - value(s) to use for C3
AvAPI_Matrix& omega - Frequencies to evaluate at
bool MagPhase - return magnitude / phase or real / imaginary
Constructors:
AvAPI_ToolBox()
Constructor
Returns: object
66 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Parameters: None

AvBuild
This the entry point for Vibration Build

Modules
msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAMDc libsip string traceback

msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAPIc math struct types

msc.Adams.Vibration.Plotting.libVibPlotc os sys

libqtc re tempfile

Classes
AvBuild
AvBuildActuator
AvBuildFDElement
AvBuildFDInstance
AvBuildInputChannel
AvBuildOutputChannel
AvBuildPlot
AvBuildTest

class AvBuild

Methods defined here:

Actuator(self)
FDElement(self)
FDInstance(self)
InputChannel(self)
Name(self)
OutputChannel(self)
Plot(self)
Test(self)
__init__(self, Name=None)
 Testing Your Model 67
Classes

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvBuild'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

class AvBuildActuator

Methods defined here:

Actuator(self, Name)
Name(self)
PSDFunction(self, Name, Type, Func, Args, CrossList)
RotatingMass(self, Name, Type, Leading, Mass, Offset, Normal=None)
SweptSine(self, Name, Type, Mag, Phase)
UserFunction(self, Name, Type, Func, Args)
__init__(self, Parent, Name=None)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvBuild'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

class AvBuildFDElement

Methods defined here:

Bushing(self, Name, k2, k3, c3)
Damper(self, Name, k1, k2, c3)
FDElement(self, Name)
Hydromount(self, Name, k1, c1, k2, c3)
Name(self)
Pfeffer(self, Name, k1, c2, k3, c3)
Supper(self, Name, k1, c1, k2, c2, k3, c3)
__init__(self, Parent, Name=None)
68 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvBuild'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

class AvBuildFDInstance

Methods defined here:

FDInstance(self, Name, Type, Imark, Jmark, FdElement, preload)
List(self)
Name(self)
__init__(self, Parent, Name=None)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvBuild'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

class AvBuildInputChannel

Methods defined here:

List(self)
Marker(self, Name, Marker_ADAMS_ID, FunctionType, Global, Direction, Actuator)
Name(self)
Names(self)
StateVariable(self, Name, StateVarID, Actuator)
__init__(self, Parent, Name=None)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvBuild'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
 Testing Your Model 69
Classes

If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

class AvBuildOutputChannel

Methods defined here:

List(self)
Name(self)
Names(self)
Predefined(self, Name, MarkerID, GC, Dir, JMarkerID=0)
User(self, Name, Function)
__init__(self, Parent, Name=None)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvBuild'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

class AvBuildPlot

Methods defined here:

Bode(self, Name, inputList, outputList)
Eigen(self, Name)
FRF(self, Name, inputList, outputList, Mag=1)
List(self)
Name(self)
TransferFunction(self, Name, inputList, outputList, Mag=1)
__init__(self, Parent, Name=None)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvBuild'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.
70 Adams/Vibration
Classes

class AvBuildTest

Methods defined here:

List(self)(self)
Name(self)(self)
Test(self, Name, modelFile, simScript, damping, modeList, start, end, steps, outName=None)
TestCompliance(self, Name, modelFile, simScript, damping, modeList, outName=None)
TestM(self, Name, modelFile, acfFile, modeList, start, end, steps, outName=None, SS=0)
__init__(self, Parent, Name=None)(self, Parent, Name=None)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvBuild'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Functions
bitBlt(...)
qAlpha(...)
qAppName(...)
qBlue(...)
qDrawPlainRect(...)
qDrawShadeLine(...)
qDrawShadePanel(...)
qDrawShadeRect(...)
qDrawWinButton(...)
qDrawWinPanel(...)
qGray(...)
qGreen(...)
qRed(...)
qRgb(...)
qRgba(...)
qVersion(...)
qt_xdisplay(...)
qt_xrootwin(...)
 Testing Your Model 71
Classes

qt_xscreen(...)

Data
IO_AbortError = 6
IO_Append = 4
IO_Async = 128
IO_Combined = 768
IO_ConnectError = 5
IO_Direct = 256
IO_FatalError = 3
IO_ModeMask = 255
IO_Ok = 0
IO_Open = 4096
IO_OpenError = 5
IO_Raw = 64
IO_ReadError = 1
IO_ReadOnly = 1
IO_ReadWrite = 3
IO_ResourceError = 4
IO_Sequential = 512
IO_StateMask = 61440
IO_TimeOutError = 7
IO_Translate = 16
IO_Truncate = 8
IO_TypeMask = 3840
IO_UnspecifiedError = 8
IO_WriteError = 2
IO_WriteOnly = 2
MEDissipativeEnergy = 0
MEEndMode = -99
MEHeader = 0
MEKineticEnergy = 0
MENormalizedCoordinates = 0
MEStartMode = -1
MEStrainEnergy = 0
PYQT_BUILD = 34
PYQT_VERSION = '3.3'
QCOORD_MAX = 2147483647
QCOORD_MIN = -2147483648
QT_VERSION = 304
QT_VERSION_STR = '3.0.4'
__file__ = './AvBuild.pyc'
__name__ = 'AvBuild'
qApp = <qt.QApplication instance>
72 Adams/Vibration
Classes

AvFDElement
This the entry point for the FD Element

Modules
msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAPIc os struct types

libsip re sys

math string traceback

Classes
AvFDElement

class AvFDElement

Methods defined here:

C1(self)
C2(self)
C3(self)
Evaluate(self, w)
K1(self)
K2(self)
K3(self)
Name(self)
Symetric(self)
WritePy(self, oFile, space)
WriteXML(self, oFile, space)
FD Emement
__init__(self, Name, k1, c1, k2, c2, k3, c3)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvFDElement'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.
 Testing Your Model 73
Classes

Data
MEDissipativeEnergy = 0
MEEndMode = -99
MEHeader = 0
MEKineticEnergy = 0
MENormalizedCoordinates = 0
MEStartMode = -1
MEStrainEnergy = 0
__file__ = './AvFDElement.pyc'
__name__ = 'AvFDElement'

AvFDInstance
This the entry point for the FD Instance

Modules
msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAMDc math string traceback

msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAPIc os struct types

libsip re sys

Classes
AvFDInstance

class AvFDInstance

Methods defined here:

Add(self, amdModel)
Add1D(self, amdModel)
Add3D(self, amdModel)
FDElement(self)
IMarker(self)
JMarker(self)
Name(self)
Preload(self)
WritePy(self, oFile, space)
WriteXML(self, oFile, space)
FD Emement
__init__(self, Name, Type, Imark, Jmark, FdElement, preload)
74 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvFDInstance'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Data
MEDissipativeEnergy = 0
MEEndMode = -99
MEHeader = 0
MEKineticEnergy = 0
MENormalizedCoordinates = 0
MEStartMode = -1
MEStrainEnergy = 0
__file__ = './AvFDInstance.pyc'
__name__ = 'AvFDInstance'

AvFreqRespSol
The entry point for the Adams/Vibration Mechanical Transfer functions

Modules
msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAMDc math string tempfile

msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAPIc os struct traceback

libsip re sys types

Classes
AvMTF
Sol

class AvMTF
Adams/Vibration class for computing mechanical transfer functions

Methods defined here:

AnaObjLst(self, AnaObj=None)
BaseName(self)
FreqRange(self)
FreqRangeHz(self)
 Testing Your Model 75
Classes

InDir(self)
OutDir(self)
ResList(self, AnaObj=None)
__init__(self, Name, Model_base_name, Freq_range, iDir, oDir)

Marker AvMechanicalTF:
@param Name: Name to assign to mechanical transfer fu
nction
@type Name: string
@param Model_base_name: base name for the model.
@type Model_base_name: string
@param Marker_in: Input marker object
@param Freq_range: Frequency range for analysis
@type Freq_range: Frequency range object
@type Marker_in: Marker spec object
@param Marker_I_out: Output I marker object
@type Marker_I_out: I Marker spec object
@param Marker_J_out: Output J marker object
@type Marker_J_out: J Marker spec object
@return: the object
@rtype: Object
__mul__(self, a, b)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = 'Adams/Vibration class for computing mechanical transfer functions'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.
__module__ = 'AvFreqRespSol'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

class Sol

Methods defined here:

ActName(self)
CleanUp(self)
CreateIOChannels(self)
ErrStr(self)
Initialize(self, Model, InpMarkerList, OutMarkerList)
InpChLst(self)
76 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Model(self)
OutChLst(self)
PlotLegend(self)
Resp(self)
Response(self)
Results(self)
VarName(self)
__del__(self)
__init__(self)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvFreqRespSol'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Data
MEDissipativeEnergy = 0
MEEndMode = -99
MEHeader = 0
MEKineticEnergy = 0
MENormalizedCoordinates = 0
MEStartMode = -1
MEStrainEnergy = 0
__author__ =
__date__ = '11 Dec. 2003'
__file__ = './AvFreqRespSol.pyc'
__name__ = 'AvFreqRespSol'

AvHelp
#############################################################################
#############################################################################
#############################################################################
#
# Copyright (C) 2004 by MSC.Software, Inc., Santa Ana, CA, USA
# All Rights Reserved. This code may not be copied or reproduced in
# any form, in part or in whole, without the explicit permission of
# the copyright owner.
#
# Intent+: Python interface for Adams/Vibration
# Intent-:
#
# Caveats+:
# Caveats-:
#
 Testing Your Model 77
Classes

#############################################################################

Modules
os string sys

Classes
AvHelp
class AvHelp

Methods defined here:

__init__(self, File=None)
browser(self, File)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvHelp'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Data
__author__ =
__date__ = '1 Sept. 2002'
__file__ = './AvHelp.pyc'
__name__ = 'AvHelp'

AvInputChannel
The entry point for the Adams/Vibration Input Channel

Modules
msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAPIc math re sys

libsip os string

Classes
AvInputChannel
AvInputChannelMarker
AvInputChannelStateVariable
78 Adams/Vibration
Classes

class AvInputChannel
Adams/Vibration Input Channel Base Class

Methods defined here:

Actuator(self)
AddActuator(self, amdModel)
Name(self)
__init__(self, Name, Actuator)

Base class for AvInput Channels:

@param Name: Name to assigne to input channel or none
@type Name: string
@param Actuator: AvAPI_Actuator object to use with imput channel
@type Actuator: object
@return: the object
@rtype: Object

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = 'Adams/Vibration Input Channel Base Class'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.
__module__ = 'AvInputChannel'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

class AvInputChannelMarker(AvInputChannel)
Marker Input Channel

Methods defined here:

Add(self, amdModel)
DVAUnitStr(self)
Return the unit string associated with the kinematic input channel
Direction(self)
Returns the local global string
FunctionType(self)
 Testing Your Model 79
Classes

Returns the local global string

Global(self)
Returns the local global string
KinFunction(self)
Returns function string for the VARIABLE solver statement of the extra output for
kinematic actuators
KinFunctionPrefix(self)
Return the Solver function string i.e. DX
MarkerID(self)
VariableFunction(self)
Returns function string for the VARIABLE solver statement
WritePy(self, oFile, space)
WriteXML(self, oFile, space)
Marker Input Channel
__init__(self, Name, Marker_ADAMS_ID, FunctionType, Global, Direction, Actuator)

Marker AvInput Channel:

@param Name: Name to assigne to input channel or none
@type Name: string
@param Marker_ADAMS_ID: Marker ID
@type Marker_ADAMS_ID: integer
@param FunctionType: <Translational, Rotational>
@type FunctionType: string
@param Global: <Global, Local>
@type Global: string
@param Direction: <X, Y, Z>
@type Direction: string
@param Actuator: AvAPI_Actuator object to use with imput channel
@type Actuator: object
@return: the object
@rtype: Object

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = '/n Marker Input Channel/n '
str(object) -> string
80 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Return a nice string representation of the object.

If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.
__module__ = 'AvInputChannel'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.
Methods inherited from AvInputChannel:
Actuator(self)
AddActuator(self, amdModel)
Name(self)

class AvInputChannelStateVariable(AvInputChannel)
State Variable Input Channel

Methods defined here:

Add(self, amdModel)
StateVarID(self)
WritePy(self, oFile, space)
WriteXML(self, oFile, space)
State Variable Input Channel
__init__(self, Name, StateVarID, Actuator)
State Variable AvInput Channel:
@param Name: Name to assigne to input channel or none
@type Name: string
@param StateVarID: ID of the State Variable
@type StateVarID: integer
@param StateVarName: State Variable Name
@type StateVarName: string
@param Actuator: AvAPI_Actuator object to use with imput channel
@type Actuator: object
@return: the object
@rtype: Object

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = '/n State Variable Input Channel/n '
str(object) -> string
 Testing Your Model 81
Classes

Return a nice string representation of the object.

If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.
__module__ = 'AvInputChannel'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.
Methods inherited from AvInputChannel:
Actuator(self)
AddActuator(self, amdModel)
Name(self)

Functions
EvalFunc(argList, w)
User function used to test this module

Data
__author__ =
__date__ = '1 Sept. 2002'
__file__ = './AvInputChannel.pyc'
__name__ = 'AvInputChannel'

AvIOC
#############################################################################
#############################################################################
#############################################################################
#
# Copyright (C) 2004 by MSC.Software, Inc., Santa Ana, CA, USA
# All Rights Reserved. This code may not be copied or reproduced in
# any form, in part or in whole, without the explicit permission of
# the copyright owner.
#
# Intent+: Python Qt interface for Adams/Vibration
# Intent-:
#
# Caveats+:
# Caveats-:
#
#############################################################################
#

Modules
msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAPIc os struct types

libsip re sys

math string traceback

82 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Functions
InputChannel(ChName, MrkInfo, ActObj)
OutputChannel(ChName, MrkInfo)

Data
MEDissipativeEnergy = 0
MEEndMode = -99
MEHeader = 0
MEKineticEnergy = 0
MENormalizedCoordinates = 0
MEStartMode = -1
MEStrainEnergy = 0
__author__ =
__date__ = '11 Dec. 2003'
__file__ = './AvIOC.pyc'
__name__ = 'AvIOC'

AvLinearize
#############################################################################
#############################################################################
#############################################################################
#
# Copyright (C) 2004 by MSC.Software, Inc., Santa Ana, CA, USA
# All Rights Reserved. This code may not be copied or reproduced in
# any form, in part or in whole, without the explicit permission of
# the copyright owner.
#
# Intent+: Python interface for Adams/Vibration
# Intent-:
#
# Caveats+:
# Caveats-:
#
#############################################################################

Modules
msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAPIc os struct types

libsip re sys

math string traceback

Classes
AvLinearize

class AvLinearize
Create a linear system model from an ADAMS non-linear system.

Methods defined here:

A(self)
 Testing Your Model 83
Classes

Return the system A matrix

AcfToScript(self, iFile)
B(self)
Return the system B matrix
C(self)
Return the system C matrix
D(self)
Return the system D matrix
FindMarker(self, id, inList)
GetId(self, str)
ReadMatrix(self, matFile)
Read ABCD system matrices from the given dat file
RmFile(self, rFile)
Remove a file
Simulate(self, simScript, outName, damping, pInId, pOutId)
__init__(self, modelFile, inputList, outputList, simScript, damping, outName='Adams',
FDList={})
AvLinearize:
@param modelFile: ADAMS .adm file to be linearize
@type modelFile: string
@param inputList: List of input channels (AvInputChannel objects)
@type inputList: List
@param outputList: List of output channels (AvOutputChannel objects)
@type outputList: List
@param simScript: Script of ADAMS solver commands to acheive
operating point Or name of an existing .acf file
@type simScript: string
@param damping: Include damping True or False
@type damping: Bool
@param outName: Base name for solver output files default = Adams
@type outName: string
@return: the object
@rtype: Object
84 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = 'Create a linear system model from an Adams non-linear system.'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.
__module__ = 'AvLinearize'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Functions
AvLinearModel(modelFile, inputList, outputList, simScript, damping, outName, mList)
AvLinearModel:
@param modelFile: ADAMS .adm file to be linearize
@type modelFile: string
@param inputList: List of input channels (AvInputChannel objects)
@type inputList: List
@param outputList: List of output channels (AvOutputChannel objects)
@type outputList: List
@param simScript: Script of ADAMS solver commands to acheive operating point
Or name of an existing .acf file
@type simScript: string
@param damping: Include damping True or False
@type damping: Bool
@param outName: Base name for solver output files default = Adams
@type outName: string
@param mList: List of modes to use null for all
@type mList: integer list
@return: the object
@rtype: Object

Data
MEDissipativeEnergy = 0
MEEndMode = -99
MEHeader = 0
MEKineticEnergy = 0
MENormalizedCoordinates = 0
 Testing Your Model 85
Classes

MEStartMode = -1
MEStrainEnergy = 0
__author__ =
__date__ = '1 Sept. 2002'
__file__ = './AvLinearize.pyc'
__name__ = 'AvLinearize'

AvMarkerSpec
The entry point for the Adams/Vibration Marker specification

Modules
msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAPIc math re sys

libsip os string

Classes
AvMarkerSpec

class AvMarkerSpec
Adams/Vibration class for specifying marker info

Methods defined here:

Direction(self, NewDir=None)
Returns the direction string
FunctionType(self)
Returns the direction type string
Global(self)
Returns the local global string
MarkerID(self)
MarkerName(self)
Name(self)
__init__(self, Name, Marker_ADAMS_ID, MarkerName, FunctionType, Global, Direction)

Marker AvMarkerSpec:
@param Name: Name to assign to marker data spec
@type Name: string
@param Marker_ADAMS_ID: Marker ID
@type Marker_ADAMS_ID: integer
86 Adams/Vibration
Classes

@param MarkerName: Marker Name

@type MarkerName: string
@param FunctionType: <Translational, Rotational>
@type FunctionType: string
@param Global: <Global, Local>
@type Global: string
@param Direction: <X, Y, Z>
@type Direction: string
@return: the object
@rtype: Object

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = 'Adams/Vibration class for specifying marker info'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.
__module__ = 'AvMarkerSpec'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Data
__author__ =
__date__ = '11 Dec. 2003'
__file__ = './AvMarkerSpec.pyc'
__name__ = 'AvMarkerSpec'

AvMechTFs

Modules
msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAMDc math string tempfile

msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAPIc os struct traceback

libsip re sys types

Functions
CreateModel(BaseName, FreqRange, iDir, oDir)
 Testing Your Model 87
Classes

DoVibrAnalysis(Ac, modl)
GetActionList(Ac)
RegisterAnalysis(AnaObj)
message_handler(msg, type, data)
Message handler for vibration

Data
AcList = []
MEDissipativeEnergy = 0
MEEndMode = -99
MEHeader = 0
MEKineticEnergy = 0
MENormalizedCoordinates = 0
MEStartMode = -1
MEStrainEnergy = 0
__file__ = './AvMechTFs.pyc'
__name__ = 'AvMechTFs'

AvMTF
The entry point for the Adams/Vibration Mechanical Transfer functions

Modules
msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAMDc math string tempfile

msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAPIc os struct traceback

libsip re sys types

Classes
msc.Adams.Vibration.InstrumentPacks.AvFreqRespSol.Sol
Accelerance
Compliance
DynamicInertia
DynamicStiffness
ForceTransmissibility
Impedence
Mobility
MotionTransmissibility
88 Adams/Vibration
Classes

class Accelerance(msc.Adams.Vibration.InstrumentPacks.AvFreqRespSol.Sol)
# Accelerance

Methods defined here:

__init__(self, Model, InpMarkerList, OutMarkerList)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvMTF'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Methods inherited from

href="avfreqrespsol.html#Sol">msc.Adams.Vibration.InstrumentPacks.AvFreqRespSol.Sol:
ActName(self)
CleanUp(self)
CreateIOChannels(self)
ErrStr(self)
Initialize(self, Model, InpMarkerList, OutMarkerList)
InpChLst(self)
Model(self)
OutChLst(self)
PlotLegend(self)
Resp(self)
Response(self)
Results(self)
VarName(self)
__del__(self)

class Compliance
(href="avfreqrespsol.html#Sol">msc.Adams.Vibration.InstrumentPacks.AvFreqRespSol.Sol)
# Compliance

Methods defined here:

__init__(self, Model, InpMarkerList, OutMarkerList)
 Testing Your Model 89
Classes

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvMTF'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Methods inherited from

href="avfreqrespsol.html#Sol">msc.Adams.Vibration.InstrumentPacks.AvFreqRespSol.Sol:
ActName(self)
CleanUp(self)
CreateIOChannels(self)
ErrStr(self)
Initialize(self, Model, InpMarkerList, OutMarkerList)
InpChLst(self)
Model(self)
OutChLst(self)
PlotLegend(self)
Resp(self)
Response(self)
Results(self)
VarName(self)
__del__(self)

class DynamicInertia
(href="avfreqrespsol.html#Sol">msc.Adams.Vibration.InstrumentPacks.AvFreqRespSol.Sol)
# Dynamic Inertia

Methods defined here:

__init__(self, Model, InpMarkerList, OutMarkerList)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvMTF'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
90 Adams/Vibration
Classes

If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Methods inherited from:

href="avfreqrespsol.html#Sol">msc.Adams.Vibration.InstrumentPacks.AvFreqRespSol.Sol:
ActName(self)
CleanUp(self)
CreateIOChannels(self)
ErrStr(self)
Initialize(self, Model, InpMarkerList, OutMarkerList)
InpChLst(self)
Model(self)
OutChLst(self)
PlotLegend(self)
Resp(self)
Response(self)
Results(self)
VarName(self)
__del__(self)

class DynamicStiffness
(href="avfreqrespsol.html#Sol">msc.Adams.Vibration.InstrumentPacks.AvFreqRespSol.Sol)
# Dynamic Stiffness

Methods defined here:

__init__(self, Model, InpMarkerList, OutMarkerList)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvMTF'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Methods inherited from

href="avfreqrespsol.html#Sol">msc.Adams.Vibration.InstrumentPacks.AvFreqRespSol.Sol:
ActName(self)
CleanUp(self)
 Testing Your Model 91
Classes

CreateIOChannels(self)
ErrStr(self)
Initialize(self, Model, InpMarkerList, OutMarkerList)
InpChLst(self)
Model(self)
OutChLst(self)
PlotLegend(self)
Resp(self)
Response(self)
Results(self)
VarName(self)
__del__(self)

class ForceTransmissibility(msc.Adams.Vibration.InstrumentPacks.AvFreqRespSol.Sol)
# Force Transmissibility

Methods defined here:

__init__(self, Model, InpMarkerList, OutMarkerList)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvMTF'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Methods inherited from

href="avfreqrespsol.html#Sol">msc.Adams.Vibration.InstrumentPacks.AvFreqRespSol.Sol:
ActName(self)
CleanUp(self)
CreateIOChannels(self)
ErrStr(self)
Initialize(self, Model, InpMarkerList, OutMarkerList)
InpChLst(self)
Model(self)
OutChLst(self)
92 Adams/Vibration
Classes

PlotLegend(self)
Resp(self)
Response(self)
Results(self)
VarName(self)
__del__(self)

class Impedence
(href="avfreqrespsol.html#Sol">msc.Adams.Vibration.InstrumentPacks.AvFreqRespSol.Sol)
# Impedence

Methods defined here:

__init__(self, Model, InpMarkerList, OutMarkerList)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvMTF'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Methods inherited from

href="avfreqrespsol.html#Sol">msc.Adams.Vibration.InstrumentPacks.AvFreqRespSol.Sol:
ActName(self)
CleanUp(self)
CreateIOChannels(self)
ErrStr(self)
Initialize(self, Model, InpMarkerList, OutMarkerList)
InpChLst(self)
Model(self)
OutChLst(self)
PlotLegend(self)
Resp(self)
Response(self)
Results(self)
VarName(self)
 Testing Your Model 93
Classes

__del__(self)

class Mobility
(href="avfreqrespsol.html#Sol">msc.Adams.Vibration.InstrumentPacks.AvFreqRespSol.Sol)
# Mobility

Methods defined here:

__init__(self, Model, InpMarkerList, OutMarkerList)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvMTF'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Methods inherited from

href="avfreqrespsol.html#Sol">msc.Adams.Vibration.InstrumentPacks.AvFreqRespSol.Sol:
ActName(self)
CleanUp(self)
CreateIOChannels(self)
ErrStr(self)
Initialize(self, Model, InpMarkerList, OutMarkerList)
InpChLst(self)
Model(self)
OutChLst(self)
PlotLegend(self)
Resp(self)
Response(self)
Results(self)
VarName(self)
__del__(self)

class MotionTransmissibility
(href="avfreqrespsol.html#Sol"> Adams/Vibration.InstrumentPacks.AvFreqRespSol.Sol)
# Motion Transmissiblity
94 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Methods defined here:

__init__(self, Model, InpMarkerList, OutMarkerList)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvMTF'
str(object) -> string

Return a nice string representation of the object.

