LEARN MSC ADAMS v1

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(BBASIC OVERV
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Authorss:
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Faiz Red
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Faizul Akkmar B. Abd. Kadir
Mohd Ad drinata Bin Sh
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For interrnal usse onlyy

Learn MSC ADAMS View

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Overview
Computer aided design (CAD) is a recently new tool that is available to engineers; ADAMS is a complex CAD program. The
purpose of the following tutorial is to give you a basic understanding of how this tool works and how it can be used to solve
real world problems. The picture below is a flow chart of the way that ADAMS is intended to be used.
Adams/View
Adams/View is a powerful modeling and simulating environment. You can use Adams/View to build and simulate a model of
any mechanical system that has moving parts. You can test your model in the same environments your actual product will
experience. You can also validate your model against test data, and refine your model with flexible parts, realistic
geometry, and controls. Finally, you can find the important parameters that affect your product design and find the right
combination of design values to arrive at the best product design. Best of all, you can do all this over and over again, saving
time and money.
This guide provides overview information and step-by-step procedures for building, simulating, and refining a model using
Adams/View.

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Familiarizing Yourself with Adams/View

Before continuing with the tutorial, familiarize yourself with the Adams/View.
Main Toolbox
You use the Main Toolbox to access all geometric construction elements, including joints and forces. Some
of the tools in the Main Toolbox are part of tool stacks. These tools have a small triangle in the lower right
corner. The default tool or the last selected tool appears on top of the tool stack. If Adams/View does not
automatically display the Main Toolbox, you can display it as explained next.
To display the Main Toolbox:
•In the lower right corner of the main Adams/View window, select the Toolbox tool .
•The Main Toolbox appears on the left side of the screen.
To open tool stacks and select a tool:
1. In the Main Toolbox, right-click on one of the tools that has a small triangle in the lower right
corner, A tool stack appears
2. Move the cursor over the tool you want to use, and click.
More detail on the toolbox please refer to Appendix A.
STARTING ADAMS-View v. 12.0

How to start the program
1. On a Windows Machine, click on the Start Æ Programs Æ ADAMS 12.0 Æ AView Æ ADAMS – View
2. By clicking on ADAMS – View you will start the program and the following window will pop up:

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At this point you are asked to make several choices that will affect your project. First you have the option to
create a new model, open an existing database, import a file, or exit. More likely you will either create a new file or open an
existing one. If you open an old one all you need to select is where the file is, you can either type in its location or by
clicking on the folder browser through the computer.
On the other hand if you choose to create a new file you need to specify a few things before you can continue.
First you must put where you want the file to be saved (in the Start in box) and select the models name (in the Model name
box). There are two other choices than need to be made; you need to decide how you wanted gravity to affect the model.
Also you can change the units by which the model will be measured.
Basic Settings
I. Setting the gravity

All objects created in ADAMS/View will be affected by the gravity applied in the problem. Most examples
will use the default for Earth Normal gravity in the –y direction.
1. On the ADAMS/View Settings menu, select Gravity…
2. The Gravity Settings Window will appear.
3. Set the desired gravity value.
4. Click OK to save changes.
II. Setting the Working Grid
You can use the ADAMS/View working grid and the coordinate window to set precise locations for the
design. When creating geometry, the cursor will snap to coordinates on the working grid.
1. On the ADAMS/View Settings menu, select Working Grid
2. The Working Grid Settings dialog box appears. This allows you to change your grid settings,
such as dimensions and spacing between points. You can also switch to polar coordinates in
this window, which is useful for measuring angles.
III. Setting the Units
In ADAMS/View, you can change the units at any time during the modeling process, even while reading and
writing model or results data files.
1. On the ADAMS/View Settings menu, select Units…
2. The Units Settings window will appear:
3. Units can be selected from the pull down menus, next to each dimension.
4. Click OK to save changes.

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CREATING GEOMETRY
Making the Part
To gain access to all the parts offered you need to right click on the middle button on the top row. At that point a menu
appears with pictures of the objects that ADAMS can create (for descriptions on what each does please to Appendix A. One
nice thing that ADAMS has is that after you select an object the bottom of the screen will help you create the object by
giving instructions. Also by clicking on the standing menu button a free standing menu will appear on the screen. If
you click on the button ADAMS displays the geometric modeling table and it is broken down into four different parts:
construction, solids, booleans, and features.
Before the separate object types are broken down it is important to understand how to customize your object. Once you
select a part a menu appears on the bottom of the table. This menu allows you to customize your object, one common
option is the option to have a new part, add a part, or on ground. This is an important choice, if you make a new part it is
free standing, add a part simply adds the part to an existing part (note: you will need to select the part you want to add to
before you make the object). On ground is similar to add a part, except that instead of adding a part to another it attaches a
part to ground. Most of the time you will create a new part but it is important to understand what options you have. Also
below this part are other options, some are to specify important lengths in objects. You need to type in a dimension into the
box (if you don’t specify a unit it will revert to the ones you choose upon starting the program, there is a little box above
where you type in the measurement it needs to be checked to set it. It is important to look at the options that you have so
that you are able to accurately model your system.
Constructions:
Constructions are massless objects which perform various functions but make constructing solids easier. Essentially all of
the constructions are points that are either used to set the orientation or description of objects to be created. One thing to
note is that splines, arcs, and polylines do not have any inherent mass to them.
Solids:
These are the objects which you will be creating. As explained above in constructions if you have a question about what a
certain button does go to ADAMS buttons to find out more. The basics of creating object are this: select the object you want
to create, specify certain qualities about the object, and then draw it on the screen.
Booleans:
These are very easy and useful functions. Basically they allow you to manipulate objects after you have created them. They
even allow you to combine separate objects.
Features:

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ADAMS also offers features that you can use to enhance your design.
Viewing Parts
ADAMS allows you to work in 3D, however the screen shows only 2D, by pressing the select tool several options
appear for changing the viewing. Also you are able to make the objects appear shaded by going to the main menu and
selecting View Æ Render Mode Æ Shaded, this will shade you object or you can choose any of the other rendering
modes. Another interesting bit of interesting information is in manipulating the working grid. This is done by once more
going to the main menu and selecting Settings Æ Working Grid and messing around with the options. One the bottom of
that menu you have the option to set orientation, this can be very useful as you rotate the grid and want to build objects on
a new plane (view plane allows you to view the grid automatically after you move the plane).
Editing and Manipulating Parts

Once you have created an object you still have the ability to manipulate it. This is mainly done in two ways, first if you click
on an object it will appear like the one shown in Fig. 1. The pink square is known as a hot point, if you click (and hold) on this
point you are able to manipulate the size of the object by moving the cursor. Also in the upper left corner of the box is an
axis. If you click on this axis you are able to rotate the object by moving the axis.
Fig. 1 Fig. 2
The other option you have for manipulating objects is to right click on the object. The menu that appears is shown in Fig. 2.
The first box that appears identifies all the objects at the point; here we have a part and a block. The menu from the part
allows you to make changes to the entire part (this becomes more useful as your structures become more complex). You
will need to play around with the menu to find out what each feature does, they will be explained to some degree throughout
the tutorial but experience is the best teacher with this. Also if you select the block menu you are able to make changes
directly to (and only on) the block.

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CREATING JOINTS
How to Create Joints

The joint stack can be found by right clicking on the revolute joint icon , click on the standing menu button to
get a standing menu.
One interesting thing about ADAMS/View is that objects do not interact unless they are assigned to do so, this is where
joints fit in. By using joints effectively you are able to get your model to work in the way you desire.
When creating joints it is important that they are applied in the correct plane. In ADAMS/View, it is possible to see your
model from a variety of angles. To do this, right click somewhere in the ADAMS/View window that is clear of parts. You
can choose from Front <F> (default view), Right <R>, Top <T> and Iso <I> (3D). After creating a joint, it is a good idea to
check that the joint is indeed applied in the correct plane.
Types of Joints
I. Primitive Joints
The very basic (or primitive) joints are only accessible in the stand alone menu. These are not so much joints as they are
tools that help objects interact. Each button has a picture on in and it represents a relationship that can be assigned
between different objects. The page explaining joints gives more information on how to use these but it is fairly straight
forward. There are two basic choices that are offered with joints, how to attach it and what grid (or coordinate system)
dictates the joints properties.
A Revolute/Rotational allows the rotation of one part with respect to another part about a common axis. Motion similar to
a hinge joint can be represented by a revolute/rotational joint in ADAMS/View. To create a revolute joint:
1. Select the Revolute Joint tool
2. The default settings for a revolute joint are “One Location” and “normal to grid”, which describes the orientation of the
joint. If the joint is applied in “One Location”, the part will be pinned to the ground, as opposed to “2 Bod-1Loc” which
allows two parts to rotate about each other. If “Normal to Grid” is selected, the joint will be applied so that the pin is
normal, or perpendicular, to the grid.
3. If the joint is for only one part, joined to the ground, click on that point and a revolute joint will be shown as an arrow
around the point:
4. If the joint will connect two parts, change the setting to “2 Bod-1 Loc” or “2 Bod-2 Loc”. Click on part 1, part 2 and then
the point of connection.

