7. Interpreting Your Results



In this step, we will compare the results we've got from symmetry method with the ones we got from part 1. The results we are going to consider are

1. The Normal Stress (Sigma xx)
2. The Normal Strain
      a) Axial Strain (Strain xx)
      b) Lateral Strain (Strain yy)
3. The Shear Stress (Tau xy)
4. Displacement of the Neutral Axis
      a) Displacement x (dx)
      b) Displacement y (dy)
Overall, you will see that the results for the stresses, strains, and displacements in the y direction are identical to those obtained in Part 1. The displacements in the x direction are essentially the same, but they differ by a constant, due to the assumption of no displacement in the x direction at the center of the plate. In part 1, we assumed dx=0 at the left edge of the plate.

In complex models with large numbers of elements, it is important to exploit symmetry conditions. Each symmetry condition reduces your model size by a factor of 2. In non-linear and/or 3D models that can require hours or days to execute, the pay-offs can be substantial.



The Normal Stress (Sigma xx):

Result from PART 2 (Symmetry):




Result from PART 1:





UP



The Normal Strain:

a) Axial Strain (Strain xx)
Result from PART 2 (Symmetry) :



Result from PART 1:




b) Lateral Strain (Strain yy)
Result from PART 2 (Symmetry):



Result from PART 1:

UP



The Shear Stress (Tau xy):

Result from PART 2 (Symmetry):


Result from PART 1:






UP



Displacements:
a) Displacement x (dx)

Result from PART 2 (Symmetry):



Result from PART 1:





b) Displacement y (dy)

Result from PART 2 ( Symmetry):



Result from PART 1:





GO TO STEP 8