If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Methods inherited from:

href="avfreqrespsol.html#Sol">msc.Adams.Vibration.InstrumentPacks.AvFreqRespSol.Sol:
ActName(self)
CleanUp(self)
CreateIOChannels(self)
ErrStr(self)
Initialize(self, Model, InpMarkerList, OutMarkerList)
InpChLst(self)
Model(self)
OutChLst(self)
PlotLegend(self)
Resp(self)
Response(self)
Results(self)
VarName(self)
__del__(self)

Data
MEDissipativeEnergy = 0
MEEndMode = -99
MEHeader = 0
MEKineticEnergy = 0
MENormalizedCoordinates = 0
MEStartMode = -1
MEStrainEnergy = 0
__author__ =
__date__ = '11 Dec. 2003'
__file__ = './AvMTF.pyc'
__name__ = 'AvMTF'
 Testing Your Model 95
Classes

AvNibble

Modules
copy math struct types

msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAMDc os sys

msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAPIc re tempfile

libsip string traceback

Classes
msc.Adams.Vibration.InstrumentPacks.AvFreqRespSol.Sol
Nibble
class Nibble(msc.Adams.Vibration.InstrumentPacks.AvFreqRespSol.Sol)

Methods defined here:

CreateIOChannels(self)
__init__(self, Model, InpMarkerList, OutMarkerList, UnBalMass)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvNibble'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Methods inherited from msc.Adams.Vibration.InstrumentPacks.AvFreqRespSol.Sol:

ActName(self)
CleanUp(self)
ErrStr(self)
Initialize(self, Model, InpMarkerList, OutMarkerList)
InpChLst(self)
Model(self)
OutChLst(self)
PlotLegend(self)
Resp(self)
Response(self)
96 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Results(self)
VarName(self)
__del__(self)

Data
AcList = []
MEDissipativeEnergy = 0
MEEndMode = -99
MEHeader = 0
MEKineticEnergy = 0
MENormalizedCoordinates = 0
MEStartMode = -1
MEStrainEnergy = 0
__file__ = './AvNibble.pyc'
__name__ = 'AvNibble'

AvOutputChannel
This the entry point for the Output Cannel Property Editor

Modules
msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAPIc math re sys

libsip os string

Classes
AvOutputChannel
AvOutputChannelCompliance
AvOutputChannelPredefined
AvOutputChannelUser

class AvOutputChannel
Adams/Vibration Output Channel Base Class

Methods defined here:

Add(self, amdModel)
Name(self)
Returns the name of the output channel
__init__(self, Name, MarkerID=None)
Base class for AvOutput Channels:
@param Name: Name to assigne to output channel or none
 Testing Your Model 97
Classes

@type Name: string

@param MarkerID: ADAMS Marker ID
@type MarkerID: integer

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = 'Adams/Vibration Output Channel Base Class'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.
__module__ = 'AvOutputChannel'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

class AvOutputChannelCompliance(AvOutputChannel)
Adams/Vibration Predefined Output Channel

Methods defined here:

Add(self, amdModel)
MarkerID(self)
Returns the marker ID of the output channel's marker
WritePy(self, oFile, space)
WriteXML(self, oFile, space)
Compliance Output Channel
__init__(self, Name, MarkerID, RMarkerID=0)
Compliance AvOutput Channels:

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = 'Adams/Vibration Predefined Output Channel'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.
__module__ = 'AvOutputChannel'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.
98 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Methods inherited from AvOutputChannel:

Name(self)
Returns the name of the output channel

class AvOutputChannelPredefined(AvOutputChannel)
Adams/Vibration Predefined Output Channel

Methods defined here:

JMarkerID(self)
Returns the marker ID of the output channel's marker
MarkerID(self)
Returns the marker ID of the output channel's marker
VariableFunction(self)
Returns function string for the VARIABLE solver statement
VariableFunctionPrefix(self)
Returns the string for the solver function i.e. DX, ACCZ
WritePy(self, oFile, space)
WriteXML(self, oFile, space)
Predefined Output Channel
__init__(self, Name, MarkerID, GC, Dir, JMarkerID=0)
Predefined AvOutput Channels:
@param GC: Function <Displacement, Velocity, Acceleration, Force,
Angular Displacement, Angular Velocity, Angular Acceleration,
Torque>
@type GC: string
@param Dir: Direction <X, Y, Z, Mag>
@type Dir: string

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = 'Adams/Vibration Predefined Output Channel'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
of the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.
__module__ = 'AvOutputChannel'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
 Testing Your Model 99
Classes

If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Methods inherited from AvOutputChannel:

Add(self, amdModel)
Name(self)
Returns the name of the output channel

class AvOutputChannelUser(AvOutputChannel)
Adams/Vibration User Output Channel

Methods defined here:

VariableFunction(self)
Returns function string for the VARIABLE solver statement
WritePy(self, oFile, space)
WriteXML(self, oFile, space)
User Output Channel
__init__(self, Name, Function)

User AvOutput Channels:

@param Name: Solver function to use as output channel
@type Name: string
@param Function: function for the VARIABLE solver statement
@type Function: string

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = 'Adams/Vibration User Output Channel'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.
__module__ = 'AvOutputChannel'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Methods inherited from AvOutputChannel:

Add(self, amdModel)
Name(self)
100 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Returns the name of the output channel

Data
__author__ =
__date__ = '1 Sept. 2002'
__file__ = './AvOutputChannel.pyc'
__name__ = 'AvOutputChannel'

AvPPTCmdExporter
The entry point for the Adams/Vibration PPT interface

Modules
msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAMDc math string tempfile

msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAPIc os struct traceback

libsip re sys types

Classes
VibPPTCmdExporter

class VibPPTCmdExporter
Write .cmd file to create a vibration model in PPT

Methods defined here:

__init__(self, fullModelName, outFileName, amdModel, inputList, outputList, freqBegin,
freqEnd, freqSteps, doLogar)

Constructor:
@param fullModelName: Name to assigne to the model
@type fullModelName: string
@param outFileName: Name of file to write
@type outFileName: string
@param inputList: List of input channels in the model
@type inputList: list
@param outputList: List of output channels in the model
@type outputList: list
@param freqBegin: Starting frequency
@type freqBegin: double
 Testing Your Model 101
Classes

@param freqEnd: Ending frequency

@type freqEnd: double
@param freqSteps: Number of steps to take
@type freqSteps: integer
@param doLogar: Spacing of steps false = linear true = log
@type doLogar: bool
computeOmegas(self)
Compute the descrete frequencies to use in the analysis
fullMarkerNameFromID(self, markerID)
Given a amerker ID, build a string represening the marker's full name
writeCmdForPPT(self, model)
Write a .cmd file to construct the vibration analysis in PPT
writeInputChannelPSD(self, ic, InList)
Output PSD input channel
writeInputChannelStateVariable(self, ic)
Output StateVariable input channel
writeInputChannelUser(self, ic)
Output User input channel
writeOutputChannelPredefined(self, oc)
Output predefined output channel
writeOutputChannelUser(self, oc)
Output User output channel
writeReplaceEigenSolution(self)
writeUserActuator(self, ic)
Output an actuator as user type
writeVibrAnalysis(self)
Create the vibration analysis

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = 'Write .cmd file to create a vibration model in PPT'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.
__module__ = 'AvPPTCmdExporter'
str(object) -> string
102 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Return a nice string representation of the object.

If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Functions
psdFunc(argList, w)
User function used to test this module

Data
MEDissipativeEnergy = 0
MEEndMode = -99
MEHeader = 0
MEKineticEnergy = 0
MENormalizedCoordinates = 0
MEStartMode = -1
MEStrainEnergy = 0
__author__ =
__date__ = '29 Oct. 2002'
__file__ = './AvPPTCmdExporter.pyc'
__name__ = 'AvPPTCmdExporter'

AvResFileWrite

Modules
msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAMDc math string tempfile

msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAPIc os struct traceback

libsip re sys types

Classes
XRFWrite

class XRFWrite

Methods defined here:

AListFromMatrix(self, mat)
ActName(self)
ErrStr(self)
Model(self)
Response(self)
WriteRes(self, MdlBaseName, iDir, oDir, ResName, FreqRange, AnaList)
 Testing Your Model 103
Classes

WriteResToXRF(self, amdModel, Ana, ResVarName, ResLegend, AnaInpChLst,

AnaOutChLst, Res)
__init__(self, modl)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvResFileWrite'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Functions
CallerName(TstName)
SetName(Name)
message_handler(msg, type, data)
Message handler for vibration

Data
AcList = []
MEDissipativeEnergy = 0
MEEndMode = -99
MEHeader = 0
MEKineticEnergy = 0
MENormalizedCoordinates = 0
MEStartMode = -1
MEStrainEnergy = 0
__file__ = './AvResFileWrite.pyc'
__name__ = 'AvResFileWrite'

AvReview
This the entry point for Vibration Build

Modules
msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAMDc libsip string traceback

msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAPIc math struct types

msc.Adams.Vibration.Plotting.libVibPlotc os sys

libqtc re tempfile
104 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Classes
AvReview

class AvReview

Methods defined here:

Name(self)
Run(self)
__init__(self, test, Name=None)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvReview'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Functions
bitBlt(...)
qAlpha(...)
qAppName(...)
qBlue(...)
qDrawPlainRect(...)
qDrawShadeLine(...)
qDrawShadePanel(...)
qDrawShadeRect(...)
qDrawWinButton(...)
qDrawWinPanel(...)
qGray(...)
qGreen(...)
qRed(...)
qRgb(...)
qRgba(...)
qVersion(...)
qt_xdisplay(...)
qt_xrootwin(...)
 Testing Your Model 105
Classes

qt_xscreen(...)

Data
IO_AbortError = 6
IO_Append = 4
IO_Async = 128
IO_Combined = 768
IO_ConnectError = 5
IO_Direct = 256
IO_FatalError = 3
IO_ModeMask = 255
IO_Ok = 0
IO_Open = 4096
IO_OpenError = 5
IO_Raw = 64
IO_ReadError = 1
IO_ReadOnly = 1
IO_ReadWrite = 3
IO_ResourceError = 4
IO_Sequential = 512
IO_StateMask = 61440
IO_TimeOutError = 7
IO_Translate = 16
IO_Truncate = 8
IO_TypeMask = 3840
IO_UnspecifiedError = 8
IO_WriteError = 2
IO_WriteOnly = 2
MEDissipativeEnergy = 0
MEEndMode = -99
MEHeader = 0
MEKineticEnergy = 0
MENormalizedCoordinates = 0
MEStartMode = -1
MEStrainEnergy = 0
PYQT_BUILD = 34
PYQT_VERSION = '3.3'
QCOORD_MAX = 2147483647
QCOORD_MIN = -2147483648
QT_VERSION = 304
QT_VERSION_STR = '3.0.4'
__file__ = './AvReview.pyc'
__name__ = 'AvReview'
qApp = <qt.QApplication instance>

AvSuspension
######################################################################################

# This file contains an example model for performing multiple compliance matrix
# calculations in Adams/Vibration v.2005.
#
# This example assumes the user has existing .adm and .acf files for this model.
# After executing this analysis this file writes simulation data to a .xml file
#
106 Adams/Vibration
Classes

# To run this file issue the following command in an Unix shell.

# adams05 -c python multicompliance.py [model.adm model.acf marker_id]
#
# or in a Windows command prompt in a DOS shell
# adams05 python multicompliance.py
#
#
#
######################################################################################

Modules
msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAMDc math string tempfile

msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAPIc os struct traceback

libsip re sys types

Classes
AvSuspension

class AvSuspension
Adams/Vibration Suspension Class

Methods defined here:

AligningTorqueCamber(self)
AligningTorqueSteer(self)
CamberAngle(self, spinAxis, Z=[0, 0, 1])
CasterAngle(self, kingPinAxis, roadVertical, roadLongitudinal)
CheckAngle(self, ang)
DiveBraking(self, BrakeRatio, TireR, TireStiffness, CGH, Weight, Wheelbase)
ForeAftWheelCenterStiffness(self)
FrontViewSwingarmLengthAngle(self)
KingPinAngel(self, L, R)
LateralForceDeflectionSteerCamberCompliance(self, TireR)
LiftSquatAcceleration(self, Dependent, SprungMass, CGH, Wheelbase, TireR, TireK,
AxleRatio, DriveRatio, Track, G)
PercentAntiDiveLiftAcceleration(self, Dependent, SprungMass, CGH, Wheelbase, TireR,
TireK, AxleRatio, DriveRatio, Track, G)
PercentAntiDiveLiftBraking(self, SprungMass, CGH, Wheelbase, TireR, TireK,
BrakeRatio, G)
RideRate(self, TireK)
RideSteer(self, wcvl, wcvr)
 Testing Your Model 107
Classes

RollCamberCoefficent(self, TireK, Track)

RollCasterCoefficent(self, TireK, Track)
RollCenterLocation(self, ContactPatchL, ContactPatchR, TireK)
RollRate(self, Track)
RollSteer(self, wAxisL, wAxisR, Track, TireK)
SideViewSwingArmAngleLength(self, Front=0)
ToeAngle(self, wcl, wcr)
TotalRollRate(self, TireK, Track)
WheelCenterToPatch(self, wcl, wcr)
WheelRate(self)
__init__(self, complianceMatrix)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = 'Adams/Vibration Suspension Class'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.
__module__ = 'AvSuspension'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Functions
MultiComplianceMatrixIGround(model, acf, markerId, logFile, AxAyAz=0)
MultiComplianceMatrixIJGround(model, acf, iMarkerId, jMarkerId, logFile, AxAyAz=0)
MultiComplianceMatrixIJRef(model, acf, iMarkerId, jMarkerId, rMarkerId, logFile,
AxAyAz=0)

Data
MEDissipativeEnergy = 0
MEEndMode = -99
MEHeader = 0
MEKineticEnergy = 0
MENormalizedCoordinates = 0
MEStartMode = -1
MEStrainEnergy = 0
__file__ = './AvSuspension.pyc'
__name__ = 'AvSuspension'
108 Adams/Vibration
Classes

AvTest
This the entry point for Vibration Build

Modules
msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAMDc libsip string traceback

msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAPIc math struct types

msc.Adams.Vibration.Plotting.libVibPlotc os sys

libqtc re tempfile

Classes
AvTest
class AvTest

Methods defined here:

Build(self)
List(self)
Name(self)
PlotList(self)
Run(self)
__init__(self, build, Name=None)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvTest'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value is the same object.

Functions
bitBlt(...)
qAlpha(...)
qAppName(...)
qBlue(...)
qDrawPlainRect(...)
 Testing Your Model 109
Classes

qDrawShadeLine(...)
qDrawShadePanel(...)
qDrawShadeRect(...)
qDrawWinButton(...)
qDrawWinPanel(...)
qGray(...)
qGreen(...)
qRed(...)
qRgb(...)
qRgba(...)
qVersion(...)
qt_xdisplay(...)
qt_xrootwin(...)
qt_xscreen(...)

Data
IO_AbortError = 6
IO_Append = 4
IO_Async = 128
IO_Combined = 768
IO_ConnectError = 5
IO_Direct = 256
IO_FatalError = 3
IO_ModeMask = 255
IO_Ok = 0
IO_Open = 4096
IO_OpenError = 5
IO_Raw = 64
IO_ReadError = 1
IO_ReadOnly = 1
IO_ReadWrite = 3
IO_ResourceError = 4
IO_Sequential = 512
IO_StateMask = 61440
IO_TimeOutError = 7
IO_Translate = 16
IO_Truncate = 8
IO_TypeMask = 3840
IO_UnspecifiedError = 8
IO_WriteError = 2
IO_WriteOnly = 2
MEDissipativeEnergy = 0
MEEndMode = -99
MEHeader = 0
MEKineticEnergy = 0
MENormalizedCoordinates = 0
110 Adams/Vibration
Classes

MEStartMode = -1
MEStrainEnergy = 0
PYQT_BUILD = 34
PYQT_VERSION = '3.3'
QCOORD_MAX = 2147483647
QCOORD_MIN = -2147483648
QT_VERSION = 304
QT_VERSION_STR = '3.0.4'
__file__ = './AvTest.pyc'
__name__ = 'AvTest'
qApp = <qt.QApplication instance>

VibBodePlot : VibPlot2D Class

Constructors:
VibBodePlot(Title, FR, Frequency, Inputs, Outputs)
Constructor
Returns: object
Parameters:
string Title: plot title
AvAPI_Matrix FR: frequency response or transfer function matrix
AvAPI_Matrix Frequency: frequency vector used to calculate response
list of strings: list of input channel names
list of strings: list of output channel names

VibPlot : QWidget Class

From msc.Adams.Vibration.Plotting.VibPlot import *

Methods defined here:

void SetTitle(Title)
Set the main title for the plot
Returns: None
Parameters:
string Title: Title for plot
 Testing Your Model 111
Classes

void SetTitleFont(Font)
Set the font used for the title
Returns: None
Parameters:
QFont Font: font to use

void SetTitleColor(Color)
Set the color used for the title
Returns: None
Parameters:
QColor Color: color to use

void SetCurrentColor(Color)
Set the default color used for plot objects
Returns: None
Parameters:
QColor Color: default color to use

VibPlot2D : VibPlot Class

Data Members:
enum eAxis
{
LEFT,
RIGHT,
BOTTOM
};
enum eScale
{
112 Adams/Vibration
Classes

LINEAR,
LOGARITHMIC,
DB
};
enum eSymbol
{
NONE,
CIRCLE,
SQUARE,
DIAMOND,
TRIANGLE,
UTRIANGLE,
LTRIANGLE,
RTRIANGLE,
CROSS,
XCROSS,
HLINE,
VLINE
};

Methods defined here:

void SetAutoLegend(OnOff)
Set the state of automatic legend
Returns: None
Parameters:
bool OnOff: state of automatic legend

void SetGridMajorXPen(Pen)
Set the color and style used for the Major grid lines
 Testing Your Model 113
Classes

Returns: None
Parameters:
QPen Pen: pen used to draw major X grid lines

void SetGridMinorXPen(Pen)
Set the color and style used for the Minor grid lines
Returns: None
Parameters:
QPen Pen: pen used to draw minor X grid lines

void SetGridMajorYPen(Pen)
Set the color and style used for the Major grid lines
Returns: None
Parameters:
QPen Pen: pen used to draw major Y grid lines

void SetGridMinorYPen(Pen)
Set the color and style used for the Minor grid lines
Returns: None
Parameters:
QPen Pen: pen used to draw minor Y grid lines

void SetAxisTitle(Axis, Title)

Set the title for the given axis
Returns: None
Parameters:
VibPlot2D::eAxis Axis: axis to set title for (LEFT, RIGHT, BOTTOM)
string Title: title text for the axis
114 Adams/Vibration
Classes

void SetAxisTitleAngle(Axis, Angle)

Set the angle for the axis title
Returns: None
Parameters:
VibPlot2D::eAxis Axis: axis to set (LEFT, RIGHT, BOTTOM)
float Angle: angle in degrees for the text

void SetAxisTitleFont(Axis, Font)

Set the font for the axis title
Returns: None
Parameters:
VibPlot2D::eAxis Axis: axis to set (LEFT, RIGHT, BOTTOM)
QFont Font: font to use

void SetAxisTitleColor(Axis, Color)

Set the color for the axis title
Returns: None
Parameters:
VibPlot2D::eAxis Axis: axis to set (LEFT, RIGHT, BOTTOM)
QColor Color: color to use

void SetAxisScale(Axis, Scale)

Set the scale for the axis
Returns: None
Parameters:
VibPlot2D::eAxis Axis: axis to set (LEFT, RIGHT, BOTTOM)
VibPlot2D::eScale Scale: scale to use (LINEAR, LOGARITHMIC, dB)

void SetAxisPen(Axis, Pen)

 Testing Your Model 115
Classes

Set the pen for the axis

Returns: None
Parameters:
VibPlot2D::eAxis Axis: axis to set (LEFT, RIGHT, BOTTOM)
QPen Pen: pen used to draw axis

void SetLegendColor(Color)
Set the color used for legend
Returns: None
Parameters:
QColor Color: color to use

void SetLegendFont(Font)
Set the font used for the legend
Returns: None
Parameters:
QFont Font: font to use

uint InsertCurve(Name, X, Y)
Add a curve to the plot
Returns:
unsigned int: curve id
Parameters:
string Name: curve name (legend text)
AvAPI_Matrix X: x data for the curve
AvAPI_Matrix Y: y data for the curve

void RemoveCurve(cID)
Delete a curve from the plot
116 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Returns: None
Parameters:
unsigned int cid: curve id

void SetCurvePen(cid, Pen)

Set the color and style used for the curve
Returns: None
Parameters:
unsigned int cid: curve id
QPen Pen: pen used to draw the curve

void SetCurveAxis(cid, Axis)

Set the axis for for the curve
Returns: None
Parameters:
unsigned int cid: curve id
VibPlot2D::eAxis Axis: axis to plot curve (LEFT, RIGHT)

void SetCurveSymbol(cid, Symbol)

Set the symbol for for the curve
Returns: None
Parameters:
unsigned int cid: curve id
VibPlot2D::eSymbol Symbol: symbol to use for curve (NONE, CIRCLE, SQUARE, DIAMOND,
TRIANGLE, UTRIANGLE, LTRIANGLE, RTRIANGLE, CROSS, XCROSS, HLINE, VLINE)

void SetCurveSymbolSize(cid, Size)

Set the symbol size for for the curve
Returns: None
 Testing Your Model 117
Classes

Parameters:
unsigned int cid: curve id
int Size: size in pixels for the symbol

void SetCurveSymbolPen(cid, Pen)

Set the color and style used for the symbol
Returns: None
Parameters:
unsigned int cid: curve id
QPen Pen: pen used to draw the symbol

void SetCurveSymbolFrequency(cid, Skip)

Set the frequency of symbols
Returns: None
Parameters:
unsigned int cid: curve id
int Skip: number of data points between symbols

void clear()
Clear the plot
Returns: None
Parameters: None

Constructors:
VibPlot2D()
Constructor
Returns: object
Parameters: None
118 Adams/Vibration
Classes

VibPlot3D : VibPlot Class

Data Members:
enum eDRAWMODE
{
FLOWLINES,
WIREFRAME,
SHADE,
BOTH
};

Methods defined here:

void SetShadeMode(Sid, DRAWMODE)
Set surface shading mode
Returns: None
Parameters:
unsigned int Sid: surface id
VibPlot3D::eDRAWMODE DRAWMODE: surface shading mode (FLOWLINES,
WIREFRAME, SHADE, BOTH)

void SetFlow(Sid, nS, nT)

Set number of flow lines to draw
Returns: None
Parameters:
unsigned int Sid: surface id
unsigned int Ns: number of lines to draw
unsigned int NT: number of lines to draw

void SetPoints(Sid, Ns, NT)

Set number of points for the flow lines
 Testing Your Model 119
Classes

Returns: None
Parameters:
unsigned int Sid: surface id
unsigned int Ns: number of points to use
unsigned int NT: number of points to use

void SetAxis(OnOff)
Set the state of axis
Returns: None
Parameters:
bool OnOff: state of axis

void SetTriad(OnOff)
Set the state of triad
Returns: None
Parameters:
bool OnOff: state of triad

void SetTextureMap(Sid, fName)

Set the texture map of the given surface
Returns: None
Parameters:
unsigned int Sid: surface id
string fName: file name of the texture map

void SetColor(Sid, Color)

Set the color of the given surface
Returns: None
120 Adams/Vibration
Classes

Parameters:
unsigned int Sid: surface id
QColor Color: color to use

uint AddSurfaceData(Mat2D, orderS, orderT)

Add a surface to the plot by fitting the given data
Returns:
unsigned int sID: surface id
Parameters:
AvAPI_Matrix Mat2D: data points to fit
int orders: order to use in the S direction
int orderT: order to use in the T direction

uint AddSurface(Mat3D, orders, orderT, sKnot, tKnot)

Add a surface to the plot
Returns:
unsigned int Sid: surface id
Parameters:
AvAPI_Matrix Mat3D: control points
int orders: order to use in the S direction
int orderT: order to use in the T direction
AvAPI_Matrix sKnot: knot vector
AvAPI_Matrix tKnot: knot vector

uint AddSpline(Mat2D, order, Knot)

Add a surface to the plot
Returns:
unsigned int cID: spline id
 Testing Your Model 121
Classes

Parameters:
AvAPI_Matrix Mat2D: control points (x, y, z)
int order: order to use
AvAPI_Matrix Knot: knot vector

uint AddSplineData(Mat2D, order)

Add a spline to the plot by fitting the given data
Returns:
unsigned int cid: spline id
Parameters:
AvAPI_Matrix Mat2D: data points to fit
int order: order to use

void Remove(cid)
Delete a spline or surface from the plot
Returns: None
Parameters:
unsigned int cid: spline or surface id

Constructors:
VibPlot3D()
Constructor
Returns: object
Parameters: None
122 Adams/Vibration
Utility Functions

Utility Functions
AvUtils
The entry point for the Adams/Vibration Input Channel

Modules
msc.Adams.Vibration.libAvAPIc math string sys
libsip os struct traceback

Classes
AvModalEnergy

class AvModalEnergy

Methods defined here:

DissipativeEnergy(self, on)
Header(self, on)
KineticEnergy(self, on)
ModeRange(self, start, end)
NormalizedCoordinates(self, on)
Off(self)
Set(self)
StrainEnergy(self, on)

Data and non-method functions defined here:

__doc__ = None
__module__ = 'AvUtils'
str(object) -> string
Return a nice string representation of the object.
If the argument is a string, the return value
is the same object.

Functions
AvDacFileToMatrix(filename, nPts)
AvDatFileToMatrix(filename, nPts)
AvFFTDataActuator(argList, w)
AvMakeFrequency(start, end, steps, spaceLog)
 Testing Your Model 123
Utility Functions

Compute the descrete frequencies to use in the analysis

start - start frequency HZ
end - end frequency HZ
steps - number of steps to take from start to end
spaceLog - if true frequencies are log spaced other wise linear spacing
Note: List returned is steps+1 long in radians/sec
AvMessageHandler(msg, type, args)
Default Message handler for vibration
AvPSDDataActuator(argList, w)
AvReadDataFile(dataFile, n=-1)
AvReadDataFileFD(filename, nPts=-1)
AvRpcFileToMatrix(filename, nPts)
Description: Implementation of rpc3file_input class member functions
for reading in data from an RPC III time history file.
Reference: MTS RPC III file format document

RPC_III saves the time history data in the following way:

ch1 --> group1 ->{frame1, frame2, ...}
ch2 --> group1 ->{frame1, frame2, ...}
...
chn --> group1 ->{frame1, frame2, ...}
ch1 --> group2 ->{frame1, frame2, ...}
ch2 --> group2 ->{frame1, frame2, ...}
...
chn --> group2 ->{frame1, frame2, ...}
...

Number of frames in group = PTS_PER_GROUP/PTS_PER_FRAME

Total number of groups = (FRAMES+1)/Number of frames in group

Note: The last group may not be full. Full frames are only
required, not full groups. So the last group may
contain fewer than Number of frames in group.
Clarification - the group will be full but may not
contain all frames of acquired data
124 Adams/Vibration
Utility Functions

AvSolverSetup()
Mag(cVal)
Complex Mag and Phase
Phase(cVal)
byteSwap(CC)
formatExceptionInfo(logFile, maxTBlevel=10)
writeMatrix(matFile, Mat, title=None)
write a matrix to a file
@param matFile: File to write to
@type matFile: file object
@param Mat: Matrix to write
@type Mat: AvAPI_Matrix
@param title: String to preceed the matrix in the file
@type title: string
writeMatrix2(matFile, Mat, title=None)
write a matrix to a file
@param matFile: File to write to
@type matFile: file object
@param Mat: Matrix to write
@type Mat: AvAPI_Matrix
@param title: String to preceed the matrix in the file
@type title: string
writeMatrixXML(matFile, Mat, title='Matrix', space=2)
write a matrix to a XML file
@param matFile: File to write to
@type matFile: file object
@param Mat: Matrix to write
@type Mat: AvAPI_Matrix
@param title: Name of matrix [default: Matrix]
@type title: string
@param space: Starting indentation for matrix [default: 2]
@type space: integer
@Note: Assumes the matrix is complex
writeXMLFooter(matFile)
 Testing Your Model 125
Utility Functions

write vibration footer for xml

writeXMLHeader(matFile)
write vibration header for xml

Data
MEDissipativeEnergy = 0
MEEndMode = -99
MEHeader = 0
MEKineticEnergy = 0
MENormalizedCoordinates = 0
MEStartMode = -1
MEStrainEnergy = 0
__author__ =
__date__ = '1 Dec. 2002'
__file__ = './AvUtils.pyc'
__name__ = 'AvUtils'
126 Adams/Vibration
Utility Functions
Reviewing Your Model
Importing Vibration Results
You can import a previously generated results file and attach it to a vibration analysis. This enables you
to plot vibration data generated from the eigen and state matrices in the results file. The imported results
file and the vibration analysis must be from the same model.