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# For examples of a revolute joint, see the Cam Tutorial or the Crank Slider Tutorial
II. Simple Joints
A translational joint allows one part to translate along a vector with respect to another part. The parts can only translate,
not rotate, with respect to each other. As long as the axis is the proper direction, the location of a translational joint does
not matter. The orientation of the translational joint, however, determines the direction of the axis along which the parts
can slide with respect to each other. The direction of the motion of the translation joint is parallel to the orientation vector
and passes through the location. To create a translational joint:
1. Select the Translational Joint tool from the joints tool stack.
2. The default settings for a translational joint are “One Location” and “Pick Feature”.
3. Click on the part that you want to translate.
4. A white arrow will show the direction that the part will translate. Click in the direction that you want the translation to
occur and the translational joint will be shown:
# For examples of a translational joint, see the Cam Tutorial or the Crank Slider Tutorial
III. Complex Joints
A fixed joint locks two parts together so they cannot move with respect to each other. The effect is similar to combining
two parts into a single part. If you want to have the two parts move relative to each other in a future analysis, simply delete
the fixed joint and use another type of joint. For a fixed joint, the location and orientation of the joint often do not affect the
outcome of the simulation. In these cases, you can place the joint at a location where the graphic icon is easily visible.
1. Select the Fixed Joint tool from the joints tool stack.
2. The default settings for a fixed joint are “One Location” and “Pick Feature”. If the joint is placed in one location, it
will attach one part to the ground. ADAMS/View also gives the option of setting the joint to “Two Bod-1 Loc” and
“Two Bod-2 Loc”. With fixed joints, the placement and direction are usually not important. The only exception
would be in the case that a fixed joint allows force moments to become quite large depending on where you place
the joint.
3. Click on the part or parts that are to remain fixed. The joint will be shown:
4. If only one part is picked, the part will be fixed to the ground. If two parts are at the location of the joint,
ADAMS/View automatically applies the fixed joint to both parts. This means that both parts will be rigidly
attached.

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IV. Advanced Joints
The pin-in-slot cam defines a point-to-curve constraint that restricts a fixed point defined on one part to lie on a curve
defined on a second part. The first part is free to roll and slide on the curve that is fixed to a second part. The curve on the
second part can be planar or spatial and open or closed. The first part cannot lift off the second part; it must always lie on
the curve. When modeling a pin-in-slot mechanism, the pin-in-slot contact keeps the center of the pin in the center of the
slot, while allowing it to move freely along the slot and rotate in the slot. To create a curve, use the spline tool .
1. Select the Pin in Slot Joint tool from the joints tool stack.
2. There are no default settings for the pin in slot joint because it is specifically used to simulate a pin in a slot.
3. Left click on the point that represents the pin. ADAMS/View will automatically snap to a point on the model. To
create design points, see Creating Geometry. Left click on the spline that the pin is to be restricted to move
along. It is important that the point picked is located at a point on the curve. A pin in slot joint will be shown at
the location:
• · To see a detailed explanation of a Pin in Slot Joint, see the Cam tutorial
V. Curve Joints
A curve-on-curve cam restricts a curve defined on the first part to remain in contact with a second curve defined on a
second part. The curve-on-curve cam is useful for modeling cams where the point of contact between two parts changes
during the motion of the mechanism. The curves always maintain contact, even when the dynamics of the model might
actually lift one curve off the other. You can examine the constraint forces to determine if any lift-off should have
occurred. If your results require an accurate simulation of intermittent contact, you should model the contact forces
directly using a vector force. The curve-on-curve cam models only one contact. Therefore, if the curves have contact at
more than one point, you need to create a curve-on-curve cam for each contact, each with a initial condition displacement
near the appropriate point.
1. Select the curve on curve Cam tool from the joints tool stack.
2. There are no default settings for the curve on curve cam joint because it is specifically used to simulate a curve
on curve joint.
3. Left click on a curve that can be followed by another curve.
4. Select the curve along which the point or first curve will travel. The curve can be closed or open. Note that when
you select a closed curve, the Dynamic Model Navigator highlights only a portion of the curve. ADAMS/View will
use the entire curve.
• · To see a detailed explanation of a curve on curve joint, see the Cam tutorial

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IMPOSING FORCES AND MOTION
Imposing External Forces on Bodies
Applied forces are forces that define loads and compliances on parts. Applied forces are very general, but you must supply
your own description of the force behavior by specifying a constant force value, ADAMS/View function expression, or
parameters to a user-written subroutine that is linked into ADAMS/View. ADAMS/View also allows you to specify how parts
react when they come in contact with each other when the model is in motion.
• To impose an external force:
1. Right click on the spring tool in the main toolbox to locate all forces.
2. Select the applied force (single component) icon with the left mouse button.
3. Select a Run-Time Direction according to the following:
• · Space Fixed -
• · Body Fixed -
• · Two Bodies - The force is applied between two different bodies. The first body picked will be the
action body, the second body will be the reaction body and receives the force reaction.
4. If the force is applied to only one part, select a specific Construction according to the following:
• · Pick Feature – This allows you pick the direction of the force.
• · Normal to Grid – ADAMS/View will automatically apply the force in a direction normal to the grid.
5. Select a Characteristic according to the following:
• · Constant – ADAMS/View allows you to specify a constant value.

• · K and C (Bushing or Spring) – ADAMS/View creates a function expression defining the linear
stiffness and damping forces based on the stiffness and damping coefficients that you specify.
• · Custom - You define the constitutive equation for the force applied to the action body. ADAMS/View
evaluates the reaction forces on the reaction body.
5. According to numbers 3 and 4, select the correct number of bodies and direction. A force is shown by a marker:

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Imposing Motion on Joints
Prescribes translational or rotational motion on a translational, revolute, or cylindrical joint. Each joint motion removes one DOF from
your model. Joint motions are very easy to create, but they limit you to motions that are applied to the above listed joints and
movements in only one direction or rotation.
I. Applying Rotational Motions
Rotational Motion can be applied to cylindrical and revolute/rotational (hinge) joints. Rotational motion should be used if a body is to
rotate. ADAMS/View rotates the first part around the z-axis of the second part (can be the ground).
1. Right click on the motion tool stack to see all motions.
2. Select the rotational joint motion tool with the left mouse button
3. Enter a desired speed in the Speed field (Note: ADAMS/View automatically sets the speed to 30 degrees per
second. To specify a speed in radians per second, follow the value of the speed with an “R”. Use a “D” for
degrees per second.
4. Use the left mouse button to select the joint on the screen to which the motion will be applied. The motion will
be shown by a large arrow around the joint:
II. Applying Translational Motions
Translational Joints can be applied to cylindrical or translational joints. Translational motion applies a strictly translating motion and
removes the possibility of rotation.
1. Right click on the motion tool stack to see all motions.


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2. Select the translational joint motion tool with the left mouse button.
3. Enter a desired speed in the Speed field.
4. Use the left mouse button to select the joint on the screen to which the motion will be applied.
Springs and Spring Forces

ADAMS/View creates spring and damping forces to represent forces acting between two parts over a
distance and along a particular direction. To create a spring:
1. Left click on the spring tool in the main toolbox.
2. The spring options screen will appear in the main toolbox:
3. Enter the appropriate K value for the spring you are simulating. If damping is required, enter a C value as well.
4. Left click on the point of the first part and once on the point of the second part that will attach to the spring.
(Note: it may be a good idea to check the exact location of the spring by looking at the model from different points
of view (i.e top, right, front). See Creating Joints for more information on that.)

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SIMULATING THE MODEL

How to verify the model

You can use the Model Verify tool to check for error conditions in your model, such as misaligned joints and unconstrained parts. The
tool can be found by right clicking on the information button on the bottom right corner of the ADAMS/View window. Select
the Model Verify tool by left clicking . The Information window will pop up:
Important Note: This window is individual to each model
The information window gives important information about your model. Including the number of moving parts and joints. Also, it will
list the number of degrees of freedom in the model and then it will tell you if the model is verified. If your model is not verified, you
may need to check that your joints are aligned correctly (see How to Create Joints) or that you have the model simulated correctly.

