Generate mesh on IGES Models

An *.iges model is a representation of the model surface that needs to be converted into a volume prior to analysis.

There are three main parameters to consider when working with *.iges models.

Global edge length

An appropriate global edge length needs to be set when meshing an .iges model. Use the Preview feature on the Generate mesh dialog (*Mesh tab > Tools tab > General tab > Preview**) to view the proposed mesh density and adjust as required.

Chord height

The chord height is used when calculating the edge length around a curve for an *.iges format. The edge length is shown by the distance 1 - 2, while chord height is represented by the distance 3 - 4 the cord length. By default the maximum chord height is 0.1mm.

When changing global edge length, the chord height value automatically changes too to reach 5% to 10% of the global edge length value. The chord height may need to be changed manually for:

• Small curves, as there are not enough elements to work with. The chord height must then be locally reduced.

  Note: Fillets and other small features usually do not need to have fine mesh refinement.

• Very large curves, as a large number of elements might be generated. The chord height should then be increased locally.

  

Merge tolerance

By default the merge tolerance is 0.1mm. This parameter allows the software to create surfaces by merge face edges separated by less than the specified value. The *.iges format only provides a set of individual surfaces that are not connected. The merging of the faces forms a watertight body that is required for analysis.

Note: To personalize the Merge tolerance , click (Mesh tab > Mesh panel > Generate Mesh). Select the NURBS tab and enter the appropriate value.