To import vibration results:

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Review, and then select Import Vibration Results.
2. Complete the dialog box as described in Importing Vibration Results.
3. Select OK.

Displaying Eigenvalues
The Eigenvalue table displays the eigenvalue of a given analysis.

To display eigenvalues:
1. From the Vibration menu, point to Review, and then select Display Eigenvalue Table.
2. Complete the dialog box as described in Eigen Information.
3. Select OK.

Displaying Modal Information

In the Modal Information Table dialog box, you can view the Modal Coordinates, Modal Participation,
or Modal Energy table. The Modal Coordinates and Modal Participation tables are always available when
a forced vibration analysis is performed. The Modal Energy table is available when modal energy
computation is turned on before performing a forced vibration or normal mode analysis.

To display modal information:

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Review, and then select Display Modal Info Table.
2. Complete the dialog box as described in Modal Information.

Note: You can display the same modal information from Adams/PostProcessor by selecting the
Modal Info button in the dashboard.
128 Adams/Vibration

Animating Your Results

Animating Forced Vibration Analyses
For general information on animating, see the Adams/PostProcessor online help.

To animate a forced vibration analysis:

1. Display the Adams/PostProcessor in Animation mode.
2. Right-click the animation window, and then select Load Vibration Animation.
3. From the Database Navigator, select the vibration analysis you want to plot.
4. Select Forced Vibration Animation.
5. Specify values as described in Animation Dashboard - Vibration Animation.
6. Select the Play tool.

Animating Normal Modes Analyses

You can animate the model to inspect and relate mode shapes with mode numbers. Remember, doing a
normal modes animation outside of Adams/Vibration is called a frequency-domain animation. So, if
you’re referring to the online help for Adams/PostProcessor for more information on normal modes
animation, read the sections on frequency-domain animations.

To animate a normal modes analysis:

1. Display Adams/PostProcessor in Animation mode.
2. Right-click the animation window, and then select Load Vibration Animation.
3. From the Database Navigator, select the vibration analysis you want to display.
4. Select Normal Mode Animation.
5. Specify values as described in Animation Dashboard - Vibration Animation.
6. Select the Play tool .

Plotting Your Results

Plotting Adams/Vibration Output in Adams/PostProcessor
To perform a complete vibration analysis, you first pre-process your model using Adams/View and
Adams/Car. Then, you use Adams/Vibration to set up and perform vibration analysis. Finally, you post-
process the results using Adams/PostProcessor. Post-processing involves animating forced vibrations
 Reviewing Your Model 129

and plotting frequency response functions, generating modal coordinates tables, and displaying other
time and frequency data (see table below).

Note: Doing a normal modes animation outside of Adams/Vibration is called a frequency-domain

animation. So, if you’re referring to the Adams/PostProcessor online help for more
information on animation, read the sections on frequency-domain animations

You can validate Adams/Vibration results using Adams/PostProcessor. Using Adams/PostProcessor you
can plot several key pieces of data, including:
• Frequency Response
• Modal Coordinates
• Modal Participation
• Power Spectral Density (PSD)
• System Modes
• Transfer Function
• 3D

The following table outlines how you can view Adams/Vibration results:

Vibration Results: View as:

System Modes Complex Scatter
Normal Modes
Animation Forced
Vibration Animation
PSD Plots
Frequency Response Plots
Modal Coordinates Plots and Tables
Modal Participation Factors Plots and Tables
Transfer Function Plots
Modal Energy Distribution Tables
Vibration Animation Normal Modes
Animation Forced
Vibration Animation

For general information plotting, refer to the online help for Adams/PostProcessor.
130 Adams/Vibration

Plotting in Three Dimensions

You can generate three-dimensional plots of frequency response functions (FRF) in the Adams/Vibration
postprocessing environment. This feature enables you to show multiple FRFs from a Design study in
frequency domain within the same three-dimensional plot, and better visualize the effect of a design
change on the frequency response function. The three-dimensional plots feature allows additional
complex representations of results. For example, plot FFTs of a time domain signal obtained with
different windowing parameters and display them in a waterfall format.

To plot frequency response in three dimensions:

1. In Adams/PostProcessor, set the pulldown menu located in the menu bar below the File menu to
Plot3D.
2. In the Vibration Analysis text box, select all analyses you wish to include in your plot.
3. Select your input channels.
4. Select your output channels.
5. Select Add Surface to create the three-dimensional plot.
For more information on setting the display of three-dimensional plots, see Controlling the Display of
Three-Dimensional Plots.

Plotting Frequency Response

You can plot the frequency response, change the scale for plotting, and split the Adams/PostProcessor
plotting window to compare plots of frequency response functions to see the phase shift.

To plot the frequency response:

1. Display Adams/PostProcessor in Plotting mode.
2. Set Source to Frequency Response.
3. From the Vibration Analysis list, select the vibration analysis you want to plot.
4. From the Input Channels list, select the input channels you want to reference.
5. From the Output Channels list, select the output channels you want to reference.
6. Select one of the following:
• Use Individually: Computes and displays a curve for each selected input channel/output
channel pair.
• Sum All Input Channels: Computes and displays a curve for each output channel selected.
The curve is the sum of the response for all the input channels.
• Sum Selected Input Channels: Works like Sum All Input Channels, but only uses the
selected inputs.
7. Select Add Curves.
Adams/PostProcessor plots the frequency response in the default scale (dB).
8. To plot the phase angle of the response, select Phase.
 Reviewing Your Model 131

Learn more about Frequency Response.

To change the scale for plotting the frequency response:

1. Right-click the horizontal axis of the plot, point to Axis: haxis, and then select Select. (This
selects the horizontal axis.)
2. Set the Scale to Logar, dB, or Linear.

Note: If you change the axis limits, the upper and lower limits will have different meanings. For
example, in the logarithmic scale, the limit values are the exponent. So, if the values are 2
and 3, the limits are 102 and 103 or 100 and 1000, respectively. In a linear scale, values of
2 and 3 actually mean limits of 2.0 and 3.0, respectively.

3. Right-click the vertical axis of the plot, point to Axis: vaxis, and then select Select.
4. Set the Scale to either Logar, dB, or Linear.

To split the Adams/PostProcessor plotting screen:

• Right-click the Page Layout tool , and select the 2 Views-over & under tool .
The plotting area of the screen splits into two plots, one containing the frequency response plot,
and the other containing a blank plot. You can then create a new plot in the blank region.

Plotting Modal Coordinates

To plot modal coordinates:

1. Display Adams/PostProcessor in Plotting mode.
2. Set Source to Modal Coordinates.
3. From the Vibration Analysis list, select the vibration analysis you want to plot.
4. From the Input Channels list, select the input channels you want to reference.
5. Set Modal Coordinates By to one of the following:
• Mode - How the modal coordinate value changes with frequency.
• Frequency - What modal coordinates are active at a frequency.
6. Complete one of the following:
• If you selected Mode, select the mode whose coordinate value you want to plot.
• If you selected Frequency, select the frequencies at which coordinates are to be plotted.
7. Select Add Curves.
Learn more about Modal Coordinates.
132 Adams/Vibration

Plotting Modal Participation

Modal Participation is the absolute contribution of model modes to the transfer function for the model.

To plot modal participation:

1. Display Adams/PostProcessor in Plotting mode.
2. Set Source to Modal Participation.
3. From the Vibration Analysis list, select the vibration analysis you want to plot.
4. From the Input Channels list, select the input channels you want to reference.
5. Select the mode whose participation value you want to plot.
6. Select Add Curves.

Plotting Power Spectral Density (PSD)

To plot PSD:
1. Display Adams/PostProcessor in Plotting mode.
2. Set Source to PSD.
3. From the Vibration Analysis list, select the vibration analysis you want to plot.
4. From the Output Channels list, select the output channels you want to reference.
5. Select Add Curves.
Learn more about Power Spectral Density (PSD).

Plotting System Modes

To plot system modes:

1. Display Adams/PostProcessor in Plotting mode.
2. Set Source to System Modes.
3. From the Simulation list, select the simulation you want to plot.
4. From the Eigen list, select the Eigen you are interested in examining.
5. Select Add Scatters.

To display a table of eigenvalues next to your scatter plot:

1. Split the plotting area by selecting the Page Layout: 2 Views, side by side tool .
2. Right-click the left view, and then select Load Vibration Animation.
3. Select Table of Eigenvalues.
4. Select Save to File and save as eigen.txt.
5. Right-click the right view, and then select Load Report.
6. Select eigen.txt.
 Reviewing Your Model 133

Plotting Transfer Function

You can plot the transfer function, change the scale for plotting, and split the Adams/PostProcessor
plotting window to compare plots of frequency response functions to see the phase shift.

To plot the transfer function:

1. Display Adams/PostProcessor in Plotting mode.
2. Set Source to Transfer Function.
3. From the Vibration Analysis list, select the vibration analysis you want to plot.
4. From the Input Channels list, select the input channels you want to reference.
5. From the Output Channels list, select the output channels you want to reference.
6. Select Add Curves.
Adams/PostProcessor plots the transfer function in the default scale (dB).
7. To plot the phase angle of the response, select Phase.

To change the scale for plotting the transfer function:

1. Right-click the horizontal axis of the plot, point to Axis: haxis, and then select Select. (This
selects the horizontal axis.)
2. Set the Scale to Logar, dB, or Linear.

Note: If you change the axis limits, the upper and lower limits will have different meanings. For
example, in the logarithmic scale, the limit values are the exponent. So, if the values are 2
and 3, the limits are 102 and 103 or 100 and 1000, respectively. In a linear scale, values of
2 and 3 actually mean limits of 2.0 and 3.0, respectively

3. Right-click the vertical axis of the plot, point to Axis: vaxis, and then select Select.
4. Set the Scale to either Logar, dB, or Linear.

To split the Adams/PostProcessor plotting screen:

• Right-click the Page Layout tool , and select the 2 Views-over & under tool .
The plotting area of the screen splits into two plots, one containing the transfer function plot, and the
other containing a blank plot. You can then create a new plot in the blank region.

Nastran Modal Export

You can export modal coordinates of flexible body in MDF file format to recover stress and strain
information in MSC Nastran. You need restart run in Nastran to recover stress and strain information.
In brief, first create flexible body using Nastran, then do vibration analysis in Adams on model that use
134 Adams/Vibration

this flexible body, export modal coordinates for this flexible body in MDF file format, re-start Nastran
run to recover element stress and strain information.

To export modal coordinates:

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Review, and then select Nastran Modal Export.
2. Complete the dialog box as described in NASTRAN Modal Export.
3. Select OK.
Improving Your Model
Design Constraints
To learn more about design constraints in general, see the Adams/View online help.

To create a vibration design constraint:

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Improve, point to Vibration Design Constraint, and then
select Create.
The Create Design Constraint dialog box opens with the Definition text box set to /View
Variable and Vibration Macro. Then, the Create Vibration Design Constraint Macro dialog box
opens automatically.
2. Follow the instructions in the dialog box help for Create Vibration Design Constraint Macro.
3. Select OK in the Create Vibration Design Constraint dialog box.
4. Select OK in the Create Design Constraint dialog box.

To delete a vibration design constraint:

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Improve, point to Vibration Design Constraint, and then
select Delete.
2. From the Database Navigator, select the design constraint macro you want to delete.
Adams/Vibration deletes the macro.

To evaluate a vibration design constraint:

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Improve, point to Vibration Design Constraint, and then
select Evaluate.
2. From the Database Navigator, select the design objective macro you want to evaluate.
3. In the Optimize Constraint Evaluate dialog box, enter the name of the macro and the analysis with
which it is associated.
4. Select OK.
An information window appears with the details of the macro.

To modify a vibration design constraint:

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Improve, point to Vibration Design Constraint, and then
select Modify.
2. From the Database Navigator, select the design constraint you want to modify.
3. Enter your changes.
4. Select OK.
138 Adams/Vibration

Design Evaluation Tools

You can start a parametric analysis to help you investigate the influence of design variables on model
performance. During a parametric analysis, Adams/View runs a series of simulations with different
values for the design variables and gives you feedback on the effects of the changes. To learn more about
parametric analyses, see the Adams/View online help.

To start a design evaluation:

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Improve, and then select Design Evaluation.
2. Complete the dialog box as described in Design Evaluation Tools.
3. Select OK.

Design Objective Macros

You can create a macro to retrieve vibration-specific data and use it when performing a Design study. To
learn more about design objectives in general, see the Adams/View online help.

To create a vibration design objective macro:

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Improve, point to Vibration Design Objective, and then
select Create.
The Create Design Objective dialog box opens with the Definition text box set to /View Variable
and Vibration Macro. Then, the Create Vibration Design Objective Macro dialog box opens
automatically.
2. Follow the instructions in the dialog box help for Create Vibration Design Objective Macro.
3. Select OK in the Create Vibration Design Objective dialog box.
4. Select OK in the Create Design Objective dialog box.

To delete a vibration design objective macro:

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Improve, point to Vibration Design Objective, and then
select Delete.
2. From the Database Navigator, select the design objective macro you want to delete.
Adams/Vibration deletes the macro.

To evaluate a vibration design objective macro:

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Improve, point to Vibration Design Objective, and then
select Evaluate.
2. From the Database Navigator, select the design objective macro you want to evaluate.
3. In the Optimize Object Evaluate dialog box, enter the name of the macro and the analysis with
which it is associated.
4. Select OK.
 Improving Your Model 139

An information window appears with the details of the macro.

To modify a vibration design objective macro:

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Improve, point to Vibration Design Objective, and then
select Modify.
2. From the Database Navigator, select the design objective macro you want to modify.
3. Enter your changes.
4. Select OK.
140 Adams/Vibration
 Adams/Vibration Theory 141

Adams/Vibration Theory
142 Adams/Vibration
Introduction to Adams/Vibration

Introduction to Adams/Vibration
Using Adams/Vibration, you can compute system response in the frequency domain. You can perform
two types of analyses:
1. Normal-modes analysis
2. Forced response analysis
A normal modes analysis computes eigen-values and eigenvectors of your model at an operating point
you specify. This analysis is effective in understanding natural modes of vibration for the model and to
determine the basic dynamic characteristics of your model. Although the result of an eigenvalue analysis
is independent of specific excitation, they are useful in predicting the effects of applying dynamic loads
on your model.
Normal modes analysis is relevant in many scenarios. In one scenario you may need to assess dynamic
interaction between parts in an Adams model. For example, if you are designing a washing machine, it
is necessary to determine if the operating rotational frequency of the tub is close to one or more natural
frequencies of the supporting structure and electronic components. If they are then ordinary operation of
the washing machine may lead to damage of the supporting structure and/or premature failure of
electrical and electronic components in the machine.
If you are setting up a physical test, a normal-modes analysis is useful in determining the best location
on your systems to attach strain gauges and/or accelerometers. After the test, test results can be correlated
with the results of the normal-modes analysis.
Frequency-response analysis is an efficient method for finding the steady-state model response to
sinusoidal excitation. In this analysis the loading is in the form of a sine wave for which you specify the
frequency, amplitude, and phase. Adams/Vibration performs frequency response analysis using
linearized Adams models. Several different types of inputs can be applied to the model and force and
kinematic output measured.
This document describes the theory and modeling constructs used in Adams/Vibration. It is to be used as
a companion to the on-line product documentation. It is assumed that you are familiar with using the
product in its interactive or batch environments. If not, consult the on-line product documentation for
Adams/Vibration before reading this document.
The next section presents linearization theory for Adams model. This is followed by definition of
vibration modeling entities available in Adams/Vibration. Solutions types available in Adams/Vibration
are described in Section 4. The last section, Section 5, gives a list of references you may want to consult
for more details on the respective topics.
 Adams/Vibration Theory 143
Linearization in Adams/Vibration

Linearization in Adams/Vibration
Nonlinear Adams models are represented by implicit equations of the form:

G  z· z t  = 0 (6-1)
where:

• z = vector of states of the model.

• G = system of first-order differential and algebraic equations.

States of the model include:

• Displacement and velocity states from mass-bearing elements PART, POINT_MASS, and
FLEX_BODY
• First-order states introduced by the DIFF, LSE, GSE, and TFSISO modeling elements
• Forces variables due to force elements

Lagrange multipliers due to kinematic constraints (JOINT, JPRIM, MOTION, PTCV and CVCV) also
contribute to the vector of states.
This system of equations is linearized about an operating point z0. An operating point is defined by an
initial-conditions analysis or static or dynamic analysis [Sohoni, 1986; Negrut and Ortiz, 2005]. Using
a process of eliminating algebraic equations from the linearized representation of , ordinary differential
equations along with algebraic output equations of the following state-space form are obtained:

x· = Ax + Bu
(6-2)
y = Cx + Du
where:

• x = Vector of states of the linear model

• y = Outputs from the linear model
• u = Inputs to the linear model
• [A,B,C,D] = State matrices for the linear model

Specific details of the linearization process implemented in Adams/Solver (FORTRAN) are given by
Sohoni [1986]. Negrut and Ortiz [2005] have given details of linearization process implemented in
Adams/Solver (C++).
States of the linear model, x in (6-2)are a subset of states of the nonlinear model, represented by z in (6-1).
When performing normal-modes analysis, specification of inputs and outputs is not required. Therefore,
the problem is reduced to finding a solution to the homogeneous equation:

x· = Ax (6-3)
Representing the solution to (6-3) as:
144 Adams/Vibration
Linearization in Adams/Vibration

i
i t
xt =  e
where:

• = ith eigenvector

• = ith eigenvalue
Substituting in (6-3) gives:

i i i
A =   (6-4)
Equation (6-4) is the classic eigenvalue problem. This problem is solved in Adams/Vibration using the
well-known QR method [Press et. al., 1994] for computing eigen-values and eigen-vectors.
Note that Adams/Vibration always computes and  as complex quantities. The complete eigen-solution
to (6-3) can be expressed in the form [Ewins, 1995],

Λ 0 
 *
0 Λ 
Φ Φ* 
Q * *
ΦΛ Φ Λ  (6-5)
where:

• System mode shape matrix .

• the ith diagonal element of diagonal system eigenvalue matrix is

i 2
    –  + i 1 –     =  r + i i
i i i i i

i i 2 i 2
•  =   r  +   i  , the ith natural frequency.
i i i
•  = –r  
• * indicates the complex conjugate

Differences between proportional and general viscous damping – Adams/Vibration implements

general viscous damping. In these cases, damping matrix is no longer guaranty to be proportional to mass
 Adams/Vibration Theory 145
Linearization in Adams/Vibration

and/or stiffness matrices. Following ways are generally referred in modal space to identify a presence of
non-proportional damping in the Adams/Vibration model:

• The real-valued modal matrix of the un-damped model no-more diagonals the damping
matrix.

• For fixed k, the phase is no-more constant for all i=l,...,n.

• The real and imaginary parts of the kth eigenvector are now linearly independent.

• The modal matrix cannot be normalized to become real-valued.

Forced-Response Analysis
Inputs and outputs to the linear model are defined by means of input and output channels in
Adams/Vibration. Input channels contribute to the B matrix. Output channels contribute to the C matrix.
The D matrix represents direct interaction between input and output channels. For more details, see
Modeling of Vibration Entities.

Using Laplace transform, (6-2) can be expressed in the form [De Silva, 2000]:

(6-6)

where:

• s = Laplace variable

From (6-6), transfer function in the state-space form is given as:

(6-7)

Transformation to Modal Space

Using the model eigenvectors as a basis for the solution,(6-6) is transformed to modal space using the
modal transformation:

(6-8)
146 Adams/Vibration
Linearization in Adams/Vibration

where:

• Ζ = Matrix of eigenvectors

qs
• = Array of modal coordinates

The ith column of  corresponds to eigenvector

ζi
of the model.
Substituting from (6-8) in (6-6) gives:

(6-9)

Simplifying (6-9) gives:

(6-10)

where:

–1
• A m = Z AZ
–1
• Bm = Z B

• C m = CZ
Therefore, the transfer function for the model in modal space is given as:

(6-11)
When you ask for the transfer function of a model to be computed, you specify the range of values for s
and the number of steps. At each step in the range of s, transfer function H(s) is computed from
expression in the right-hand side of (6-11).
Transfer function can be computed in two forms, that is, using (6-7) or (6-11). Solution of the transfer
function in the form of (6-7) is called the direct solution, while solution in the form (6-11) is called the
modal solution.
Adams/Vibration uses the following steps to compute the transfer function for the model:
 Adams/Vibration Theory 147
Linearization in Adams/Vibration

1. From the given input/output channel specification,

2. Compute state matrices in the state space forms as in (6-2).
3. Compute eigen-solution for the model using (6-4).
4. Transform to modal space using (6-10).
5. Compute transfer function from (6-11).
Due to degeneracy in the eigen-solution, for some models, Z may not be invertible. In such cases, the
transfer function is computed using the direct solution of (6-7). The modal solution for transfer function
computation is much faster than the direct solution. If the transfer function is computed using the direct
method, it will not be possible to plot model coordinates and participations or perform vibration
animation for the model. However, normal mode shapes can still be animated.
148 Adams/Vibration
Modeling of Vibration Entities

Modeling of Vibration Entities

This section presents the formulation for modeling the following vibration entities:
• Vibration Input Channels
• Vibration Actuators
• Vibration Output Channels
• Frequency-dependent (FD) Modeling Elements

Vibration Input Channels

A vibration input channel defines the location, orientation, and type of forcing function to be applied.
There are three types of input channels you can specify in Adams/Vibration:
1. Force-type input channel applies a force at the specified marker. The expression for the force is
as specified by the vibration actuator.
2. User-specified state variable applies the vibration actuator to a state variable that you may have
created in your model. This input channel is useful in applying vibratory input to models that are
represented by general dynamical elements, such as GSE/LSE/TFSISO.
3. Kinematic input channel applies displacement, velocity, or acceleration input. This form of the
input channel imposes a kinematic constraint in the frequency domain at the specified marker.
This constraint will result in removal of one degree of freedom at the maker at which it is applied.

Note: Due to this constraint, the frequency response peaks may be shifted from the frequencies
of the normal modes of the model.

Vibration Actuators
A vibration actuator defines the magnitude and phase of the applied forcing function. Vibration actuators
are required for modeling forcing function in forced response analysis. Phase angle, as defined in a
vibration actuator, is with respect to the positive direction of the marker in the vibration input channel on
which this actuator is defined.
Vibration actuators are applied at the input channel after the model is linearized. Therefore, vibration
actuators are only in effect for frequency domain analysis and have no effect on the operation point
analysis for the model.

Swept Sine Actuator

Force applied in a swept-sine actuator is defined as:
 Adams/Vibration Theory 149
Modeling of Vibration Entities

where:

• f= force magnitude
• =phase angle

The phase angle is measured with respect to positive direction of the marker axis for the input channel
on which this actuator is acting.

Rotating Mass Actuator

Force Type
The force rotating mass actuator is represented by two actuators. The Leading and Lagging actuators are
represented as:

Figure 1 Rotating Mass Actuator

where:

le (s ) = Force applied in leading actuator

•

la (s ) = Force applied in lagging actuator

•
• m = Unbalanced mass
150 Adams/Vibration
Modeling of Vibration Entities

• r = Radial offset
•  = Frequency of excitation

When you want to incorporate vibratory effects due to an unbalanced mass in your vibration analysis,
you must create two vibration actuators acting on the same input channel. The first actuator must be
defined as a Leading actuator and the second as the Lagging actuator.

Moment Type
The moment type of rotating mass actuator is applicable for simulating moments due to radial, as well as
axially offset unbalanced masses. The leading and lagging actuators are represented as:

Figure 2 Rotating Mass Actuator - Moment Type

where:

• Mle = Moment applied in the leading actuator

• Mla = Moment applied in the lagging actuator
• d = Axial offset between unbalanced masses

As with the force type rotating mass actuator, to incorporate vibratory moment effects due to an
unbalanced mass in your vibration analysis, you must create two vibration actuators acting on the same
input channel. The first actuator must be defined as a Leading actuator and the second as the Lagging
actuator.

PSD Actuator
The PSD actuator is for defining a spectrum that you want to apply to the model. For more information
on power spectral density, see Reference 4. The PSD actuator is specified using a spline. You can create
a spline using the Function Builder in Adams/View. In Adams/Vibration, you can specify the
 Adams/Vibration Theory 151
Modeling of Vibration Entities

autocorrelation PSD of an input channel to itself, as well as the cross correlation PSD to other input
channels. Section 4d provides details of how auto and cross correlations are used for computing PSD
response.
PSD type actuators cannot be mixed with swept sine, rotating mass, or user-type actuators in the same
vibration analysis. Response solution for PSD actuator is different from the force vibration response
analysis.

Vibration Output Channels

Vibration output channels are defined using run-time expressions. These expressions can consist of
kinematic or force expression or some combination of the state variables you define.

Frequency-dependent (FD) Modeling Elements

FD modeling elements are useful for incorporating compliant components with frequency-domain force
characteristics in your model. These force characteristics may have been measured using a bench test in
a laboratory. Several flavors of frequency-dependent modeling elements are available within
Adams/Vibration. From given force versus frequency characteristics, you can use system identification
tools, such as described in article 1-KB12433 (see MSC.Software Knowledge Base) for identifying
parameters needed for defining FD element.
The FD modeling element is represented by a combination of spring and dampers in series and parallel.
Each FD element adds two internal auxiliary states for each direction. These differential and output
equations are contained within customized GSE subroutines in Adams/Vibration.
A GFORCE element is used to apply forces on the I- and J-bodies between which you are applying the
FD element. When you add a 3D FD element to your model, Adams/Vibration automatically creates a
GSE and GFORCE element in your model and instantiates the associated customized user subroutines
for evaluation of the force in the FD element.
FD modeling elements are usable in frequency domain, as well as time domain analysis.
152 Adams/Vibration
Modeling of Vibration Entities

Figure 3 Scematic of One-dimentional FD Element

 Adams/Vibration Theory 153
Vibration Analyses

Vibration Analyses
Adams/Vibration performs two types of vibration analyses:
• Normal Mode Analysis to compute eigen-values and eigenvectors for a model
• Forced Vibration Analysis to compute the forced response of the model to vibratory inputs
applied using vibration input channels and actuators on the model. Eigen-values and
eigenvectors are also available computed during the forced-response analysis.

