Getting Started

Modeling, Integrated Design & Analysis Software

1. Introduction

1.1 Introduction
FX+ is a general pre and post processor that provides the state-of-art finite element
analysis modeling tools. FX+ is equipped with advanced geometric modeling functions,
powerful mesh generation algorithms, various analysis conditions, and exceptional output
displays with the latest graphic technology.

The General Pre/Post Processing Program, MIDAS/FX+

FX+ family products are listed in the table below.

Function Availability
Product
FX+

Description
General Pre/Post Processing
Program

FX+ Modeler
FEmodeler
FEmodelerX

Civil/Building Detailed Analysis

Specialized Modeling Program
(Module of MIDAS/Civil, Gen)

FEPartner

Customized version for a special

solver of FX+(OEM)

FEA

Non-linear Detailed Analysis

Modeling
(Geom/Mesh)

Load/B.C.

Analysis

Post

Mec 1

X2

O3

<Note>
1.

MIDAS/Mec(Mechanical Analysis System) is sold separately, and various product lines of MEC present
depending upon the analysis function.

2.

The analysis of FX+ Modeler is only coupled with MIDAS/Civil or MIDAS/Gen.

3.

The analysis of FEPartner is performed by other solvers, and the solver vendors do not share the intellectual
property of their solvers with MIDAS Information Technology Co., Ltd

1.2 Installation
1.2.1 System Requirement
FX+ operates on IBM compatible Personal Computer (PC) in Windows environment.
In addition, FX+ requires the following minimum configuration.

Operating System

Microsoft Windows 2000 / ME / XP /

NT 4.0 SP3 + Y2K Patches
(Recommend Microsoft Windows 2000 or later version)

CPU

Pentium III 700MHz

(Recommend Pentium IV 1 GHz or greater)

Memory (RAM)

256 MB
(Recommend 512 MB or greater)

HDD Space

1 GB

Video Memory

32 MB or greater

Video Card

Recommend TNT/GeForce Type Videocard

Windows XP / 2000 (30.82 Version or later)
http://www.nvidia.com/view.asp?IO=winxp-2k_30.82
Windows NT ( 29.42 Version or later)
http://www.nvidia.com/view.asp?IO=winnt_29.42

Printer

Windows compatible Printer or Plotter

1.2.2 Installation Sequence

Installing FX+

Follow the steps below to install FX+.

1.

Insert the MIDAS/FX+ CD in the CD-ROM drive.

2.

If the Shift key is not pressed when the CD is inserted, installation will proceed
automatically and the MIDAS/FX+ CD will process automatically. Select the setup
language as either English or Korean, and click

button.

MIDAS/FX+ Choose Setup Language Dialog Box

If the installation does not proceed automatically, select the Run command in the
Start menu of Windows. Once the CD-ROM drive is assigned, enter the following
command:
D:\Install\Setup
(Note: This is in case the CD-ROM drive is assigned to the directory D)
Click

3.

to start the installation of the program.

Once the installation program is initiated, the dialog box shown in the figure above
is displayed and the installation of MIDAS/FX+ begins. The installation will
proceed step-by-step to the subsequent phases following the displayed information.

To proceed to the next step, click

click

. To return to the previous step,

MIDAS/FX+ Installation Dialog Box

4.

When the license agreement dialog box is displayed, read the agreement carefully.
If you agree with the agreement, check on I accept the terms of the license
agreement. Click

, and the installation will continue.

5.

Enter the users registration information and click

6.

The Choose Destination Location dialog box will appear. Select the folder in
which MIDAS/FX+ will be installed. MIDAS/FX+ will be installed in the default
folder by clicking

. To change the folder, click

select the folder to install MIDAS/FX+.

and

7.

The Select Feature dialog box will appear. To select all the features, click
and proceed. If not, uncheck on the unnecessary features, and click
.

8.

To return to the previous step, click

. To start the installation, click

MIDAS/FX+ Install Protection Lock Driver Dialog Box

9.

Select the type of lock driver and click

to proceed.

10. When the lock driver is installed, MIDAS/FX+ installation will be completed.

1.2.3

Installing Sentinel/Pro Driver

The Sentinel Driver is used to drive the Lock key of the Sentinel hardware. To run
MIDAS/FX+ and the Lock key, the driver has to be installed. The Sentinel Driver is
installed automatically during the installation process of MIDAS /FX+. For upgrading or
replacing a damaged Lock driver, follow the procedure outlined below.
To install the Sentinel Driver manually follow these steps.
1.

Press the Shift key on the left side of the keyboard and insert the MIDAS/Civil CD
in the CD-ROM drive.

2.

Select the Run command in the Start menu. Once the CD-ROM drive is assigned,
enter the following command:
D:\Install\protection drivers\setup
(Note: This is in case the CD-ROM drive is assigned to the directory D)

To uninstall the Sentinel Driver follow these steps.

1.

Press the Shift key on the left side of the keyboard and insert the MIDAS/Civil CD
in the CD-ROM drive.

2.

Select the Run command in the Start menu. Once the CD-ROM drive is assigned,
enter the following command:

D:\Install\Protection Drivers\Setup
(Note: This is in case the CD-ROM drive is assigned to the directory D)
3.

In the Program Maintenance dialog box, select Remove to start uninstalling the
lock driver.

Program Maintenance Dialog Box

1.2.4 Registering the Protection Key

To operate MIDAS/FX+ properly, register the serial number after connecting the protection
key to the parallel port.

1.

Connect the Protection Key to the Parallel Port or the USB Port.

2.

Execute MIDAS/FX+.

3.

The Register Protection Key is located in the Help command of the Main Menu.

4.

Select Register Protection Key in the Help menu.

5.

Enter the Protection Key ID provided in the Program CD Case in the Protection
Key field.

6.

Select Stand-alone in Key Type.

7.

Click

Register Protection Key Dialog Box

10

2. Understanding FX+

2.1 Before Getting Started

2.1.1 Work Sequence of FX+

General work sequence of FX+ is as follows;
A.

Geometry Modeling

B.

Mesh Generation

C.

Analysis Condition

D.

Analysis

E.

Post-processing and Result Evaluation

A.

Geometry Modeling
The generation of geometric model is the foundation of completing the finite element

analysis model in FX+. Based on the geometry data, mesh generation and other additional
modeling processes will follow. The geometry modeling of FX+ can be generated directly
in FX+ using its own modeling functions. In addition, FX+ provides the data exchange
capability which enables import of a geometry data file created by other Computer Aided
Design(CAD) software.
When the geometry data file is imported from other programs, it often requires some
special operations such as simplifying shapes, healing damaged geometries, or cleaning-up
disordered shapes in order to create the finest analysis model.

11

Geometry Model Created Directly in FX+

Solid Geometry Model Imported

from CAD Data File

Repaired Geometry Model after Imported from Geometry Data File

Cleaned Geometry Model for the Optimal Mesh Generation

12

Understanding FX+

B.

Mesh Generation
Mesh is generated on the previously created geometry model. Generally, it is

recommended to use hexahedron elements or quadrilateral elements for more accurate

analysis result. However, for a complex model, it is reasonable to use tetrahedron elements
or triangular elements produced by the Auto-mesh generation function provided by FX+.
To maximize its workability, FX+ provides various mesh control functions and 3
different mesh generation methods; Auto-mesh, Mapped-mesh, and Protrude-mesh.

Mapped-mesh Generated with Solid Hexa Mesh

Mapped-mesh Generated with Surface Quad Mesh

13

Auto-mesh Generated with Solid Tetra Mesh

Auto-mesh Generated with Surface Quad-dominant Mesh

C. Analysis Condition
FX+ provides a variety of materials, physical properties, load types, and boundary
conditions. The load and boundary conditions can be applied not only to nodes and elements,
but also directly to geometric shape so that it is effectively used when a model has a very
complex shape.
By taking the advantage of the Windows based GUI environment, FX+ maximizes the
simulation capability to display the load and boundary conditions in a practical manner. As
a result, the simulation function tremendously reduces the data input error which can be
easily made by user.

