MESHING MERGE [Merge] Part1 Part2

            

The MESHING MERGE command is used to merge the nodes on separately defined subparts which are not connected through common geometric parts, for example a common line. However two points must not be merged (it is easier to have a common point). During the mesh operation, the program will merge nodes on `Part1' and `Part2' which are within the tolerance specified with the command CONSTRUCT SPACE TOLERANCE.
UTILITY TABULATE GEOMETRY STATUS will show the current tolerance.

The merging operation involves the deletion of one of each pair of coincident nodes on the separate parts. Elements on the part whose nodes have been deleted are then redefined in terms of the nodes on the other part and any remaining nodes on the original part.

Merge = The name to be given to the merge, and which is used for future references to it. If no name is given then a name will be automatically generated.

Part1 = The name of the first part to be merged, and must be a name of a point, line or surface.

Part2 = The second part to be merged, the name of a point, line or surface.

For each node in the part with the fewest nodes, the node in the other part is chosen which is closest and within the tolerance and not merged already. If no node fulfils these conditions the merge will not be complete. The node with the lowest number is used.

As an example suppose we have a solid model where two surfaces meet but are not identical. Instead of splitting a body into several bodies, the merge command MESHING MERGE S1 S2 may be used. Of course the mesh patterns (divisions) on parts `S1' and `S2' must fit otherwise the connection will not be complete.

Note that a point for which a node will not be generated can be merged with another part. The point can then be used to associate information (eg: loading data) with the coincident node.

Return Level: MESHING MERGE

Examples:

1.

MESHING MERGE ME77 P1 S3

A node at P1 will be merged with any on S3 within the tolerance. The resultant merge will be called ME77.

2.

MESHING MERGE L1 L2

Any nodes on L1 will be merged with any on L2 within the tolerance. The resultant merge will be given an automatically generated name.

See also the following commands

'CONSTRUCT MERGE'
'CONSTRUCT SPACE TOLERANCE'