Normal Mode Analysis

The general equation of motion for a MDOF system with general viscous damping and harmonic
excitation is:

(1)
This can be arranged in the form of equation (6-2) as a state-space representation. For normal mode
analysis, matrix A in equation (6-3) takes the form [Ewins, 1995],

(2)

Representing solution to (6-3) as ,

(3)
The solution to this equation constitutes a complex eigen-problem. In this case there are 2N eigen-values
and now those occur in complex conjugate pairs. This is an inevitable (unavoidable) result of the fact
that all coefficients in the matrices are real and thus any characteristic values, or roots, must either be real
or occur in complex conjugate pairs). As a result, eigen-vector corresponding to these eigen-values also
occurs as complex conjugates. Hence the eigen-solution needs to be described as:

(4)
Express each eigen-value in the form:
154 Adams/Vibration
Vibration Analyses

(5)

Where,  r is ‘natural frequency’ and  r is the critical damping ratio for that mode. Sometimes this
natural frequency is referred to as ‘un-damped natural frequency’ but this is not strictly correct except in
the case of proportional damping (or, of a single degree of freedom system). In Adams/Vibration, the
general viscous damping is implemented which may not necessarily proportional, and therefore  r is
referred as ‘natural frequency’ instead ‘un-damped natural frequency’.
The pair of orthogonal equations is shown to be:

(6)
For complex conjugate pairs, we will get a very important result,

(7)


H

Where denotes the Hermitian (complex conjugate) transpose, from which we can obtain:

(8)
Here, mr, kr and cr (all real) may be described as modal mass, stiffness and damping parameters
respectively although the meaning is slightly different from those used in other systems (un-damped,
hysteretic damping).
Rewriting second equation of (6) in energy format,
 Adams/Vibration Theory 155
Vibration Analyses

(9)
This shows that the Kinetic modal energy equals Potential modal energy. It should be noted that with
little algebra it can be shown that the modal energies thus calculated are time averaged over one cycle.
Adams/Vibration computes eigen-values and eigenvectors as complex numbers. When you perform
normal-modes analysis in Adams/View, you can display the results in the form as shown in Table 1
EIGEN VALUES (Time = 0.000000)
FREQUENCY UNITS: Hz
Table 1 Eigenvalue Table Reported in Adams/View

Mode Undamped Natural Damping

Number Frequency  r Ratio  Real r Imaginary i
1 0.00617426 1 -0.00617426 0
2 16.6257 1 -16.6257 0
3 0.270866 0.23569 -0.0638404 +/-0.263235
4 0.712246 0.580427 -0.413406 +/-0.57999

Quantities presented in this table are computed in this table are computed as:

(10)
where:

•  r = Natural frequency, column 2 of table

•  = Damping ratio, column 3 of table
•  r = Real part of the eigenvalue, column 4 of table
156 Adams/Vibration
Vibration Analyses

•  i = Imaginary part of the eigenvalue, column 5 of table

Correspondence between the number of modes in the table and the number of states in the model is as
follows. The number of modes conforms to the following identity:
2*Nc + Nr = 2* Nm + Nd (11)
where:

• Nc = Number of complex eigen-values, that is, eigen-values with nonzero real and imaginary
parts
• Nr = Number of real eigen-values, that is, eigen-values with zero imaginary parts
• Nm = Number of mechanical degrees of freedom
• Nd = Number of states due to supplementary differential states contributed by modeling
elements, such as DIFF/LSE/GSE/TFSISO
For the three-DOF model (Nm =3, Nd =0) from which Table 1 is obtained, there are two complex (Nc
=2) and two real (Nr =2) eigen-values. Using these values, it can be verified that the identity in (11) holds.

Eigen-values can be plotted as a complex scatter on a real-imaginary axis, as shown in Figure 4. The real
part of eigen-values corresponds to damping in a model. The imaginary part corresponds to stiffness in
the model. A mode with an eigenvalue of negative real part is considered stable. Conversely, a mode with
eigen-values of positive real part is unstable. As shown in Figure 4, eigen-values lying in the left half
plane are stable and those in the right half plane are unstable.
 Adams/Vibration Theory 157
Vibration Analyses

Figure 4 Complex Scatter Plot

A model with all stable eigen-values, if perturbed, will return to its original unperturbed configuration on
removal of the perturbation. A perturbation applied to a model with unstable eigenvalue(s) may cause
unstable modes to be excited. In this case, the model will have an unbounded response to this
perturbation. For more information, see Reference 4.

Forced Vibration Analysis

To perform a forced-response analysis, Adams/Vibration requires you to construct a vibration analysis.
A vibration analysis consists of: a collection of input and output channels, the operating point
specification, the frequency range and number of steps in this range.
158 Adams/Vibration
Vibration Analyses

Figure 5 Input and Output Channels

Each input channel results in an action-only SFORCE being created in the model along with a
VARIABLE. The VARIABLE is used to define the SFORCE. The expression for the variable is zero.
Each output channel results in one VARIABLE being created. Function expression for this entity depends
on the type of output channel you define. On defining a vibration analysis, the variable corresponding to
the input channels are collected into a PINPUT and variables corresponding to the output channels are
collected into a POUTPUT. The model is linearized using this PINPUT and POUTPUT pair. As shown
in Figure 5, each input channels contributes one column to the B matrix. Each output channel defines one
rows of the C matrix.
For output channels representing acceleration outputs, there will be nonzero entries in the corresponding
rows in the D matrix.
Forced vibration response is the response of a model to vibration input channels and is computed as:

(1)
where:

•
Ρ ( si ) = Vector of vibration actuators evaluated at s
i
• H(si)= Transfer function as defined in (6-11), evaluated at si
• n = Number of steps in the frequency range

Transfer Function
The transfer function plot is computed from (1) with unit inputs applied at all input channels. For this plot
the vibration actuator definition is ignored.

PSD Response Computation

For actuators of the PSD type, the PSD output is computed using the following:
 Adams/Vibration Theory 159
Vibration Analyses

(2)
where:

Pout  si 
• = Output PSD

Pin  si 
• = Matrix input PSD

H ( si ) = Transfer function
•

H H  si  H ( si )
• = Hermitiam transpose of
For multiple PSD input channels:

 P1 P12 ... P1n 

P P2 ... P2 n 
Pin  s    21
 ... ... ... ... 
 
 Pn1 Pn 2 ... Pn 
(3)
where:

• Pk(s) = PSD function corresponding to PSD actuator k

• Pkj(s) = Cross-correlation of PSD actuator k due to PSD actuator j

When plotting PSD response, input channels with actuators of type PSD cannot be mixed with actuators
of force type in one vibration analysis.

Modal Coordinates
The plots of modal coordinates identify the response of coordinates corresponding to modes of the model.
They are computed as:

(4)
where:

Mc  s 
• = Vector of modal coordinates for the model
160 Adams/Vibration
Vibration Analyses

At a given frequency, the modal coordinates identify how much each of the respective system modes is
excited. As shown in the Figure 6, the frequency response has three peaks.

Figure 6 Plot of Modal Coordinates

Modal coordinates for Modes 1, and 2 show that the first peak corresponds to the first peak in the modal
coordinate response for Mode 1. While at the second peak in the frequency response, Mode 2 is the one
with the most excitation.
 Adams/Vibration Theory 161
Vibration Analyses

Modal Participation
While the modal coordinates define how active a certain mode is at a given frequency, the modal
participation identifies how much given modes contribute to the response at a specified frequency.

Figure 7 Plot of Modal Participations

Modal participation is computed as:

(1)
where:

M p s
• = vector of modal participations

Modal Energy Computation

i. Kinetic energy distribution – Mass bearing modeling such as PART, POINT_MASS, and
FLEX_BODY contribute to kinetic energy distribution computation. The modal kinetic energy
distribution in a system is defined with respect to degree of freedom of various modeling elements
mentioned above.
162 Adams/Vibration
Vibration Analyses

From equation , the modal kinetic energy of ith mode can be calculated as

(2)
where:

•
 i  ith column mode shape vector of system mode shape matrix Φ

• Μ = System mass matrix

To find modal energy contributions from various parts and degrees of freedom, it is convenient to
substructure this system level energy equation to part level equations. Finally, these sub-structured part
level energies will be summed to calculate the system level modal kinetic energy.
Kinetic energy contribution of PART j to individual mode i can therefore be written as,

(3)
where:

•
ζ ij  ith column vector of matrix Ψ j , which is condensed mode shape matrix from system

mode shape matrix Φ , corresponding to six degrees of freedom of PART j

• Μ j = Mass matrix of PART j

Adams/Vibration breaks this modal kinetic energy contribution of PART j in nine components to present
it in modal energy tables:

1
K1j   mζ ij (1)* ζij (1) 
2
1
K 2j   mζ ij (2)* ζ ij (2) 
2
1
K 3j   mζ ij (3)* ζij (3) 
2 (4)
 Adams/Vibration Theory 163
Vibration Analyses

1 j *
K 4j  ζ (4) I xx ζ ij (4) 
2 i
1
K 5j  ζ ij (5)* I yy ζ ij (5) 
2
1
K 6j  ζ ij (6)* I zz ζ ij (6) 
2 (5)

K 7j   ζ ij (4)* I xy ζ ij (5) 

K 8j   ζ ij (4)* I xz ζ ij (6) 
K 9j   ζ ij (5)* I yz ζ ij (6) 
(6)
Equation (3) now equivalently expressed as,

(7)
Total kinetic energy for mode i can then be computed as,

n
i   i j
j 1
(8)
where:

•
i = Total kinetic energy of mode i

• n = Number of parts in the model

•
 i j  Kinetic energy contribution of PART j to mode i
Percentage distribution of PART j mode i kinetic energy in direction e is defined as:

(9)
164 Adams/Vibration
Vibration Analyses

Above equation shows that the percentage kinetic energy contribution of any degree of freedom to a
particular mode is independent on natural frequency of that mode and depends on the product of the mass
or inertia and square of the mode shape amplitude (mass and inertia terms) or product of mode shape
amplitudes (product of inertia terms) of the mode in that directions. As the sum of the kinetic energy
contributions of all degree of freedoms in that mode shape (not part degrees of freedom) is made equal
to 100, through the definition in equation , it is easy to identify the relative importance of various degrees
of freedoms. This will help to identify which particular degree of freedom is contributing more or less
to the overall modal kinetic energy.
Percentage kinetic energy contributed by PART j to mode i is defined as:

(10)
where:

Ti j
• = Percentage kinetic energy contributed by PART j to mode i
Equation (10) shows that the percentage kinetic energy contribution of any part to a particular mode is
independent on natural frequency of that mode and depends on the sum of product of mass (or inertia)
and square of the mode shape amplitude (mass and inertia terms) or product of mode shape amplitudes
(product of inertia terms) of that mode in all nine directions. As the sum of the kinetic energy
contributions of all parts is made equal to 100, it is easy to identify the relative importance of various
parts over each other. This will help to identify which particular part of model is contributing more or
less to the overall modal kinetic energy.
It should be noted that the large kinetic energy contribution can be due to large mass (inertia) or motion
of that degree of freedom. Therefore, the modal kinetic energy density needs to be calculated to remove
this ambiguity and make it dependent only on mode shape. The modal kinetic energy density for a given
mode is defined as the ratio of modal kinetic energy contribution of a degree of freedom to the rigid body
mass of the part.
Sometimes it is advantageous to normalize the modal kinetic energy contributions with respect to
generalized mass of that mode. This will make these modal kinetic energy distributions independent of
mode shape normalization.
Adams/Vibration computes the kinetic, strain, and dissipative energy distribution within modes of your
model. Table 1 shows an example of these distribution tables. These distributions are important
indicators of which components of the model have the greatest contribution to a given mode.
As in this example, PART_2 has the greatest contribution to the kinetic energy in this mode. The Strain
energy tables indicate that SPRING_2 stores the most amount of strain energy in this mode. Similarly,
from the dissipative energy table, SPRING_2 dissipates the most amount of energy in this mode.
 Adams/Vibration Theory 165
Vibration Analyses

Table 1 Modal Energy Distribution

ii. Strain energy distribution - Compliant components, such as SPRINGDAMPER, SFORCE,

BUSHING, and so on, contribute to the computation of strain energy in a mode. In addition,
FLEX_BODYs in the model contribute to strain energy computation.
Strain energy due to a compliant element p is:

(11)
where:

p
•  i = Strain energy in complaint element p for mode i

Κp
• = Matrix of size equal to model stiffness matrix, with all zero entries except stiffness matrix
entries contributed by compliant element p.
166 Adams/Vibration
Vibration Analyses

Percentage distribution of strain energy for mode i is given as:

p
100   i
S pi  m


p 1
p
i

; p=1, …,m (12)

where:

• S p i = Percentage strain energy contribution by compliant element p to mode i

• m = Number of compliant elements in the model

iii. Dissipative energy distribution is computed in a similar manner to the strain energy distribution. In
(11) and (12), the damping matrix is substituted for the stiffness matrix.

Stress Recovery
With Adams/Vibration you can recover stresses and strains on flexible bodies. Recovering stresses on
flexible bodies is called Modal Stress Recovery (MSR). Adams/Vibration allows you to export modal-
coordinates corresponding to flexible body modes that can later be used as input to FEM software like
NASTRAN to recover the stresses in the flexbody.
The linear deformation (y) of the flexbody nodes can be approximated as a linear combination of M
orthogonalized mode shape vectors (  ) of that flexbody.

(13)
The basic advantage of the modal superposition is that the deformation behavior of a component with a
very large number of nodal DOF can be captured with a much smaller number of modal DOF.

Adams/Vibration exports the modal coordinates ( q ) in a Modal Deformation File (MDF) format
(binary). FEM software like NASTRAN then does the summation to get linear deformation of flexbody
nodes and then recovers stresses and strains as follows,

(14)
where:

•
 is the strain vector

•  is the stress vector

 Adams/Vibration Theory 167
Vibration Analyses

• B is a function matrix of the FE geometry relating strains to displacements

• E is the stress-strain relationship matrix.

Note that it is necessary to create a super-element of flexbody without any constraints (free-free boundary
condition). The restart run is necessary in NASTRAN to recover the stresses and strains.
168 Adams/Vibration
Performing Acoustic Pressure Recovery

Performing Acoustic Pressure Recovery

Acoustic Pressure Recovery in Adams/Vibration

With Adams/Vibration you can recover acoustic pressure around flexible body. Recovering pressure
around flexible bodies is called Modal Pressure Recovery (MPR). You can perform MPR outside of
Adams using MD Nastran.

Acoustic Pressure Recovery DMAP

A special NASTRAN DMAP ALTER is required to input the modal velocities from a NASTRAN
formatted file and recover acoustic pressure in NASTRAN. For instructions regarding reading Modal
Deformation File (MDF), please refer the corresponding section for MSR help.
 Adams/Vibration Theory 169
Acoustic Pressure Recovery Theory

Acoustic Pressure Recovery Theory

Acoustic Pressure Recovery Analysis

The Adams modal synthesis method and its advantages are already covered in MSR help. During Adams
simulation, we assume that the fluid loading on structure is negligible. Then we export modal
deformations from Adams to MD Nastran in MDF file format. Adams provides two options to user to
recover acoustic pressure in Nastran from the modal co-ordinate data.
1. Recover acoustic pressure without fluid loading.
2. Recover acoustic pressure with fluid loading.
1. Recover acoustic pressure without fluid loading.
The modal co-ordinates from Adams are directly used to find modal loading on fluid portion.
The second equation in Eq. 13-65 of Nastran Reference Manual (NRM) can be rewritten in terms of
modal load vector from Adams:

2 T ad ams
   = –  Z 2   a     (15)
f s

By knowing right hand side vector for every frequency step from Adams, the above equation can be
solved for  . From here, acoustic pressure {p} can be recovered using following equation.
f

 p = f    (16)
f
2. Recover acoustic pressure with fluid loading.
The modal co-ordinates from Adams are used to recover the modal structural load. The fluid-structure
coupled equations are then solved to get corrected modal co-ordinates for structure and fluid.
Assemble the right hand side of Eq. 13-65 of NRM with the modal load vector from Adams:

·· c ·c c ·· adams
ms 0   s  + bs 0   s  + ks a   s =  m ·· adams + b  + k s  sadams 
 ·· c   · c   c   s s s  (17)
T
– a mf    0 bf    0 kf   f   s 
f f 0

By making use of Nastran Eq. 13-66 to Eq. 13-70, the fluid modal co-ordinates can be written in terms
of Adams structural modal co-ordinates.

c
  s  =  C    adams 
s

–1
 C + I – 2 + Z1 a  Z2  aT  (18)

The correction matrix [C] in above equation can be used to get judgment of fluid loading on structure.
This is useful matrix to check the validity of assumption made during Adams simulation.
170 Adams/Vibration
Acoustic Pressure Recovery Theory

Finally, the corrected fluid modal co-ordinates can be get as,

c T
  f  = –  2 Z 2   a   C    sadams  (19)

By knowing right hand side vector for every frequency step from Adams, the above equation can be
solved for fc . From here, acoustic pressure {p} can be recovered using following equation.

 p  =   f    fc  (20)
 Adams/Vibration Theory 171
Adams/Vibration References

Adams/Vibration References
1. De Silva, C.W., Vibration: Fundamentals and Practice, CRC Press, Boca Raton, (2000).
2. D. J. Ewins., Modal Testing: Theory and Practice, John Willey and Sons Inc., New York, (1995).
3. Lyon, R.H., and Dejong, R.G. Theory and applications of Statistical Energy Analysis (second
edition), Butterworth-Heinemann, London, (1995).
4. Munjal, M. L., Fundamentals of vibration (Chapter 2), In Workshop on Noise, Vibration and
Harshness (NVH) for Automotive Engineering, SAE Western section, ARAI, Pune-India, (2002).
5. Negrut, D and Ortiz, J.L., On An Approach For The Linearization of The Differential Algebraic
Equations of MultiBody Dynamics, ASME/IEEE International Conference on Mechatronic and
Embedded Systems and Applications, (2005).
6. Press, W. H., Flannery, B. P., Teukolsky, S. A., and Vetterling, W. T. "QR Decomposition."
§2.10 in Numerical Recipes in FORTRAN: The Art of Scientific Computing, 2nd ed. Cambridge,
England: Cambridge University Press, pp. 91-95, (1992).
7. Sohoni, V.N and Whitesell, J., Automatic Linearization of Constrained Dynamical Systems,
ASME J, of Mechanisms, Transmissions and Automation in Design, Vol.108, No. 3, pp. 300-304,
(1986).
172 Adams/Vibration
Adams/Vibration References
 Adams2Nastran 1

Adams2Nastran
2 Adams/Vibration
Introduction

Introduction
Using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran (A2N) feature, you can define the operating point at which
exporting the Mass, Stiffness and Damping matrices of the full linearized model and then performing
Nastran modal or frequency response analysis: the operating point has been achieved running
Adams/Solver, taking into account all the nonlinearities of the system and with the possibility to easily
change any parameter or variable for exploring different model configuration and, consequently, to easily
recreate full Nastran equivalent model. The Mass, Stiffness and Damping matrices are exported as
Nastran DMIG and connected to the system using MPC (Multi Point Constraint) while the location of
input channels and output channels (Adams Markers) are exported as Nastran GRIDs and generalized
degrees of freedom as SPOINTs.
 Adams2Nastran 3
Introduction

The following image displays the work flow, starting from an Adams model and getting the Nastran bdf
file for Complex Modal Analysis (SOL 107) and Frequency Response Analysis (SOL 108):

To implement the procedure, the MKB (Mass, Stiffness, Damping) system is recovered by Adams/Linear
function.

M  x· = KB  x + P  u
(1)
y = Cx+Du

A Plant Input and a plant output have to be defined to input and output channels, which correspond to u
and y respectively in equation (1). The current Adams2Nastran approach requires velocities for output
4 Adams/Vibration
Introduction

channels, som the feed forward term, D matrix, can be neglected. Then, equation (1) can be written as 1st
order differential equation like as follows.

I 0 0 x· 0 0 –I x 0
 · p  p
0 bs mu  x s + k u ks bu  x s =  0 

(2)
 ··  ·   f p
0 bv mp  x p kp kv bp x  p

f p = P  f m , x· m = C  x p (3)

where:

xp : Displacement of part coordinates

xs : Displacement of states
xm Displacement of marker coordinates
fp : Force to part coordinates
fm Force to marker coordinates

Equation (2) can be transformed to 2nd order differential equation.

M  x·· + B  x· + K  x = f (4)

mp 0 x·· bp bv x· kp kv x
 ··p +  · p +  p =  f p(5)
mu 0  x s bu bs  x s ku ks  x s  0

The variable x and M, B and K matrices in equation are expressed by SPOINT and DMIG respectively.
A plant input and plant output are always defined on same degree of freedoms, thus P equals the
transpose of C; consequently equation (3) can be written as follows.
t
fm = C  fm , xm = C  xp (6)

A degree of freedom of xm and fm is modeled by GRID, and MPC (Multi Point Constraint) are used to
express the relationship between GRID and SPOINT in equation .
Typical analysis (SOL 101: static analysis; SOL 103: modal analysis) into Nastran could not be
performed because they require symmetric matrices. DMIG matrices can be not symmetric ones: a
customized DMAP has been developed for symmetrization of not symmetric matrices and it has been
made available for Nastran users in the Adams2Nastran installation directory.
Full details about the symmetrization procedure can be found in Symmetrization of Not Symmetric
matrices paragraph.
 Adams2Nastran 5
A2N Input Channel

A2N Input Channel

Adams2Nastran Input Channel requires the definition of input marker, with its location and orientation
evaluated at the operating point, that is at the end of the Adams analysis: each marker is exported to
Nastran as GRID, while the local reference frames is defined by CORD2R
Example: an input channel is defined on ADAMS marker 19.
$ MARKER 19

CORD2R* 1000 -1.000000000D+02 3.000000000D+02

* -1.582453600D-16-1.010000000D+02 3.000000000D+02-1.582453600D-16

* -1.000000000D+02 3.000000000D+02 1.000000000D+00

GRID 1000 1000 0.000 0.000 0.000 1000

On the input channel an actuator force (swept-sine type) is applied into Nastran: each actuator is
described by the direction (X, Y, Z) , mode (translational = force or rotational = torque), force magnitude
and phase angle
Swept sine defines a constant amplitude sine function being applied to the model. The amplitude of the
sine function and the starting phase angle are required and must be specified in the Create/Modify A2N
Input Channel dialog box.

f    = F   cos    + j  sin     (7)

where:
• f is the forcing function
• F is the magnitude of the force
•  is the phase angle

•  is the frequency

On each marker it is possible to define 6 different actuators (3 forces, 3 torques). Actuator parameters
are exported into DLOAD, RLOAD1, FORCE and DPHASE statement.
Example: Force amplitude = 1, phase angle = 0, frequency start = 1, frequency end = 10, frequency steps
= 99, no logarithmic space
DLOAD 101 1.00 1.00 201
RLOAD1 201 301 401 501
FORCE* 301 1000 1000 1.000000000E+00
* 0.000000000E+00 1.000000000E+00 0.000000000E+00
DPHASE* 401 1000 2 0.000000000E+00
*
TABLED1 501
* 1.000000000E+00 1.000000000E+00 1.000000000E+02 1.000000000E+00
* ENDT
6 Adams/Vibration
A2N Input Channel

In correspondence of the A2N Input Channel an A2N Output Channel is automatically created, if not
already existing; one only A2N output channel is created on a marker

Creating A2N Input Channel

To create an A2N input channel:
1. From the Vibration menu, point to Adams2Nastran, point to Input Channel, and then select
New.
2. Follow the instructions in the dialog box help for Create/Modify A2N Input Channel.
3. Select OK.

Deleting A2N Input Channel

To delete an A2N input channel:
1. From the Vibration menu, point to Adams2Nastran, point to Input Channel, and then select
Delete.
2. From the Database Navigator, select the A2N input channel you want to delete, and then select
OK.
3. In the message window that appears, select one of the following:
• Delete All – Deletes the A2N input channel and all of its dependents.
• Remove Parametric Expressions – Deletes the A2N input channel after removing all of its
parametric dependencies.
• Cancel – Stops the process without deleting the A2N input channel.

Note: Deleting the A2N Input Channel doesn’t delete the corresponding A2N Output Channel on
the same marker.

Modifying A2N Input Channel

To modify an A2N Input Channel:
1. From the Vibration menu, point to Adams2Nastran, point to Input Channel, and then select
Modify.
2. Select the A2N Input Channel you want to modify.
3. Select OK.
4. Modify only the actuators parameters, while the input marker can not be modified, as described
in Create/Modify A2N Input Channel.
5. Select OK.
 Adams2Nastran 7
A2N Input Channel

Note: In correspondence of the A2N Input Channel an A2N Output Channel is automatically
created, if not already existing.
8 Adams/Vibration
A2N Output Channel

A2N Output Channel

ADAMS2Nastran Output channel provides port in your system at which Nastran users can examine the
frequency response of the system. A2N Output channel is defined as marker on which Nastran can
evaluate all components of displacement, velocity and acceleration.
In correspondence of an A2N Output Channel, six state variables, VX, VY, VZ, WX, WY, WZ velocity
functions wrt ground (i.e, “VX(I marker, 0, I marker)”) are created and included in a Plant Output
element for providing the size and terms of Mass, Stiffness and Damping Matrices.
An A2N Output channel is automatically created, if not already existing, on the same marker when an
A2N input channel is created or modified.
Each A2N Output channel is exported to Nastran as GRID and CORD2R card, and the row and column
order and Mass, Stiffness and Damping matrices size are related to the sequence and number of A2N
output channels. The mathematical connection between matrices (DMIG) and GRID is expressed by
Nastran MPCs.
Example:
SPOINT 10000 THRU 10007
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
DMIG EXMASS 0 1 2 0
DMIG* EXMASS 10000 0
* 10000 0 2.756055107D+00
DMIG* EXMASS 10001 0
* 10001 0 5.252287746D+00
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
DMIG EXDAMP 0 1 2 0
DMIG* EXDAMP 10000 0
* 10000 0 4.535042735D+00
* 10001 0-1.466666667D+00
* 10002 0 6.000000000D-01
* 10004 0-1.866666667D+02
* 10005 0 7.500000000D+00
* 10006 0 1.833333333D+01
.*
.......................................................
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
DMIG EXSTIF 0 1 2 0
DMIG* EXSTIF 10000 0
* 10000 0 3.413400630D+03
* 10001 0-1.466666667D+03
* 10002 0 6.000000000D+02
* 10003 0 1.573580786D-13
* 10004 0-1.866666667D+05
* 10005 0 7.500000000D+03
* 10006 0 1.833333333D+04
..................................................
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
MPC* 701 1000 1-1.000000000D+00
* 10003 0 1.000000000D+00
MPC* 701 1000 2-1.000000000D+00
* 10002 0 1.000000000D+00
…………..........................................................................
 Adams2Nastran 9
A2N Output Channel

Creating A2N Output Channel

To create an A2N output channel:
1. From the Vibration menu, point to Adams2Nastran, point to Output Channel, and then select
New.
2. Follow the instructions in the dialog box help for Create/Modify A2N Output Channel.
3. Select OK.