Example of Applying Non-uniform Pressure Load

Example of Applying Boundary Condition Using

the Cylindrical Coordinate System

D. Analysis
Once the generated model is completed with proper analysis conditions, the analysis
model can be analyzed. If the model is generated in Mec (Mechanical Analysis System),
which is the integrated solution with FX+ and a mechanical analysis solver, it can be simply
solved by its own solver. Otherwise, the users need to export the analysis model to
preferring solvers such as Nastran, ABAQUS, Ansys, or other analysis programs.
Mec is equipped with the numerous finite element analysis engines. The different
types of analysis which can be solved by Mec are:
Linear Static Analysis
Eigenvalue Analysis
Buckling Analysis
Time History Analysis
Response Spectrum Analysis

14

Understanding FX+

Material Nonlinear Analysis

Geometry Nonlinear Analysis
Contact Analysis,
Linear/Nonlinear Hear Transfer Analysis
Fluid Flow Analysis
FEPartner, an OEM version of FX+, also includes the analysis capability which is
engineered with the integrated solver from other vendors.

E.

Post-processing and Result Evaluation

After the analysis is completed properly, FX+ will organize and provide the post data

result for design process.

FX+ offers numerous outstanding graphical result displays including the thrilling
animation maker. In addition, all the tables provided in FX+ allows the user to view the
analysis result at a glance, and they are compatible with MS-Excel which is the most widely
used data analyzing software. Thus, the revolutionary post-processing capability of FX+
will define the new standard of the post-processor in the Computer Aided
Engineering(CAE) industry.
Analysis Result
(Contour Plot)

Result Table

A Variety of Displays

Graph

Clipped Plot

Example of Various Post Processing of FX+

15

2.1.2 Modeling Process of FX+

FX+ allows the user to create highly sophisticated geometrical data and to generate
mesh with any dimension or shape.
Especially, due to its advanced geometry modeling tools and high-performance automeshing functions, the user can model a complex shape much quicker and simpler than
traditional modeling programs which mostly employ the manual node and element method.
In this chapter, the geometry modeling and mesh generation will be discussed in detail.
A. Geometry Modeling
A geometry model is fundamentally formed by the interlocking relationship of various
geometric entities. The geometric entities in FX+ are listed in the following table.

Filtering enables to

Entity

select shapes by its

geometry type.

Definition
Group of independent entities

Compound
Higher
Level
Entity

General term to call an independent entity

Shape

(An entity that is not forming any other entity)

Part of 3-D space bound by a shell
Solid

Property
Shell

Volume

A collection of Faces connected by some of the

Edges of their Wire boundaries
Part of a plane (in 2-D geometry) or a surface (in 3-

Surface
Face

D geometry) bounded by a closed Wire

<ex> Plane surface, cylinder, sphere, etc
Property

Wire

Area

A sequence of Edges connected by their Vertices

A shape corresponding to a curve, and bound by a

Curve

Edge

Lower
Level
Entity

Vertex at each extremity

<ex> Straight line, circle, ellipse, arc, etc
Property

Length

A zero-dimensional shape corresponding to a point

in geometry

Vertex

Property

16

Coordinate

Understanding FX+

Vertex in 3-dimensional space

1 Edge bound by 2 Vertices

The user may

interchange freely
b/w closed Wire and
Face or b/w closed
Shell and Solid
because they share
the same subShapes.

The boundary of a
Face consists of one
Wire, and the
boundary of a Solid
consists of one Shell.

1 Wire connected by

1 Face limited by 1 closed Wire

4 Edges

(4 Edges)

Extruding an Edge
creates a Face.
Extruding a Wire
creates a Shell. This
Shell shares the same
sub-Shapes with a
group of Faces which
is generated by the
extrusion of the
original Wires subEdges.

1 Shell connected by 6 Faces

1 Solid bounded by 1 closed Shell

(empty)

(filled)

Face is a Shape which

A Wire and 4 Edges cannot be a Shape

exists independently

because they are sub-Shapes of a Face

Compound is
generally used to
sort shapes easily.
(ex: grouping
hundreds of Curves
imported from
Autocads .dxf file
into a single
Compound.

A Compound which is grouped by 4 independent

Shapes

(compound no longer exists as a shape)

17

Topology means the

relationship of
geometric entities.

The following examples will help to more comprehensively understand the topology.
V1
E5

E1

Highest Shape
V2

V5
Face

E2

Sub-

E4

Shape
V3

E3

One (Faces Boundary)

Group of E1 through E5

Edge

Five (E1~E5)

Vertex

Five (V1~V5)

V4

No matter how many

edges exists, a
boundary of a Face
will be always
regarded as a Wire.
In a closed Edge like
a circle, starting and
ending vertices are
identical.

Wire

One (Face)

Highest Shape

E1, W1

E2, W2

Wire
V1

V2

Sub-

Edge

Shape

Face

One (Face)
Two (Inner/outer boundary)
same as E1, E2
Two (E1, E2)
Two (V1, V2)

Vertex

Starting and ending points of

edges

When the user sews two

neighboring Faces into a
Shell, one or more
Edge(s) will be shared
E2
between Faces. In the
diagram, two independent
Faces have a total of 8
edges, but the combined
Shape, a Shell, has only 7
edges.

E1

Highest Shape

E7
Shell
F1

F2

E6

E4

SubShape

E5

Two (F1, F2)

Wire

Two (Boundary of each face)

Edge
Vertex

E3

Highest Shape
Solid
F1
F2

SubShape

Shell (F:2, W:3, E:8)

One (Shell)

Face

Seven (E1~ E7)

They share E4

Six

One (Solid)

Shell

One (Solids Boundary)

Face

Six

Wire

Six (Boundary of each face)

Twelve

Edge

4 for each face, 12 edges are

shared

Vertex

18

Eight

Understanding FX+

FX+ provides both Top-down Modeling and Bottom-up Modeling methods. Therefore,
the user can choose either method or a combination of both depending on beneficial
characteristics of the particular model.

Top-down Modeling Method

In this method, the user makes the highest level Shape, and its sub-Shapes will be
automatically formed. The user does not need to waste a lot of effort to model each
sub-Shapes. The method often exercised for a simply shaped model or for a
preliminary design process.
<Ex> If a cube is created with the primitive box feature of FX+, all sub-Shapes of this
solid such as Faces, Wires, and Edges are automatically generated

Bottom-up Modeling Method

In this method, the user starts to model from the lowest level entities first. With these
independently generated sub-Shapes, the final shape is assembled together. The
operation may take a lot of time more than the Top-down method. However, by this
method, the user can generate a very complex shape which cannot be accomplished by
the other method. In most of the geometry modeling practices, the Bottom-up
Modeling Method is widely used.
<Ex> A surface model of terrain is extremely difficult to model directly at once.
Therefore, Vertices and Edges, which express the Face, will be made first, and the
Face will be generated by using those Vertices and Edges.

A Box Creation by the Primitive Box Function

3D Surface Generation with the NURBS Face

(Top-down Modeling: Solid)

(Bottom-up Modeling: EdgeFace)

19

The actual modeling process of the Bottom-up Modeling is shown below;

It is not necessary
to start modeling
from the vertex for
the Bottom-up
Modeling Method.
If possible, the midsteps between the
bottom shape and
the top shape can
be eliminated.

Create Vertex

Import Geometry Data File

Create Edge/Wire

Modify Edge/Wire

Modify Geometry Data

Create Face/Shell

Modify Face/Shell

Mesh Generation

Create Solid

Modify Solid

---

: Possible Starting Points

---

: Modeling Process

---

: Completion

The Flow Chart of Geometry Modeling Process of FX+

20

Understanding FX+

B. Mesh Generation
FX+ provides various types of elements. Each element type is defined by the structural
characteristic of its engaged nodes.
Here, the element
types are categorized
by their geometrical
characteristics, and
the structural
behavior of elements
may be different
within the same type.
(ex. Truss and Beam)
The structural
behavior can be
found in the Analysis
Reference Manual.

