We all know the power of automation! You’ve probably already either used or seen your colleagues use scripting to automate Abaqus job submissions or to post process results. However, the benefits of scripting are not just limited to automating repetitive tasks. You can create scripts to enhance the standard pre- and post- processing capabilities in Abaqus and overcome limitations. You could also tremendously enhance your productivity and make quite an impression on your peers and managers. Who wouldn’t want an engineer with scripting skills on their team?!?!
Now that we have established that scripting is a useful skill to develop, how would an engineer go about acquiring them? Most of us either took a programming language class like C, C++ or FORTRAN in school or have dabbled with Matlab at some point. Having prior programming skills is helpful but not necessary to successfully script in Abaqus. You would need to start by getting a grasp of basic Python. “Learning Python” by Mark Lutz and David Ascher is a good reference. Next, you will need to learn how to apply this within the Abaqus Programming Interface. You can create scripts which run in the background (Kernel scripts) or which require user input (GUI scripts).
There is never a need to start working on a script from scratch. The python Macros available in Abaqus/CAE and the Abaqus replay (.rpy) file are excellent starting points. These contain the command lines corresponding to individual mouse clicks while you perform a certain task in Abaqus/CAE. These command lines can then be further massaged to produce a working script. In a similar fashion for GUI customization, the Really Simple GUI (RSG) tool available in Abaqus/CAE is a good starting point.
Scripting in Abaqus can be challenging and the learning curve can be long and steep. Imagine maneuvering a difficult maze on your own. It can not only be time consuming but also lead to a lot of frustration and prevent you from reaching your full potential of being a successful scripter!
Now imagine having a guide who can not only help you maneuver the maze with ease, but also get you to your destination through the path of least hurdles in the shortest amount of time. An Abaqus expert can be this guide and mentor.
You can get as much or as little help from the Abaqus expert as you wish.
- For quick questions, your local Abaqus technical support is the place to go.
- On the other hand, if you wish to discuss your project in further detail and have an Abaqus expert help you overcome any hurdles while you work on the project, then our Mentorship program is for you. You can purchase any number of mentoring hours and have a dedicated Abaqus expert as your go-to person.
- As a third option, if you are short on manpower, time or computing resources, you can have an Abaqus expert work on your project for you as a consultant.
In addition, you can always supplement your learning by attending a training seminar. We offer several classes on both Basic and Advanced Scripting in Abaqus and Graphical User Interface (GUI) Customization. For your convenience these classes are offered:
- In person at a SIMULIA office
- Onsite at your workplace
- Online as a web-based course
- Free monthly Snack and Learn sessions (available as live sessions online as well)
The Knowledge base and video clips available on swym.com are other good resources available to you. Reach out to your local sales representative or SIMULIA office to discuss the various options available!
If we ask the right questions, we can change the world!!
