Local Coordinate Systems

Local coordinate systems are created using the command 'CONSTRUCT COORDSYS ...', and attached to a part or set using the command 'PROPERTY ATTACH ...' Local systems are expressed per node using type 24 cards. Where more than one system has been applied to a node, the system used will be the one which was attached first. Local cartesian, cylindrical, and spherical systems are supported. The local X and Y axes are given for each node which has had a local system attached to it. For local cartesian systems, the local axes are transered directly from the FEMGEN main program. For cylindrical and spherical systems, the local X and Y axes are calculated according to the postition of each node.

Local axis systems will have an effect on some load types, prescribed deflections, and generalised constraints. The user should refer to the appropriate section to determine the effects.