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How to simulate the model

I. The simulation panel
The simulation panel can be accessed by clicking on the simulation tool in the main toolbox. The
simulation panel is shown:
The simulation panel is where you can access all commands that are needed so simulate your model. The
first set of buttons on the simulation panel are the Rewind , Stop and Play
The first choice you can make is to decide what type of simulation you want to perform (Default, Dynamic,
Kinematic or Static). Unless a problem tells you differently, Default is the usual choice, as shown above.
II. Setting the end time
The next choice on the simulation panel is to choose either an End Time or Duration for your simulation. Choosing an end time will
start the simulation from rest while a duration sets the amount of time that the simulation runs, not necessarily starting it from rest
(t = 0 sec). To do this:
1. Select End Time or Duration from the option field on the simulation panel.
2. Enter the desired time for the simulation.
III. Setting the time steps
Time steps are used in ADAMS/View to determine how the simulation is run. You can choose a Step Size, which is the amount of time
that passes between each image and Steps, which is the number of steps that occur in the whole simulation. Both options are pretty
similar; it is logically to choose whichever number the desired problem asks for. To set the time steps:
1. Select Steps or Step Size from the option field on the simulation panel.
2. Enter the desired value for the time steps (remember, units are not needed for seconds)

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INTERPRETING RESULTS
How to measure geometric properties
Once modeling is complete, you can use the ruler and protractor functions to measure correct angles and lengths. This can also be
done during the modeling process to check that measurements are exact.
To measure lengths:
1. Select the measure tool from the main toolbox by left clicking on it.
2. Left click on the first location that you would like to start the measurement from.
3. Left click on the second location that will complete your measurement.
4. A graph will appear that will show how the distance varies with time.
To measure angles:
1. Right click on the measure tool in the main toolbox. Right click on the angle tool .
2. Left click on the tip of the first vector of the angle you would like to measure.
3. Left click on the vertex of the angle.
4. Left click on the tip of the second vector.
5. A graph will appear that will show how the angle you specified varies with time.
How to measure physical characteristics
Characteristics can be plotted for any object created in ADAMS/View.
Characteristics include position, velocity, acceleration, momentum, etc.
1. Right click on the object to be measured, select the part and select
Measure from the toolbar that will appear.
2. The Part Measure window will appear:
3. Verify that the correct part is selected in the Part field. You can
also select a name for this measurement on this window.
4. In the Characteristic field, select the characteristic you would like
to measure for this part.
5. In the Component field you can select which component of the
characteristic you would like to measure (i.e. velocity in x direction
only). Select mag if you would just like the overall magnitude of the
characteristic (i.e. acceleration, no specific component).
6. In the From/At field, select the center or your measurement.
7. Select OK and a graph will appear in the ADAMS/View window, similar in style to the one below:

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Creating Plots from Measurements
ADAMS/View can create full plots from the measurement graphs made. To do this:
1. Right click on the white part of any measurement graph window.

2. Select the plot, then click on Transfer to Full Plot
3. A full-sized plot will appear:
4. Practice clicking at various points on the plot to see the different options you can change. It is possible to change the
maximum and minimum values, the labels on the axis as well as the title of the plot before printing.
5. You can print from this screen, by selecting the print icon .
.

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TUTORIALS
Tutorial 1 : Simple Pendulum

Introduction:
This ADAMS Lab will introduce you to the following skills:
o Creating rigid bodies

o Creating links
o Setting up and running simulations
o Analyzing results
Problem:
AB is a uniform bar with a mass of 2 kg and a length of 450mm. Bar

AB swings in a vertical plane about the pivot at A. The angular velocity
(theta dot) = 3 rad/s when theta = 30 degrees. Compute the force
supported by the pin at A at that instant.
This problem is asking for the force supported by the pivot A at an instant when the 2 kg bar is 30 degrees from
the horizontal and has an angular velocity of 3 radians per second. We will use ADAMS to create a model with the
given conditions and obtain the data needed.
Procedure:
1.1. Starting ADAMS.
1. On a Windows Machine, click on the Start Æ Programs Æ ADAMS 12.0 Æ AView Æ ADAMS – View
The Welcome to ADAMS dialog box appears as shown in Figure 1.
2. Under the heading "How would you like to proceed", select Create a new model.
Verify the Gravity text field is set to Earth Normal (-Global Y).

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Verify that the Units text field is set to MMKS - mm,kg,N,s,deg.

Select OK.
3. One last thing before we start, we are going to changed the coordinate settings; this is done by going to
ADAMS/View Settings menu and select Working Grid. The Working Grid Settings dialog box appears. One of the
options we have is to change the spacing, change it to 25mm, click OK after it is finished. This can allow you to
change other grid settings, such as dimensions and design. You can also switch to polar coordinates in this
window, which is useful for measuring angles.
Figure 1. Welcome to ADAMS.
1.2. Making the bar.
1. Click on the parts palette in the Toolbox with the right mouse button.
The button stack for parts appears.
2. Select the Rigid Body: Link tool. with the left mouse button.
3. In the link container at the bottom of the Toolbox, activate the Length toggle switch and enter 450mm in the text
field below.
4. Activate the Width toggle switch and enter 20mm in the text field.
5. Activate the Depth toggle switch and enter 27.5mm in the text field.

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6. Click once with the left mouse button on the point (-225,0,0) to select the starting point (to see the coordinate
press F4) and click once with the left mouse button anywhere right of the start point along the global x-axis to
select the direction. ADAMS will create and display the bar. The display should appear similar to Figure 2 below.
Figure 2. Link
1.3. Setting the mass of the bar.
The problem specifies that the bar has a mass of 2 kg. ADAMS automatically calculates the mass properties based
on the material and the geometry, but in this case, it can be set manually since the mass of the bar is given as an
initial condition.
1. Click on the bar with the right mouse button. Follow the pull-right menu for Part:PART_2 and select Modify.
The Modify Rigid Body dialog box appears.
2. In the Define Mass By: entry, use the pull down arrow to select User Input.
3. In the Mass text field of the Modify dialog box, type in 2.0 and click OK.
The mass of the bar is now set at 2 kg.

Note: Due to the way the geometry was defined, the mass of the bar is already very close to 2 kg, so we can
assume no inertial properties need to be changed.
1.4. Setting the position of the bar.
1. To set the angle of the bar at 30 degrees, click on the Position icon in the Toolbox.
2. Enter 30 in the Angle entry and select the bar so it is highlighted.
3. Click on the clockwise arrow once.

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The bar is now at a 30 degree angle from horizontal.
1.5. Creating a pivot.
1. Click on the Joint icon in the Main Toolbox and select the Joint:Revolute icon from the joints button
stack.
2. Verify that the Construction text field reads 1 Location and Normal to Grid.
3. Position the cursor over the marker PART_2 MARKER_1 at the left end of the bar and click once with the left
mouse button.
4. A joint between the bar and the ground is created at that location.
1.6. Setting initial motion.
All of the parts have now been created and the constraints added. The next step is to add an initial motion to the
revolute joint that specifies a starting rotation rate of three radians per second.
1. Click and hold the bar with the right mouse button and follow the pull right menu for Part:PART_2 and select
Modify.
2. In the Category: entry, use the pull down arrow to select Velocity Initial Conditions.
3. Under the heading Angular velocity about, select Marker. In the box below, enter MARKER_4 or double click the
box and find MARKER_4 under the ground directory.
4. Below that, click on the Z axis selection box and enter 3.0r, for 3.0 radians per second, in the text field that
appears next to it.
5. Click on Apply and close the window.
6. Click on Ok in the Modify window.
1.7. Verify the model.
The model verification step is one way to find errors in the model definition. ADAMS checks for error conditions
such as misaligned joints, unconstrained parts, or massless parts in dynamic systems, and alerts you to other
possible problems in the model.
1. In the lower right corner of the modeling window, click on the Information icon with the right mouse button.
The information palette appears.
2. Click on the Verification icon.


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The Info Window appears.
3. After seeing that the model has verified successfully, click on the Close button in the upper right corner to close the
Information Window.
The completed model should appear similar to Figure 3 below:
Figure 3. Completed pendulum model.
Model building is now complete.
Set up and run a simulation.
1.8. Setting measure for the force supported by the pivot at point A.
1. Click on the revolute joint at the upper left end of the bar with the right mouse button and follow the pull-right menu for
Joint:JOINT_1 and select Measure.
The Joint Measure dialog box opens.
2. Select Force for the Characteristic entry and mag (magnitude) for the Component entry.
3. Click OK.

