Constraining two instances with parallel coordinate systems

Select ConstraintParallel CSYS from the main menu bar to apply a constraint that positions a movable instance so that a selected datum coordinate system is parallel to a selected datum coordinate system of a fixed instance. All position constraints are features of the assembly and can be suppressed or deleted using the Feature Manipulation toolset.

Related Topics
Using the Constraint menu
Creating the assembly
Converting constraints

  1. From the main menu, select ConstraintParallel CSYS.

    Tip: You can also apply the parallel coordinate systems constraint using the tool in the Assembly module toolbox. For a diagram of the tools in the Assembly toolbox, see Using the Assembly module toolbox.

    Abaqus/CAE displays prompts in the prompt area to guide you through the procedure.

  2. Select a datum coordinate system from the movable instance and a datum coordinate system from the fixed instance.

    When Abaqus/CAE prompts you to select the datum coordinate system from the fixed instance, you can select a datum coordinate system that was created in either the Part or Assembly module. In contrast, when you select the datum coordinate system from a movable part instance, you can only select a datum coordinate system that was created in the Part module.

    Abaqus/CAE rotates the movable instance so that the selected coordinate systems are parallel.

    If the parallel coordinate systems constraint conflicts with existing constraints, Abaqus/CAE displays an error message and cancels the operation. To avoid the conflict, you can try reversing the selection of the instance that will move and the instance that will remain fixed. Alternatively, you can convert the existing constraints to an absolute position and reapply the parallel coordinate systems constraint.