Compatible Mesh
A bonded contact can be defined as either Compatible or Incompatible. A compatible mesh ensures that nodes on the touching faces match, creating a smooth mesh transition between elements. The bond is then specified at the matching nodes. The bond can be set to Compatible or Incompatible within the definition of a Component Contact.
Compatible mesh
By default, an incompatible contact type is specified for globally bonded component contacts. If you would like each new simulation to use the compatible contact type instead, go to Simulation Options > Default Options > Contact, then click on Create compatible mesh for global bonded component contact.
Incompatible Mesh
In an Incompatible mesh, the nodes of touching faces between parts do not align. The bonds between these components are projected from the nodes on one face onto the other face. It is easier to create an Incompatible mesh than a Compatible mesh, but defining the bonds becomes more of a challenge.
Incompatible mesh
SOLIDWORKS Simulation features several bonding algorithms when handling the bonds between bodies with a incompatible mesh. These options can be accessed in the study properties.
- Simplified Bonding
When Simplified is selected, the traditional (node base) bonding algorithm is used. The source body is represented using its nodes, while the target is represented through the element faces (target must always be a face). However, depending on the density of the source mesh, not all target element faces may participate. this may lead to the generation of “patched” contact.
In the figure below is a traditional, node based incompatible bond between an edge (source) and a face (target). Only the elements where a node uniquely lies on their faces will participate in the contact.
Simplified bonding
- More Accurate (Mortar) Bonding
When the More accurate (slower) option is used, source entities use the entirety of the geometry, including edges and faces between the nodes. This leads to a complete and accurate description of both the source and the target.
In the figure below, the entire edge of the source as well as the faces of the touching target elements form the contact set. This bonding option is more accurate but requires longer solution times.Mortar bonding
- Automatic
When Automatic option is selected, the software will decide which is the most appropriate bonding type with respect to the model and solution times. Is it suggested to leave this option as the default bonding type.