Scalar Element
It consists of 1 or 2 node(s), and it does not have a geometrical characteristic. The
mass, damper, and spring elements fit in this category.
0
1

1-Node Scalar
(Ex. Node Spring)

2-Node Scalar
(Ex. Element Spring)

1D Element (Line)
The 1-dimensional element has a geometrical characteristic of length and consists of 2
or 3 nodes. The truss and beam elements fall in this category.
0

st

nd

1 Order Line

2 Order Line

2D Element (Plane)
The 2-dimensional element, which represents either triangular or quadrilateral element,
has the geometrical characteristic of area. Plane Stress Element, Plain Strain Element,
Axisymmetric Element, and Plate Element are included in 2D Element type.
2

2
0

3
7

Triangular (1st, 2nd Order)

0
Quadrilateral (1st, 2nd Order)

3D Element (Solid)
The 3-dimensional element such as Tetrahedron, Pentahedron (Wedge or Prism), and
Hexahedron (Brick) has a geometrical characteristic of volume.

21

9
2

9
0

Tetrahedron (1st , 2nd Order)

Pentahedron (1st , 2nd Order)

6

14

7
15

5
4

4
3

16

12
19
11

8
0
Hexahedron (1st , 2nd Order)

6
13
5
18

17
3 10

7
10

11 4

8
12

13

2
1

9
1

Miscellaneous
Few element types such as Rigid Links are categorized here.
A structure in real life always exists in a space, and it can be modeled by a type of

element with proper dimension. Its structural behavior can be expressed with the accurate
material model and geometrical property. To construct an analysis model of the structure, its
elements must include these 3 important characteristics; nodal connectivity
material property, and additional geometric property such as a thickness.
The geometric properties that are required to be defined in each 1D, 2D, and 3D
element are listed in the following table.
The table on the right is
for understanding the
basics of the geometric
property, and the list
only contains the
common items.
Depending on its
structural behavior,
each element type may
require additional
properties. For detailed
information, refer to OnLine Manual.

Element

Geometric

Type

Characteristic

1D

Length(L)

Area

LA

2D

Area(A)

Thickness

At

3D

Volume(V)

N/A

22

Property

Volume
Calculation

Understanding FX+

Regardless of dimension and type, the general process of mesh generation is shown in
the following diagram:

Complete
1D Mesh

Specify Mesh Size

Select the object shape and

Create 1D mesh on all

specify the element type.

boundary edges.

2D Mesh Generation
Choose Mesh Algorithm

Complete
2D Mesh

Generate 3D mesh in the

Create 2D mesh on all

internal space

boundary faces .

General Process of Mesh Generation

The detailed generation process of each 1D, 2D, and 3D Mesh us as follows;

1D Mesh
One dimensional elements are generated on the selected edge based on the specified
mesh size.

2D Mesh
Before generating 2D mesh, 1D mesh is produced on the boundary edges.

The

program executes it automatically as a hidden process. Subsequently, 2D mesh fills out

the internal area which is bounded by the previously generated 1D mesh. The 2D
meshing algorithm can be specified either by the user or automatically by the program.

3D Mesh
After the generation of 1D and 2D mesh, the program generates 3D elements in the
internal space which is closed by the 2D boundary mesh. If necessary, 1D and 2D
mesh generations are processed internally by the program.

23

The user must use caution for the listed items prior to the mesh generation.
In order to generate the proper 2D mesh, 1D mesh on the boundary edges must be
completely closed. Similarly, in order to generate the proper 3D mesh, the boundary
2D mesh must be completely closed.
For convenience, FX+ provides size control on various geometry type such as Solid,
Face, and Edge. Yet, the predominant factor of determining mesh size is what is given
on the Edges. Therefore, in order to mesh with desired size properly, it is
The boundary mesh
error can occur more
likely during the 3D
mesh generation.

recommended to specify the mesh size on the critical edges first.

Once the lower dimensional mesh is created manually, the higher dimensional mesh
can be generated automatically based on the lower dimensional mesh.
<Ex> If the boundary 2D mesh is made, the 3D mesh can be generated directly with it. Therefore,
theoretically, what requires to generate the 3D mesh is the boundary 2D mesh, not the Solid
(Geometry).

24

Understanding FX+

Valence is also known as

Degree of Regularity or
in short Regularity.

Valence

is the number of elements which are shared by a single internal node. Depending

on the Valence, the mesh can be divided into two groups, the structured mesh and the
unstructured mesh.

Structured Mesh
In the structured mesh, the Valence of internal nodes is constant.
The Map Mesh function in FX+ generates the structured mesh type in both 2D and 3D.

Unstructured Mesh
In the unstructured mesh, internal nodes have a different Valence.
The Auto Mesh function in FX+ generates the unstructured mesh with various automeshing algorithms.

The following figure will help to understand the definition of the Valence and the difference
between the structured mesh and the unstructured mesh by using 2D mesh sets.
=3

=4

=4
=5

Structured Mesh

The Valence of 4
seems the best in
generating 2D
Quadrilateral Mesh
(Structured Mesh). If
possible, it is
recommended to
keep the Valence
between 3 and 5.

Unstructured Mesh

In the structured mesh of the above figure, all internal nodes have a Valence of 4, and they
are shared equally by 4 elements. Each element will have a corner angle of about 90
(360/4). Such elements with 90 corner angle have an excellent element quality. However,
the internal nodes in the unstructured mesh may have other Valences such as 3 and 5, and
their engaged elements at each node will have a corner angle of about 120 and 72 (360/)
accordingly. Thus, as the Valence sends away from 4, the element quality gets worse.

The structured mesh has an excellent mesh quality, but there are a few trade-offs. The
following diagram represents the general process of the structured mesh, and it will
introduce the required condition for the structured mesh.

25

This type of

structured mesh
generation is known
Mapped Mesh.

Inverse
Mapping

3D Original

Thus, the shape of

Mapping

Geometry

the base geometry of

2D structured mesh
is a rectangle.
Similarly, for the 3D
structured mesh, a
cube becomes the
shape of the base
geometry.

2D Base Geometry

(By the Grid Method)

-1

-3

Inverse
Mapping

3D Original Geometry

Mapping

-2

Generation Process of Structured Mesh

Thus, after transferring the actual 3D geometry to the 2D base geometry, the quadrilateral
elements fill up the internal area of the base geometry. Again, the generated quadrilateral
mesh is mapped back to the original geometry. Due to the complicated nature of this method,
the original 3D geometry must satisfy the following two conditions.
In 3D structure, 8
corner vertices must
be defined.

1)

In order to form the base geometry, the 4 corner vertices must be defined.

In case of convex polygons, FX+ automatically detects the 4 corner vertices.

Moreover, it also provides the user an option to define the 4 vertices manually. If the 4
vertices cannot be defined, the geometry shape must be divided into the applicable
shapes as shown in the following examples.

26

Understanding FX+

2)

The number of nodal divisions on an edge or an edge group must match with the
coupled edge or the coupled edge group(-, -).
It is recommended to apply the mesh size control using the Number of Division than
the Interval Length to construct a structural mesh, in order to keep the same number of
mesh divisions on each side.

Hence, we call the

unstructured mesh
as Free Mesh.
Detailed information
on various free
meshing algorithms
can be found in the
On-line Manual.

Unlike the structured mesh, the unstructured mesh can be applied to any shape of geometry
without any regulations such as the number of divisions and the geometrical structure.
Therefore, any complex geometry can be meshed with much less effort.

The proper selection of element type and the quality of element shape heavily affects on the
analysis result. Therefore, it is very important to choose the proper element type and to
check the nodal connectivity between the elements and the element shape in order to obtain
accurate results.
The following list introduces the essential information required before mesh generation;
1)

As the element shape gets closer to the regular polygon and the regular polyhedron, the
analysis result becomes more accurate.

2)

The duration of analysis is a facto that should not be ignored during modeling.
Therefore, it is important to keep the number of elements within a reasonable range. A
careful planning of element distribution can prevent a massively sized model. Finer
mesh must be considered in the following cases; (a) where the analysis is critical, (b)
where the geometry radically changes, (c) where the material or the property changes,
(d) where the load varies, and (e) where dramatic results are expected. The balance
area can be meshed coarsely since the analysis results do not seem to be heavily
affected.
Side View

Model
(3D View)

Front View

Linear

Linear

Linear

Grading

Grading

Grading

Example of a Geotechnical Model where a finer Mesh is Generated near the Tunnel
(The selected element sizes should be such as to enable a smooth transition)

27

However, good

Since the triangular element is relatively stiffer than the quadrilateral element, a model

quality triangular or
tetrahedral elements
are better than poor
quality quadrilateral
or hexahedral
elements.

with quadrilateral elements is expected to produce better results. Similarly, the

hexahedral element is preferred to the tetrahedral element.

