Plate Constraint Form

A Plate Constraint causes all of its constrained joints to move together as a planar plate that is rigid against bending (out-of-plane) deformation. This constraint can be used as follows:

The constraint must apply to at least two joints to have any effect on the model. It is intended to be used on a set of joints that lie in a flat plane. However, even if the joints are not co-planar, this constraint will not have any adverse restraining effect on the model.

Use the following areas on the Plate Constraints form to make the appropriate entries:

If the Advanced > Define > Joint Constraints command was used to access the Plate Constraints form, the defined constraint must be assigned to the joints.

 

Access the Plate Constraints form as follows:

 

Click the Advanced > Define > Joint Constraints command to display the Define Constraints form, or select a joint and click the Advanced > Assign > Joints > Constraints command to display the Define/Assign Constraints form. Then do one of the following:

    • Choose Plate from the Choose Constraint to Add drop-down list and click the Add New Constraint button.

    • Highlight a previously defined plate constraint definition in the Constraints display list and click the Modify/Show Constraint button.