Deleting A2N Output Channel

To delete an A2N output channel:
1. From the Vibration menu, point to Adams2Nastran, point to Output Channel, and then select
Delete.
2. From the Database Navigator, select the A2N output channel you want to delete, and then select
OK.
3. In the message window that appears, select one of the following:
• Delete All - Deletes the A2N output channel and all of its dependents.
• Remove Parametric Expressions - Deletes the A2N output channel after removing all of its
parametric dependencies.
• Cancel - Stops the process without deleting the A2N output channel.

Note: Deleting an A2N Output Channel doesn’t delete the corresponding A2N input channels, if
they exist. It means that the order and size of the Mass, Stiffness and Damping matrices are
affected by this operation, and the consistency of the Plant Input (A2N Input Channels) and
Plant Output (A2N Output Channels) should be verified carefully before to perform MKB
matrices exporting to Nastran.

Modifying A2N Output Channel

To modify an A2N output channel:
1. From the Vibration menu, point to Adams2Nastran, point to Output Channel, and then select
Modify.
2. Enter the name of the A2N output channel you want to modify.
3. Modify the output channel, as needed, as described in Create/Modify A2N Output Channel. Only
the name of the Output Channel is allowed to be modified.
4. Select OK.
10 Adams/Vibration
Exporting MKB Matrices to Nastran

Exporting MKB Matrices to Nastran

Exporting a Nastran bdf file for Frequency Response Analysis

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Adams2Nastran, and then select MKB matrices export.
2. Select A2N Analysis name.
3. Fill all the fields as described in the dialog box help for Adams to Nastran MKB export, being sure
to select Frequency Response under Nastran Analysis menu.
4. Select OK.
Adams2Nastran features performs the linearization of the model around the operating point and write
out the Nastran bdf file containing DMIG matrices and data for SOL 108 analysis. The process runs
quickly. If no error messages appear, you can assume the Adams2Nastran process completed correctly.
If you receive error messages, correct the problem, and rerun your analysis.
It must be underlined that, due to the fact tat LINEAR/MKB command is available only as solver
command, for both integrated and external solver, the script must be Adams/Solver command type.

Exporting a Nastran bdf file for Modal Analysis

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Adams2Nastran, and then select MKB matrices export.
2. Select A2N Analysis name.
3. Fill all the fields as described in the dialog box help for Adams to Nastran MKB export, being sure
to select Modal under Nastran Analysis menu.
4. Select OK.
Adams2Nastran features perform the linearization of the model around the operating point and write out
the Nastran bdf file containing DMIG matrices and data for SOL 107 analysis. The process runs quickly.
If no error messages appear, you can assume the Adams2Nastran process is completed correctly. If you
receive error messages, correct the problem, and rerun your analysis.
It must be underlined that, due to the fact that LINEAR/MKB command is available only as solver
command, for both integrated and external solver, the script must be Adams/Solver command type.
 Adams2Nastran 11
Bdf file format

Bdf file format

A description of the content of Nastran bdf files provided by Adams2Nastran feature is presented. For
each solution (SOL 107 and SOL 108) it has been reported the Adams statement and the equivalent
Nastran one.
For detailed description of Nastran cards, please refer to Nastran Quick Reference Guide
SOL 107: Modal Analysis
Bdf example:
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
$
$ MSC.ADAMS TO MSC.Nastran (2006.05.30)
$
$ Create: Thu Jul 13 16:30:53 2006
$ Model: fourbar
$ Result: A2N_Analysis_1_analysis
$ Units: Mass = kg
$ Length = mm
$ Force = newton
$ Time = sec
$
$ Remarks:
$ 1 - PARAM WTMASS is set to 1.000-3 for FE model.
$
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
SOL 107
CEND
$
$ GLOBAL CASE
$
ECHO = NONE
CMETHOD = 101
$
$ ADAMS SYSTEM
$
M2PP = 1.000-3 * EXMASS
B2PP = EXDAMP
K2PP = EXSTIF
BEGIN BULK
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
PARAM WTMASS 1.000-3
PARAM POST 0
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
EIGC 101 HESS 16
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
SPOINT 10000 THRU 10007
SPCOFF1 0 10000 THRU 10007
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
DMIG EXMASS 0 1 2 0
DMIG* EXMASS 10000 0
* 10000 0 2.755440476D+00
DMIG* EXMASS 10001 0
* 10001 0 5.252287746D+00
DMIG* EXMASS 10002 0
* 10002 0 5.252287746D+00
DMIG* EXMASS 10003 0
* 10003 0 5.252287746D+00
DMIG* EXMASS 10004 0
* 10004 0 1.282302797D+05
* 10005 0-4.199421680D-02
* 10006 0-5.605457646D-01
DMIG* EXMASS 10005 0
12 Adams/Vibration
Bdf file format

* 10004 0-4.199421680D-02
* 10005 0 1.347205250D+03
*
DMIG* EXMASS 10006 0
* 10004 0-5.605457646D-01
* 10006 0 1.274301887D+05
*
DMIG* EXMASS 10007 0
* 10007 0 3.958056122D+00
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
DMIG EXDAMP 0 1 2 0
DMIG* EXDAMP 10000 0
* 10000 0 4.532914511D+00
* 10001 0-1.466398703D+00
* 10002 0 5.995003071D-01
* 10004 0-1.864490322D+02
* 10005 0 7.501563296D+00
* 10006 0 1.834580084D+01
*
DMIG* EXDAMP 10001 0
* 10000 0-1.466398703D+00
* 10001 0 1.499999962D+00
* 10002 0 1.195301198D-04
* 10004 0 1.999534271D+01
* 10005 0 2.025474762D-03
* 10006 0-1.001322983D+01
* 10007 0-1.399869256D+00
DMIG* EXDAMP 10002 0
* 10000 0 5.995003071D-01
* 10001 0 1.195301198D-04
* 10002 0 1.100000038D+00
* 10004 0-2.500224210D+01
* 10005 0 7.510507328D+00
* 10006 0 1.008692445D-03
* 10007 0-6.672570113D-01
DMIG* EXDAMP 10003 0
* 10003 0 1.600000000D+00
* 10004 0 6.559495598D-15
* 10005 0 9.996494532D+00
* 10006 0 1.999998438D+02
*
DMIG* EXDAMP 10004 0
* 10000 0-1.864490322D+02
* 10001 0 1.999534271D+01
* 10002 0-2.500224210D+01
* 10003 0 6.559495598D-15
* 10004 0 6.924869389D+04
* 10005 0-1.877618384D+03
* 10006 0-2.498367950D+02
* 10007 0-1.668872954D+02
*
DMIG* EXDAMP 10005 0
* 10000 0 7.501563296D+00
* 10001 0 2.025474762D-03
* 10002 0 7.510507328D+00
* 10003 0 9.996494532D+00
* 10004 0-1.877618384D+03
* 10005 0 2.349190155D+03
* 10006 0-2.499591160D+03
* 10007 0-1.030472286D-14
*
DMIG* EXDAMP 10006 0
* 10000 0 1.834580084D+01
* 10001 0-1.001322983D+01
* 10002 0 1.008692445D-03
* 10003 0 1.999998438D+02
* 10004 0-2.498367950D+02
* 10005 0-2.499591160D+03
 Adams2Nastran 13
Bdf file format

* 10006 0 1.029900612D+05
* 10007 0 1.090787078D-02
*
DMIG* EXDAMP 10007 0
* 10001 0-1.399869256D+00
* 10002 0-6.672570113D-01
* 10004 0-1.668872954D+02
* 10005 0-1.030542734D-14
* 10006 0 1.090787078D-02
* 10007 0 4.330263082D+00
*
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
DMIG EXSTIF 0 1 2 0
DMIG* EXSTIF 10000 0
* 10000 0 3.412018310D+03
* 10001 0-1.466577382D+03
* 10002 0 5.996411340D+02
* 10003 0 1.573367955D-13
* 10004 0-1.864886959D+05
* 10005 0 7.503384141D+03
* 10006 0 1.834937440D+04
DMIG* EXSTIF 10001 0
* 10000 0-1.466577382D+03
* 10001 0 1.499999962D+03
* 10002 0 1.195301198D-01
* 10003 0 5.784718673D-15
* 10004 0 1.999534271D+04
* 10005 0 2.025474762D+00
* 10006 0-1.001322983D+04
* 10007 0-1.400033980D+03
*
DMIG* EXSTIF 10002 0
* 10000 0 5.996411340D+02
* 10001 0 1.195301198D-01
* 10002 0 1.100000038D+03
* 10003 0 4.758209997D-14
* 10004 0-2.500224210D+04
* 10005 0 7.510507328D+03
* 10006 0 1.008692445D+00
* 10007 0-6.673978891D+02
*
DMIG* EXSTIF 10003 0
* 10000 0 1.573367955D-13
* 10001 0 5.784718673D-15
* 10002 0 4.758209997D-14
* 10003 0 1.600000000D+03
* 10004 0 6.559495598D-12
* 10005 0 9.996494532D+03
* 10006 0 1.999998438D+05
* 10007 0 1.528635281D-13
*
DMIG* EXSTIF 10004 0
* 10000 0-1.864886959D+05
* 10001 0 1.999534271D+04
* 10002 0-2.500224210D+04
* 10003 0 6.559495598D-12
* 10004 0 6.923746080D+07
* 10005 0-1.877343487D+06
* 10006 0-2.492603664D+05
* 10007 0-1.669225235D+05
*
DMIG* EXSTIF 10005 0
* 10000 0 7.503325770D+03
* 10001 0 2.025474762D+00
* 10002 0 7.510507328D+03
* 10003 0 9.996494532D+03
* 10004 0-1.877353983D+06
* 10005 0 8.015266946D+05
14 Adams/Vibration
Bdf file format

* 10006 0-2.498762553D+06
* 10007 0-1.030689789D-11
*
DMIG* EXSTIF 10006 0
* 10000 0 1.834803644D+04
* 10001 0-1.001322983D+04
* 10002 0 1.008692445D+00
* 10003 0 1.999998438D+05
* 10004 0-2.495012254D+05
* 10005 0-2.498762553D+06
* 10006 0 1.009168430D+08
* 10007 0 1.090915422D+01
*
DMIG* EXSTIF 10007 0
* 10001 0-1.400033980D+03
* 10002 0-6.673978891D+02
* 10003 0 1.528635287D-13
* 10004 0-1.669225235D+05
* 10005 0 1.159730625D-02
* 10006 0 1.117684518D+01
* 10007 0 3.753995853D+03
ENDDATA

Blocks description:
1. Header block: it has been included for information purposes
It contains:
• date of creation
• name of the Adams model
• name of analysis
• system of units
• useful remarks
$......1.......2.......3......4......5......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
$
$ MSC.ADAMS TO MSC.Nastran (2006.05.30)
$
$ Create: Thu Jul 13 16:30:53 2006
$ Model: fourbar
$ Result: A2N_Analysis_1_analysis
$ Units: Mass = kg
$ Length = mm
$ Force = newton
$ Time = sec
$
$ Remarks:
$ 1 - PARAM WTMASS is set to 1.000-3 for FE model.
$
2. Executive Deck
Type of Nastran solution
 Adams2Nastran 15
Bdf file format

$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7......8.......9.....0
SOL 107
CEND

3. Control Case Deck

It contains:
• eigenvalue method ID
• Mass matrix name
• Stiffness matrix name
• Damping matrix name
$ GLOBAL CASE
$
ECHO = NONE
CMETHOD = 101
$
$ ADAMS SYSTEM
$
M2PP = 1.000-3 * EXMASS
B2PP = EXDAMP
K2PP = EXSTIF

4. Bulk Data Deck

It contains:
• PARAM cards
• Complex Eigenvalue Analysis card
• SPOINTs definition
• SPCOFF1 definition
• DMIG matrices: Mass, Stiffness, Damping
• ENDDATA

BEGIN BULK
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6......7......8.......9......0
PARAM WTMASS 1.000-3
PARAM POST 0
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6......7......8.......9......0
EIGC 101 HESS 16
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6......7......8.......9......0
SPOINT 10000 THRU 10007
16 Adams/Vibration
Bdf file format

SPCOFF1 0 10000 THRU 10007

$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6......7......8.......9......0
DMIG EXMASS 0 1 2 0
DMIG* EXMASS 10000 0
* 10000 0 2.755440476D+00
DMIG* EXMASS 10001 0
* 10001 0 5.252287746D+00

...................................................................
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6......7......8.......9......0
DMIG EXDAMP 0 1 2 0
DMIG* EXDAMP 10000 0
* 10000 0 4.532914511D+00
* 10001 0-1.466398703D+00
* 10002 0 5.995003071D-01
* 10004 0-1.864490322D+02
* 10005 0 7.501563296D+00
* 10006 0 1.834580084D+01
*
.................................................................
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6......7......8.......9......0
DMIG EXSTIF 0 1 2 0
DMIG* EXSTIF 10000 0
* 10000 0 3.412018310D+03
* 10001 0-1.466577382D+03
* 10002 0 5.996411340D+02
* 10003 0 1.573367955D-13
* 10004 0-1.864886959D+05
* 10005 0 7.503384141D+03
* 10006 0 1.834937440D+04
.......................................................................
ENDDATA

SOL 108: Frequency Response Analysis

Bdf example:
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
$
$ MSC.ADAMS TO MSC.Nastran (2006.05.30)
$
$ Create: Thu Jul 13 16:31:42 2006
$ Model: fourbar
$ Result: A2N_Analysis_2_analysis
$ Units: Mass = kg
 Adams2Nastran 17
Bdf file format

$ Length = mm
$ Force = newton
$ Time = sec
$
$ Remarks:
$ 1 - PARAM WTMASS is set to 1.000-3 for FE model.
$
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
SOL 108
CEND
$
$ GLOBAL CASE
$
ECHO = NONE
$
$ ADAMS SYSTEM
$
M2PP = 1.000-3 * EXMASS
B2PP = EXDAMP
K2PP = EXSTIF
MPC = 701
$
$ SUBCASES
$
FREQ = 601
$
SUBCASE 1
DLOAD = 101
SET 901 = 1001, 1002, 1000
DISP(SORT2,REAL,PLOT) = 901
SUBCASE 2
DLOAD = 102
SET 902 = 1001, 1002, 1000
DISP(SORT2,REAL,PLOT) = 902
SUBCASE 3
DLOAD = 103
SET 903 = 1001, 1002, 1000
DISP(SORT2,REAL,PLOT) = 903
BEGIN BULK
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
PARAM WTMASS 1.000-3
PARAM POST 0
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
FREQ1* 601 1.000000000E+00 1.000000000E+00 99
*
$
$ SUBCASE 1
$
DLOAD 101 1.00 1.00 201
RLOAD1 201 301 401 501
FORCE* 301 1000 1000 1.000000000E+00
* 0.000000000E+00 0.000000000E+00 1.000000000E+00
DPHASE* 401 1000 3 0.000000000E+00
*
$
$ SUBCASE 2
$
DLOAD 102 1.00 1.00 202
RLOAD1 202 302 402 501
FORCE* 302 1000 1000 1.000000000E+00
* 0.000000000E+00 1.000000000E+00 0.000000000E+00
DPHASE* 402 1000 2 0.000000000E+00
*
$
$ SUBCASE 3
$
DLOAD 103 1.00 1.00 203 1.00 204
RLOAD1 203 303 403 501
18 Adams/Vibration
Bdf file format

RLOAD1 204 304 404 501

FORCE* 303 1000 1000 1.000000000E+00
* 0.000000000E+00 0.000000000E+00 1.000000000E+00
FORCE* 304 1000 1000 1.000000000E+00
* 0.000000000E+00 1.000000000E+00 0.000000000E+00
DPHASE* 403 1000 3 0.000000000E+00
*
DPHASE* 404 1000 2 0.000000000E+00
*
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
TABLED1 501
* 1.000000000E+00 1.000000000E+00 1.000000000E+02 1.000000000E+00
* ENDT
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
SPOINT 10000 THRU 10007
SPCOFF1 0 10000 THRU 10007
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
$
$ MARKER 20
$
CORD2R* 1000 -1.000821603D+02 2.999278399D+02
* -8.274412874D-03-1.010821603D+02 2.999280486D+02-8.305584232D-03
* -1.000821914D+02 2.999285405D+02 9.917253412D-01
$
$ MARKER 19
$
CORD2R* 1001 -4.250334666D+02 1.500167286D+02
* 4.132257754D-14-4.245864525D+02 1.509112556D+02 2.866736573D-10
* -4.250334666D+02 1.500167286D+02 1.000000000D+00
$
$ MARKER 21
$
CORD2R* 1002 2.499438241D+02 1.499625342D+02
* 7.040716957D-14 2.493888123D+02 1.507943767D+02-4.122712479D-10
* 2.499438241D+02 1.499625342D+02 1.000000000D+00
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
GRID 1000 1000 0.000 0.000 0.000 1000
GRID 1001 1001 0.000 0.000 0.000 1001
GRID 1002 1002 0.000 0.000 0.000 1002
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
DMIG EXMASS 0 1 2 0
DMIG* EXMASS 10000 0
* 10000 0 2.755440476D+00
DMIG* EXMASS 10001 0
* 10001 0 5.252287746D+00
DMIG* EXMASS 10002 0
* 10002 0 5.252287746D+00
DMIG* EXMASS 10003 0
* 10003 0 5.252287746D+00
DMIG* EXMASS 10004 0
* 10004 0 1.282302797D+05
* 10005 0-4.199421680D-02
* 10006 0-5.605457646D-01
DMIG* EXMASS 10005 0
* 10004 0-4.199421680D-02
* 10005 0 1.347205250D+03
*
DMIG* EXMASS 10006 0
* 10004 0-5.605457646D-01
* 10006 0 1.274301887D+05
*
DMIG* EXMASS 10007 0
* 10007 0 3.958056122D+00
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
DMIG EXDAMP 0 1 2 0
DMIG* EXDAMP 10000 0
* 10000 0 4.532914511D+00
* 10001 0-1.466398703D+00
 Adams2Nastran 19
Bdf file format

* 10002 0 5.995003071D-01
* 10004 0-1.864490322D+02
* 10005 0 7.501563296D+00
* 10006 0 1.834580084D+01
*
DMIG* EXDAMP 10001 0
* 10000 0-1.466398703D+00
* 10001 0 1.499999962D+00
* 10002 0 1.195301198D-04
* 10004 0 1.999534271D+01
* 10005 0 2.025474762D-03
* 10006 0-1.001322983D+01
* 10007 0-1.399869256D+00
DMIG* EXDAMP 10002 0
* 10000 0 5.995003071D-01
* 10001 0 1.195301198D-04
* 10002 0 1.100000038D+00
* 10004 0-2.500224210D+01
* 10005 0 7.510507328D+00
* 10006 0 1.008692445D-03
* 10007 0-6.672570113D-01
DMIG* EXDAMP 10003 0
* 10003 0 1.600000000D+00
* 10004 0 6.559495640D-15
* 10005 0 9.996494532D+00
* 10006 0 1.999998438D+02
*
DMIG* EXDAMP 10004 0
* 10000 0-1.864490322D+02
* 10001 0 1.999534271D+01
* 10002 0-2.500224210D+01
* 10003 0 6.559495640D-15
* 10004 0 6.924869389D+04
* 10005 0-1.877618384D+03
* 10006 0-2.498367950D+02
* 10007 0-1.668872954D+02
*
DMIG* EXDAMP 10005 0
* 10000 0 7.501563296D+00
* 10001 0 2.025474762D-03
* 10002 0 7.510507328D+00
* 10003 0 9.996494532D+00
* 10004 0-1.877618384D+03
* 10005 0 2.349190155D+03
* 10006 0-2.499591160D+03
* 10007 0-1.030472287D-14
*
DMIG* EXDAMP 10006 0
* 10000 0 1.834580084D+01
* 10001 0-1.001322983D+01
* 10002 0 1.008692445D-03
* 10003 0 1.999998438D+02
* 10004 0-2.498367950D+02
* 10005 0-2.499591160D+03
* 10006 0 1.029900612D+05
* 10007 0 1.090787078D-02
*
DMIG* EXDAMP 10007 0
* 10001 0-1.399869256D+00
* 10002 0-6.672570113D-01
* 10004 0-1.668872954D+02
* 10005 0-1.030542734D-14
* 10006 0 1.090787078D-02
* 10007 0 4.330263082D+00
*
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
DMIG EXSTIF 0 1 2 0
DMIG* EXSTIF 10000 0
20 Adams/Vibration
Bdf file format

* 10000 0 3.412018310D+03
* 10001 0-1.466577382D+03
* 10002 0 5.996411340D+02
* 10003 0 1.573367954D-13
* 10004 0-1.864886959D+05
* 10005 0 7.503384141D+03
* 10006 0 1.834937440D+04
DMIG* EXSTIF 10001 0
* 10000 0-1.466577382D+03
* 10001 0 1.499999962D+03
* 10002 0 1.195301198D-01
* 10003 0 5.784719046D-15
* 10004 0 1.999534271D+04
* 10005 0 2.025474762D+00
* 10006 0-1.001322983D+04
* 10007 0-1.400033980D+03
*
DMIG* EXSTIF 10002 0
* 10000 0 5.996411340D+02
* 10001 0 1.195301198D-01
* 10002 0 1.100000038D+03
* 10003 0 4.758210007D-14
* 10004 0-2.500224210D+04
* 10005 0 7.510507328D+03
* 10006 0 1.008692445D+00
* 10007 0-6.673978891D+02
*
DMIG* EXSTIF 10003 0
* 10000 0 1.573367955D-13
* 10001 0 5.784719046D-15
* 10002 0 4.758210007D-14
* 10003 0 1.600000000D+03
* 10004 0 6.559495640D-12
* 10005 0 9.996494532D+03
* 10006 0 1.999998438D+05
* 10007 0 1.528635281D-13
*
DMIG* EXSTIF 10004 0
* 10000 0-1.864886959D+05
* 10001 0 1.999534271D+04
* 10002 0-2.500224210D+04
* 10003 0 6.559495640D-12
* 10004 0 6.923746080D+07
* 10005 0-1.877343487D+06
* 10006 0-2.492603664D+05
* 10007 0-1.669225235D+05
*
DMIG* EXSTIF 10005 0
* 10000 0 7.503325770D+03
* 10001 0 2.025474762D+00
* 10002 0 7.510507328D+03
* 10003 0 9.996494532D+03
* 10004 0-1.877353983D+06
* 10005 0 8.015266946D+05
* 10006 0-2.498762553D+06
* 10007 0-1.030689789D-11
*
DMIG* EXSTIF 10006 0
* 10000 0 1.834803644D+04
* 10001 0-1.001322983D+04
* 10002 0 1.008692445D+00
* 10003 0 1.999998438D+05
* 10004 0-2.495012254D+05
* 10005 0-2.498762553D+06
* 10006 0 1.009168430D+08
* 10007 0 1.090915422D+01
*
DMIG* EXSTIF 10007 0
 Adams2Nastran 21
Bdf file format

* 10001 0-1.400033980D+03
* 10002 0-6.673978891D+02
* 10003 0 1.528635280D-13
* 10004 0-1.669225235D+05
* 10005 0 1.159730625D-02
* 10006 0 1.117684518D+01
* 10007 0 3.753995853D+03
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
MPC* 701 1000 1-1.000000000D+00
* 10001 0-3.102511751D-05
* 10002 0 7.006083498D-04
* 10003 0 9.999997541D-01
MPC* 701 1000 2-1.000000000D+00
* 10001 0 2.087450606D-04
* 10002 0 9.999997328D-01
* 10003 0-7.006018585D-04
MPC* 701 1000 3-1.000000000D+00
* 10001 0-9.999999777D-01
* 10002 0 2.087232730D-04
* 10003 0-3.117135775D-05
MPC* 701 1000 4-1.000000000D+00
* 10004 0 9.999997541D-01
* 10006 0-7.006018588D-04
*
MPC* 701 1000 5-1.000000000D+00
* 10004 0-7.006018585D-04
* 10006 0-9.999997546D-01
*
MPC* 701 1000 6-1.000000000D+00
* 10004 0-3.117135775D-05
* 10005 0 1.000000000D+00
*
MPC* 701 1001 1-1.000000000D+00
* 10000 0-3.235825399D-09
MPC* 701 1001 2-1.000000000D+00
* 10000 0 1.117909315D+00
MPC* 701 1001 3-1.000000000D+00
* 10000 0 0.000000000D+00
MPC* 701 1001 4-1.000000000D+00
* 10000 0-6.665923255D-03
MPC* 701 1001 5-1.000000000D+00
* 10000 0-1.929473481D-11
MPC* 701 1001 6-1.000000000D+00
* 10000 0-1.910667665D-12
MPC* 701 1002 1-1.000000000D+00
* 10007 0 4.594834411D-09
MPC* 701 1002 2-1.000000000D+00
* 10007 0 1.202150689D+00
MPC* 701 1002 3-1.000000000D+00
* 10000 0 0.000000000D+00
MPC* 701 1002 4-1.000000000D+00
* 10007 0-6.668332228D-03
MPC* 701 1002 5-1.000000000D+00
* 10007 0 2.548755549D-11
MPC* 701 1002 6-1.000000000D+00
* 10007 0 2.749631148D-12
ENDDATA

Blocks description:
1. Header block: It has been included for information purposes.
It contains:
• date of creation
• name of the Adams model
22 Adams/Vibration
Bdf file format

• name of analysis
• system of units
• useful remarks
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6......7......8.......9......0
$
$ MSC.ADAMS TO MSC.Nastran (2006.05.30)
$
$ Create: Thu Jul 13 16:31:42 2006
$ Model: fourbar
$ Result: A2N_Analysis_2_analysis
$ Units: Mass = kg
$ Length = mm
$ Force = newton
$ Time = sec
$
$ Remarks:
$ 1 - PARAM WTMASS is set to 1.000-3 for FE model.
$
2. Executive Deck
Type of Nastran solution.