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A graph window named JOINT_1_MEA_1 appears. This is where the reaction force will be displayed during the
simulation and animation.
1.9. Running the simulation.
1. Click on the Simulation icon in the Toolbox. For End Time, enter 0.5 and for Steps, enter 50.
2. Click on the Play icon.
You should see the bar swing about the pivot and corresponding data should be plotted on the JOINT_1_MEA_1
graph.
3. When the simulation ends, click on the Rewind icon.
1.10. Find the force supported by the pivot.
1. Click on a blank area inside the small plot window with the right mouse button and follow the pull right menu. Select
Transfer to Full Plot.
The ADAMS Plot Window will open, replacing the Modeling window.
2. Now go to the Plot Window and select the Plot Tracking.
Since we know the initial conditions are met at the start of the simulation, move the cursor over the starting point
of the plot.
3. At the top of the window, X will be displayed as 0 and Y, which is the force on the pivot, will be displayed. That is your answer
(shown in Figure 4).
Compare it to the results given in the Solution section of this Lab.
4. To return to the modeling window, go to the File pull-down menu and select Close Plot Window .
1.11. Saving your Modeling Session.
1. Under the File pull-down menu, select Save Database As...


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The Save Database As dialog box appears as shown in Figure X.
2. In the text field next to File Name, enter the name you wish to give this model, for example, pendulum.
3. Select OK.
An ADAMS Binary File is created.
1.12. Exiting ADAMS.
1. Select Exit from the File pull-down menu in the main ADAMS Modeling window.
Congratulations, you have completed Tutorial 1: SimplePendulum.
Solution:
• The force supported by pivot A is 14.5 N.
• Here are the results from my ADAMS simulation:
Force supported by pivot A = 14.539N
Download the ADAMS command file for this model: pendulum.cmd
Did it work?

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If the instructions were followed correctly, your ADAMS results should match the results shown above. The correlation to
the analytical solution can be improved by decreasing error tolerance and recommuting the analytical results using more
decimal places. The close correlation should provide confidence in your ability to create models using parts with initial
velocities and joints and ADAMS' ability to solve them.
• Make sure correct units are set to mmks.

• Make sure gravity is on and in the -Y direction and set to 9806.15.
• Make sure the revolute joint is in the z direction.
• Check dimensions of the part to make sure they are correct.
• Check mass properties to make sure they are correct.
• Check orientation of the part to make sure it is correct.
• Make sure the measure is set to the magnitude of the reaction force.
• Make sure the plot is displaying the correct set of results.

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Tutorial 2 : Simple Cam

Introduction:
This ADAMS Lab will introduce you to the following skills:
Creating rigid bodies

Creating splines
Creating joints and contact conditions
Setting up and running simulations
Analyzing results
Problem:
The cam mechanism that will be created, analyzed, animated, and

plotted in this lab is shown here.
Schematic of the Cam Mechanism: The model contains 3 parts (including ground), 1 revolute joint, 1 translational joint, 1
motion, and several markers.
Procedure:
1.1. Starting ADAMS.
1. From the ADAMS product menu, select ADAMS.

The Run ADAMS dialog box appears.
2. Select OK.
The Welcome to ADAMS dialog box appears as shown in Figure 1.
3. Under the heading "How would you like to proceed", select Create a new model.
Verify the Gravity text field is set to Earth Normal (-Global Y).
Verify that the Units text field is set to MMKS - mm,kg,N,s,deg.
Select OK.

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Figure 1. Welcome to ADAMS.
1.2. Setting up the modeling environment.
1. The grid spacing needs to be reset to a higher resolution for this model.
Go to the Settings pull-down menu at the top of the ADAMS window and select Working Grid...
2. In the Spacing text fields, enter 10mm under both X and Y.
Click OK. The spacing between grid points is now set to 10mm.
3. Click on the Select icon.

The View Control panel appears in the Toolbox.
4. Click on the Dynamic Zoom icon.

Now click and hold with the left mouse button anywhere inside the Modeling window. Move the mouse up to zoom in
and move it down to zoom out.
5. Activate the Coordinate Window under the View menu.
1.3. Making the cam part.
1. Click on the parts palette in the Toolbox with the right mouse button.
The button stack for parts appears.
2. Click on the Spline icon with the left mouse button.

3. In the lower part of the Toolbox, verify the text field is set to New Part.
Click in the box next to the word Closed to select a closed spline.
4. Now, click with the left mouse button on each of the 13 points in the table below.

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Points 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
X 0 -50 -70 -80 -70 -50 0 50 70 80 70 50 0
Y 0 -30 -70 -120 -160 -180 -190 -180 -160 -120 -70 -30 0
Z 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
5. Note that the first point and the last point have the same coordinates to create a closed spline.
6. After the 13 points are selected, click the right mouse button to create the closed spline. An alert box will appear
warning you that the part has no mass. Close the box.
The complete cam part is created, as illustrated in Figure 2.
If your part's geometry does not match the illustration, it can be fixed by clicking and dragging any of the "hot
points" (rectangular boxes) to its proper location.
Figure 2. Closed spline.
1.4. Creating a revolute joint.
1. Click on the Joint icon in the Toolbox and select the Joint:Revolute icon from the joints button stack.
2. Verify that the Construction text fields read 1 Location and Normal to Grid.
3. Position the cursor over the grid point (0,-130,0) and click once with the left mouse button.
4. A joint between the cam part and the ground is created at that location, as illustrated in Figure 3.
Figure 3. Revolute joint


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1.5. Creating the follower part.
The follower part is comprised of two geometric elements: and open spline and a box.
Creating the open spline element.
1. Select the Spline icon

2. In the lower part of the Toolbox, verify the choice Closed is not selected, since an open spline is to be created.
3. Now, click with the left mouse button on each of the 11 points in the table below.
Points
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
X -250 -200 -150 -100 -50 0 50 100 150 200 250

Y 50 40 40 30 10 0 10 30 40 40 50
Z 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
4. After the 11 points are selected, click once with the right mouse button to create the open spline. An alert box will
appear warning you that the part has no volume. Close the box.
The open spline is created as shown in Figure 4. Again, "hot points" may be used to modify the spline geometry.
Figure 4. Open spline.
5. Creating the box element.
6. Select the Rigid Body: Box tool from the parts button stack.
7. In the New Part pull-down menu, select Add to Part.
8. Click on the open spline in the ADAMS window to select the part to add to.
9. Now define the corners of the box.
Position the cursor at the left end of the open spline (-250,50,0).
10. Click and drag upward and to the right until the upper right corner of the box is at the coordinates (250,180,0).
Release the mouse button.
The box element is created, as illustrated in Figure 5.

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Figure 5. Box element.
1.6. Adding a Translational Joint.
Now create a translational joint between the follower part and the ground part with the axis of translation aligned
in the global y direction.
1. Click on the Joint icon in the Toolbox with the right mouse button.
The joints button stack appears.
2. Select the Joint:Translational icon.

3. Verify that the Construction text fields are set to 1 Location and Pick Feature.
4. Position the cursor over the grid point (0,160,0) and click once with the left mouse button.
This is where the joint will be located.
5. Now, move the cursor upalong the Y axis away from the origin until an arrow pointing straight up appears.
Make sure the arrow is parallel to the Y axis. This arrow determines the direction of the translational joint.
Click the left mouse button.
6. A joint between the follower part and the ground is created, as illustrated in Figure 6.
Figure 6. Translational joint
1.7. Adding a Curve-Curve Constraint.


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1. Click on the Joint icon in the Toolbox and select the Cam (curve-on-curve) contact icon from the joints
button stack.
2. Click on the cam part, and then click on the spline part of the follower part.
A curve-on-curve contact constraint is created as shown in Figure 7.
Figure 7. Curve-curve contact.
1.8. Creating a Motion Constraint.
All of the parts have now been created and the constraints added. The next step is to add a rotational motion
driver to the revolute joint that specifies a constant cam rotation of one revolution per second.
1. Select the Rotational Joint Motion icon from the Toolbox.

2. In the Speed text field, which now appears, enter 360d to set the motion displacement to be 360 degrees per
second.
3. Click on the revolute joint in the cam part with the left mouse button.
A large motion arrow appears around the revolute joint in the cam part, as shown in Figure 8.
Figure 8. Rotational Joint Motion.


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1.9. Verify the model.
The model verification step is one way to find errors in the model definition. ADAMS checks for error conditions
such as misaligned joints, unconstrained parts, or massless parts in dynamic systems, and alerts you to other
possible problems in the model.
1. In the lower right corner of the modeling window, click on the Information icon with the right mouse
button.
The information palette appears.
2. Click on the Verification icon.

The Info Window appears, as shown in Figure 9.
3. After seeing that the model has verified successfully, click on the Close button in the upper right corner to close
the Information Window.
Figure 9. Verify model.
The completed model should appear similar to the figure below:


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Figure 10. Complete model.
Model building is now complete.
Set up and run a simulation.
1.10. Setting measures.
1. Select the follower part by clicking on it in the ADAMS Modeling window with the left mouse button .
The part becomes highlighted.
2. On the Build menu at the top of the Modeling window, point to Measure, then to Selected Object, and select New.
The Part Measure dialog box appears.
3. Select CM Position for the Characteristic text field and select Y for the Component entry to to measure the
displacement in the Y direction.
4. Click Apply.
A graph window appears. This is where data will be displayed.
5. Now repeat this procedure, except select CM Velocity for Characteristic.
6. Repeat this procedure once more for CM Acceleration.
A new graph window will appear for each new measure.
7. After the three graph windows are created, click Cancel to close the Part Measure dialog box.