The first degree element is also stiffer than the second degree element. Therefore, it is
recommended to use second degree elements, especially when a model is assembled
with triangular and tetrahedral elements.

Free edge and free

3)

face can be checked

in the Check Mesh
Function of FX+

Upon the completion of the mesh generation, the nodal connectivity between the
generated elements should be checked. The separated nodes will cause free edges in
2D and free faces in 3D mesh .

Free Edges are made in

connection

Example of Free Edge in 2D Mesh at the Beam and Column Connection

In FX+, the user can
check mesh quality
with various criteria.
Detailed information
on the mesh quality
function is available
in the On-line
Manual.

4)

The mesh quality checking tools in FX+ make it possible to verify the feasibility of
mesh shape in an analysis model. The user must mesh carefully in the area where the
geometry radically changes because unacceptable elements may occur. In addition,
Jacobian Ratio for the quadrilateral element must be checked to determine whether
non-convex quadrilateral elements exist or not. In addition, the collapsed tetra, a nearly
flat element, must be removed.

28

Understanding FX+

2.2 Organization of Windows and Menu System

The Menu System of FX+ permits an easy access to all the functions related to the entire
process of input, output and analysis and minimizes the mouse movement.
Main Menu

Toolbar (Icon Menu)

Context Menu

Work Window

Works Tree

Property Window

Output Window

Table Window

Tree

Tree

Organization of Windows and Menu System

FX+ consists of a total of 6 windows.

Work Window
The Work Window deals with modeling and interpretation of analysis results by means
of GUI (Graphic User Interface) of FX+.

29

Table Window
The Table Window displays all types of data entry, analysis and results in the Spread
Sheet format. Various types of data modification, additional input, compilation,
arrangement for different characteristics and searching capabilities are provided in
Table Windows. They allow transfers with common database software or MS-Excel.

Works Tree Window

The Works Tree stores all the data of the current project such as geometry, mesh, load,
boundary condition, analysis control, and analysis results. They are organized in the
tree format which is similar to Windows Explorer.

Property Window
The Property Window shows general information about the individual entity that the
user selects from the Work Window or the Works Tree. Basic modification, such as its
name and color, can be also done through the Property Window.
Depending on the working mode (pre-processing and post-processing), the Property
Window has an unique format and function.

Output Window
The Output Window displays all types of information necessary for modeling,
warnings and error messages.

FX+ has the following menu system:

Main Menu
The Main Menu has commands for all the built-in functions necessary to run FX+.

Toolbar (Icon Menu)

The Icon Menu helps the user promptly invoke functions frequently used in FX+.
Each icon is regrouped with the icons of similar purposes by Tab in order to be
recognized more easily by the user.

<ex> Curve Tab: The group of tools that are frequently used to create and modify curves

30

Understanding FX+

It is better for the

beginners of FX+ to
manipulate the
commands with Main
Menu, to understand
about the program
more thoroughly.
However, once users
are familiar with the
system, it is much
more convenient to
use the Icon Menu.

Each Toolbar can be easily dragged with the mouse to the desired position on the
screen. They may be edited to appear selectively on the screen or modified by using
View>Toolbars>Customize. For more information on any icon in the Toolbar, place
the mouse cursor on the icon in question and Tool Tip will provide a short description.

Context Menu
In order to minimize the physical motions of the mouse, simply right click the mouse.
FX+ automatically brings a menu system, which offers related functions or frequently
used functions reflecting the working circumstances of the user.

2.2.1 Work Window

When the user starts FX+, only the Start Page will show up on the screen. When opening a
new project, the user will see the Work Window where actual modeling will take place.
The Start Page is a window that is hyperlinked to MIDAS IT Corporations Homepage
(http://www.MidasUser.com) and the User Support Center.

The Work Window deals with modeling and interpretation of analysis results by means of
GUI (Graphic User Interface) of FX+.
The display related options, including the modification of the background color, can be
controlled in Main Menu > View > Display Option or
Menu.

31

Display Option icon in the Icon

In Display Option, the user can change various

display settings of the Work Window.

The user can switch between the Start Page, Work Window, and Table Window by clicking
their Tabs.

2.2.2. Works Tree Window

FX+ provides Pre-Works Tree and Post-Works Tree depending on working modes.
When dealing with a
complex model, users
often have trouble in
selecting and modifying
entities from the Work
Window. However, using
Works Tree and
Context Menu, they can
select and modify the
entities much more
easily and conveniently.
Since Context Menu
changes depending on
the selected entity,
users must try out each
case.

Pre-Works Tree
The Pre-Works Tree is structured similar to the Windows Explorer. It stores all preprocessing modeling information of geometry, mesh, load, and boundary conditions.
The user also can perform the basic modeling operation using the Pre-Works Tree such
as Show/Hide objects.

The following are the featured functions of the Pre-Works Tree:

The user can select objects from the Pre-Works Tree as well as from the Work
Window.
Depending on the selected entity, the Pre-Works Tree provides a customized

32

Understanding FX+

Context Menu which includes a range of practical operations such as the

Show/Hide function.
The user can learn
more about its
functions in the
provided Tutorials.

The Works Tree provides similar working environment to the Microsoft Windows
Explorer so that the user quickly becomes familiar to operate various functions
such as Rename, Delete, Move in the Works Tree.

Structure of Pre-Works Tree

Group [Number of Entities]
Entity Name [ID]

Customization of
Context Menu by the
Selected Object

F2 Key: Rename
Del Key: Delete

Merging and Moving

Mesh-sets by simple
Drag & Drop

In the other previous

programs, the user
must check the
analysis result after
careful interpretation.
However, FX+
organizes the result
in the tree format
automatically, and
the user can view the
post data by a simple
click of the mouse.

Modification of
Property and Material

Structure of Pre-Works Tree and Its Functions

Post-Works Tree
Once the analysis is completed, the program automatically brings the post data and
arranges it in the tree format.

In the Post-Works Tree, the user can control most of

the output results, such as the graphic and table related display. The user can also store
the current display output.

33

Structure of Post-Works Tree

Analysis Step
Result Type
Result Data

The contour plot canl

be drawn by doubleclicking the result
data.
Provides numerical
results in table format.

Structure of Pre-Works Tree and Its Functions

34

Understanding FX+

2.2.3 Property Window

The Property Window provides a set of information about the object that has been selected
from the Work Window or the Works Tree. Depending on actual working mode, the
Property Window functions differently. Therefore, the Property Window will have a
different structure for each mode (Pre-Processing and Post-Processing).

Pre-Processing Mode
The Pre-Processing Mode displays general information about selected object, and
simple modification of basic properties such as name and color, can be done in the
Property Window. The structure of the Pre-Processing Property Window may change
depending on the selected entity, but the general structure is shown in the following

figure:

Geometry
Entity

The selections name

and color can be
changed in the
Property Window.

Name, Color,
Shape Type,
Geometric
Characteristic

Mesh

Total Number of
Nodes/Elements

Material
Property
Mesh Set

In order to invoke the

Name, Color
Node/Element

Property Window,
only a single object
must be selected.
Name, Type
Color, Material

Example of Information Display in Pre-Processing Property Window

35

Post-Processing Mode
Instead of showing information like the one in the Pre-Processing Mode, the Property

The post-options are

specified in the
Property Window,
and the postoperations are
controlled in the
Icon Menu

Window in the Post-Processing Mode is used to specify options for the postprocessing operations.

Once an option is specified in the Property Window, it applies to all post processing
operations. In addition, it saves into the registry so that the same options can be
applied for other projects.

