Information stored in this file helps identify when and how contact occurs, determine the regions where
contact is unstable, and identify the corresponding contact parameters. You can then focus on the
specific settings for those particular contact pairs that need attention.
Monitor the Diagnostics Results in Real Time The NLHIST command allows you to monitor results
of interest in real time during solution. Before starting the solution, you can request nodal data such
as displacements or reaction forces at specific nodes. You can also request element nodal data such as
stresses and strains at specific elements to be graphed. Pair-based contact data are also available. The
result data are written to a file named Jobname.nlh.
For example, a reaction force-deflection curve could indicat e when possible buckling behavior occurs.
Nodal results and contact results are monitored at every converged substep while element nodal data
are written as specified via the OUTRES setting.
You can also track results during batch runs. Either access the ANSYS Launcher and select File Tracking
from the Tools menu, or type nlhist150 at the command line. Use the supplied file browser to
navigate to your Jobname.nlh file, and click on it to invoke the tracking utility. You can use this
utility to read the file at any time, even after the solution is complete (the data in the file must be
formatted correctly).
8.12.2.3. Tracking Convergence Graphically
As a nonlinear structural analysis proceeds, the program calculates convergence norms with correspond-
ing convergence criteria each equilibrium iteration. Available in both batch and interactive sessions,
the Graphical Solution Tracking (GST ) feature displays the computed convergence norms and criteria
while the solution is in process. By default, GST is ON for interactive sessions and OFF for batch runs.
To turn GST on or off, use either of the following:
Command(s):/GST
GUI: Main Menu> Solution> Load Step Opts> Output Ctrls> Grph Solu Track
Figure 8.15: Convergence Norms Displayed By the Graphical Solution Tracking (GST ) Feature (p. 269)
shows a typical GST display:
Figure 8.15: Convergence Norms Displayed By the Graphical Solution Tracking (GST) Feature
Release 15.0 - © SAS IP, Inc. All rights reserved. - Contains proprietary and confidential informationGuidelines for Nonlinear Analysis