In the previous article, we explained how to import loads that vary with time through file import in Workbench. Interested students can refer to the following article: How to Import Loads Through File Import in ANSYS Workbench – Part 1
This time, we will explore how to use the External Data module in Ansys Workbench to import loads that vary with coordinate systems.
As mentioned in the previous article, compared to only considering time-varying factors, loads that vary with coordinates are more common in many cases, especially in coupled analysis or experimental data import.
For this type of loading situation, if the load has a certain regularity, we can use expressions within the load object. However, if the load has no regularity with the coordinate system, loading becomes somewhat more troublesome.
As shown below, we used Python to randomly generate loads varying with coordinates, saved in CSV file format.
The X coordinate variation range is 0~200, Y coordinate variation range is 0~50, Z is 0.
The file contains five columns of data: the first column represents time, the second to fourth columns represent coordinate values, and the fifth column represents the specific load magnitude.
The test model is: cantilever plate solid element model, with dimensions of 200X50X20, one end fixed.
The operation steps are as follows:
1. Create a new project, drag in an External Data module, double-click Setup. In the settings interface, first users need to select the file path, then set basic reading format such as units, coordinate system, etc. Users also need to set the data category and corresponding units for each column. Based on settings, data can be previewed in the bottom right window, as shown below.
2. Create a new analysis system, drag in static analysis, create a geometric model. After completing, share data between External Data and the analysis system’s Setup, as shown below.
3. Open Mechanical, and you will find an additional category in the structural tree called Imported Load. Click this object, right-click, select Insert, and choose according to the type set earlier, such as Pressure here.
4. Click the object and set the specific loading range, load action, and interpolation weighting method. Some settings can be understood by referring to Ansys help.
5. After completing settings, click the object right-click to confirm. The imported load can then be displayed in the current view, such as shown below after import:
The interpolation accuracy of imported loads is related to mesh density. For example, if we refine the mesh here, the effect is as follows:
Mesh size reduced to one-half of the original:
Mesh size reduced to one-fourth of the original:
6. Apply boundary conditions and solve.
Original mesh size displacement results:
Half mesh size displacement results:
The above are the steps for loading using the External Data module. For complex load imports, interested students might want to give it a try!
Finally, thank you all for reading this article. Shuige wishes everyone a happy National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival!
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Best regards,
ANSYS Structural Institute
September 30, 2025
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