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1.11. Running the simulation.
1. Click on the Simulation icon in the Toolbox. For End Time, enter 1 and for Steps, enter 50.
2. Click on the Play icon.

You should see the cam rotate about the pivot and the follower slide along its translational joint.
Corresponding data should be plotted on each graph.
3. When the simulation ends, click on the Rewind icon.
1.12. Plotting results.
1. In each of the graph windows, a plot corresponding to each of the measures set earlier appears.
2. To get a closer look at a plot, click on a blank area inside the small plot window with the right mouse button and
follow the pull right menu. Select Transfer to Full Plot.
The ADAMS Plot Window will open, replacing the modeling window. To return to the modeling window, go to the
right top corner and click on the Return to Modeling icon .
1.13. Saving your Modeling Session.
1. Under the File pull-down menu, select Save Database As...

The Save Database As dialog box appears as shown in Figure 10.
2. In the text field next to File Name, enter the name you wish to give this model, for example, cam.
3. Select OK.
An ADAMS Binary File is created.
Figure 10. Save Database As...
1.14. Exiting ADAMS.
1. Select Exit from the File pull-down menu in the main ADAMS Modeling window.
Congratulations, you have completed Tutorial 2: Simple Cam.
Did it work?

Page | 34
Make sure correct units are set to mmks.

Make sure the revolute joint is in the z direction.
Make sure translational joint is in the y direction.
Check dimensions of the part to make sure they are correct.
Check locations of spline points to make sure they are correct.
Check orientation of the parts to make sure they are correct.
Make sure the measures are set correctly.
Make sure the plot is displaying the correct set of results.

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Tutorial 3 : Crank Slider
Introduction:
Knowledge of the following skills is necessary for the completion of this ADAMS Lab.
Creating a model, setting units and gravity
Creating parts and joints
Running and animating a simulation
Plotting results
Problem:
Problem 2/163 from J. L. Meriam and L. G. Kraige, Engineering Mechanics: Volume 2, Dynamics 3rd edition. John Wiley &
Sons, Inc.
Pin A moves in a circle of 90-mm radius as crank

AC revolves at a constant rate beta-dot = 60 rad/s.
The slotted link rotates about point O as the rod
attached to A moves in and out of the slot. For the
position beta=30 degrees, determine r-dot, r-
double dot, theta-dot, theta-double dot.
This problem asks for the translational speed and acceleration of the slider rod and the angular speed and acceleration of
the slider assembly at a given crank angle of 30 degrees and crank angular velocity of 60 radians per second. To solve this,
we will build an ADAMS model of the crank and slider assembly based on the information given and measure the data we
want using an ADAMS simulation of the model.

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Procedure:
This ADAMS model will be created in the following steps:
1. Start ADAMS.
2. Create a new model. (Units = mmks, Gravity = -y earth)
3. Create crank part AC. (link, length = 90-mm)
4. Create cylinder part. (revolution, length = 210 mm, outer radius = 10 mm, inner radius = 5 mm)
5. Create piston part. (cylinder, length = 210 mm, radius = 5 mm)
6. Create revolute joints at crank end, between crank and piston, and at cylinder end.
7. Create translational joint between piston and cylinder.
8. Set initial velocity of crank. (wz = -60 rad/s)
Testing the ADAMS model:
1. Create measures for displacement, rate, and acceleration for piston extension OA. (Build > Measures menu)
2. Create measures for anglular velocity and acceleration of the slider relative to ground.
3. Run analysis.
4. Plot results and determine rate and acceleration of displacement r and angle theta.
Solution:
Textbook solution:
r-dot = 3.58 m/s, r-double dot = 315 m/s^2, theta-dot = 17.86 rad/s, theta-double dot = -1510 rad/s^2

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Helpful Tips:
Make sure gravity is on and in the -y direction and set to 9806.15.
Make sure the revolute joints are in the z direction.
Make sure there are enough output steps to observe the speed and acceleration when beta=30 deg.

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Tutorial 4 : Cantilever Beam
Prerequisites:
Plotting results
Problem:
Problem in Mechanics of Materials, Gere and Timoshenko - 3rd SI ed. pg. 479, Example 1:
Determine the angle of rotation theta b and deflection delta b

at the free end B of a cantilever beam AB supporting a
concentrated load P.
This problem asks for the deflection angle and the displacement of the end of a cantilever beam rigidly supported at one
end and free at the other. The problem is looking for non-dimensional relations, but for the purposes of creating this ADAMS
model, we will use the following dimensions: length 1000 mm, diameter 15 mm, load P = 100 N.
Procedure:


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1. Start ADAMS, choose mmks units and no gravity.

2. Create two markers, one for each end of the beam. Place them 1000 mm apart.
3. Create beam. Use Flexible Bodies -> Discrete Flexible Link under the Build menu.
4. Use 10 segments, a Solid Circular cross section with a diameter of 15 mm, and select Marker 1 for one end with a
flexible attachment and Marker 2 for the other end, leaving the attachment free.
5. Create a Single Component Applied Force with a value of 100 N and a Space Fixed Run-Time direction. Using
the Pick Geometry Feature for Construction, click on the free end of the beam and specify the direction arrow
to point downward, in the -y direction.
1. Select the marker at the free end and set the measure to translational displacement in the y direction.
2. Run analysis.
3. Plot results and determine the translational displacement of the end.
4. Select a point on the last segment of the beam at the free end.
5. Go to point measure and select orientation. Set the Characteristic to Ax, Ay, Az Projection Angles, set the
component to third rotation, and set From Frame to a ground marker.
6. Click OK and run analysis.
Solution:
Book solution gives:
theta b = (P*L2)/(2*E*I)
delta b = (P*L3)/(3*E*I)
where P is the concentrated load, L is the length of the beam, E is Young's Modulus of Elasticity, and I is the
moment of inertia in the direction of displacement. Dimensions can be obtained from initial conditions and the
properties can be obtained by clicking on the beam with the right mouse button and selecting Info or Modify.
Substituting our initial conditions into the formula will give the theoretical solution to compare with the ADAMS solution.
My ADAMS simulation answers are:
angle of rotation theta b = -6.073 degrees
displacement delta b = -73.65 mm
Helpful Tips:

Page | 40
Make sure gravity is off.
Make sure there is a flexible joint at one end and the other end is free.
Check geometry of the part to make sure they are correct.
Make sure there are enough output steps to allow the beam to reach steady-state.

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Tutorial 5 : Projectile Motion
Prerequisites:
Plotting results
Problem:
Sons, Inc.
A projectile is launched with an initial speed of 200

m/s at an angle of 60 degrees with respect to the
horizontal. Compute the range R as measured up the
incline.
Procedure:


Page | 42
1. Start ADAMS.
2. Create a new model. (Units = mks, Gravity = -y earth)
3. Reset working grid to 4000m x 3000m with spacing of 100m and zoom out.
4. Create incline (box, length = 3500 m, rotated 20 degrees, locked to ground)
5. Create projectile (sphere, radius = 1 m)
6. Place projectile at end of incline.
7. Set initial velocity conditions for the projectile (Vx = 200*cos60 = 100m/s, Vy = 200*sin60 = 173.2m/s)
1. Testing the ADAMS model:Set a point-to-point measure between the projectile and the end of the incline.
2. Run simulation (end time 30, 300 steps)
3. Determine the time step when the projectile encounters the inclined plane using the animation tool.
4. Transfer small plot to full plot and go to the ADAMS plotting screen.
5. On the full plot, use the display plot statistics function and get the displacement corresponding to the time step
determined earlier.
6.
Solution:
Textbook solution:
Range R = 2970 m.

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Here are the results from my ADAMS simulation:
R = 2969 m
Download the ADAMS command file for this model: projectile.cmd
Helpful Tips:
Make sure correct units are set to mks and the viewing area is zoomed out enough to see the model.
Make sure the inclined plane is rotated in the correct direction (z, counterclockwise).
Make sure the inclined plane is locked to the ground.
Make sure there are enough output steps to observe the contact between the projectile and the inclined plane.

