When performing a simulation in SOLIDWORKD, it is possible to adjust or define contacts between parts. Whether rigid or non-penetrating, these contacts are important because they represent reality when one part comes in contact with another. With the 2015 version, a new option facilitates the work of users when a part comes into contact with itself (eg spring).
Selection of a contact for the same surface.
In the following example, a spring should descend on itself and the curved surface of the spring comes into contact with itself. In the past, to do this, you had to produce a parting line to cut the surface in half.
Then, it was enough to add a contact in Simulation “without penetration” and to select the curved face of the top and the bottom in the good selection boxes.
Use of the “auto-contact” option
Since the 2015 version, a new option is available to avoid this detour. All you have to do is go directly to the contacts and click on the “auto-contact” box. Only one selection box will be available and it will be possible to select the entire curved surface.
Once the analysis is performed, we will be able to see the movement of the spring as well as the forces that will be applied to it.
If you want to know more about the auto-contact selections option, check out our technical brief.