$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6......7......8.......9......0
SOL 108
CEND

3. Control Case Deck

It contains:
• Mass matrix name
• Stiffness matrix name
• Damping matrix name
• MPC ID
• Eventually SPC ID
• Subcases
- DLOAD ID
- GRID set for output
- Output type (disp, vel, acc) and format
$ GLOBAL CASE
$
 Adams2Nastran 23
Bdf file format

ECHO = NONE
$
$ ADAMS SYSTEM
$
M2PP = 1.000-3 * EXMASS
B2PP = EXDAMP
K2PP = EXSTIF
MPC = 701
$
$ SUBCASES
$
FREQ = 601
$
SUBCASE 1
DLOAD = 101
SET 901 = 1001, 1002, 1000
DISP(SORT2,REAL,PLOT) = 901
SUBCASE 2
DLOAD = 102
SET 902 = 1001, 1002, 1000
DISP(SORT2,REAL,PLOT) = 902
SUBCASE 3
DLOAD = 103
SET 903 = 1001, 1002, 1000
DISP(SORT2,REAL,PLOT) = 903

4. Bulk Data Deck

It contains:
• PARAM cards
• Frequency parameters: start, end, steps, logarithmic space
• Actuator parameters subcase by subcase
i. DLOAD
ii. RLOAD1
iii. FORCE
iv. DPHASE
• TABLED1 parameters
• SPOINTs definition
• SPCOFF1 definition
• CORD2R definition: reference system for GRID
24 Adams/Vibration
Bdf file format

• GRID definition: ID, Reference system,

• DMIG matrices: Mass, Stiffness, Damping
• MPC data
• Eventually SPC data for fixing dofs with no values in DMIG
• ENDDATA

BEGIN BULK
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6......7......8.......9......0
PARAM WTMASS 1.000-3
PARAM POST 0
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6......7......8.......9......0
FREQ1* 601 1.000000000E+00 1.000000000E+00 99
*
$
$ SUBCASE 1
$
DLOAD 101 1.00 1.00 201
RLOAD1 201 301 401 501
FORCE* 301 1000 1000 1.000000000E+00
* 0.000000000E+00 0.000000000E+00 1.000000000E+00
DPHASE* 401 1000 3 0.000000000E+00
*
$
$ SUBCASE 2
$
DLOAD 102 1.00 1.00 202
RLOAD1 202 302 402 501
FORCE* 302 1000 1000 1.000000000E+00
* 0.000000000E+00 1.000000000E+00 0.000000000E+00
DPHASE* 402 1000 2 0.000000000E+00
*
$
...........................................................
*
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6......7......8.......9......0
TABLED1 501
* 1.000000000E+00 1.000000000E+00 1.000000000E+02 1.000000000E+00
* ENDT
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6......7......8.......9......0
SPOINT 10000 THRU 10007
SPCOFF1 0 10000 THRU 10007
 Adams2Nastran 25
Bdf file format

$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6......7......8.......9......0
$
$ MARKER 20
$
CORD2R* 1000 -1.000821603D+02 2.999278399D+02
* -8.274412874D-03-1.010821603D+02 2.999280486D+02-8.305584232D-03
* -1.000821914D+02 2.999285405D+02 9.917253412D-01
$
$ MARKER 19
$
CORD2R* 1001 -4.250334666D+02 1.500167286D+02
* 4.132257754D-14-4.245864525D+02 1.509112556D+02 2.866736573D-10
* -4.250334666D+02 1.500167286D+02 1.000000000D+00
$
................................................................
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6......7......8.......9......0
GRID 1000 1000 0.000 0.000 0.000 1000
GRID 1001 1001 0.000 0.000 0.000 1001
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6......7......8.......9......0
DMIG EXMASS 0 1 2 0
DMIG* EXMASS 10000 0
* 10000 0 2.755440476D+00
DMIG* EXMASS 10001 0
* 10001 0 5.252287746D+00
DMIG* EXMASS 10002 0
* 10002 0 5.252287746D+00
..........................................................
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6......7......8.......9......0
DMIG EXDAMP 0 1 2 0
DMIG* EXDAMP 10000 0
* 10000 0 4.532914511D+00
* 10001 0-1.466398703D+00
* 10002 0 5.995003071D-01
* 10004 0-1.864490322D+02
* 10005 0 7.501563296D+00
* 10006 0 1.834580084D+01
*
...............................................................
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6......7......8.......9......0
DMIG EXSTIF 0 1 2 0
DMIG* EXSTIF 10000 0
* 10000 0 3.412018310D+03
26 Adams/Vibration
Bdf file format

* 10001 0-1.466577382D+03
* 10002 0 5.996411340D+02
* 10003 0 1.573367954D-13
* 10004 0-1.864886959D+05
* 10005 0 7.503384141D+03
* 10006 0 1.834937440D+04
....................................................................
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6......7......8.......9......0
MPC* 701 1000 1-1.000000000D+00
* 10001 0-3.102511751D-05
* 10002 0 7.006083498D-04
* 10003 0 9.999997541D-01
MPC* 701 1000 2-1.000000000D+00
* 10001 0 2.087450606D-04
* 10002 0 9.999997328D-01
* 10003 0-7.006018585D-04
.........................................................
ENDDATA
 Adams2Nastran 27
Symmetrization of Not Symmetric matrices

Symmetrization of Not Symmetric matrices

One of the most important items is the possibility to use the MSC.Nastran equivalent model in all the
solution sequences. Considering the A2N approach for building the equivalent model, the final exported
system will include an abstract linear system in the form of DMIGs/SPOINTs/GRIDs.
However dynamical behaviors of generic systems cannot be expressed in terms of symmetric coefficient
matrices. As consequence, the corresponding DMIGs could be used only in some of the MSC.Nastran
solution sequences:
1. Solution 107 to 112, where they can be imported in terms of K2PP, M2PP and B2PP or transfer
funcions (TF)
2. Nonlinear solutions, where asymmetric stiffness matrices are supported to take into account the
effects of follower forces.
In linear static (SOL 101) and normal mode analysis (SOL 103) matrices cannot be asymmetric.
Consequently, the asymmetric systems should be transformed into equivalent symmetric systems, for
taking advantage of the well-developed and standard theories about analysis of symmetric system.
The referenced document - Symmetrization of Not Symmetric matrices - describes some DMAP
procedures developed to this scope: a suite of examples has been also provided for showing the full
procedure.
28 Adams/Vibration
Examples

Examples
• MKB matrices export:
A suite of examples has been provided to illustrate some of the Adams2Nastran features. The
example directory contains several Adams models which demonstrate how mass, stiffness, and
damping matrices can be exported to Nastran for both modal and frequency response analyses.
Each example is stored in a separate directory in the Adams/Vibration distribution
install_dir/vibration/examples/adm2nastran
Each sub-directory contains an A/View command file named "run.cmd" which executes the
example. For a detailed explanation of each example, please refer to the pdf document
"Adams2NastranTests.pdf" in the above directory.
• Symmetrization
A suite of examples has been provided for showing the procedure for symmetrize not symmetric
matrixes for SOL 101 and SOL 103.
The list of examples includes:
• ALTER_Symmetrization_SOL_101
• ALTER_Symmetrization_SOL_103
For a detailed explanation and description about the tests, please refer to Symmetrization of Not
Symmetric matrices.
 1
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

Getting started using Adams/Vibration –

Adams2Nastran feature
Introduction
Using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran (A2N) feature, you can define the operating point at which
exporting the Mass, Stiffness and Damping matrices of the full linearized model and then performing
Nastran modal or frequency response analysis: the operating point has been achieved running
Adams/Solver, taking into account all the nonlinearities of the system and with the possibility to easily
change any parameter or variable for exploring different model configuration and, consequently, to easily
recreate full Nastran equivalent model. The Mass, Stiffness and Damping matrices are exported as
Nastran DMIG and connected to the system using MPC (Multi Point Constraint) while the location of
input channels and output channels (Adams Markers) are exported as Nastran GRIDs and generalized
degrees of freedom as SPOINTs
This guide includes the following section:
• Introducing the Problem
• Building the Model
• Exporting the Mass, Stiffness and Damping Matrices to Nastran bdf file
• Describing the bdf files
• Comparing Adams/Vibration and Nastran results

Introducing the Problem

Overview
This tutorial teaches you how to use Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature - in Adams/View to
perform the Mass, Stiffness and Damping matrices export of the full Adams model to Nastran bdf file
as DMIG matrices.
Accordingly to the proposed steps, you will perform the Adams2Nastran operation on a concept vehicle
situated on a four-post shaker test-rig; you will define the A2N input and output channels; you will export
the model for both Modal Analysis and Frequency Response analysis, and you will have a look into the
corresponding Nastran bdf file.
This chapter provides details about the model you will use, and the problem you will address. It includes
the following sections:
• About This Tutorial
• What You’ll Create
• What You Will Learn

This tutorial takes about half an hour to complete.

2 Adams/Vibration
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

About This Tutorial

We assume that you will work through this tutorial in sequential order. Therefore, we give you more
guidance in the beginning and less as you proceed through the tutorial. If you choose not to work through
the tutorial in sequential order, you may have to reference the beginning chapters for some of the basic
concepts.
We also assume the following:
You know how to run the MD Adams product to which Adams/Vibration plugs in (for example, you
know how to run Adams/View).
Adams/Vibration is installed on your computer or network, and that your path variable contains the
location where Adams/Vibration is installed and that you have permission to execute Adams/Vibration.
If you do not know if Adams/Vibration is installed or where it is located, see your local Adams/Vibration
expert or system administrator.

What You’ll Create

The concept vehicle is situated on a four-post shaker test-rig. The purpose of this test rig is to permit the
definition of different combination of vertical inputs to the four pads and to prepare the model for
measuring into Nastran the vertical displacement, velocity, acceleration of the chassis at different points,
i.e. at the driver’s seat., using frequency response analysis; it permits also the evaluation into Nastran of
normal modes of the system : in both cases the DMIG matrices representation of the Mass, Stiffness and
Damping content .of the Adams model will be used.
In this tutorial, you will perform the extraction of the Mass, Stiffness and Damping matrices in
correspondence of Static operating point, and you will define the range of frequency used from the
Nastran analysis.

What You Will Learn

The tutorial leads you through the A2N process flow outlined in Figure 1.
There are basic steps you should follow whenever you use Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature
and the Adams2Nastran menu in Adams/View is organized to facilitate the Build-Export process.
Step 1: Build : Define A2N input channels to an existing MD Adams model to define location and
actuator characteristic on the system for Nastran Frequency Response Analysis; Define A2N
output channels to measure Disp, Vel, Acc. Response.
Step 2: Export: Define the operating point, the Nastran analysis type, the frequency content and the
combination of A2N input and output channels; run a linear analysis for evaluating Mass,
Stiffness and Damping matrices of the system and export them into Nastran bdf file as DMIG
matrices.
 3
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

Select Fortran or Adams/Solver (C++) and Nastran output type (displacement, velocities, accelerations).

Figure 1 Adams2Nastran process flow

Building the Model

Overview
In this section, you start with a full nonlinear MD Adams model and add to it A2N input and output
channels.
Completing this section involves the following:
4 Adams/Vibration
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

• Starting Adams/View and Importing the Model

• Loading Adams/Vibration
• Creating A2N Input Channels
• Creating A2N Output Channels

Starting Adams/View and Importing the Model

In this section, you learn how to start Adams/Vibration from within Adams/View.
In the UNIX environment, you start Adams/View from the MD Adams Toolbar and then, from within
Adams/View, you load the Adams/Vibration plugin.
In the Windows environment, you start Adams/View from the Start menu, and then load the
Adams/Vibration plugin.
For information on starting MD Adams, see the Running and Configuring online help.

To start MD Adams and import your model:

1. Create a working directory, and copy the contents of
install_dir/vibration/examples/adm2nastran/a2n_vehicle_model to that directory (where
install_dir is the directory where Adams/Vibration is installed).

Note: On Windows, you may need to set the permissions to Full Control to edit the tutorial files.

2. Do either of the following depending on the platform on which you are running
Adams/View:
• In UNIX, type the command to start the MD Adams Toolbar at the command prompt, and then
press Enter. Select the Adams/View tool .
• In Windows, from the Start menu, point to Programs, point to MSC.Software, point to MD
Adams 2010, point to AView, and then select Adams - View.
The Welcome dialog box appears, in the Adams/View main window.
3. Select Import a File.
4. Select the Find Directory tool next to the Start in text box. This displays the Find Directory
dialog box.

Note: The Start in text box specifies the working directory that Adams/Vibration uses as the
default directory for reading and writing files.

5. Navigate to the working directory that you created in step 1.

6. Select OK.
 5
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

This ensures that all your work gets stored in the working directory you selected.
7. Select OK.
The File Import dialog box appears.
8. Right-click the File to Read text box, and select Browse.
9. Select the file a2n_concept_vehicle.cmd.
10. Select OK.
Adams/View opens the vehicle model and displays it, as shown in Figure 2.

Figure 2 A2N Concept Vehicle

The concept vehicle contains 4 markers of the wheels located at wheel centers, 4 markers of the chassis
located at end of the Spring-Dampers and 1 marker of chassis located at the driver’s seat, as shown in
Figure 3 and Figure 4.

Input and output channels will be defined in correspondence of these markers.

6 Adams/Vibration
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature
 7
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

Figure 3 Front suspension

Figure 4 Rear suspension

Loading Adams/Vibration
Because Adams/Vibration is a plugin to Adams/Car, and Adams/View, you need to load
Adams/Vibration when you use Adams/Vibration from within any of these products. If you’re creating a
new model, or importing a model that has no Adams/Vibration data associated with it, you will need to
load the Adams/Vibration plugin. If, however, you’re importing a model that already has
Adams/Vibration data, the plugin automatically loads when you open the model.

To load Adams/Vibration:
1. From the Tools menu, select Plugin Manager.
8 Adams/Vibration
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

2. Select the Load checkbox next to Adams/Vibration.

3. Select OK.
Adams/View loads the Adams/Vibration plugin and displays the Vibration menu. If you receive an error
message, you might have a problem with your licensing. Contact your system administrator or local MD
Adams expert.
Remember, you only need to load Adams/Vibration when working with a new model. Once you have an
Adams/Vibration model, you do not have to load the product. It automatically loads when you import
your file.

Note: To automatically load Adams/Vibration each time Adams/View starts up, in the Plugin
Manager, select the Load at Startup checkbox.

Creating A2N Input Channels

Here you create A2N input channels at the wheel centers (along the local Z direction).
Input channels provide ports into your system that you can use to define actuators in the Nastran bdf file.
An actuator applies force input to vibrate the system for the Nastran Frequency Response Analysis.
For this problem, we will define Swept-sine actuators with Amplitude = 1 and phase = 0, providing in-
phase excitation to the system, over the range of specified frequencies. For providing out-of-phase
excitation, it is possible to change amplitude sign or phase value. We will get in any case a Nastran bdf
file, which can be easily edited and modified by the user, for inserting different amplitude and phase
values, as he could decide to define different combination of inputs and outputs for creating different
analysis subcases.
Creating A2N input channels, A2N output channels (velocities state variables) on the same markers will
be automatically created.

To create A2N input channels:

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Adams2Nastran, point to Input Channel, and then select
New.
The Create A2N Input Channel dialog box appears, as shown in Figure 5.
2. In the Input Channel Name text box, enter .a2n_Concept_vehicle.a2n_Input_Channel_lf
(lf means left_front).
3. Right-click the Input Marker text box, point to Marker, and then select Pick.
Pick the left_front_wheel.center_wheel.
(or select Browse, the Database Navigator appears and double-click
left_front_wheel.center_wheel).
Adams/Vibration inserts this marker into the Input Marker text box.
 9
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

4. Set the Actuator Parameter DOF to Z.

5. Set Mode to Translational.
6. In the Force Magnitude text box, enter 1.
7. In the Phase Angle (deg) text box, enter 0.
8. Select Apply.
Adams/Vibration creates the A2N input channel, creates automatically the A2N output channel
(output_from_A2N_input_channel_lf) and leaves the dialog box open so you can create the second
A2N input channel.

Figure 5 A2N Input Channel dialog box

9. In the Input Channel Name text box, enter .a2n_Concept_vehicle.a2n_Input_Channel_rf (rf

means right_front).
10. Right-click the Input Marker text box, point to Marker, and then select Pick.
Pick the right_front_wheel.center_wheel.
(or select Browse, the Database Navigator appears and double-click
right_front_wheel.center_wheel).
11. Set the Actuator Parameter DOF to Z.
12. Set Mode to Translational.
13. In the Force Magnitude text box, enter 1.
14. In the Phase Angle (deg) text box, enter 0.
10 Adams/Vibration
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

15. Select Apply.

Adams/Vibration creates another A2N input channel, creates automatically the A2N output channel
(output_from_A2N_input_channel_rf) and leaves the dialog box open
16. In the Input Channel Name text box, enter .a2n_Concept_vehicle.a2n_Input_Channel_lr.
(lr means left_rear)
17. Right-click the Input Marker text box, point to Marker, and then select Pick.
Pick the left_rear_wheel.center_wheel.
(or select Browse, the Database Navigator appears and double-click
left_rear_wheel.center_wheel).
18. Set the Actuator Parameter DOF to Z.
19. Set Mode to Translational.
20. In the Force Magnitude text box, enter 1.
21. In the Phase Angle (deg) text box, enter 0.
22. Select Apply.
Adams/Vibration creates another A2N input channel, creates automatically the A2N output channel
(output_from_A2N_input_channel_lr) and leaves the dialog box open
23. In the Input Channel Name text box, enter .a2n_Concept_vehicle.a2n_Input_Channel_rr.
(rr means right_rear)
24. Right-click the Input Marker text box, point to Marker, and then select Pick.
Pick the right_rear_wheel.center_wheel.
(or select Browse, the Database Navigator appears and double-click
right_rear_wheel.center_wheel).
25. Set the Actuator Parameter DOF to Z.
26. Set Mode to Translational.
27. In the Force Magnitude text box, enter 1.
28. In the Phase Angle (deg) text box, enter 0.
29. Select OK.
Adams/Vibration creates another A2N input channel, creates automatically the A2N output channel
(output_from_A2N_input_channel_rr) and closes the dialog box.

Creating A2N Output Channels

Here you create other output channels. Output channels are output ports at which you examine the
frequency response of the system. You can think of output channels as instrumentation ports where you
can measure system response and report the results of the Nastran Frequency Response Analysis directly
in the frequency domain.
 11
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

To create A2N output channels:

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Adams2Nastran, point to Output Channel, and then select
New.
The Create A2N Output Channel dialog box appears, as shown in Figure 6.
2. In the Output Channel Name text box, enter:
.a2n_Concept_vehicle.a2n_Output_Channel_seat.
3. Right-click the Output Marker text box, point to Marker, and then select Browse.
The Database Navigator appears.
4. Double-click chassis.cm.
Adams/Vibration inserts the marker chassis.cm into the Output Marker text box.
5. Select OK.
Adams/Vibration creates an A2N output channel.

Figure 6 A2N Output Channel dialog box

Exporting the Mass, Stiffness and Damping Matrices to Nastran bdf file

Overview
In this section, you export to Nastran bdf file the Adams model Mass, Stiffness and Damping matrices
evaluated at a particular configuration (after assembly, static or dynamic analysis). Completing this
section involves the following:
• Creating A2N Analysis and defining Operation Point
• Defining Nastran analysis type
• Defining Adams analysis options
• Defining Frequency Range
• Defining Subcases
• Defining Nastran data
12 Adams/Vibration
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

Creating A2N Analysis and defining Operation Point

The Modal and Frequency Response Analysis set up the reference configuration for your model.
When you create a A2N analysis, Adams/Vibration evaluates and designates input and output locations.
These locations are used when you perform the Nastran analysis, and they will be written in the bdf file.
The user can choose if he wants to export data for a Modal or a Frequency Response Analysis.
.We will perform a modal analysis before and then a Frequency Response Analysis (1 subcase only).

Modal Analysis

To create A2N analysis and to define the Operating Point:

1. From the Vibration menu, point to Adams2Nastran, and then select MKB Matrices export.
The Adams to Nastran MKB matrices export dialog box appears, as shown in Figure 7.
2. In the A2N Analysis Name text box, enter .a2n_Concept_vehicle.A2N_Analysis_modal.
3. For Operating Point, select Static.
This linearizes the model around an equilibrated configuration.

To define Nastran analysis type:

4. Select Modal.
5. In the File Prefix text box, enter vehicle.

To define Adams analysis options:

6. Select Damping.
7. Don’t select Linear Options (C++ only): the Adams/Solver (FORTRAN) will be used by default;
otherwise the Adams/Solver (C++) will be automatically selected. The user can change Solver
also selecting it from the Vibration menu, point to Adams2Nastran, and then Solver settings.

To define Nastran data:

8. Insert starting ID number in the GRID ID offset text box and starting SPOINT in the SPOINT
ID offset text box
9. Select Apply.
Adams/Vibration will perform the static analysis, evaluate markers position and extract Mass, Stiffness
and Damping matrices in the equilibrated configuration, then it will write out the Nastran bdf file:
vehicle_eig.bdf.
 13
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

A message window will be displayed, monitoring the performed analysis, as shown in Figure 8.
14 Adams/Vibration
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature
 15
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

Figure 7 MKB matrices export dialog box: Modal Analysis

Figure 8 Modal analysis : message window

Frequency Response Analysis

To create A2N analysis and to define the Operating Point:

1. In the A2N Analysis Name text box, enter .a2n_Concept_vehicle.A2N_Analysis_frf.
2. For Operating Point, select Static.

To define Nastran analysis type:

3. Select Frequency Response: the Frequency response container is displayed as shown in Figure 9.
4. In the File Prefix text box, leave vehicle.

To define Adams analysis options:

5. Select Damping.
6. Don’t select Linear Options (C++ only):

To define Frequency Range:

7. Don’t’select Logarithmic Spacing of Steps.
8. Under Frequency Range (hz), in the Begin text box, enter 1.
9. In the End text box, enter 100.
10. In the Steps text box, enter 99.

To define Subcases:
11. Right-click the Input Channels text box, point to A2N_Input_channel, point to Guesses, and
then select *.
Adams/Vibration inserts all the A2N input channels you created earlier, that is
a2n_Input_Channel_lf
a2n_Input_Channel_lr
a2n_Input_Channel_rf
16 Adams/Vibration
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

a2n_Input_Channel_rr
into the Input Channels text box.
12. Right-click the Output Channels text box, point to OA2N_Output_channel, point to Guesses,
and then select *.
Adams/Vibration inserts all the output channels you created earlier, that is
output_from_a2n_Input_Channel_lf
output_from_a2n_Input_Channel_rf
output_from_a2n_Input_Channel_lr
output_from_a2n_Input_Channel_rr
Output_Channel_seat
into the Output Channels text box.
13. Select Disp as Output type
14. Select Create Subcase # 1: Adams/Vibration stores all data regarding Subcase # 1.
To create a New Subcase, select New Subcase.

