#### 2.1.1.5. Import From/Export to HDF5 Composite CAE File

Composite models can be exchanged across different CAE and CAD platforms using the HDF5 Composite CAE specification. For more information, see HDF5 Composite CAE Format. The process of exporting and importing HDF5 models is described in the following sections.

##### 2.1.1.5.1. Export

The composite lay-up defined in an ACP model can be exported to a .H5 file in the HDF5 Composite CAE format. Midside nodes are excluded by default.

Figure : HDF5 Composite CAE File Export Settings

##### 2.1.1.5.2. Import

The HDF5 Composite CAE Import maps lay-up data on to the finite element mesh in ACP. The reference geometry in a CAE tool can differ from the reference shell mesh in ACP, causing mapping issues. For example, different mesh sizes on curved surfaces can cause element normals to deviate. Nodal locations in the out-of-plane and in-plane direction can also vary depending on mesh sizing.

These effects can be accounted for with appropriate import tolerances. Large tolerances can also result in mapping issues, particularly for convergent meshes, as found in a T-joint for example. If the tolerances are too large, ply boundaries cannot be accurately replicated.

The import of composite models in HDF5 Composite CAE format is controlled by a number of settings and tolerances. An illustration of the tolerances is shown in Figure : Schematic of Tolerance Settings for a Single Element.

Figure : Schematic of Tolerance Settings for a Single Element

The following settings are available:

Figure : HDF5 Composite CAE File Import Settings

Import Mode

  - Overwrite: Replace existing objects with the same name if they are not locked and completely replace the lay-up.

  - Append: Imported data and objects are appended to the existing model/lay-up.

Ply Area Mapping

  - Relative Thickness Tolerance: Mapping tolerance in element thickness direction relative to minimum element edge length.

  - Relative In-Plane Tolerance: Mapping tolerance in element in-plane direction relative to minimum element edge length.

  - Angle Tolerance: Mapping tolerance for angles between element normals (in degrees).

  - Small Hole Threshold: Holes in plies/element sets with an area smaller than this threshold times the area of the element set/ply are filled.

Ply Angles

  - Minimum Angle Tolerance: Minimum angle tolerance for which tabular correction angles for plies are computed.

  - Recompute Reference Directions: When this option is activated, reference directions are recomputed from tabular angle data.

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