Analytical mapped fields allow you to define spatially varying parameter values from an external data source. The following topics are covered in this section:

• “Point cloud data file formats for mapping,” Section 58.3.1

• “Coordinate system for point cloud mapped fields,” Section 58.3.2

• “Mesh-to-mesh mapping from an output database file,” Section 58.3.3

• “Supported elements for mapping,” Section 58.3.4

In Abaqus/CAE a mapped field is used to provide the values of selected loads, interactions, properties, etc., at different points in space. For example, you can define a spatially varying shell thickness or pressure load by providing the thickness or pressure values at different coordinates. Parameter values can be read in from a point cloud data file generated by a third-party CAE application or from an Abaqus output database (.odb) file.

Mapped fields allow you to import discrete and discontinuous parameter data and apply them to your Abaqus/CAE model. Abaqus/CAE applies the values to the current model, mapping the input X-, Y-, and Z-coordinates to locations in the model. Abaqus/CAE maps the source data onto the target model, and Abaqus computes the distributed parameter values to be used during the analysis. The parameter values are also called field values, or field data; for example, pressure values at different points on a surface.

When you create a mapped field from point cloud data, you can assign a local coordinate system to the source data region to simplify the three-dimensional definition of points in space. The local coordinate system can be rectangular, cylindrical, or spherical. For example, with a rectangular coordinate system, the X-, Y-, and Z-coordinates are interpreted in that local coordinate system.

Only scalar data values can be used in mapped fields. Each field data value is mapped from the source to the target region as a scalar value. The Abaqus/CAE mapping algorithm is purely geometric, with no physical considerations such as conservative mapping.

Mapped fields can be used to define the properties and attributes shown in Table 58–3.

The magnitude you specify in the property, load, predefined field, or interaction is used as a multiplier for the mapped field data values. You can also scale the source data coordinates; for example, to account for a mismatch of units (i.e., meters to millimeters).

When you apply a load, interaction, or predefined field using a mapped field, you can display symbols in the viewport to visualize the locations and magnitudes of the field values. However, you must mesh the model first to be able to see these symbols.

Abaqus/CAE provides a set of mapping tolerance controls that allow you to adjust how far source data points may lie from the target points. Depending on how far away each source point is from the nearest node on the meshed model target, Abaqus/CAE must decide whether to use or discard each source point.

Output request frequency time points are not supported in mapped fields.