To define Nastran data:

15. Insert starting ID number in the GRID ID offset text box and starting SPOINT in the SPOINT
ID offset text box.
16. Select OK.
Adams/Vibration will perform the static analysis, evaluate markers position and extract Mass, Stiffness
and Damping matrices in the equilibrated configuration, then it will write out the Nastran bdf file:
vehicle_frf.bdf
 17
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

A message window will be displayed, monitoring the performed analysis and summarizing most
important data, as shown in Figure 10.
18 Adams/Vibration
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature
 19
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

Figure 9 MKB matrices export dialog box: Frequency Response Analysis

Figure 10 Frequency Response analysis : message window

Describing the bdf files

In this section, a brief description of the content of Nastran bdf files provided by Adams2Nastran feature
is presented.
For each solution (SOL 107 and SOL 108) it has been reported the Adams statement and the equivalent
Nastran one.
For detailed description of Nastran cards, please refer to Nastran Quick Reference Guide.
20 Adams/Vibration
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

SOL 107: Modal Analysis

Blocks description:
1. Header block: it has been included for information purposes
It contains:
• date of creation
• name of the Adams model
• name of analysis
• system of units
• useful remarks
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
$
$ ADAMS TO Nastran
$ Version 2006.1.0
$
$ Create: Thu Sep 28 14:11:48 2006
$ Model: a2n_Concept_vehicle
$ Result: A2N_Analysis_modal_analysis
$ Matrix: MKB_LINEAR
$ Units: Mass = kg
$ Length = mm
$ Force = newton
$ Time = sec
$
$ Remarks:
$ 1 - PARAM WTMASS is set to 1.000-3 for FE model.
$
$
2. Executive Deck
Type of Nastran solution
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
SOL 107
CEND

3. Control Case Deck

It contains:
• eigenvalue method ID
• Mass matrix name
• Stiffness matrix name
• Damping matrix name
$
$ GLOBAL CASE
 21
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

$
ECHO = NONE
CMETHOD = 101
$
$ ADAMS SYSTEM
$
M2PP = 1.000-3 * EXMASS
B2PP = EXDAMP
K2PP = EXSTIF
4. Bulk Data Deck
It contains:
• PARAM cards
• Complex Eigenvalue Analysis card
• SPOINTs definition
• SPCOFF1 definition
• DMIG matrices: Mass, Stiffness, Damping
• ENDDATA

BEGIN BULK
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
PARAM WTMASS 1.000-3
PARAM POST 0
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
EIGC 101 HESS 30
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
SPOINT 10000 THRU 10014
SPCOFF1 0 10000 THRU 10014
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
DMIG EXMASS 0 1 2 0
DMIG* EXMASS 10000 0
* 10000 0 2.024450228D+01
* 10001 0-2.983384010D-12
* 10002 0 9.843529185D-01
* 10003 0 1.255368365D+00
* 10004 0 1.152556266D-13
* 10005 0-1.209118964D+00
* 10006 0 9.770409669D-14
DMIG* EXMASS 10001 0
* 10000 0-2.983384010D-12
* 10001 0 2.022750866D+01
* 10002 0 9.975685248D-01
* 10003 0-8.602381364D-01
* 10004 0-1.130941551D-13
* 10005 0 9.095326767D-01
* 10006 0-1.168722042D-13
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
DMIG EXDAMP 0 1 2 0
DMIG* EXDAMP 10000 0
* 10000 0 2.377423746D+00
* 10001 0 5.366176817D-12
* 10002 0-1.770614960D+00
* 10003 0-3.945918287D+00
* 10004 0-3.622755655D-13
* 10005 0 3.910387431D+00
* 10006 0-3.159828628D-13
DMIG* EXDAMP 10001 0
* 10000 0 5.366176655D-12
22 Adams/Vibration
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

* 10001 0 2.365513683D+00
* 10002 0-1.758968214D+00
* 10003 0 3.270187897D+00
* 10004 0-3.500670975D-14
* 10005 0-3.305490734D+00
* 10006 0-7.045371647D-14
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
DMIG EXSTIF 0 1 2 0
DMIG* EXSTIF 10000 0
* 10000 0 5.529439021D+02
* 10001 0 5.657090515D-10
* 10002 0-1.866614623D+02
* 10003 0-3.872688442D+02
* 10004 0-3.555523184D-11
* 10005 0 3.835275741D+02
* 10006 0-3.099133857D-11
DMIG* EXSTIF 10001 0
* 10000 0 5.657809455D-10
* 10001 0 5.510553492D+02
* 10002 0-1.848608254D+02
* 10003 0 3.150141449D+02
* 10004 0 1.252339095D-11
* 10005 0-3.187204575D+02
* 10006 0 9.164562683D-12
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
ENDDATA

SOL 108: Frequency Response Analysis

Blocks description:

1. Header block: it has been included for information purposes

It contains:
• date of creation
• name of the Adams model
• name of analysis
• system of units
• useful remarks
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
$
$ ADAMS TO Nastran
$ Version 2006.1.0
$
$ Create: Thu Sep 28 14:37:00 2006
$ Model: a2n_Concept_vehicle
 23
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

$ Result: A2N_Analysis_frf_analysis
$ Matrix: MKB_LINEAR
$ Units: Mass = kg
$ Length = mm
$ Force = newton
$ Time = sec
$
$ Remarks:
$ 1 - PARAM WTMASS is set to 1.000-3 for FE model.
$
2. Executive Deck
Type of Nastran solution
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
SOL 108
CEND

3. Control Case Deck

It contains:
• Mass matrix name
• Stiffness matrix name
• Damping matrix name
• MPC ID
• Eventually SPC ID
• Subcases
- DLOAD ID
- GRID set for output
- Output type (disp, vel, acc) and format
$ GLOBAL CASE
$
ECHO = NONE
$
$ ADAMS SYSTEM
$
M2PP = 1.000-3 * EXMASS
B2PP = EXDAMP
K2PP = EXSTIF
MPC = 701
$
$ SUBCASES
$
FREQ = 601
$
SUBCASE 1
DLOAD = 101
SET 901 = 1000, 1001, 1002, 1003, 1004
DISP(SORT2,REAL,PLOT) = 901
4. Bulk Data Deck
It contains:
• PARAM cards
• Frequency parameters: start, end, steps, logarithmic space
24 Adams/Vibration
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

• Actuator parameters subcase by subcase

- DLOAD
- RLOAD1
- FORCE
- DPHASE
• TABLED1 parameters
• SPOINTs definition
• SPCOFF1 definition
• CORD2R definition: reference system for GRID
• GRID definition: ID, Reference system,
• DMIG matrices: Mass, Stiffness, Damping
• MPC data
• Eventually SPC data for fixing dofs with no values in DMIG
• ENDDATA

BEGIN BULK
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
PARAM WTMASS 1.000-3
PARAM POST 0
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
FREQ1* 601 1.000000000E+00 1.000000000E+00 99
*
$
$ SUBCASE 1
$
DLOAD 101 1.00 1.00 201 1.00 202 1.00 203
1.00 204
RLOAD1 201 301 401 501
RLOAD1 202 302 402 501
RLOAD1 203 303 403 501
RLOAD1 204 304 404 501
FORCE* 301 1000 1000 1.000000000E+00
* 0.000000000E+00 0.000000000E+00 1.000000000E+00
FORCE* 302 1002 1002 1.000000000E+00
* 0.000000000E+00 0.000000000E+00 1.000000000E+00
FORCE* 303 1001 1001 1.000000000E+00
* 0.000000000E+00 0.000000000E+00 1.000000000E+00
FORCE* 304 1003 1003 1.000000000E+00
* 0.000000000E+00 0.000000000E+00 1.000000000E+00
DPHASE* 401 1000 3 0.000000000E+00
*
DPHASE* 402 1002 3 0.000000000E+00
*
DPHASE* 403 1001 3 0.000000000E+00
*
DPHASE* 404 1003 3 0.000000000E+00
*
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
 25
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

TABLED1 501
* 1.000000000E+00 1.000000000E+00 1.000000000E+02 1.000000000E+00
* ENDT
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
SPOINT 10000 THRU 10014
SPCOFF1 0 10000 THRU 10014
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
$
$ MARKER 40142
$
CORD2R* 1000 2.475740242D+02-9.078700962D+02
* 3.157066811D+02 2.475734435D+02-9.078681974D+02 3.167066792D+02
* 2.485740241D+02-9.078701064D+02 3.157072619D+02
$
$ MARKER 40141
$
CORD2R* 1001 2.475837217D+02 9.082203448D+02
* 3.112969549D+02 2.475824204D+02 9.082222338D+02 3.122969523D+02
* 2.485837208D+02 9.082203369D+02 3.112982561D+02
$
$ MARKER 40144
$
CORD2R* 1002 3.098665659D+03-8.413320186D+02
* 3.165435790D+02 3.098664704D+03-8.413304485D+02 3.175435773D+02
* 3.099665659D+03-8.413320140D+02 3.165445340D+02
$
$ MARKER 40143
$
CORD2R* 1003 3.098793748D+03 8.414624204D+02
* 3.159420941D+02 3.098792787D+03 8.414639729D+02 3.169420924D+02
* 3.099793747D+03 8.414624254D+02 3.159430551D+02
$
$ MARKER 4
$
CORD2R* 1004 1.673000000D+03 0.000000000D+00
* 2.401403295D+02 1.672999042D+03 1.794576611D-03 2.411403275D+02
* 1.674000000D+03 1.718932160D-06 2.401412874D+02
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
GRID 1000 1000 0.000 0.000 0.000 1000
GRID 1001 1001 0.000 0.000 0.000 1001
GRID 1002 1002 0.000 0.000 0.000 1002
GRID 1003 1003 0.000 0.000 0.000 1003
GRID 1004 1004 0.000 0.000 0.000 1004
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
DMIG EXMASS 0 1 2 0
DMIG* EXMASS 10000 0
* 10000 0 2.024450228D+01
* 10001 0-2.982935319D-12
* 10002 0 9.843529185D-01
* 10003 0 1.255368365D+00
* 10004 0 1.152449065D-13
* 10005 0-1.209118964D+00
* 10006 0 9.770311489D-14
DMIG* EXMASS 10001 0
* 10000 0-2.982935319D-12
* 10001 0 2.022750866D+01
* 10002 0 9.975685248D-01
* 10003 0-8.602381364D-01
* 10004 0-1.123596577D-13
* 10005 0 9.095326767D-01
* 10006 0-1.171047919D-13
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
DMIG EXDAMP 0 1 2 0
DMIG* EXDAMP 10000 0
* 10000 0 2.377423746D+00
* 10001 0 5.365084312D-12
* 10002 0-1.770614960D+00
26 Adams/Vibration
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

* 10003 0-3.945918287D+00
* 10004 0-3.622418697D-13
* 10005 0 3.910387431D+00
* 10006 0-3.159796876D-13
DMIG* EXDAMP 10001 0
* 10000 0 5.365084150D-12
* 10001 0 2.365513683D+00
* 10002 0-1.758968214D+00
* 10003 0 3.270187897D+00
* 10004 0-3.515501946D-14
* 10005 0-3.305490734D+00
* 10006 0-7.060952004D-14
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
DMIG EXSTIF 0 1 2 0
DMIG* EXSTIF 10000 0
* 10000 0 5.529439021D+02
* 10001 0 5.656009746D-10
* 10002 0-1.866614623D+02
* 10003 0-3.872688442D+02
* 10004 0-3.555192480D-11
* 10005 0 3.835275741D+02
* 10006 0-3.099102715D-11
DMIG* EXSTIF 10001 0
* 10000 0 5.656728633D-10
* 10001 0 5.510553492D+02
* 10002 0-1.848608254D+02
* 10003 0 3.150141449D+02
* 10004 0 1.251492228D-11
* 10005 0-3.187204575D+02
* 10006 0 9.156850638D-12
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
$......1.......2.......3.......4.......5.......6.......7.......8.......9.......0
MPC* 701 1000 1-1.000000000D+00
* 10000 0-7.912242725D-03
* 10001 0-1.067902581D-13
* 10002 0 3.523390270D-02
* 10003 0 1.009569150D-02
* 10005 0-3.683663169D-02
* 10006 0 2.976591853D-15
*
MPC* 701 1000 2-1.000000000D+00
* 10000 0 7.685973208D-02
* 10001 0 2.311493596D-13
* 10002 0-7.627791166D-02
* 10003 0 2.162781519D-03
* 10005 0-4.643385172D-03
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
ENDDATA
 27
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

Comparing Adams/Vibration and Nastran results

Overview
In this section, a comparison between Adams/Vibration and Nastran results is presented: both modal and
frequency response analysis have been performed providing eigenvalue tables and magnitude/phase vs
frequency plots.
It is not shown the procedure for creating standard Adams/vibration input and output channels, how to
run Adams/Vibration or Nastran for getting results which is out of the scope of the present tutorial.
Completing this section involves the following:
• Eigenvalue comparison:
• Frequency response analysis plot comparison:

Eigenvalue comparison:
The Nastran table contains complex eigenvalues and the ordering is different wrt Adams table (due to
different order extraction), but the values match exactly.

Adams/Vibration
MODE UNDAMPED NATURAL DAMPING
NUMBER FREQUENCY RATIO REAL IMAGINARY

1 3.183099E+001 1.000000E+000 -3.183099E+001 0.000000E+000

2 3.183099E+001 1.000000E+000 -3.183099E+001 0.000000E+000

3 3.183099E+001 1.000000E+000 -3.183099E+001 0.000000E+000

4 3.183099E+001 1.000000E+000 -3.183099E+001 0.000000E+000

5 4.154554E+000 1.908554E-001 -7.929192E-001 +/- 4.078185E+000

6 5.627360E+000 1.413466E-001 -7.954082E-001 +/- 5.570862E+000

7 7.447912E+000 2.206229E-001 -1.643180E+000 +/- 7.264389E+000

8 2.414114E+001 4.446276E-001 -1.073382E+001 +/- 2.162360E+001

9 2.420125E+001 4.463721E-001 -1.080276E+001 +/- 2.165643E+001

10 2.620374E+001 3.770737E-001 -9.880742E+000 +/- 2.426947E+001

11 2.644142E+001 3.870627E-001 -1.023449E+001 +/- 2.438040E+001

12 1.492581E+003 1.172233E-005 -1.749652E-002 +/- 1.492581E+003

13 1.492630E+003 1.172318E-005 -1.749838E-002 +/- 1.492630E+003

14 1.492630E+003 1.172318E-005 -1.749838E-002 +/- 1.492630E+003

15 1.492630E+003 1.172318E-005 -1.749838E-002 +/- 1.492630E+003

28 Adams/Vibration
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

Nastran
C O M P L E X E I G E N V A L U E S U M M A R Y
ROOT EXTRACTION EIGENVALUE FREQUENCY DAMPING

NO. ORDER (REAL) (IMAG) (CYCLES) COEFFICIENT

1 13 -4.982058E+00 -2.562399E+01 4.078186E+00 3.888588E-01

2 14 -4.982058E+00 2.562399E+01 4.078186E+00 3.888588E-01

3 11 -4.997697E+00 -3.500276E+01 5.570862E+00 2.855602E-01

4 12 -4.997697E+00 3.500276E+01 5.570862E+00 2.855602E-01

5 9 -1.032440E+01 -4.564350E+01 7.264389E+00 4.523932E-01

6 10 -1.032440E+01 4.564350E+01 7.264389E+00 4.523932E-01

7 24 -2.000000E+02 0.0 0.0 0.0

8 23 -2.000000E+02 0.0 0.0 0.0

9 25 -2.000000E+02 0.0 0.0 0.0

10 26 -2.000000E+02 0.0 0.0 0.0

11 7 -6.744256E+01 -1.358651E+02 2.162359E+01 9.927874E-01

12 8 -6.744256E+01 1.358651E+02 2.162359E+01 9.927874E-01

13 5 -6.787576E+01 -1.360714E+02 2.165643E+01 9.976495E-01

14 6 -6.787576E+01 1.360714E+02 2.165643E+01 9.976495E-01

15 3 -6.208253E+01 -1.524896E+02 2.426947E+01 8.142528E-01

 29
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

16 4 -6.208253E+01 1.524896E+02 2.426947E+01 8.142528E-01

17 1 -6.430517E+01 -1.531866E+02 2.438040E+01 8.395666E-01

18 2 -6.430517E+01 1.531866E+02 2.438040E+01 8.395666E-01

19 19 -1.099339E-01 -9.378163E+03 1.492581E+03 2.344465E-05

20 20 -1.099339E-01 9.378163E+03 1.492581E+03 2.344465E-05

21 21 -1.099455E-01 -9.378474E+03 1.492630E+03 2.344636E-05

22 17 -1.099455E-01 -9.378474E+03 1.492630E+03 2.344636E-05

23 15 -1.099455E-01 -9.378474E+03 1.492630E+03 2.344636E-05

24 22 -1.099455E-01 9.378474E+03 1.492630E+03 2.344636E-05

25 18 -1.099455E-01 9.378474E+03 1.492630E+03 2.344636E-05

26 16 -1.099455E-01 9.378474E+03 1.492630E+03 2.344636E-05

30 Adams/Vibration
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

Frequency response analysis plot comparison:

The following plots show the the comparison between Nastran and Adams/Vibration frequency response
analysis: magnitude and phase evaluated at the output channels, wheel centers and driver’s seat.
 31
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

Figure 11 Adams vs. Nastran wheel’s center magnitude

32 Adams/Vibration
Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature

Figure 12 Adams vs. Nastran wheel’s center phase

Figure 13 Adams vs. Nastran driver’s seat mag and phase

Examples and Tutorials
The following Adams/Vibration examples are available:
• Getting Started Using Adams/Vibration
• Getting started using Adams/Vibration – Adams2Nastran feature
• Adams/Vibration features
• Python Examples

You can also find many examples in your Adams/Vibration installation directory (install_dir/examples).
Each folder contains all of the files required to run the example.
174 Adams/Vibration
 Dialog Box - F1 Help 1

Dialog Box - F1 Help

2 Adams/Vibration
Actuator Preview Plot

Actuator Preview Plot

Vibration -> Build -> Input Channel -> Modify -> Plot Actuator

Plot your actuator without running a simulation.

For the option: Do the following:

Tips on Entering Object Names in Text Boxes
Input Channel Name Enter the name of the input channel you want to create or modify.
Logarithmic Spacing of Steps Select if you want the frequency steps spaced logarithmically. If not
selected, the steps are spaced linearly.
Begin Enter the beginning value for the frequency range.
End Enter the ending value for the frequency range.
Steps Enter the number of steps in the frequency range.
Actuator Value To Plot Select one of the following:

• Phase - Plots the phase of the actuator.

• Magnitude - Plots the magnitude of the actuator.
Horizontal Axis Scale Select one of the following:

• Linear
• Logarithmic
Close Action Select one of the following:

• Delete Plot - When you close this dialog box,

Adams/Vibration deletes the plot.
• Save Plot - When you close this dialog box, Adams/Vibration
saves the plot in the database and creates a page for it in
Adams/PostProcessor.
If you set Close Action to Save Plot, Adams/Vibration displays the following option:
Name Enter the name for the plot object that will be stored in the database.
 Dialog Box - F1 Help 3
Create Design Variable from File

Create Design Variable from File

Vibration -> Test -> Vibration Analysis -> User-Specified Frequencies -> Create Design Variable from File

Creates a design variable from the values in a specified file.

For the option: Do the following:

Tips on Entering File Names in Text Boxes
Filename Enter the name of an ASCII file that contains the design variable values. The
design variable is used to define the frequencies at which the vibration
analysis is performed.

To accommodate a wide variety of formats used by third-party software, the

format of the file to be read is intentionally general. Adams/Vibration only
reads the lines that begin with a number. All other lines are considered
comments and are ignored. Using this command, output files generated from
finite element, modal analysis, or custom programs can be read into
Adams/Vibration.
Design Variable Name Enter the name of the design variable you want to create.
4 Adams/Vibration
Create Vibration Design Constraint Macro

Create Vibration Design Constraint Macro

Vibration -> Improve -> Vibration Design Constraint -> New/Modify or
Simulate -> Design Constraint -> New/Modify -> /View Variable and Vibration Macro

For the option: Do the following:

Tips on Entering Object Names in Text Boxes
Macro Name Specify the name of the macro you are creating.
Return Value Variable Specify the name of the variable you want to use in your design study.
Target Vibration Data Select one of the following options:

• Freq. Resp. Magnitude Limit: 1 Input, 1 Output - The

frequency response of the specified output channel to the
specified input channel.
• Freq. Resp. Magnitude Limit: All Inputs, 1 Output - The
frequency response of the specified output channel to the all
input channels.
• Modal Energy: Kinetic Energy - The modal energy kinetic
energy value for a specified object.
• Modal Energy: Strain Energy - The modal energy strain
energy value for a specified object.
Depending on how you set Target Vibration Data, Adams/Vibration may display the following
options:
Limit Value Specify a value below which the Target Vibration Data (see option
above) must be for the constraint to be satisfied.
Input Channel Enter the input channel you want to use in your macro.
Output Channel Enter the output channel you want to use in your macro.
Frequency Range Select one of the following:

• All Frequencies - Use all frequencies from your frequency

response calculation.
• Specific Range - Enter a range of frequencies.
Mode Number Enter the mode number of interest.
Object Type Select an object type.
Object Name Enter the name of the object of interest.
Body Name Enter the name of the body of interest.
Component Select an object component.
 Dialog Box - F1 Help 5
Create Vibration Design Objective Macro

Create Vibration Design Objective Macro

Vibration -> Improve -> Vibration Design Object -> New/Modify or
Simulate -> Design Objective -> New/Modify -> /View Variable and Vibration Macro

Creates a macro capable of retrieving vibration-specific data. You can then use it when performing a
design study.

For the option: Do the following:

Tips on Entering Object Names in Text Boxes
Macro Name Specify the name of the macro you are creating.
Return Value Variable Specify the name of the variable you want to use in your design study.
Target Vibration Data Select one of the following options:
This option: Returns:
Frequency Response: 1 A minimum or maximum value of the
Input, 1 Output frequency response curve.
Frequency Response: All A minimum or maximum value of the
Inputs, 1 Output frequency response curve.
Freq. Resp. Magnitude of A minimum or maximum value of the
sums: 1 Input, Multiple frequency response curve for each pairing of
Outputs the input channel with the multiple output
channels.

The minimum or maximum values are

summed, and used as the return value for the
design objective macro.

See Example: Freq. Resp. Magnitude of sums:

1 Input, Multiple Outputs
Freq. Resp. Magnitude of Same as above, except all input channels are
sums: All Inputs, Multiple used together (you do not specify the input
Outputs channels themselves).

See Example: Freq. Resp. Magnitude of sums:

All Inputs, Multiple Outputs
Freq. Response Area: 1 The sum of the areas beneath the frequency
Input, Multiple Outputs response curves for each pairing of the input
channel with the output channels.

See Example: Freq. Response Area: 1 Input,

Multiple Outputs
6 Adams/Vibration
Create Vibration Design Objective Macro

For the option: Do the following:

Freq. Response Area: All Same as above, except all input channels are
Inputs, Multiple Outputs used together (you do not specify the input
channels themselves).

See Example: Freq. Response Area: All Inputs,

Multiple Outputs
Frequency Response Error: The sum, maximum, or average error between
1 Input, 1 Output the test data you provide and a one input / one
output Frequency Response calculation.
Frequency Response Error: The sum, maximum, or average error between
All Inputs, 1 Output the test data you provide and an output
frequency response calculation.
PSD: 1 Output A minimum or maximum value of the
frequency response curve.
Modal Participation: 1 Input, A minimum or maximum value of the
1 Output frequency response curve.
Eigen Natural Frequency The amount of error between the test value you
Error provide and the natural frequency value for a
particular mode number in the eigen solution.
Eigen Real Part The eigen solution's real part for a specified
mode.
Eigen Imaginary Part The eigen solution's imaginary part for a
specified mode.
Eigen Damping Ratio The eigen solution's damping ratio for a
specified mode.
Modal Energy: Normalized The modal energy normalized coordinates
Coordinates value for a specified object.
Modal Energy: Kinetic The modal energy kinetic energy value for a
Energy specified object.
Modal Energy: Strain The modal energy strain energy value for a
Energy specified object.
Modal Energy: Dissipative The modal energy dissipative energy value for
Energy a specified object.
Depending on how you set Target Vibration Data, Adams/Vibration may display the following options:
Input Channel Enter the input channel you want to use in your macro.
Output Channel Enter the output channel you want to use in your macro.
 Dialog Box - F1 Help 7
Create Vibration Design Objective Macro

For the option: Do the following:

Value Type Specify one of the following:

• Minimum (Sum of Minimums) - Uses minimum (sum of minimum)

values.
• Maximum (Sum of Maximums) - Uses maximum (sum of
maximum) values.
Frequency Range Select one of the following:

• All Frequencies - Use all frequencies from your frequency response

calculation.
• Specific Range - Enter a range of frequencies.
Test Data Enter a result set component that represents your test data. This data may have
been created by the file testdata read or other actions that can create results set
components. The number of values you provide should be the same as the
number of frequencies used for the frequency response calculation.
Error Type Specify how you want the error value to be computed. The basic process is to
take the frequency response curve that is obtained using the Input Channel and
Output Channel values and then see how it differs from the curve obtained
from the Test Data.

Select one of the following:

• Sum - The absolute values of the differences between the curves at

each of their points are added together to yield the error value.
• Maximum - The maximum difference between the curves represents
the error value.
• Average - The absolute values of the differences between the curves
at each of their points are added together and then averaged to yield
the error value.
Mode Number Enter the mode number of interest.
Test Value Enter the target value. The absolute value of the difference between the test
value and the natural frequency for the specified mode will be the return value
for the macro.
Object Type Select an object type.
Object Name Enter the name of the object of interest.
Component/State Depending on the Object Type you selected, Adams/Vibration will display the
Component pull-down menu or the State text box:

• Component - Select an object component.

• State - Enter an integer for the state of interest.
8 Adams/Vibration
Create Vibration Design Objective Macro

For the option: Do the following:

Body Name Enter the name of the body of interest.
Component Select an object component.
 Dialog Box - F1 Help 9
Create Vibration Multi-Run Script

Create Vibration Multi-Run Script

Vibration -> Test -> Vibration Analysis -> Create Multi-Run Script or
Vibration -> Test -> Create Multi-Run Script

Creates a simulation Script that you can use during multi-run simulations (such as Design study, Design
of experiments (DOE), and so on).

For the option: Do the following:

Tips on Entering Object Names in Text Boxes
Sim Script Name Enter the name of the simulation script you want to create.
Vibration Analysis Name Enter the name of your new or existing analysis.
Operating Point Specify one of the following:

• Static - Performs an equilibrium analysis (after assembling

the system).
• Assembly - Assembles the system into its input
configuration.
• Script - Executes a user-specified script. If the internal
solver is selected in the simulation settings, this script can
only contain Adams/View commands. For the external
solver, the script can only contain Adams/Solver
commands. Learn more with Solver Settings - Executable
dialogbox.
If you set Operating Point to Script, Adams/Vibration displays the following option:
Simulation Script Name Specify the name of your simulation script.
Damping Check to include damping effects in the analysis. If not checked,
damping effects are not included in the analysis.
Linear States Options (Valid Select to specify linear state options. This is only available for users
Only with Adams/Solver (C++)) running Adams/Solver (C++).

• Plant State
• Reference Marker
Frequency Range/User- Select the type of frequency you want to use.
Specified Frequencies
If you select Frequency Range, Adams/Vibration displays the following options:
Begin Enter the beginning value for the frequency range.
End Enter the ending value for the frequency range.
Steps Enter the number of steps in the frequency range.
10 Adams/Vibration
Create Vibration Multi-Run Script

For the option: Do the following:

Logarithmic Space of Steps Select if you want the frequency steps spaced logarithmically. If not
selected, the steps are spaced linearly.
If you select User-Specified Frequencies, Adams/Vibration displays the following options:
Frequencies Enter the frequency values for the analysis.
Create Design Variables from Select to open the Create Design Variable from File dialog box,
Values in File where you can enter the file name that contains the design variable
you want to use.
 Dialog Box - F1 Help 11
Create/Modify FD 3D Damper

Create/Modify FD 3D Damper
Vibration -> Build -> FD 3D Damper -> New/Modify

Define the parameters for a 3D frequency-dependent damper.

For the option: Do the following:

Tips on Entering Object Names in Text Boxes
Name Enter the name of the 3D FD damper you want to create or modify.
I Marker Enter the name of the I marker on which the 3D FD damper will act.
Reference Enter the name of the J marker on which the 3D FD damper will react.
Marker
Desired Select the directions along which you want the 3D FD damper to apply forces and
Components torques.
Type Select one of the following:

• Pfeffer Linear - Contains two linear dampers and two linear springs.
• Simple FD - Contains one linear damper and two linear springs.
• Simple FD-Bushing - Contains one linear damper and two linear springs.
• General
Depending on the setting of Type, Adams/Vibration displays one or more of the following options:
C 1/2/3 Enter the damping value(s) for the damper.
K 1/2/3 Enter the stiffness value(s) for the damper.
Preload Enter the value of the preload in the component.
12 Adams/Vibration
Create/Modify FD Damper

Create/Modify FD Damper
Vibration -> Build -> FD Damper -> New/Modify

Define the parameters for a Frequency Domain (FD) Damper.

For the option: Do the following:

Tips on Entering Object Names in Text Boxes
Name Enter the name of the FD damper you want to create or modify.
I Marker Enter the name of the I marker on which the FD damper will act.
J Marker Enter the name of the J marker on which the FD damper will react.
Type Select one of the following:

• Pfeffer Linear - Contains two linear dampers (Damping 2 and 3) and two
linear springs (Stiffness 1 and 3).
• Simple FD - Contains one linear damper (Damping 3) and two linear
springs (Stiffness 1 and 2).
• Simple FD-Bushing - Contains one linear damper (Damping 3) and two
linear springs (Stiffness 2 and 3).
• General - Contains three linear dampers (Damping 1, 2, and 3) and three
springs (Stiffness 1, 2, and 3).
Depending on the setting of Type, Adams/Vibration displays one or more of the following options:
C 1/2/3 Enter the damping value(s) for the damper.
K 1/2/3 Enter the stiffness value(s) for the damper.
Preload Enter the value of the preload in the component.
 Dialog Box - F1 Help 13
Create/Modify Vibration Actuators

Create/Modify Vibration Actuators

Define the parameters for a vibration actuator.
See how To access the Create/Modify Vibration Actuator dialog box.

