Abaqus Output Skill

Configure what results to save from Abaqus analyses. Controls field outputs (full-field data for contour plots) and history outputs (time series at specific points).

When to Use This Skill

Route here when user mentions:

• "What results should I save?" / "Output variables"
• "Track displacement over time" / "History output"
• "ODB file too large" / "Reduce output"
• "Monitor a specific node"

Route elsewhere:

• Extracting/reading results from ODB → /abaqus-odb
• Running the analysis → /abaqus-job

Key Decisions

1. Field vs History Output

2. Common Output Variables

3. Analysis-Specific Recommendations

4. Output Frequency

What to Ask User

If unclear, ask:

1. What results do you need? Stress, displacement, reaction forces?
2. Track a specific point over time? → Need history output
3. Large model or long analysis? → May need reduced frequency

Workflow: Configuring Output

Step 1: Identify Needed Variables

Based on analysis type: Static needs S, U, RF minimum. Dynamic adds V, A, energy.

Step 2: Create Field Output Request

Required: Step name + variables tuple. Optional: frequency, region.

Step 3: Create History Output (if needed)

For time-series: Create node set at location, then HistoryOutputRequest with that region. Use component variables (U1, U2, U3).

Step 4: Manage File Size (large models)

Options: Reduce frequency, use numIntervals, limit variables, output to specific regions only.

Validation Checklist

• Field output covers essential variables (S, U, RF)
• History output region/set exists before referencing
• Frequency appropriate for analysis length
• Contact analysis has contact-specific outputs

Troubleshooting

Code Patterns

For API syntax and code examples, see:

• API Quick Reference
• Common Patterns