A probe is not exactly a load, and it is not a constraint. It is used to monitor a result at a specified node and change the analysis based on the calculated result. Probes are used for the following situations:
- In a RIKS analysis, the probe is used to stop the analysis if the deflection at the probe exceeds a specified value. See the paragraph Setting up the Event on the page Analysis Parameters: MES Riks (Postbuckling) for details.
- With results-based load curves in a Mechanical Event Simulation or nonlinear static stress analysis, the magnitude of the loads can be adjusted during the analysis based on the calculated results at the probes. See the page Analysis Parameters: Defining Load Curves for details.
Apply Probes
- Select a node or nodes where probes need to be applied. (Selection
Select Vertices) - Right-click in the display area and choose Add Nodal Probes. The Creating Nodal Probe Objects dialog will appear.
- Enter a description for the probes, if applicable. The description will be shown in the appropriate FEA Object Group in the tree view, and it appears when defining the load curve for results based loads.
- Click the OK button.