For the option: Do the following:

Tips on Entering Object Names in Text Boxes
Vibration Actuator Name Enter the name of the vibration actuator you want to create or modify.
Associated Input Channel Enter the input channel to which you want to assign this actuator.
Actuator Type Select one of the following:

• Swept Sine.
• Rotating Mass.
• PSD. See Power Spectral Density.
• User. See User-Defined Function.
Force Magnitude Enter the force magnitude.
Phase Angle (deg) Enter the phase angle (in degrees).
14 Adams/Vibration
Create/Modify Vibration Input Channel

Create/Modify Vibration Input Channel

Vibration -> Build -> Input Channel -> New/Modify

Define the parameters for Input Channels. In these dialog boxes, you can also assign and modify vibration
actuators.

For the option: Do the following:

Tips on Entering Object Names in Text Boxes.
Input Channel Enter the name of the input channel whose actuator you want to
plot.
Logarithmic Spacing of Steps Select one of the following:

• Force
• User-specified state variable
• Kinematic
If you select Force or Kinematic, Adams/Vibration displays the following options:
Input Marker Enter the location of the input marker.
Translational/Rotational Select one of the following:

• Translational - Applies a force.

• Rotational - Applies a torque.
Global/Local Select one of the following coordinate systems:

• Global - Selects the global coordinate system.

• Local - Selects the Input Point marker as the coordinate
system.
Force Direction/Torque Axis Select an axis (x, y, or z), about which the force or torque will be
applied.
Displacement/Velocity/ Select a kinematic input. Applies to kinematic types only.
Acceleration
If you select User-Specified State Variable, Adams/Vibration displays the following option:
State Variable Enter the state variable you want to use. The state variable input
channel allows you to apply input channels to LSE/GSE/TFSISO
elements in an Adams model. Therefore, frequency domain inputs
can be applied using vibration actuators to general dynamical
systems modeling elements represented by LSE/GSE/TFSISO
elements.
 Dialog Box - F1 Help 15
Create/Modify Vibration Input Channel

For the option: Do the following:

New/Existing Actuator Select one of the following:

• Actuator Parameters - Creates a new vibration actuator.

• Existing Actuator - Enter the name of an existing
vibration actuator to associate with this input channel.
Note: If you are using a Kinematic input channel, you cannot
specify an existing actuator.
Actuator Type Select one of the following:

• Swept Sine. See Entering Swept Sine Function for

available options.
• Rotating Mass (not available for Kinematic). See Entering
Rotating Mass for the available options.
• PSD (Power Spectral Density). See Entering PSD Function
for the available options.
• User (User-Defined Function). See Entering a User-Defined
function for the available options.
Plot Actuator Select to open the Actuator Preview Plot dialog box where you can
see the plot of your actuator without running a simulation.

Only available when modifying an input channel.

16 Adams/Vibration
Create/Modify Vibration Output Channel

Create/Modify Vibration Output Channel

Define the parameters for Output Channels.

Vibration -> Build -> Output Channel -> New/Modify

For the option: Do the following:

Tips on Entering Object Names in Text Boxes.
Output Channel Name Enter the name of the output channel you want to create or modify.
Output Function Type Select one of the following:

• Predefined - Adams/Vibration constructs the Adams/Solver

function for you, based on the information you enter in this
dialog box.
• User - You construct and enter the output channel function in the
Output Channel Function text box. To use Adams/Solver
functions, see the online help for Adams/Solver.
If you set Output Function Type to Predefined, Adams/Vibration displays the following options:
Output Marker Enter the location of the output marker.
Global Component Specify the type of coordinate system for your output channel.
Axis Specify the axis for your output channel.
If you set Output Function type to User, Adams/Vibration displays the following option:
Output Channel Function Specify the function for your output channel. To create the function in the
Function Builder, select .
 Dialog Box - F1 Help 17
Eigen Information

Eigen Information
Vibration -> Review -> Display Eigenvalue Table

Displays a table of eigen values for an analysis.

For the option: Do the following:

Tips on Entering Object Names in Text Boxes.
Eigen Displays the name of the eigensolution.
+/- Use these buttons to navigate between eigensolutions. Press the + button
to go to the next eigensolution; use the - button to go to the previous
eigensolution.
(Table area) Displays each mode number with its corresponding undamped natural
frequency, damping ratio, real value, and imaginary value.
Highlight Unstable Modes Select to display real values greater than the Unstable Mode Threshold
(see next option) in a different color.
Unstable Mode Threshold Enter the value of the unstable mode above which you want to display in
Value a different color in the eigen table (you must also select Highlight
Unstable Modes above). For example, if you enter 5.0, all modes with
Real values greater than 5.0 will be displayed in a different color.
Base Font Size Select the font size for the text in the table.
File Format Select the type of file to which you want to save the eigen information.
Write Table to File Select if you want to save the eigen information to a file. You can then
specify the filename and location of the file.
18 Adams/Vibration
ISO Ride Index

ISO Ride Index

Ride -> Full-Vehicle Vibration Analysis -> ISO Ride Index

Define the parameters for ISO Ride Index.

For the option: Do the following:

Ride Index This is read only field. Adams/Car Ride will display the calculated
output Overall/Point Vibration Total Value here.
Output Select the appropriate output you want to calculate: OVTV, Feet PVTV,
Seat PVTV and Back PVTV.
Analysis Select the appropriate vibration analysis for calculating its Ride Index.
Depending on your output option selection, the following four tabs will be disabled or enabled. The
Overall tab is enabled only for calculating OVTV output.
Define output channels, • Specify the output channel for X, Y and Z directions at
scaling factors and ISO driver/passenger Feet, Seat and Back locations.
weighting curves (for • Specify the directional and overall scaling factors for each of
driver/passenger Feet, Seat these location and direction.
and Back locations)
• Specify the ISO frequency weighting curves for each of these
locations and directions.
 Dialog Box - F1 Help 19
Importing Vibration Results

Importing Vibration Results

Vibration -> Review -> Import Vibration Results

Allows you to import a previously generated results file and attach it to a vibration analysis. This enables
you to plot vibration data generated from the eigen and state matrices in the results file. The imported
results file and the vibration analysis must be from the same model.

For the option: Do the following:

Tips on Entering Object Names in Text Boxes.
Results File Enter the name of the Adams/Vibration results file.
Vibration Analysis Enter the name of the vibration analysis to which you want your results
attached.
(Attach option) Select one of the following:

• Attach results to existing Vibration Analysis - Attaches the results

to the current vibration analysis.
• Attach results to a copy of the Vibration Analysis - Makes a copy
of the current vibration analysis, names it as specified below, and
attaches the results to it.
If you select Attach results to existing Vibration Analysis, Adams/Vibration displays the following
option:
New Vibration Analysis Enter the name for the new vibration analysis to which you want the results
attached.
20 Adams/Vibration
Modal Energy Computation

Modal Energy Computation

Vibration -> Test -> Vibration Analysis -> Modal Energy Computation

Specifies options for computing modal energy during your vibration analysis.

For the option: Do the following:

Compute Modal Energy If you want to compute modal energy during your vibration analysis, select
this option.
Normalized Coordinates If you want normalized coordinates of the mode to be computed, select this
option.
Kinetic Energy If you want to compute kinetic energy distribution, select this option.
Strain Energy If you want to compute strain energy distribution, select this option.
Dissipative Energy If you want to compute dissipative energy, select this option.
Mode Range Enter the range of modes you want to use in the calculation. If you leave
these text boxes blank, Adams/Vibration will use all modes.
 Dialog Box - F1 Help 21
Modal Information

Modal Information
Vibration -> Review -> Display Modal Info Table

Displays Modal Coordinates, modal participation, or modal energy for an analysis.

For the option: Do the following:

Tips on Entering Object Names in Text Boxes.
(Modal Info Type) Select the type of modal information you want to display:

• Modal Coordinates - This table lists the relative and absolute

values of modal coordinates at a specified excitation frequency.
• Modal Participation - This table lists the modal participation of
modes in the output channels. Highlights modes with the largest
contributions.
• Modal Energy - This table lists the normalized coordinates and
distribution of kinetic, strain, and dissipative energies in modes.
Highlights modeling entities with the largest contributions.
Vibration Analysis Enter the name of the vibration analysis whose modal information you
want to display.
Frequency Enter the frequency at which you want to view the modal information.
Display Phase Values Select to display the phase values for each mode.
Base Font Size Select the font size for the text in the table.
File Format Select the type of file to which you want to save the modal information.
Write Table to File Select if you want to save the modal information to a file. You can then
specify the filename and location of the file.
If you select Modal Coordinates, Adams/Vibration displays the following option:
Magnitude Representation Select one of the following:

• Relative - Displays the relative values in the table.

• Absolute - Displays the absolute values in the table.
22 Adams/Vibration
NASTRAN Modal Export

NASTRAN Modal Export

Tools > Plugin Manager > Vibration > Nastran_modal_export

Exports modal coordinates of flex-body to NASTRAN in MDF file format.

For the option: Do the following:

Flexible Body Enter the name of flexible body for which you want to export modal coordinates.
Output File Enter the name of output file. Default extension is .MDF
Vibration Enter the name of Vibration Analysis for which you want to export modal
Analysis coordinates.
Output Freq: Start Enter the Start frequency to output the modal coordinates.
End Enter the End frequency to output the modal coordinates.
If Start and End frequencies are not entered, Adams/Vibration defaults to begin and end frequencies
specified in Vibration Analysis.
 Dialog Box - F1 Help 23
Nodal Info

Nodal Info
Tools > Plugin Manager > Vibrartion > Build > nodal Info > New > Nodal Info

To plot stress and strain frequency response functions of selected nodes on flexible body in
Adams/PostProcessor.

For the option: Do the following:

Nodal Info Name Enter the name for Nodal Info object.
Flexible Body Enter the name of flexible body.
Node IDs Enter the node numbers (IDs) on above selected flexible body to which
Stress/Strain FRF information you want to plot in Adams/PostProcessor.
Criterion Select the Type of Stress/Strain.
24 Adams/Vibration
PSD Cross Correlation

PSD Cross Correlation

Vibration -> Build -> Input Channel -> Modify -> Cross Correlation

Define the parameters for PSD cross correlation.

For the option: Do the following:

Tips on Entering Object Names in Text Boxes.
Actuators Enter the name of the PSD actuator you want to use.
Input Channels Enter the name of the input channel that you want to correlate to the PSD actuator.
More Select if you want to insert new combinations of actuators and input channels.
Fewer Select if you want to delete the last row of actuator/input channel associations.
 Dialog Box - F1 Help 25
Perform Vibration Analysis

Perform Vibration Analysis

Vibration -> Test -> Vibration Analysis

Creates and runs a vibration analysis (see Vibration Analysis Calculation Methods to learn more).

For the option: Do the following:

Tips on Entering Object Names in Text Boxes.
Analysis Selection Specify whether you are creating a new analysis or running an existing
one.
Analysis Name Enter the name of your new or existing analysis.
Operating Point Specify one of the following:

• Static - Performs an equilibrium analysis (after assembling the

system).
• Assembly - Assembles the system into its input configuration.
• Script - Executes a user-specified script. If the integrated solver is
selected in the simulation settings, this script may only contain
view commands. For the external solver, the script can only
contain solver commands. If selected, specify the name of your
simulation script in the Simulation Script Name text box.
Import Settings From Select to display the Database Navigator, where you can choose an
Existing Vibration existing vibration analysis whose settings you want to use in your current
Analysis analysis. Adams/Vibration updates the Perform Vibration Analysis dialog
box with the appropriate input and output channels.
Analysis Type Select the type of analysis you want to perform.

• Forced Vibration Analysis. See Creating and Running a Forced

Vibration Analysis.
• Normal Mode Analysis. See Creating and Running a Normal
Modes Analysis.
Damping Check to include damping effects in the analysis. If not checked, damping
effects are not included in the analysis.
Linear States Options Select to specify linear state options. This is only available if you are
(Valid Only with running Adams/Solver (C++).
Adams/Solver (C++))
If you select Linear States Options, Adams/Vibration displays the following two options:
Plant State Select the plant state you want to use in the linearization of the model.
Learn more about the PSTATE statement.
26 Adams/Vibration
Perform Vibration Analysis

For the option: Do the following:

Reference Marker Specify the marker you want to use in generating plant states for
linearization.
Frequency Range/User- Select the type of frequency you want to use.
Specified Frequencies
• Frequency Range - Specify the begin and end values and the
number of steps in the frequency range. Also, select Logarithmic
Space of Steps if you want the frequency steps spaced
logarithmically (if not selected, the steps are spaced linearly).
• User-Specified Frequencies - Enter the frequency values for the
analysis. You can also select Create Design Variables from
Values in File to open the Create Design Variable from File dialog
box, where you can enter the filename that contains the design
variable you want to use.
Modal Energy Select to open the Modal Energy Computation dialog box.
Computation
Create Multi-Run Script Select to specify multi-run script specifications. Displays the Create
Vibration Multi-Run Script dialog box.
If you set Analysis Type to Forced Vibration Analysis, Adams/Vibration displays the following options:
Input Channels Enter the name of the input channels you want to use in this vibration
analysis.

Note: You cannot select input channels with actuators of PSD type
and input channels with actuators of non-PSD type in the same
analysis.
Output Channels Enter the name of the output channels you want to use in this vibration
analysis.
If you are modifying an existing forced vibration analysis with results, Adams/Vibration displays the
following option:
Reuse Existing State If you select this option, you can specify the modes for the Forced
Matrix Vibration Analysis.

• All Modes - Include all modes in the forced vibration analysis.

• Selected Modes - Specify the modes to include. Learn how to
Include or exclude modes.

Note: Changes made in text boxes that are grayed out are not included
in the subsequent analysis.
 1
Create/Modify A2N Input Channel

Create/Modify A2N Input Channel

Tools > Plugin Manager > Vibration > Create_Modify_A2N_Input_Channel

Define the parameters for an A2N Input Channel.

For the option: Do the following:

Tips on Entering Object Names in Text Boxes.
Input Channel Name Enter the name of the A2N input channel you want to create or modify.
Input Marker Enter the location of the input marker.
Define parameters of the Actuator which will be included in the Nastran bdf file, oriented locally as
the input marker axes.
DOF Force or Torque Direction, with respect to input marker axes.
Mode Select one of the following:·
Force Magnitude Define magnitude of the force for Swept Sine actuator

• Translational - Applies a force.

• Rotational - Applies a torque.
Phase angle Define phase angle for Swept Sine actuator.
If not already defined, an A2N output channel on the same marker is automatically created.
2 Adams/Vibration
Create/Modify A2N Output Channel

Create/Modify A2N Output Channel

Tools > Plugin Manager > Vibration > Create_Modify_A2N_Output_Channel

Define the parameters for an A2N Output Channel.

For the option: Do the following:

Tips on Entering Object Names in Text Boxes.
Output Channel Name Enter the name of the output channel you want to create or modify.
Output Marker Enter the location of the output marker.
 3
Adams to Nastran MKB export

Adams to Nastran MKB export

Tools > Plugin Manager > Vibration > Perform_MKB_matrices_export

Creates and executes a A2N MKB matrices export to Nastran. See Exporting MKB Matrices to Nastran.

For the option: Do the following:

Tips on Entering Object Names in Text Boxes.
A2A Analysis name Specify name of the new A2N analysis for exporting Mass, Stiffness and
damping matrices to Nastran.
Operating Point Specify one of the following:·

• Static - Performs an equilibrium analysis (after assembling the

system).
• Assembly - Assembles the system into its input configuration.
• Script - Executes a user-specified script. For both integrated and
external solver, the script can only contain solver commands. If
selected, specify the name of your simulation script in the
Simulation Script Name text box.
Nastran Analysis Select the type of Nastran analysis you want to write out ·

• Modal
• Frequency Response
File prefix Define the prefix of the Nastran file: depending on the Nastran analysys
type, the name will be completed by "_eig" or "_frf" , while the suffix is
always ".bdf"
Damping Check to include damping effects in the analysis. If not checked, damping
effects are not included in the analysis.
Linear States Options Select to specify linear state options. This is only available if you are
(Valid Only with running Adams/Solver (C++).
Adams/Solver (C++))
If you select Linear States Options, Adams/Vibration displays the following two options:
Plant State Select the plant state you want to use in the linearization of the model. Learn
more about the PSTATE statement.
Reference Marker Specify the marker you want to use in generating plant states for
linearization.
If you set Nastran Analysis to Frequency Response, A2N displays the following options:
Frequency Range Specify the begin and end values and the number of steps in the frequency
range. Also, select Logarithmic Space of Steps if you want the frequency
steps spaced logarithmically (if not selected, the steps are spaced linearly)..
4 Adams/Vibration
Adams to Nastran MKB export

For the option: Do the following:

Nastran Subcases definition: you can choose different combination of input and output channels and
select output type, creating different Nastran subcases.
Input Channels Enter the name of the A2N input channels you want to use in the current
subcase for MKB exporting to Nastran.
Output Channels Enter the name of the A2N output channels you want to use in the current
subcase for MKB exporting to Nastran.
Type Select as output Disp, Vel or Acc.

Note: After selecting Input/Output channels and Type, for effectively

creating the subcase click on Create Subcase button; for starting
to create a new one, click on New Subcase button.
GRID ID offset Select the starting value for numbering GRIDs.
SPOINT ID offset Select the starting value for numbering SPOINTs.
Appendix
2 Adams/Vibration
Bode Plot

Bode Plot
Plot of magnitude and phase response of a system for a unit sinusoid applied at an input channel and
measured at an output channel.
 Appendix 3
Decibel

Decibel
A unit of measurement for attenuation or amplification of a signal, given as 20*log (input/output).
4 Adams/Vibration
Eigensolution

Eigensolution
An analysis that uses a model, along with an existing transient analysis step or static analysis, to compute
the frequency domain behavior of the system. The results are a collection of eigenvalues describing the
natural modes, and eigenvectors describing the normal mode shapes of the system components.
 Appendix 5
Entering a User-Defined function

Entering a User-Defined function

For the option: Do the following:

f(omega) Enter a function of the independent variable omega.
Phase Angle (deg) Enter the phase angle (in degrees).
6 Adams/Vibration
Entering File Names in Text Boxes

Entering File Names in Text Boxes

To enter file names in text boxes, you can do either of the following:
• Enter the file name directly in the text box.
• Clear the text box and then double-click to open a selection window.
• Right-click to either:
• Search a database
• Browse a database
 Appendix 7
Entering PSD Function

Entering PSD Function

For the option: Do the following:

Spline Name Enter the name of the spline for your actuator.
Interpolation Type Enter the type of interpolation to use with your PSD actuator. Select one of the
following:

• akima
• cspline
• cubic
• linear
Phase Angle (deg) Enter the phase angle (in degrees).
If you're modifying an existing input channel, Adams/Vibration displays the following option:
Cross Correlation Select if you want to specify cross correlation options. Opens the PSD Cross
Correlation dialog box.
8 Adams/Vibration
Entering Rotating Mass

Entering Rotating Mass

For the option: Do the following:

Force/Moment Select one of the following:

• Force
• Moment
Leading/Lagging Select one of the following:

• Leading
• Lagging
Mass Enter the unbalanced mass.
Radial Offset (in plane) Enter the radial distance of the unbalanced mass from the axis of rotation.
 Appendix 9
Entering Swept Sine Function

Entering Swept Sine Function

For the option: Do the following:

Force Magnitude Enter the force magnitude.
Phase Angle (deg) Enter the phase angle (in degrees).
10 Adams/Vibration
Entering Object Names in Text Boxes

Entering Object Names in Text Boxes

To enter object names in text boxes, you can do either of the following:
• Enter the object name directly in the text box.
• Clear the text box and then double-click to open the Database Navigator.
• Right-click to either:
• Pick an object shown on the screen.
• Browse a complete list of available objects.
• Choose from a product-generated list of guesses.
 Appendix 11
Example: Freq. Resp. Magnitude of sums: 1 Input, Multiple Outputs

Example: Freq. Resp. Magnitude of sums: 1 Input,

Multiple Outputs
Input channel= IC1
Output channels = OC1, OC2, OC3
• Frequency response curves are computed for IC1/OC1, IC1/OC2, IC1/OC3
• Maximum is computed for each curve: IC1/OC1 ->max1, IC1/OC2->max2, IC1/OC3->max3
• Maximum values are summed: sum = max1+max2+max3
12 Adams/Vibration
Example: Freq. Resp. Magnitude of sums: All Inputs, Multiple Outputs

Example: Freq. Resp. Magnitude of sums: All Inputs,

Multiple Outputs
Output channels = OC1, OC2, OC3
• Frequency response curves are computed for ALL Input Channels/OC1, ALL Input
Channels/OC2, ALL Input Channels/OC3
• Maximum is computed for each curve: ALL Input Channels/OC1 ->max1, ALL Input
Channels/OC2->max2, ALL Input Channels/OC3->max3
• Maximum values are summed: sum = max1+max2+max3
 Appendix 13
Example: Freq. Response Area: 1 Input, Multiple Outputs

Example: Freq. Response Area: 1 Input, Multiple

Outputs
Input channel = IC1
Output channels = OC1, OC2, OC3
• Frequency response curves are computed for IC1/OC1, IC1/OC2, IC1/OC3
• Area beneath each curve is computed (that is, the curve is integrated): IC1/OC1 ->area1,
IC1/OC2->area2, IC1/OC3->area3
• Areas are summed: sum = area1+area2+area3
14 Adams/Vibration
Example: Freq. Response Area: All Inputs, Multiple Outputs

Example: Freq. Response Area: All Inputs, Multiple

Outputs
Output channels = OC1, OC2, OC3
• Frequency response curves are computed for ALL Input Channels/OC1, ALL Input
Channels/OC2, ALL Input Channels/OC3
• Area beneath each curve is computed (that is, the curve is integrated): ALL Input Channels/OC1
->area1, ALL Input Channels/OC2->area2, ALL Input Channels/OC3->area3
• Areas are summed: sum = area1+area2+area3
 Appendix 15
Flexible Body Modes

Flexible Body Modes

Component modes produced by an FEA simulation, such as NASTRAN or ANSYS.
16 Adams/Vibration
Forced Vibration Analysis

Forced Vibration Analysis

An analysis that uses a list of omegas, vibration actuators, and a generalized linear solution to produce
two tables: Modal Coordinates and Frequency Responses.
 Appendix 17
Frequency

Frequency
The rate of oscillation of harmonic motion.
18 Adams/Vibration
Frequency Domain (FD) Damper

Frequency Domain (FD) Damper

All FD modeling elements are derived from the following representation:

• General: All K and C s are non-zero

• Pfeffer: C1=0; K2=0
• Simple FD: C1=0; C2=0; K3=0
• Simple FD-Bushing: C1=0; K1=0; C2=0
 Appendix 19
Include or exclude modes

Include or exclude modes

To include a mode in the analysis:
1. Highlight the mode number you want to include.

Note: You can hold down the <Ctrl> key as you click to select multiple nodes.

2. Select Include Selected Modes.

The modes selected have a number in the Use column, indicating that they're included in the
analysis.

To exclude a mode from the analysis:

1. Highlight the mode number you want to exclude.

Note: You can hold down the <Ctrl> key as you click to select multiple modes.

2. Select Exclude Selected Modes.

The modes excluded no longer have a number in the Use column, indicating that they're not
included in the analysis.
20 Adams/Vibration
Input Channel

Input Channel
A driver in the model, providing stimulus for the vibrational analysis.
 Appendix 21
Linear System Modes

Linear System Modes

See Normal Modes.
22 Adams/Vibration
Modal Participation Factor

Modal Participation Factor

Describes a particular mode's contribution to the overall vibrational behavior of a system at a given
omega.
 Appendix 23
Natural Modes

Natural Modes
See Normal Modes.
24 Adams/Vibration
Normal Mode

Normal Mode
A frequency at which a given system resonates in a particular way.
 Appendix 25
Normal Mode Number

Normal Mode Number

The index of the Normal Mode.
26 Adams/Vibration
Normal Mode Shape

Normal Mode Shape

The displacements and rotations of a system component resulting from excitation at that normal mode's
frequency.
 Appendix 27
Normal Modes

Normal Modes
The modes that Adams/Vibration produces. Often called principle modes or linear system modes in
structural dynamics texts. Normal modes are the results of an eigensolution. This is to differentiate them
from component modes that can be computed by other means.
28 Adams/Vibration
Number of Modes

Number of Modes
If you do not specify the number of modes you want to compute, Adams/Vibration automatically chooses
a suitable number of modes based on the model size.
 Appendix 29
Operating Point

Operating Point
A point at which Adams linearizes a model. Because, traditionally, Adams models involve nonlinear
elements, you need to specify an operating point. To have an appropriate operating point, your system
must meet the following two conditions:
• It must have more than one degree of freedom, so that it is capable of oscillation.
• The Jacobian matrix for the system must be time invariant.
30 Adams/Vibration
Output Channel

Output Channel
Instrumentation on the model that records some quantity of interest.
 Appendix 31
Principle Modes

Principle Modes
See Normal Modes.
32 Adams/Vibration
Resonance

Resonance
A condition where the vibration actuator drives the normal mode of the system.
 Appendix 33
Rigid Body Mode

Rigid Body Mode

A mode where the frequency is zero.
34 Adams/Vibration
Steady State Solution

Steady State Solution

See Forced Vibration Analysis.
 Appendix 35
To access the Create/Modify Vibration Actuator dialog box

To access the Create/Modify Vibration Actuator dialog

box
1. From the Vibration menu, point to Build, point to Input Channel, and then select New or
Modify.

It does not matter which option you select.

2. Using the pull-down menu in the dialog box, select Use Existing Actuator.
3. Perform one of the following:
• To modify an existing actuator, right-click in the Vibration Actuator Name text box, point to
the actuator name, and then select Modify.
• To create a new actuator, right-click in the Vibration Actuator Name text box, point to
Vibration_Actuator, and then select Create.
4. Refer to Create/Modify Vibration Actuators for information on how to complete the Create/Modify
Vibration Actuator dialog box.
36 Adams/Vibration
To access the Create/Modify Vibration Actuator dialog box