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Tutorial 6 : Oscillating Slider
Prerequisites:
Plotting results
Problem:
Sons, Inc.
The rod A is held at the constant angle beta = 30 degrees while it rotates
about the vertical with constant angular rate of 120 rev/min.
Simultaneously, the slider P oscillates along the rod with a variable
distance from the fixed pivot O given in inches by R=8+2sin2πnt, where
the frequency n of oscillation along the rod is a constant 2 cycles per
second and where the time t is in seconds. Calculate the magnitude of
the acceleration of the slider for an instant when its velocity R-dot along
the rod is a maximum.
This problem asks for the magnitude of acceleration of the slider at the instant its velocity along the rod is at a maximum.
We will use ADAMS to create a model with the given conditions and collect the data needed.
Procedure:


P a g e | 45
1. Start ADAMS.
2. Create a new model. (Units = ips, Gravity = none)
3. Use the Rigid Body: Cylinder tool to create the rod. Activate the Length switch and enter 16i in the
corresponding text field. Likewise, set the radius to .25i. Click once on the origin and once along the y axis. A 16
inch long rod is created.
4. You may wish to turn off the working grid or rescale the grid (Settings menu) to fit the part.
5. Use the Rigid Body: Sphere tool to create a sphere (radius 1 inch) centered at the origin.
6. Create a Translational Joint between the sphere and the rod. The direction of the joint is parallel to the rod.
7. Select the translational joint with the right mouse button and follow the pull-down menu to Modify. In the Modify
Joint dialog box, select Impose Motion(s). In the Tra Z row, select disp(time)= under Type, and under f(time),
enter the following string: 8+2*sin(4*pi*time)
Click OK
8. Select the entire model and rotate it 30 degrees clockwise. (Drag with the left mouse button to create highlight
box, and use the Position tool to rotate the model.)
9. Change the view orientation to Top view.
10. Create a Revolute Joint in the y direction on the marker at the end of the rod at the origin. (use Revolute Joint
tool in toolbox, orientation normal to grid.)
11. Select the revolute joint created in the previous step with the right mouse button and follow the pull-down menu
to Modify. In the Modify Joint dialog box, select Impose Motion(s). In the Rot Z" row, select disp(time)= under
Type, and under f(time), enter the following string: 4*pi*time
Click OK.
12. Select the sphere with the right mouse button and follow the pull-down menu to Part:PART_3 > Measure. For
Characteristic, select Translational acceleration, and set the Component to mag. The magnitude of the
translational acceleration of the slider will be measured. Click OK.
Testing the ADAMS model.


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1. Run a simulation. (end time = 1.0, steps = 50)

A message window may appear warning that the displacement of the slider differs from the initial condition. This
is expected and the window may be dismissed.
2. Transfer the small velocity graph to a full plot in the ADAMS plotting screen. (right mouse button inside small
plotting window)
3. Use the Display Plot Statistics tool to follow the plot curve. Find the time step corresponding to the maximum
translational velocity.
4. Go the the View > Plot menu and select the acceleration plot. Find the acceleration corresponding to the
maximum velocity time step.
5. Select Return to Modeling in the File menu to go back to the modeling window.
Solution:
Textbook solution:
Acceleration = 706 in/sec2
Acceleration = 706.21 in/sec2
Helpful Hints:
Make sure correct units are set to ips and the viewing area is zoomed in or out enough to see the model. It may be helpful
to set the working grid to "1i" spacing under the Settings menu.
Make sure gravity is turned off.
Make sure the revolute joint is in the y direction.
Make sure there are enough output steps to observe the angular velocity of AB and BC at the correct time.

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Tutorial 7: Mass With Spring
Prerequisites:
Knowledge of the following skills is helpful for the completion of this ADAMS Lab.
Plotting results
Problem:
Sons, Inc.
The 10-kg cylinder is released from rest with x = 1 m, where the spring is unstretched.
Determine (a) the maximum velocity v of the cylinder and the corresponding value of x
and (b) the maximum value of x during the motion. The stiffness of the spring is 450 N/m.
Procedure:


Page | 48
1. Start ADAMS.
2. Create a new model. (Units = mks, Gravity = -y earth)
3. Enlarge working grid area to accomodate model. (height approx. 1.5 m)
4. Create cylinder part. (cylinder, mass = 10 kg)
5. Create spring part. (spring-damper, k = 450 N/m)
1. Create measures for displacement and velocity of block.

2. Run analysis.
3. Plot results and determine velocity v and distance x.
Solution:
Textbook solution:
My ADAMS simulation answers were:


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(a) Maximum velocity = 1.361 m/s; corresponding to x value of 1.211 m
(b) Maximum value of x = 1.435 m.
Helpful Tips:
Make sure correct units are set to mks.
Check mass and distance of the block to make sure they are correct.
Make sure there are enough output steps to observe the velocity and maximum displacement.

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Tutorial 8: Inclined Plane
Prerequisites:
Creating parts and contact properties
Plotting results
Problem:
Problem 3/2 from J. L. Meriam and L. G. Kraige, Engineering Mechanics: Volume 2, Dynamics 3rd edition. John Wiley & Sons,
Inc.
The 100-lb crate is carefully placed with zero velocity on the

incline. Describe what happens if:
(a) theta = 15 degrees and (b) theta = 20 degrees.
Procedure:


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1. Start ADAMS.
2. Create a new model. (Units = IPS, Gravity = -y earth)
3. Create ground plane. (box, length = 46, height = 2 in, depth = 8 in)
4. Create crate part. (box, length = 10 in, height = 4 in, depth = 8 in, mass = 100 lb)
5. Create fixed joint between ground plane and ground.
6. Create a translational joint with friction between crate and ground plane (mu static = 0.30, mu kinetic = 0.25)
1. Rotate model to angle theta = 15 degrees. (select both the plane and the crate, and use the rotate tool)
2. Run simulation and record results. (end time = 1, time steps = 50)
3. Rotate to new angle theta = 20 degrees.
4. Run another simulation.
5. Observe effects of incline at each angle theta.
Solution:
Textbook solution:
At angle theta = 15 degrees, there is no motion

At angle theta = 20 degrees, the block accelerates down the plane.

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ADAMS results:
At angle theta = 15 degrees, there is no motion

At angle theta = 20 degrees, the block accelerates down the plane at 41.35 in/sec2 (3.45 ft/sec2).
Helpful Hints:
Make sure correct units are set to ips.
For ease of part creation, the working grid can be set to inches.
Make sure gravity is on and in the -y direction and set to -386.089.
Check weight of crate to make sure it is correct. It may need to be set manually.
Check dimensions of parts.
Make sure there are enough output steps to observe the effect at each angle setting.

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Tutorial 9: Sliding Crate
Prerequisites:
Creating parts and contact properties
Plotting results
Problem:
Problems 3/4 and 3/5 from J. L. Meriam and L. G. Kraige, Engineering Mechanics: Volume 2, Dynamics 3rd edition. John
Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The 50-kg crate is projected along the floor with an initial speed of 7
m/s at x=0. The coefficient of kinetic friction is 0.4. Calculate the time
required for the crate to come to rest and the corresponding distance
x traveled.
Now the crate is projected down an incline as shown with an initial

speed of 7 m/s. Investigate the time t required for the crate to come
to rest and the corresponding distance x traveled if:
(a) theta = 15 degrees

(b) theta = 30 degrees
Procedure:


Page | 54
Creating the ADAMS model.
1. Start ADAMS.
2. Create a new model. (Units = mmks, Gravity = -y earth)
3. Create crate part. (box, length = 20 cm, height = 15 cm, depth = 20 cm, mass =
50 kg)
4. Create a translational joint with friction between crate and ground plane (mu
kinetic = 0.4)
5. Set the velocity initial condition for the crate to 7 m/s in the x-direction in the
crate's coordinate frame.
6. Create a measure for displacement of the crate.
1. Run simulation. (approximate end time 10 seconds)

2. Open full screen plot of displacement vs. time and observe the plot where displacement becomes constant (crate
comes to rest).
3. Record the time and displacement of this event.
Modify the ADAMS model.
1. The problem calls for the entire model to be rotated. Select both the crate and the translational joint and use the
rotate tool to rotate them 15 degrees.
2. Run another simulation.
3. Repeat for a 30 degree slope.
4. Observe effects of incline at each angle theta.
Solution:
Analytical solution:
level surface: x = 6.24 m, t = 1.78 seconds

15 degree slope: x = 19.58 m, t = 5.59 seconds
30 degree slope: crate does not come to rest
ADAMS results:
level surface: x = 6.246 m, t = 1.78 seconds

15 degree slope: x = 19.58 m, t = 5.59 seconds
30 degree slope: crate accelerates, does not come to rest

P a g e | 55
Helpful Tips:
Make sure gravity is on.
Check mass of crate to make sure it is correct. It may need to be set manually.
Check dimensions of parts.
Make sure the initial velocity is applied in the x direction relative to the crate and not ground.
Make sure the measures are set correctly. After model is rotated, displacement will be in both the x and y direction, so
measure the total magnitude.
Make sure there are enough output steps to observe the effect at each angle setting.