Detailed Options of
Contour Plot

Structure of the Property Window in the Post-Processing Mode

2.2.4 Output Window

The Output Window displays all types of information that are necessary for modeling,
analysis, warnings, and error messages.
The displayed messages in the Output Window can be copied to the Clip Board, and they
can be used in other text program.

Selected Text
can be copied.

Example of Messages in Output Window and its Context Menu

36

Understanding FX+

Operations of Works Tree/Property/Output Window

While working with the Works Tree Window, the Property Window, and the Output Window, it
may be required to hide or change their location.
Here, the basic operation of these 3 windows will be introduced.
Menu button is only
available in the
VS.NET 2005 format.
The window style can
be specified in
Display Option(View
> Display Option).
Floating and Docking
which do not require
a specialized button
can be controlled by
mouse-drag .

All three windows have the main control buttons on the top right corner. Basically, all the
operations are included in the Menu Button

as shown in the figure, and for convenience,

FX+ provides additional individual buttons for the most frequently used functions.

Menu Button

Auto-Hide

Hide
Only Available in
VS.NET 2005

Floating
The window can be located in any place in and out of the program.

Docking
The window can only be located only in the designated locations such as Right/Left/
Top/Bottom.

Auto-Hide can be
used only in the
Docking mode.

Auto-Hide

The window will be hidden except the title bar. When bringing the mouse over the title
bar, the whole window will appear again.

Hide
Hide the window completely. The windows Show/Hide is controlled through the Window
menu in the Main Menu.

37

Works Tree Window

Left Docking Mode

Property Window
Floating Mode

Output Window
Auto-Hide Mode (Bottom Docking)

To move the window location, hold down the left mouse button click at the title bar and release
it at the desired location.

To position the window in the Floating mode

After dragging the window into empty space, release the left mouse button.

To position the window in the Docking mode

Dragging into boundaries of the main frame or inside of other windows will set the

The default window

style is the VS.NET
2005 format.

window to the Docking mode. When the window is positioned in the desired docking
location, release the mouse button to complete the operation.
The easiest method to situate the window properly in the Docking mode is:

Specify the window style as the VS.NET 2005 format in the General tab of Display

Option (View > Display Option ).

Click the title bar of the object window, and drag the mouse around. The docking
position icons will show up on the screen. The icons will be structured differently
depending on where they are to be dragged.

Bring the mouse pointer on the top of the desired docking position icon. When the
position is highlighted, release the mouse button to place the window in the
Docking position.

This method is very convenient when the user is trying to dock the window inside of
another window.

38

Understanding FX+

Locate the window

location using the
Docking buttons.

Example of Docking to Another Window

(Drag the positioning window to another)

It previews the area

to postion.
Drag it to the top of
the button

39

Example of Docking to Programs Boundary

(Drag the positioning window to Work Window)

Release the mouse

click to finish

2.2.5 Main Menu

Main Menu includes commands and shortcut keys of all the functions that are required to
operate FX+.
File

File, Print, and Data Exchange

Edit

Undo/Redo

Geometry

Geometry Modeling Functions (Create/Modify), Work Plane, and Grid

Mesh

Mesh Control / Mesh Generation (Auto, Map, Protrude) / Manual

Operation

Analysis

Analysis Option / Analysis Control / Analysis Perform

Post

Result Combination / Extraction / Post File Conversion

View

Display Option / Show and Hide / Visualization Related

Window

Windows Active / Inactive / Arrangement

Help

On-line Help / Link to MIDAS IT Homepage / E-mail Contact

40

Understanding FX+

2.2.6 Toolbar and Icon Menu

Icon Menu helps the user promptly invoke functions which are frequently used in FX+.
Each icon is regrouped with the icons of similar purposes in various Toolbars. Each Toolbar
can be easily dragged with the mouse to the desired position on the screen. For more
information on any icon in the Toolbar, place the mouse cursor on the icon in question and
Tool Tip will provide a short description.

File

Undo/Redo

Selection

Work Plane

Snap

Function (Tabbed Toolbar)

Zoom

View Point

Rotate (View)

Dynamic View

Display Mode

Measure & Query

Configuration and Arrangement of Icon Menu

The Function Toolbar is one of the most outstanding features in FX+ . The Function Toolbar
is designed in the tabbed toolbar format to maximize its usability. Therefore, even a
beginner can utilize the toolbar immediately. The commands are grouped together by their
geometrical or functional type so that the user can find them more easily. For example, if

41

the user wants to make a planar surface, he/she can find the command in the Surface Tab.
Function Toolbar is
the most used Tool
bar. Therefore, it is
recommended to try
each icon.

<ex> How to find an icon in the Function Toolbar

To Create a polyline which is a

Curve Tab

Solid Tab

Geometry Tab (a group of commonly shared

functions by multiple geometry type)

geometric type of Curve.

To Trim an object which is a geometric
type of Solid.
To delete a polyline or a solid

After completing Solid operations in the Solid Tab in Icon Menu,

Switch to the Auto/Map-Mesh Tab, and Generate Mesh on the Solid.

Example of Effective Usage of the Function Toolbar

The detailed information about the Toolbars and the Icon Menu of FX+ can be found in the
Appendix, Toolbar & Icon Menu.
The Toolbars can be placed in any desired area of the program, and they can be shown or
hidden through Customize command in the Context Menu. In addition, the users can
customize the Icon Menu so that they can create their own Icon Menu.

In the Command Tab

of the Customize
Toolbar dialog box,
the user can edit the
Toolbars by dragging
icons in and out.
The customized
Toolbar can be
initialized by Reset All
button in the Toolbars
Tab.

Reset
Invoke Context
Menu by the right
click on top of
Toolbar

Show/Hide
Check Box

Customize Toolbar Dialogue Box

Toolbar can be edited in
Customize

Customization of Toolbar

42

Understanding FX+

2.2.7 Context Menu

In order to minimize the physical motions of the mouse, simply right click the mouse. FX+
automatically selects a menu system, which offers related functions or frequently used
functions reflecting the working circumstances of the user.
Please refer to the Appendix for the detailed information on FX+ Context Menu

43

2.3 Selection and Manipulation of Work Window

FX+ offers various Selection methods and Work Window handling capabilities to
effectively generate a model.

2.3.1 Selection
In order to
understand all the
selection functions,
the user must know
the geometry
concept thoroughly.
If you are not familiar
with this concept
yet, please review
Chapter 2.1.2
Modeling Process of
FX+.

The Selection functions are extremely important and indispensable for the overall task of
generating a model.
FX+ provides various selection methods so that users can handle complex models
effectively in any situation.

All selection methods are controlled from Selection Toolbar.

Select / Unselect Mode

Selection Method

Selection Filter

Organization of FX+ Selection Toolbar

The number in the

parenthesis is the
shortcut key for each
selection method.
This only works
when the focus is on
the Work Window.

Select (0)

Add to selection.

Unselect (0)

Remove from selection.

Unselect All

Unselect all the selected entities.

Select all the entities that are contained inside the

Include Intersected (Ctrl)

selecting area as well as the entities intersecting the

defined boundaries.
Select the entities by clicking the mouse once each

Pick / Window (1)

time. Or select the entities in rectangular bounding area

defined by dragging the mouse cursor.

44

Understanding FX+

Select all the entities in circular bounding area defined

Circle (2)

by dragging the mouse cursor.

Select the entities by successively clicking the corners

Polygon (3)

of the polygon containing the relevant entities with the

mouse cursor.
Select the entities by crossing a series of lines that

Polyline (4)

intersect the desired entities with the mouse cursor.

Select the entity from the list of the entities which are

Query Pick (5)

detected at the mouse click on the Work Window.

Select all the entities which are currently shown in the

Displayed

Work Window.
Select the node(s) or the element(s) by entering its

ID

Node ID or Element ID .

When the user brings the mouse pointer above the desired entity, it will be highlighted with
sky blue edge. Therefore, the user can preliminarily check whether the selection will be
made correctly or not. Once the entity is selected, the boundary color will be changed to
pink.

Select
To change into the Select Mode to select the entities.
The user can change to the unselect mode by typing 0 on the keyboard or by
pressing the middle button of the mouse.

Unselect
To change into the Unselect Mode to unselect the selected entities.
The user can change to the select mode by typing 0 on the keyboard or by pressing
the middle button of the mouse.

