The symmetry function is a feature of the User Interface and helps to set up symmetrical optimisation models very fast and easy. For more information regarding the setup of an a symmetric optimisation model have a look here.
The symmetry function is activated right at the beginning of the workflow in the Design Space Tool. The user either selects (Direct Method) or creates (Bounding Box Method) the Design Space. The details of the symmetry function are displayed and can be specified.
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At least one and at the most all three symmetry planes have to be defined. MSC Apex Generative Design automatically detects suitable symmetry planes for the part. These can further be modified by shifting the origin of the symmetry planes or by rotating the symmetry axis. When confirming the selection, the Principal Coordinate System (PCS) is updated with the information of the just defined symmetry coordinate system.
Note: Changes to this coordinate system result in a change to the Principal Coordinate System and can therefore also change the material orientation and the build direction!
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Additionally, to the Design Space Solid, a Design Space Object appears inside the model tree. The Solid is the half/quarter/octant on which all the boundary conditions can be applied. The Design Space Object is transparent and will mirror all geometry changes as well as the boundary conditions.
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