​​​​​​​A SIMULIA e-Learning Resource
Created using Abaqus 6.6 and 6.12

Taking advantage of symmetry can significantly reduce the computational expense of a simulation. However, interpreting the results of simulations with symmetry boundary conditions can be tricky.  In the Visualization module of Abaqus/CAE (i.e. Abaqus/Viewer) mirrors and patterns allow you to create images of a complete model based on an analysis of a representative portion of the model. This can not only make the result interpretation more intuitive, but it can also allow you to verify your model by allowing you to visualize if symmetry constraints were applied correctly and appropriately.

Narrated Video

The video below demonstrates the benefits of using mirrors and patterns while visualizing simulation results. Note that even though this demo was created using Abaqus 6.6, the techniques demonstrated are still applicable in to Abaqus/CAE today.

The following video includes:
   - Introduction (0-0:11)
   - Demonstration:
          -- Mirrors and patterns can make result interpretation more intuitive:
             ---- Mirroring a quarter symmetric I-beam (0:11-0:56)
             ---- Patterning plate modeled as a thin strip with plane-strain boundary conditions (0:56-1:35)
          -- Mirrors and patterns can make modeling mistakes evident:
             ---- Patterning a cyclic symmetric cardiovascular stent (1:35-3:24)
          -- Mirrors and patterns defined simultaneously:
             ---- Mirroring and Patterning a quarter symmetric clip simulation (3:24-5:08)

This video was produced using Abaqus 6.6

Now You try it!

You can mirror and pattern the results of your own simulations:

1. Open any output database (.odb) file in the Visualization module of Abaqus/CAE.
2. From the main menu bar, select View→ODB Display Options.
3. In the ODB Display Options dialog box that appears, click the Mirror/Pattern tab.
4. Modify the Mirror and Pattern options to include copies of your analysis results in the viewport.

For more detailed instructions using a couple of the examples shown in the video see MirrorAndPatternResults-StepByStep-Abaqus612.pdf; click the icon below to download the file. This exercise was produced using Abaqus 6.12.

References:

--- “Using mirrors and patterns to display your results,” Section 55.12.2 of the Abaqus/CAE 6.12 User's Manual

--- Rolling for a symmetric I-beam: “Section rolling,” Section 1.3.12 of the Abaqus 6.12 Example Problems Manual
--- Composite plate bending: “Composite shells in cylindrical bending,” Section 1.1.3 of the Abaqus 6.12 Benchmarks Manual
--- Stent modeling: Modeling Stents Using Abaqus class
--- Clip and plate model: Introduction to Abaqus/CAE class

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