Pay attention during

Unselect All because
depending on the double
clicking speed of the
mouse, the user may
mistakenly switch
between the select /
unselect mode.

During the Include

Intersected Mode, the
selection boundary is
drawn as dotted lines.

Unselect All
To unselect all the selected entities.

Double clicking the mouse scroll button also executes the function.

Include Intersected
When assigned with Window, Circle, or Polygon, it selects all the entities that are
contained inside the selection area, as well as the entities intersecting the boundaries
of the area.

45

Window Selection(Include Intersected: Off)

Window Selection (Include Intersected: On)

Selection to be made : Only A

Selection to be made: A, B

The user can toggle the Include Intersected Mode on and off by pressing Ctrl key
while dragging the selection area.

Pick / Window
Using the Pick Select, the desired entities can be selected by clicking the mouse once
each time. The Window Select feature can be effected by dragging the mouse from
one corner to the other.

Pick Select
Select the desired entities by clicking the mouse once each time. To unselect the
selected entities, click them once again in the Select Mode.

The direction of the

Window Select
Click the diagonal corners

dragging window is
not significant in
FX+. The inclusion of
the intersected
entities on the
window boundary is
controlled by the
Include Intersected
Mode.

of a window area containing the entities with the

mouse cursor and select or unselect the desired entities complexly contained
within the rectangular window. Press ESC to cancel while defining the window
area.
Enter 1 key to change to the Pick/Window Selection method during the modeling
process.

Circle
Select the desired entities that are contained in the circular bounding area.
The circular area is defined by clicking the center point and dragging out to the
desired radius.
Press ESC to cancel while defining the circular area.

46

Understanding FX+

After click the

center, drag out
the mouse to
define the area.

Example of Applying the Boundary Condition using the Circle Selection

Enter 2 key to change into the Circle Selection method during modeling process.

Polygon
Select or unselect the desired entities by successively clicking the corners of the
polygon containing the relevant entities with the mouse cursor. When clicking the final
corner, double-click the mouse to end.
Press ESC to cancel while defining the polygon.

After successively clicking

the corners of the
polygon, double-click the
mouse at the final corner

Example of Applying the Bearing Load using the Polygon Selection

Enter 3 key to change into the Polygon selection method during modeling process.

47

Polyline
Select or unselect entities by crossing a series of lines that intersect the desired entities
with the mouse cursor in the Model Window. When clicking the final point of the last
line, double click the mouse to end. Press ESC to cancel while defining the polyline.

After creating a series of

lines, double click the
mouse to complete.
Example of Selecting Faces Using the Polyline Selection

Enter 4 key to change into the Polyline selection method during the modeling
process.

Query Pick
Select or unselect the desired entity from the list of all the entities which are detected
at the mouse click location. Going down the list, each entity on the list will be
highlighted. Click OK button on the desired entity to select.

Once the desired entity

is selected, press OK
button to complete the
selection.

Example of Selecting a Solid Using the Query Pick Selection

Enter 5 key to change into the Query Pick Selection method during the modeling
process.

48

Understanding FX+

When Work Window

Displayed
Select or unselect all the entities shown in Work Window.

is set to Zoom All,

the Displayed
selection will work
identically as the
Select All command.

Simply click the Displayed icon from the Selection Toolbar.

Example of the Displayed

Selection at Zoom All View

Simply click the Displayed

Select Icon
.

Example of Selecting only Currently Displayed Elements in the Zoomed In view.

ID
In the node and element selection mode, the user enters the Node or Element ID
directly to select the desired entity.

The Selection Filter

will be explained in
the next section in
detail.

The user can distinguish the Node and Element Selection Mode by the Selection Filter.
If the Selection Filter

shows only Node or Element, the program is in the Node and

Element Selection mode. This mode is only active for the node and element
manipulation functions.
When the ID selection method is on, the ID Selection dialog box appears on the Work
Window. The detailed selection procedure is shown in the following;

The ID Selection Dialog

box behaves as an
intermediate between
the selection manager
and the Command
Dialogues

Enter the ID of either Node or Element in the Dialog Box to make the selection.
If nodes and elements are selected by the different selection methods, the IDs of
the selected entities will appear on the dialog box. The user can modify the list of

49

the selection to complete.

IDs can be directly typed in, and

selected IDs listed in the selection
dialog can be modified.

The selected node are automatically

listed in the dialogue box.

Command Dialog Box

Example of Selecting a Specific Node within

The ID selection is
convenient to select
a specific element
when multiple
elements are located
at the same location.

Interface Element (Duplicated).

The ID Selection dialog box consists of following buttons.

Add
Replace

Add the newly entered IDs nodes or elements to the selection

Unselect the existing selection, and select the newly entered IDs nodes
or elements

Even after the user

clears the Selection
Dialog Box, the
previously selected
entities still remain
selected.

Clear

Clear the list in the ID selection dialog box.

Close

Close the ID selection dialog box.

50

Understanding FX+

The Selection Filter enables the user to select only by the specified entities type.
Depending on the working mode and the active command, the Selection Filter forms
differently, and the user can choose the entity type within the specially customized Selection
Filter.
The working mode in terms of the Selection Filter is basically distinguished by whether a
command is invoked or not.
The Datum represents

reference points, lines,

and planes.

Neutral Mode
The neutral mode is when the user has not called a command yet, and the Selection

Filter has set to the default. In the neutral mode, the user only can select Datums ,
Shapes, and Mesh Sets.

The sub-Shape of a geometric entity and the individual

nodes and elements cannot be select.

It is recommended to
set the Selection
Filter to the Shape in
the Neutral Mode.

Command Mode
The Command mode is activated when the user has called a specific command, and
the Selection Filter has formed with the relevant type of the function.

The user can

select any desired type including the sub-Shape and the individual node and element
depending the command type.
E-a

The Selection Filter

is formed differently
by the relevant
command. Make
sure to check the
Selection Filter
before proceeding

Shape
E-b

F-1

E-d

E-1

E-c

Selection Filter
Shape
Edge

Working Mode

Type

F-1

Face (4 Sub-edges)

E-1

Edge

Selected Entity

Neutral Mode

(F-1, E-1)

Command Mode

(F-1, E-1)

Neutral Mode

(E-1)

Command Mode

(E-1, E-a, E-b, E-c, E-d)

Difference of the selected entity between the Neutral Mode and the Command Mode

51

Why such a difference in selection between the working modes?

Although the same type has been specified in the Selection Filter, the selected entities turns
out differently depending on the current working mode. The difference occurs because in the
Neutral Mode, only the independent geometric entity (Shape) is allowed in the selection. This
concept may seem complicated at first, but it becomes highly beneficial when it comes down
to advanced modeling applications.
The following example explains where the selection restriction in the Neutral Mode can
effectively be used. A 3-dimensional face is created by connecting 8 curved edges.

Shape (1 Face, 8 Edges)

Edge (Total 12, 8 of Shape and 4 of Face)

Shape (8 Edges)

Since the original eight edges are no longer needed, they are either to be deleted or hidden.
Let us carefully look into either case when the Sub-shape selection is restricted and when it is
allowed.
Each edge can be

picked manually one

by one, but it still
causes difficulties
since some edges
are duplicated in the
same location.

In the actual
modeling, such an
operation can be
also done easily by
the use of the Works
Tree.

If all geometric entities including sub-Shapes are allowed in the selection

With Shape in the Selection Filter

A total of 9 Shapes (1 Face and 8 Edges) are selected

With Edge in the Selection Filter

A total of 12 Edges are selected. 4 of them are belong to the Face, and they cannot
be separately treated by the program.

If only the Shape is allowed in the selection

By having the Selection Filter in Edge, only 8 unnecessary edges will be selected so

that they can be deleted and hidden all together.

In order to perform such an operation easily, FX+ allows only the Shape to be selected in the
Neutral Mode.

Some commands
restricts the subShape in selection
due to similar reason
as this example.

In the Command Mode where modeling processes are mostly completed, both the Shape and

the Sub-shape can be used freely . Therefore, in the actual operation, the selection
difference between the Neutral Mode and the Command Mode does not created any
problems, and it rather helps during complex modeling.

