Hi David, I fixed the problem by using bushing elements for fasteners. I try to explain clearly in the following steps. 

1. I created holes for fasteners and connected the hole surfaces to reference points through MPC beam elements. 

2. Then created connector properties (Bushing elements with K1, K2, K3, K4, K5 and K6).

3. Joined the reference points with the bushing connector. 

That finally solved my problem. 

I guess you have to create either coupling or MPC constraint to reference points of spring to make sure that the spring properties are considered in your simulation. 

Hope this helps, 

It is possible to add "connectors" for which you can define the stiffness. In the interaction module, drop down menu special -> spring.

Franco

Hello Franco,

I tried adding Springs connecting two points, but still I couldn't get the results. I tried Cartesian, axial connectors, but the load is not transferred through the connectors. Maybe I am doing something wrong while establishing connections, I don't know how to do it in right way.

Thanks 

Hi Siddharth, I am having exactly the same problem. I have tried attaching connectors with linear elastic spring properties to the 3D deformable part (a bone). I then apply a tensile load to the spring but the load is not transferred to the bone. I am now trying to do the same thing but with truss elements and tie constraints but I am having similar issues again. Did you find a solution in the end???

Hi David, I fixed the problem by using bushing elements for fasteners. I try to explain clearly in the following steps. 

1. I created holes for fasteners and connected the hole surfaces to reference points through MPC beam elements. 

2. Then created connector properties (Bushing elements with K1, K2, K3, K4, K5 and K6).

3. Joined the reference points with the bushing connector. 

That finally solved my problem. 

I guess you have to create either coupling or MPC constraint to reference points of spring to make sure that the spring properties are considered in your simulation. 

Hope this helps, 

@ Siddarth... I almost modelled the same way that you have explained. My fastener is a bolt, so I want to preload it. Can I define preload (pretension) to this bushing element??? If you know anything about this please guide me.

For bolt pre-tension loading, you can model bolt as solid element and then create bolt load. Bolt load works well for cylindrical bodies. Steps I would prefer to design bolts:

1. Create solid model of bolt.

2. Create mid-plane in the bolt.

3. Apply load in reference to mid-plane.

Hope this helps,