Reply To: Using Beam Element as Rivet Connection

[peteroznewman]

I don't see any problem, only a choice.

If you use a Beam connection, then you will get a beam element between the centers of the reference and mobile entities you selected.

If you use a Fixed Joint connection, then you will get a single coordinate system at the center of the reference entity, and connection elements to the reference and mobile entities.

If the connection between two parts can be abstracted to have all the forces pass through a single point, then a Fixed Joint is an adequate connection. A Fixed Joint is only appropriate when the two entities are relatively close to each other. Only the X, Y, Z force going through the joint coordinate system origin is available in the solution. The joint coordinate system origin can be edited to be placed between the two entities.

If there is a significant length between the two parts that are connected, and you want to include the bending of the shaft connecting them, then you need a Beam. The axial force and torque in the beam and the shear and moment at each end of the beam are available in the solution. There is no problem if the two entities are far apart.

Regards, Peter