Introduction to Abaqus Scripting

Description: Abaqus makes extensive use of Python, a powerful, object-oriented scripting language that is used widely by organizations throughout the world. Python has been embedded within the Abaqus software products. The language has been extended to include a rich set of commands that are well suited for the daily tasks of a finite element analyst. These extensions are referred to as the Abaqus Scripting Interface (ASI). The Abaqus Scripting Interface may be used by the finite element analyst at many different levels. Scripts can be written as stand-alone utilities, or can be written to integrate the Abaqus products with other codes. At a basic level, scripts may be used to automate repetitive tasks such as the creation of results plots from a collection of output files. With some experience, users may actually extend the functionality of the Abaqus products. Advanced users may work with SIMULIA affiliates to customize the graphical user interface of the Abaqus interactive products (Abaqus/CAE and Abaqus/Viewer). This course covers basic usage of the Abaqus Scripting Interface and Python’s syntax. It includes numerous hands-on exercises for the student to learn to automate tasks that are common to most analysts.

Objectives: The goals of the course are to allow the student to:

• • Develop a high-level understanding of the Abaqus scripting capabilities.
  • Understand the technical details of Python and the Abaqus Scripting Interface.
  • Understand the strengths and weaknesses of Abaqus scripting.

The course is divided into lectures and workshops.

The course’s workshops are integral to the training. They are designed to reinforce concepts presented during the lectures. They are intended to provide users with the experience of running and troubleshooting actual Abaqus analyses.

Who should attend: We believe every Abaqus user should be familiar with the ASI. Productivity gains can be realized at many levels; from simple scripts that automate tedious tasks to large applications with custom user interfaces. This course is recommended for all Abaqus users who wish to improve their productivity using scripting.

Prerequisites: In order for the training to be effective, all students should have some basic familiarity with the Abaqus products including Abaqus/Viewer and Abaqus/ Standard or Abaqus/Explicit. Familiarity with Abaqus/ CAE is very helpful. Students should also have some experience using at least one computer programming language, text editing, and should be proficient with basic operating system tasks such as file copying/ deleting, creating/modifying environment variables, etc.