Export Connectors

Export connector files.

  1. Export connectors in the following ways:
    • From the menu bar, select File > Export > Connectors.
    • From the Standard toolbar, click (Export Connectors).
    The Export - Connectors tab opens.
  2. For File type, select a file type to export.
    • ASCII: The very basic format. The data labeled in a header line for one connector are in a row and separated by "::". This format outputs the information of connector id, layer, position, config, and link and is only for spot connectors.
    • XML1.0: The Altair 1st version of xml format and can be used as both a standalone file or embedded in a solver deck. This format outputs all information about different types of connectors except realization state and FEs, which are only output together with a solver deck. Connectors are organized based on links in an xml file of this format.
    • XML 2.0 (default): The Altair 2nd version of xml formats. Compared to XML 1.0, it is a more flexible format and there are two differences: individual connector structure and connectors are not grouped based on links. Most data are written in the format of name-value pair.
    • MCF (version A): By default, HyperMesh will export the bolt connector vector that was dynamically identified during realization. The vector can be exported with or without the bolt. If a bolt connector vector is not identified after you import the connector, HyperMesh will search for the dynamic vector again. If a vector is already defined on the connector, HyperMesh will use that vector for realization.
    • MCF (verion B): Only output limited information of connectors, like links and positions. Version A and version B have some subtle differences, for example, version B only supports component links whereas version A supports both component and property links.
    • VIP: Very simple column data format for spot connector only, includes connector id, position and link IDs.
    • xMCF: An advanced xml format, it is a standard that is currently being established between different software vendors for CAD, FEA and Fatigue. Compared to MCF (version A) and MCF (version B), this format outputs more details.
  3. In the File field, specify a file name and location.
  4. Define Connector Export Options by clicking to the left of Export Options.
  5. Click Export.
Note:
For XMCF files, the following types of connectors and features are managed:
  • 0D: Spotweld, bolt, screw, gumdrop, clinch, rivet (blind, self-piercing, solid, swop), robscan, contact_list, threaded connection, heat stake, clip, nail
  • 1D: Sequence connection 0D (spotweld, gumdrop), seamweld (butt_joint, corner weld, edge weld, i_weld, overlap weld, y-joint, k-joint, cruciform joint, flared joint), adhesive-line, hemming, contact list
  • 2D: Adhesive face
  • Custom attributes are managed.
  • APPDATA can be optionally exported within the xMCF xml.
  • FEMDATA can be optionally exported within the xMCF xml.