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Rigid Body Constraint

In one sentence: Constrain all nodes on a face to move together as a single rigid body, preventing relative deformation between them.

Overview

Workbench: FEM
Menu: FEM → Model → Mechanical Boundary Conditions → Rigid Body Constraint

Constrains all nodes on a face to move as one rigid body — no relative deformation within the face. The face as a whole can still translate and rotate (unless other constraints prevent it).

When to use it

  • Load distribution: Apply a force or moment to a face that should be distributed realistically without the face itself deforming — avoids stress concentrations at load application points.
  • Stiff attachment: Model a stiff connector or bracket face that does not flex.

Reference point

Rigid body motion is tied to a reference point (a node or defined point) that carries the resultant force and moment. The solver computes nodal forces on the face consistent with the applied load at the reference point.

See also