File Formats: NASTRAN File

Description

Straus7 supports the NASTRAN text file format (.NAS, .DAT, .BDF) for both import and export. Straus7 and NASTRAN share similar node, element, attribute and property information, however, the two systems are not totally compatible. Where possible, NASTRAN data types that are not supported in Straus7 are converted to equivalent, or near equivalent, Straus7 data types. Where conversion is not possible, the NASTRAN data is skipped and a warning is added to the Import Log file. Similarly, Straus7 data types that are not supported in NASTRAN are converted to equivalent or near equivalent data types in NASTRAN for export. Where conversion is not possible the Straus7 data is skipped and a warning is added to the Export Log file.

After importing a NASTRAN file, the Straus7 model should be carefully checked to ensure it contains all the relevant data. Similarly, after exporting a NASTRAN file, the file should be carefully checked to ensure it contains all the relevant data. In both cases it may be necessary to edit the resulting model or file to achieve the required level of compatibility.

The Import and Export Log files should be carefully reviewed as they contain a list of warnings and errors, together with information about any detected incompatibility. The View Log File: Log File Viewer automatically opens the log file after importing or exporting, if any warnings or errors were generated.