Page | 56
Tutorial 10: Four-Bar
Prerequisites:
Plotting results
Problem:
Sons, Inc.
In the four-bar linkage shown, control link OA has a

counterclockwise angular velocity omega = 10 rad/s during a
short interval of motion. When the link CB passes the vertical
position shown, point A has coordinates x = -60 mm and y = 80
mm. By means of vector algebra, determine the angular
velocity of AB and BC.
This problem asks for the rotational velocity of segment BC when it is in the pictured position given a constant and known
rotational velocity for segment OA. We will use ADAMS to create a model with the given conditions and collect the data
needed.
Procedure:


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1. Start ADAMS.
2. Create a new model. (Units = mmks, Gravity = none)
3. Create a marker at each of the following coordinates:
O (0, 0, 0); A (-60, 80, 0); B (180, 180, 0); C (180, 0, 0)
4. Create links OA, AB, and BC, using the markers as end points.
5. Make revolute joints between two links at points A and B, and between link and ground at O and C.
6. Set initial angular velocity condition for link OA. (omega = 10 rad/s)
1. Run simulation (end time = 1.5)

2. Go to the plotting window and view plots for displacement of OA and angular velocities of AB and BC.
3. Get value of angular velocities of AB and BC when OA returns to starting position.
Solution:
Textbook solution:
Angular velocity of AB = 2.5 rad/s

Angular velocity of BC = 5.83 rad/s

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Angular velocity of AB = 2.5 rad/s

Angular velocity of BC = 5.83 rad/s
Helpful Tips:
Make sure correct units are set to mmks and the viewing area is zoomed in or out enough to see the model. It may be
helpful to set the working grid to 10mm spacing and change the icon size to 10mm under the Settings menu.
Make sure gravity is turned off.
Make sure the revolute joints are in the z direction.
Make sure there are enough output steps to observe the angular velocity of AB and BC at the correct time.

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Appendix A
Main Toolbox
Main ToolBox Descriptions

This is tool is just like a normal select tool. With it you are able to select modeling
objects, such as parts or forces. Selecting the object deselects any currently
selected object. If you select a rigid body, ADAMS/View selects the entire body
including its geometry. When you select an object it appears with a thicker line. If it is
Select Tool a rigid body other points appear highlighted so that you can chance the rotation and
position. Just like the normal tool, you are also able to drag and select many objects
at once.
This command fits the model to the screen size. There are two different options on
how to do this; it can be done with or without the grounded parts. A normal fit would
zoom to a position where you could see all the parts on the screen, however if you do
Fitting a Model in the it without ground the parts connected to the ground and those connected to the
Window grounded pieces will not be shown. A fit to window is done by pressing the button but
you can also go to the toolbar and by selecting View Æ Position/Orientation and
either Fit or Fit – No Ground. (Note: You can also press f for Fit or Ctrl f for Fit –
No Ground)
By pressing this button the mouse becomes poised to be dragged and make a box;
this box is defined the area that you want enlarged and displayed in the current
window. As soon as you release the mouse button the screen will zoom in causing the
Defining a Zoom Area
lower left corner of the box that you define becomes the lower left corner of the view
window. The shape of the window you define does not need to correspond to the
shape of the view window. ADAMS/View fits the specified area into the view window
as necessary. (Note: By pressing w you get the same effect as pressing the button)
This tool helps to move the screen; after clicking this button (or pressing c) you can
center the screen around any point you choose just by pressing the left mouse
button. You can also go to the toolbar and by selecting View Æ
Setting the Center of View Position/Orientation and either Center or Origin you can reposition the screen.
Center is the same as pressing the button while Origin moves the screen back to
being centered around (0,0).
You are able to rotate the model around any of its three axis (x, y, z). By pressing this
button (or clicking r) you can rotate the view window around the x- and y-axis. Place
the cursor on the screen and as long as you hold the mouse button down you are
able to rotate the screen by moving the move, once you are happy with the screen
Dynamic Rotation XY release the button. There is one other option with this tool; you are able to zoom by
increments. By entering the number you want to rotate the view by (any number
between 0 and 360) in the increments box you then move cursor on the window while
holding down the Shift key.

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This button is similar in nature to the rotation around the x- y-axis, this cause the
model to spin around the z-axis. (Note: The shortcut key is s).
Dynamic Rotation Z
To move the display of the model so that you can see objects that are outside the
current view window boundaries, you can translate the view. Translating the view
moves the view in the x and y directions as you move the cursor. By pressing this
Dynamic Translate XY button or clicking t you are able to translate around the screen by holding the left
mouse button down and moving the cursor in the direction you want the screen to
move. Like the dynamic rotation you have the option to move in increments.
This button is similar in nature to the translation around the x- y-axis, this cause the
model to translate around the z-axis. (Note: The shortcut key is d).
Dynamic Translate Z
This tool allows you to zoom in and out of the screen; by clicking this button (or
pressing z) you are able to zoom. If you hold the left mouse button down and move
the mouse up the screen you will zoom in, however if you move down you will zoom
out. When you are happy with the zoom release the mouse and the screen will be set.
Zoom In/Out Tool There is one other option with this tool; you are able to zoom by increments. By
entering the number you want to magnify the view times in the increments box you
then move cursor on the window while holding down the Shift key.

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Geometric Modeling
Geometric Modeling Descriptions

The link is just that, a simple link. By default its width is 10% of the length and the
depth is half that. Before drawing the link you are able to define the length, width, and
depth of the object by entering the specified measurement you want and checking the
Link Tool box. Also you can decide if you want to attach an object to the ground, connect it to
another object, or create something entirely new.
This creates a three-dimensional solid block. After clicking the box tool you have
several options; like with all geometric objects you can add it to an existing object,
attach it to ground, or create a new object. You are also able to specific its height,
width, and depth, enter in the length into the box and make sure the box about is
Box Tool checked. Otherwise you can just drag the cursor (while holding down the left mouse
button) to create the box. If you do not specify the depth it will be equal to twice the
shortest dimension (either height or width).
This tool works much the same as the box does; with it you create a cylinder. You
draw the cylinder’s centerline, by default the radius is 25% of the centerline’s length.
However you can specify the length and radius of the cylinder as well as if you want
Cylinder Tool
to attach it to something or create a new object.
This tool creates a sphere whose three radii are of equal length, you click first to
create the center point and then move the cursor. The options are the same for this
as with the box except you can only specify the radius length.

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Sphere Tool
The frustum creates a cone whose top has been cut off. You can create the frustum
by drawing its length, if you do this the bottom radius will be 12.5% of the length and
Frustum Tool
the top will be half that. You can also specify the radii and length if you so choose.
This tool makes a solid circular ring, and it is drawn from the center outward. By
default the torus makes the radius of the inner ring 1/3 of the other ring. Like the
other geometric objects you can specify how the object is to be made (the inner and
Torus Tool outer radii) and if it is to be attached to anything.
This tool creates an extrusion (a three dimensional object defined by its profile and
depth). You can either extrude an existing curve (like one made by a spline) or create
one by selecting points. You can either make your extrusion open or closed, if it is
closed it will fill the shape or open then it will just draw a profile (has no mass
Extrusion Tool properties). The length that you have is the depth of the extrusion and this length can
either be forward (+z), backward (-z), or centered (both ±z). Also, like other
geometric models it can be set to attach to different things.
This creates a solid geometry by rotating around a profile. You specify the profile
and the axis that it is to revolve about (this cannot be done using existing
construction geometry as the profile). You can create either open or closed
Revolution Tool revolutions, open means it creates just a skin while closed means it fills in the
opening.
This tool creates a plate (an extruded polygon) with rounded corners. You make this
by indicating the location of the corners, there must be at least three locations. The
first point is the anchor point; it helps to define the position and orientation in space.
After you specify the number of points the plate tool creates a plate with the
Plate Tool specified number of sides and extrudes it. It defaults to a thickness and radius of one
of the current length unit. Before drawing these points the thickness and radius of
the edges can be specified.
This defines locations in three-dimensional space upon which you can build your
model. Points allow you to build parameterization between objects, as well as position
objects. For example, you can attach a link to points so that each time you move the
points, the link’s geometry changes accordingly. You can also use points to define the
location where modeling objects connect, such as the point where a joint connects
two parts. Points do not define an orientation, only a location. You have two options
Point Tool when you create a point either you add it to ground or to another part. Also you can
specify whether other parts near the same location should be attached
(parameterized) to the point. If you attach other bodies to the point, then the location
of those bodies is tied to the location of that point. (Note: If you change the location
of the point, the location of all attached bodies will change accordingly.)
When you create a marker you are able to specify both its location and orientation.
You are able to (like the point) attach it to the ground or an object. You define the
orientation by looking at the options in orientation, some allow you to define your own
Marker Tool
axis while others give you predefined axis. The main difference between a marker

