The graph displays the local stress tensor results along the currently defined Stress Classification Line (SCL). The graph only appears after the SCL has been defined.
The SCL is divided into segments. The results are calculated from the stress tensor values and output at each point. The default number of points defined along the line is determined automatically by the program. You can also override the default behavior by specifying the desired number of SCL divisions. The First Point is at located at -t/2 in the graph where "t" is the total thickness. (The total thickness is generally the distance from the First Point to the Last Point, assuming the points are on the surface of the model.) The Last Point is located at t/2. The origin of the local N, T, H coordinate system is at the center of the SCL at point T.
If the SCL goes through an area of space where there are no elements, the data points along that portion of the SCL are interpolated from the nearest valid data points.
- The local N, or H axis is appropriately defined.
- The appropriate tensor (NN, TT, HH, NT, TH, or HN) is selected for graphing. Ideally, the graphed stress tensor should correspond as closely as possible to the direction of the primary membrane and bending stresses.