Using Remote Loads in SOLIDWORKS Simulation

There have been a few changes to how SOLIDWORKS handles Remote Loads. In this article, we discuss Remote Loads in SOLIDWORKS Simulation, how it has changed, and what makes it such a useful tool.

What’s Changed?

Within the Remote Loads/Mass options, you will see an interface similar to the images below. This has changed a bit from our older versions, as seen in the corresponding images.

Figure 1. SOLIDWORKS 2021 Remote Loads/Mass

SOLIDWORKS 2018 Remote Loads/Mass

What do these options mean and when do we use them? Let’s review!

Navigating the Interface

Previous load options are gone, and we now have Distributed and Rigid as the overall type. 

Distributed refers to Distributed Coupling where the coupling nodes of selected geometry can move relative to one another. 

Rigid has rigid bars to each node and will be fixed relative to each other.

By using Transitional Components and Rotational Components, you can apply Force, Displacement and Moment or Rotation using the boxes.

Below those options are the Connection Type. Here you can choose between Default (Constant), Linear, Quadratic, and Cubic. 

If you select Distributed or no options, Rigid becomes greyed out. Now, the weighting option for the Distributed option allows you to set the proportionality of the equivalent loads/moments on each node selected based on its distance from the referenced remote node. Default will have a uniform distribution on all nodes of the selected entities.

With this new layout, you have multiple remote load combinations available. Note: If you plan to use Mass, you must have a Gravity load applied to the Study. 

Below are a few Load Combinations:

• Distributed Connection
• Force and Moment
• Force, Moment, Translation, and Rotation
• Force, Moment and Mass
• Force, Moment, Translation, Rotation and Mass
• Translation and Rotation
• Translation, Rotation and Mass
• Rigid Connection
• Force and Moment
• Force, Moment and Mass
• Translation and Rotation

If you still have issues, please do not hesitate to reach out to our simulation support team.

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