Request solution-dependent output to view results for composite materials.
The solution-dependent MCT state variables (SDVs) track constitutive quantities of interest at each integration point in the finite element model. The number of solution dependent state variables present in a model is dependent on several factors and is specified by the *DEPVAR keyword. Use the flow chart below to determine this number. The default naming convention for the solution-dependent MCT state variables is SDVi, where i=1, 2, 3, …, 7, 11, 13, 17, 35, or 91. The most useful of the MCT state variables is SDV1 which tracks the discrete failure state of the composite material at each integration point in the finite element model. The exact interpretation of the discrete values of SDV1 will depend upon the specific set of Helius PFA material nonlinearity features used in the analysis. Appendix C provides a complete description of each MCT state variable, including tables that define the interpretation of the discrete values of SDV1 for various combinations of material type and material nonlinearity features invoked.
By default, the MCT state variables are not automatically written to the output database file (*.odb file) and must be explicitly requested. You can request output of MCT state variables in the Edit Field Output Request dialog box, which is accessed from the Step module by clicking in the main toolbar. To request MCT state variable output, select the box labeled "SDV, Solution Dependent State Variables" from the scroll-bar list of output variables shown below.
Also by default, field variables (including the MCT state variables) are only output at the top and bottom section points of each layered element. To view the field variables within each material ply, specify additional section points by entering their values in the text box highlighted below. As an example, consider a flat composite plate with 4 plies and 3 section points per ply, for a total of 12 section points as shown in the Request Output of the MCT State Variables section. If the default section point values are used, only results for points 1 and 12 will available for viewing. You will not have access to the results for the interior material plies. However, if output is requested for each section point, the complete solution results can be viewed for each ply.
