Using the Torque Arrow
In the 3-D Playback Window you can depict the torque acting on a specific component by using the Torque Arrow. When you play a tracking animation in the perspective view or one of the orthographic views, the Torque Arrow indicates the torque direction along with a cylinder showing the torque magnitude.
The Torque Arrow connects in parallel with the multibody Force and Moment sensor, which connects in series with the through variable force components. The location of the Force and Moment sensor allows you to focus on the torque that you want to analyze. The placement of the Torque Arrow frame_a output in your model defines the base position for the torque magnitude in the 3-D visualization. For more information on the Torque Arrow, see Torque Arrow.
Note: You must simulate your model before playing an animation.
The following example show a typical use of a Torque Arrow and Force and Moment sensor.
To animate your 3-D model with the Torque Arrow:
Construct a simple model, such as the Rigid Body Frame and Revolute example shown above.
In the Library Components tab on the left side of the MapleSim window, expand the Multibody > Visualization menu and add the Torque Arrow ( ) to the workspace.
From the Multibody > Sensors menu, add the Force and Moment sensor ( ) to the workspace.
Connect the Force and Moment sensor in series with the Revolute and Rigid Body Frame as shown in the above example.
Connect the Torque Arrow force sensor input to the sensor torque output.
Connect the Torque Arrow frame_a output to a component port. In the above example frame_a connects to the Rigid Body Frame input.
Run the simulation.
Click Show Simulation Results ( ).
In the Simulation Results tab, select the 3-D Playback Window.
Expand the 3-D View Controls ( ) and select Perspective View ( ) to switch to the perspective view.
Click Play ( ). The Torque Arrow appears on the base of the Rigid Body Frame with the torque magnitude cylinder beside it.
To hide or display the Torque Arrow:
From the Playback Control Toolbar, select Show/Hide Forces ( ).
See Also
Force and Moment Sensor
Force Arrow
Playing a Tracking Animation
Toolbar: 3-D Toolbar
Toolbar: Playback Controls
Torque Arrow
Using the Force Arrow
Visualizing a 3-D Model
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