52

Understanding FX+

The general components of the Selection Filter are shown in the following table.
In the table, the letters
in the parenthesis are
the shortcut keys of the
Selection Filter
components.
The shortcut keys only
work when the focus is
on the Word Window.

Selection Filter
Datum Axis (A)
Datum Plane (P)

Subjected Entity
Select Datum Axis.
To define direction (Translate/Extrude/Project), revolution axis, etc.

Select Datum Plane.

To define the plane to project, to divide, and to mirror.

Geometry <1>
Shape (S)

Select Shape.

Solid (L)

Select Solid.

Shell (H)

Select Shell.

Face (F)

Select Face.

Wire (W)

Select Wire.

Edge (E)

Select Edge.

Vertex (V)

Select Vertex.
Mesh
Select Mesh Set.

Mesh (M)

To select Mesh Set itself or to select nodes and/or elements that

are included in the Mesh Set

Node <2>
Element

<2>

Node/Element <3>
Element-Face <4>
Element-Edge <4>

Select Node
Select Element.
Select Node and Element at the same time
To include or exclude the nodes and elements in the Mesh Set

Select 3D element face.

To apply the Face Pressure Load on the 3D element face.

Select 2D element edge.

To apply the Edge Pressure Load on the 2D element edge.

<1> The sub-Shape of geometric entities will not be selected in the Neutral Mode.
<2> Only applicable in the Node/Element modifying functions
<3> Only applicable in the Incl/Excl function in the Mesh Set Menu
<4> Only applicable in the Load and Boundary Condition functions
The user can control
whether to display the
Cursor Tip or not in the
Display Option(View >
Display Option).

The specified type in the Selection Filter will be displayed at the Cursor Tip on the screen.
Example of Cursor
Tip

Specifying the Selection Filter

53

Since all sub-Shapes are selectable in the Command Mode, the number of selectable entities
increase tremendously for lower level entities. Therefore, it is very difficult to select the
proper entity among many duplicated items by using the mouse cursor. In order to prevent
such a problem, FX+ provides the following functions.
This method only
works in the
Command Mode.

When the selection method is on Pick, the highlighted entity at the mouse cursor can
be alternated by pressing the Top/Down arrows of the keyboard.

The detected shape

alternates as the
Top/Down arrows of
keyboard are pressed.

Selecting a face in the Command Mode

The Query Pick selection can help the user to properly select the desired entity.
The user can carefully check the selection from the list of the entities which are
detected at the mouse position.
Most problems deal
with the Select /
Unselect Mode or the
Selection Filter.

When any function related to the selection does not operate properly , check the following
items for troubleshooting.
Check whether the selection mode is the Select Mode or the Unselect Mode.

If the selection
sensitivity is set very
high, too many objects
can be detected. Also,
this tolerance can affect
the snap tolerance as
well. Therefore, be
careful when changing
the selection sensitivity.

Make sure that the entity type is correctly specified in the Selection Filter.
Try again at another mouse position.
Change the selection sensitivity (allowable tolerance).

The selection sensitivity can be modified at File > Preference Menu.

Most cases will be resolved by ~, and must be used only in special situations

54

Understanding FX+

The geometric characteristic and topology can also be implemented in the modeling process
in FX+. Therefore, the geometric entities which includes special characteristics such as
direction and plane can be selected.
The following examples are the most frequently used cases of utilizing the geometric
characteristic and topology in FX+.

To Define Direction or Revolution Axis

When executing commands such as Translate, Extrude, Project, Rotate, and Revolve,
the user must define direction or revolution axis to complete the operation. In FX+, the
direction and the revolution axis can be defined using various entities which have the
relevant characteristics.
The entities that can define the direction and the revolution axis are listed in the
following table.
Allowed Entity
Datum Axis

<1>

Geometric Characteristic
The direction of Datum Axis

Selection Filter
Datum Axis

The normal direction of Datum Plane

Datum Plane
Edge (Straight Line)

Datum Plane
The direction of straight line

Edge

The normal direction of plane defined by

Edge (Circle/Arc)

circle or arc.

Edge

The normal direction of plane face

Face (Plane Face)

Face
The central axis of revolved face

Face (Revolved

(cylinder, etc)

Face)
2 Point Vector
Normal of Profile <2>

The user-defined 2 point vector

The normal direction of executing object
(planar entity)

Face

N/A
N/A

<1> The Datum Axis is set as a default in the Selection Filter for defining the direction
and the revolution axis.
<2> Its use is limited to some special functions such as Extrude and Local Prism.

55

Direction by Straight Line

To create stiffeners in 3D space, 2D edges are extruded in the direction of the

existing straight line.

Direction by Circle

To create a pipe from a circle, the extrusion direction can be defined by the normal
direction of the plane where the circle is located.

Rotational Axis by Arc

To copy the propeller by rotating around the axis, it is convenient to select the
center arc as revolution axis. (The revolved body face can also be selected)

As shown in the above examples, any directions and rotational axis can be easily
defined using the unique characteristic of the geometric entities.
In addition, FX+ provides various snap functions to define the 2 point vector and the 3
point plane, and it highly increases the workability during complex modeling
procedure.

Grid

Vertex

End

Middle

Ortho

Center

Quadrant

The Snap Toolbar of FX+

56

Intersection

Node

All-Off

Understanding FX+

To Select by Means of the Topological Relationship of Geometry Shape

Due to the topological concept in FX+, the selection of sub-Shapes can be done by
using higher level geometry. In other words, by selecting the higher level entity, the
user can select all of its sub-Shapes at once.

Structure of Selection Filter

E1

E2

F (Face)

E4

E3
Mesh Size Control along Edge
(Ready to Select Edges)

For example, in the above case, each edge wll be selected separately if the Selection
Filter is set to Edge. However, by setting the Selection Filter to Face, the user can
select the four sub-Edges at once.
Thus, it is recommended to make the use of higher level entity if all of its sub-Shapes
is subjected to selected.

To Select Node and Element

Similar to the geometry selection, after setting the Selection Filter to Mesh, the user
can select Mesh Sets from the Work Window or the Works Tree. Since nodes and
elements are included in a Mesh Set, all of them will be selected together at the same

In order to select by
Geometry, it must be
shown on the screen.

time.
If mesh is generated on a geometry, its nodes and elements can be selected by the
geometry unit such as Face and Edge.

Example of Selecting Nodes which are belong to the 3 Faces

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This selection method is
not using the geometry
relationship. Therefore,
it is useful when the
mesh is generated
manually without the
geometric shapes.

Other Useful Selection Tools

In order to provide the maximum workability to apply the load and boundary
conditions, FX+ offers additional selecting tools which are customized specially for
the load and boundary condition operations.
The most frequently used tools among them are the Free Face selection in 3D mesh
and the Free Edge selection in 2D mesh.

Select the relevant elements

(Possible to select all)

Free face nodes are found by

spreading out from the seed node
within the Feature Angle.

From this seed node,

the free face can be
found within the
specified Feature Angle.

Example of Selecting Top Face Nodes (Free Face Node in 3D Mesh)

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Understanding FX+

2.3.2 View Manipulation Functions

All the View Manipulation functions of FX+ assist the user to accurately grasp the threedimensional views of the model input state and the analysis and results through diverse view
angles and points.
Most of the View Manipulation functions are available in Icon Menu of the View Toolbar.

The Organization of the View Toolbar

Reset View

Initialize the viewpoint and the screen size to default.

Zoom All

Fit the model to the screen size by scaling up/down.

Zoom Window
Iso View

each click of the Icon

Menu can be modified in
the Display Option.
(View > Display Option)

the window with the mouse.

Represent the model in a three-dimensional space.

Front View

Represent the model as viewed from the Y direction.

Rear View

Represent the model as viewed from the +Y direction.

Top View

Represent the model as viewed from the +Z direction.

Bottom View

Represent the model as viewed from the Z direction.

Left View

Represent the model as viewed from the X direction.

Right View

Represent the model as viewed from the +X direction.

