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[FAQ]

Yes, but not directly. COMB39 can be used to model a nonlinear spring, but it doesn’t have preload option. In addition, its elongation vs force curve must pass through the origin (0,0). One approach is to run a multi-step analysis with the preload applied in the first load step and the additional loads applied in later steps. For example, if nonlinear, displacement-force spring curve is (0,300), (1,350), (2,400). You could: 1. create a nonlinear COMB39 spring, 2. define displacement-force curve that is offset by the preload [e.g. (0,0), (1,300), (2,350), (3,400) for 1 mm of preload] 3. apply the preload in step 1 [1 mm displacement or 300 N force) 4. apply additional loads in subsequent load steps