Normal View
The rotational angle at

Assign the desired size of the window by dragging a corner of

Rotate Left
Rotate Right
Rotate Up
Rotate Down
Dynamic Zoom

Represent the model as viewed from the positive normal

direction of the Work Plane.
(The +X-axis of WP is displayed on the right, and Y-axis is
displayed on the top.)
Rotate the model to the left (clockwise about Z-axis).
Rotate the model to the right (counterclockwise about Z-axis).
Rotate the model upward from the horizontal plane.
Rotate the model downward from the horizontal plane.
By dragging the mouse, zoom in/out the model view.

Dynamic Pan

By dragging the mouse, move the model view.

Dynamic Rotate

By dragging the mouse, rotate the model view.

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Isometric View
Left View

Top View

Front View

Bottom View

Rear View

Right View

The most frequently used view control functions are the Dynamic View Manipulations.

Dynamic Zoom (

, Ctrl+LB)

After clicking the Dynamic Zoom Icon, drag the mouse in the Work Window to zoom
in/out the model view. Pressing the left button of the mouse and dragging the mouse
downward or to the left reduces the window, and dragging the mouse upward or to the
right magnifies the window.
To continuously zoom in/out, while pressing down both the Crtl key and the mouse
left button, drag the mouse around.

Dynamic Pan (

, Ctrl+MB)

After clicking the Dynamic Pan Icon, drag the mouse in the Work Window, and the
model will follow the course of the mouse.
To continuously pan, while pressing down both the Crtl key and the mouse middle
button, drag the mouse around.

Dynamic Rotate (

, Ctrl+RB)

After clicking the Dynamic Rotate Icon, drag the mouse in the Work Window, and the
model will rotate as per the mouse direction.
To continuously rotate, while pressing down both the Crtl key and the mouse right
button, drag the mouse around.
The Dynamic Rotate behaves differently depending on the location where the mouse
drag starts. If user drags the mouse from the left/right boundaries

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of the Work

Understanding FX+

It should be within

Window, the model will rotate 2-dimensionally on the current view plane.

10% range of the

Work Window
boundaries

Drag from the

left/right boundary
for 2D rotation.

The Dynamic Rotate has different functionalities depending on the dragging position.

2.3.3 Model Representation

The Model Representation functions of FX+ present the model in diverse displays and
views. These functions help the user grasp the input state of the model and manipulate the
model as much as desired.

Display Mode of Geometry

The display mode of geometry can be specified to the individual shape. To modify the

The object entity

must be Shape, so
that the multiple
entities can be
modified together.

graphical display, the user selects the desired shape(s)

first and set the Display

Mode Menu which can be found in the Context Menu.

Changing the Display Mode in the Context Menu

The geometric model can be displayed in 4 different modes.

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 Wireframe
It only displays the boundary edges of the shape.
Shading
It only displays the exterior faces of the shape.
Shading with Edge
It displays both the boundary edges and the exterior faces.
Bounding Box
Instead of displaying the actual shape, it is displayed as a bounding box. When
the user moves the mouse cursorinto the bounding box, the geometric entity will
be shown in the Wireframe Display.

Wireframe

Shading

Shading with Edge

Bounding Box

In addition, FX+ provides the Transparency option in the Shading or Shading with
Edge display so that the interior of the geometric shape can be seen through.
The Transparency option can be found in the Context Menu once the object shape is
selected. In the Transparency dialogue box, the transparency level can be adjusted. To
remove the Transparency from the shape, set it to 0 or click the Reset button.

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Understanding FX+

Example of the Transparency Display

Ground is expressed
as Wireframe.

Iso View

Right View

Top View

Example of Showing the Interior Solids by Displaying the Exteriors with Transparency

The Display Mode can be applied differently to each individual Shape. Therefore, it
can be effectively used to model complex models which have numerous geometrical
shapes.

Display Mode of Mesh

The display mode of mesh can be specified to each individual Mesh Set.
Similar to the display mode of geometry, the user must select the desired Mesh Set
before selecting the Display Mode menu in the Context Menu.
The Mesh Set can be displayed in the following three different ways.
Wireframe
It hides the faces of all the elements in the Mesh Set, and it only displays the
element edges.
Shading
It shows both the edges and faces of the elements in the Mesh Set.

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 Feature Edge
It displays the Mesh Set with the Feature Edge. The Feature Edge represents the
Its default angle is 30
degrees, and it can
be adjusted in the
Display Option (View
> Display Option).

edge where the angle between the two connecting free faces are greater than the

specified angle . In this mode, the user can visually verify the shapes of
internally hidden Mesh Sets.

Element Face (Free Face)

It is the Feature Edge

if is greater than the
specified angle.

Element Edge

The default display

mode of Mesh Set
can be set up in the
Display Option
(View > Display
Option).

Example of the Wireframe Display

Example of the Feature Edge Display

Similar to the graphic display capabilities of geometry, the display option can be
applied to individual mesh sets.
The user can apply the Shrink option to each Mesh Set to display its elements in
proportionally reduced size.

Example of the Shrink Display of the Particular 2D Mesh Set

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Understanding FX+

The Perspective
Ratio can be
adjusted in the
Display Option
(View > Display
Option).

Perspective Mode
The Perspective Mode displays the model in a perspective 3-dimensional view.

In the Perspective
Mode, the Grid
Snap cannot be
used.

Parallel Mode

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Perspective Mode

2.3.4 Data Input Command

For convenience, FX+ provides the following data entry options.
Where several numerical data are entered consecutively in a data field, these data can
be distinguished by a , (Comma) or a (Blank).
<Example> 333, 102, 101 or 333 102 101
Where the same length is repeated, the entry can be simplified by number of
repetition @ length instead of repeating the same number.
<Example> 20, 25, 22.3, 22.3, 22.3, 22.3, 22.3, 88 20, 25, 5@22.3, 88
The keyboard may be used to enter selected data directly. The related node numbering
or element numbering may be an arithmetic progression in series or the progression
may be incremental. Then, the data entry can be simplified by start number to (t) final
number or start number to (t) final number by increment
< Example> 21, 22, , 54, 55, 56 21 to 56, 21 t 56
< Example> 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60 35 to 60 by 5, 35 t 60 by 5
Numbers and mathematical expressions can be used in combination. The majority of
the operators and parentheses applied in engineering computation can be used.
<Example> 20 PI * 20
<Example> 35 3

sin 30 2

cos 30 sin 30

35 + 3 * (sin(30) + 2 * SQRT(cos(30)+sin(30)))

Built-in operators in FX+ are the followings:

Notation

Content

Remarks

Open parenthesis

Close parenthesis

Addition

Subtraction

Multiplication

Division

PI

3.141592653589793

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Understanding FX+

SQRT

Ex.:

2 = SQRT(2)

SIN

Sine

Unit: Degree

COS

Cosine

Unit: Degree

TAN

Tangent

Unit: Degree

ASIN

Arc Sine

Ex.: sin-1(0.3)=ASIN(0.3)

ACOS

Arc Cosine

Ex.: cos-1 (0.3)=ACOS(0.3)

ATAN

Arc Tangent

Ex.: tan-1 (0.3)=ATAN(0.3)

EXP

Exponential function

Ex.: e0.3 =EXP(0.3)

SINH

Hyperbolic Sine

Ex.: sinh(1)=SINH(1)

COSH

Hyperbolic Cosine

Ex.: cosh(1)=COSH(1)

Cosine/Sine

Ex.: cotan(1)=COTAN(1)

COTAN
LN
LOG

Natural Logarithm

Common Logarithm

Operators accept the mixed use of capital and lowercase letters.

As the operators are similar to that of an engineering calculator, the

hierarchy of operations follows the rules of common mathematical
operations.

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2.4 How to Use the On-line Manual

When using FX+, pressing F1 key or clicking the Help menu allows access to the On-line
Manual.
Every category of help is connected to related keywords by hyperlink, and all the detailed
explanations and information in connection with the keyword may be obtained.

On-line Manual of FX+

A summary of the help contents and an index of the main keywords are arranged
systematically in the On-line Manual of FX+. Read it as a reference in the order presented
in the summary. Alternatively, the information regarding the desired item may be directly
obtained using the Search function of the keywords.

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