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and a point is that a marker does not move while a point, if attached to an object
does.
This tool creates single or multi-line segments that can be made opened or closed
(polygons). As will all geometric parts you are able to decide if you want to attach it
to the ground, another object, or if you want to create a new part. You are also able
to select if you want to create one line or a polyline. By checking the length box you
are able to set the length of each line that makes up the polyline, the angle box
Polyline Tool specifies the angle separating the adjoining lines. If the box marked closed is check
ADAMS will automatically connect the two ends of the figure. If you create a new part
it has no mass since it is only a wire geometry, you can extrude the lines into solid
geometry to add mass.
This is very similar to the box tool in nature except that it creates a plane (only 2D).
The plane is only a wire object so as a result it has no mass.
Plane Tool

This tool creates arcs and circles centered about a location. You begin drawing an
arc by specifying it’s starting and ending angles. You then indicate its center location
and set its radius and the orientation of its x-axis. You can also specify the arc’s
radius before you draw it. The Arc tool draws the angle starting from the x-axis that
you specify and moving counterclockwise (right-hand rule). Before you create arc
Arc Tool geometry, you can select to create a new part consisting of the arc geometry or add
the arc geometry to an existing part or ground. If you create a new part, it has no
mass since it is composed of only wire geometry. You can extrude a circle into solid
geometry that has mass.
This creates a spline, which is a smooth curve that is made up off a set of location
coordinates. Like the polyline you can create a spline that is either open or closed
and the part can be added to others or be something new. If the spline is open it
needs to be composed of at least 4 points while a closed one needs 8. You can
specify the geometry by either picking points or by using an existing curve. Also like
Spline Tool
the polyline the spline has no mass.
The Unites Tool creates a complex geometry by joining two intersecting solids. It merges the second
part you select into the first part, resulting in a single part. The union has a mass computed from the
volume of the new solid, any overlapping volume is only counted once.
Unite Tool
The intersect tool creates a geometry by taking the intersecting parts of the second
object with respect to the first.
Intersect Tool
The cut tool removes one body that intersects with another one. The way this works
is that you select the object that you want to have a cut in first and then select the

object that you want to have taken away. After you select this the cut will occur, you

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Cut Tool cannot cut an object such that two objects with result. You also cannot cut an object
such that there will be not geometry left.
This tool splits a complex solid that you’ve created using other Boolean tools back
into it primitive solids. It creates a part for each solid resulting from the split
operation.
Split Tool
This tool merges to bodies into one. It does not perform a Boolean expression on the
objects so as a result intersecting pieces have their intersecting mass doubled, for
this reason this tool should only be used to merge non-intersecting bodies. ADAMS
Merge Tool merges the second geometry into the one you first select.
Links together wire construction geometry to create a complex profile, which you
can then extrude. The geometry to be chained together must touch at one endpoint
and cannot be closed geometry. The Chain tool adds the final chained geometry to the
Chain Tool
part that owns the first geometry that you selected.
This creates a rounded surface at edges and corners. When using this tool you are
able to pick radius of the fillet by specifying it in the box. You are also able to make a
variable fillet by using a start radius (the original box) and filling one in the end
radius, this makes the radius change along the length of the side. After specifying
Fillet Tool these things click on a side or an edge for the desired change to take effect.
This tool is very similar to the fillet tool, except instead of a rounded edge it creates
a flat cut. You can specify this cut (or addition if on a corner) by selecting a width.
Chamfer Tool
This tool creates a hole in a solid object of a certain size and depth. Specify the hole
size and depth and then click on the position where you want it to appear where you
click (however this tool cannot create 2 separate objects).
Hole Tool
The boss tool does the exact opposite of the hole tool. Instead of creating a hole you
are able to add a circular bit onto a solid object. Like with the hole tool you are able
to specify a size (radius) and a height, by clicking the boss will appear.
Boss Tool
This tool hollows out one or more faces of an object to create a shell. You have some
options with this tool, like the thickness of the shell and the number of faces you want
to hollow out. You are also able to add material to the outside of a hollowed object.
Hollow Tool
(Note: You cannot hollow spheres, revolutions, or constructions geometry.)

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Measure

By clicking on this button in the main toolbox you are able to do a point to point
measurement. You have two options with this tool; you are able to pick the
characteristic (that which you will measure) and the component (in terms of
vectors). You are able to measure the displacement, the velocity, or the acceleration
and you can measure them with only the x, y, or z vector component or you can find
its magnitude. After choosing these options you are asked to select to points on the
Point‐to‐Point Measure screen. If you select points on an object (and the object moves) you can determine
the objects movement with respect to the other point. After you select two points a
graph will appear, this graph indicates the measured characteristic with respect to
time.
This is a similar tool to the point to point measurement except that it measures
angles (any you don’t have the options). The way this works is the first point you click

on is the tip of the first vector, the second is the location of the corner (where the
Angle Measure measurement is taken from), and the third is the second vector.

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Joints
Joints Descriptions
Creates a joint that allows for a rotation of one part with respect to another about a
common axis. The joint’s orientation defines the rotational axis’ direction. There are
two options that you have with the revolute joint other than the axis. You can select if
you want the joint with one location so that you choose one object and ADAMS
selects the other (this is most often ground), you can also choose two objects and
either one or two locations. If you choose one location the joint remains fixed on the
first part and moves relative to the second part. If you choose two locations you are
Revolute Joint Tool able to select both objects and pick where the joint is on each of them. The other
option that you have is choosing if you want the object to be Normal to the Grid or if
you want to Pick a Geometry Feature. The difference is that picking a geometry
feature allows you to orient the joint along a direction vector on a feature in your
model, such as the face of a part while if it is normal to the grid it is just that, done
with respect to the grid. (Note: These options apply to most joints)
The Hooke/Universal joint allows for the rotation of one rigid body to be transferred
to another. The location point of the universal joint represents the connection point
of the two parts. For a Hooke joint, two shaft axes leading to the cross bars identify
the axes about which the two parts are permitted to rotate with respect to each
Hooke/Universal Joint Tool
other. For a universal joint, the cross bars identify the axes about which the two
parts are permitted to rotate with respect to each other. Like the Revolute Joint you
also have two options with this joint, they are the same as with the previous joint.

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The fixed joint creates a lock between two parts so that they cannot move with
respect to each other. For fixed joints the location and orientation of the joint often
Fixed Joint Tool do not affect the simulation. The normal options for joints apply to this one as well.
This tool allows one object to translate in a certain direction with respect to
something, either ground or another object. The way the tool works is that you
choose if you want the object constrained with respect to 1 location (the object) and
Translational Joint Tool ground or two different bodies. The other option that you have is choosing the
reference frame of the joint, it can be set for the normal grid or to an object.
The constant-velocity joint is a bit more complex, it creates a joint that allows two
rotations on one part with respect to another part, while remaining coincident and
maintaining a constant velocity through the spin axis. Like most joints you have the
Constant‐Velocity Joint Tool same two options in terms of selecting the body/location option and the grid for the
joint.
The point-curve constraint restricts a fixed point defined on one part to lie on a
curve defined on a second part. The first part is free to roll and slide on the curve
that is fixed to a second part. The curve on the second part can be planar or spatial
or open or closed. The first part cannot lift off the second part; it must always lie on
Point‐Curve Constraint Tool the curve. A point-curve constraint removes two translational degrees of freedom
from your model. The option for this tool is if you want the curve to be a real curve
or the edge of an object.
Creates a cylindrical joint that allows both relative rotation as well as relative
translation of one part with respect to another part. A cylindrical joint can be located
anywhere along the axis about which the parts can rotate or slide with respect to
each other. The orientation of the cylindrical joint defines the direction of the axis
Cylindrical Joint Tool
about which the parts can rotate or slide along with respect to each other. The
rotational axis of the cylindrical joint is parallel to the orientation vector and passes
through the location. Same options as all joints.
This is a more complex type of joint. It relates the translational and/or rotational
motion of the joints through a linear scaling of the relative motions. Couplers are
useful if your model uses belts and pulleys or chains and sprockets to transfer
motion and energy. Although you can couple only two or three joints, more than one
coupler can come from the same joint, as shown in the figure above. When you
Coupler Joint Tool create a coupler, you can only create a two-joint coupler. You select the driver joint,
the joint to which the second joint is coupled, and the coupled joint, the joint that
follows the driver joint. To specify the relationship between the driver and the
coupled joint or to create a three-joint coupler, you modify the coupler. (Note: You
need joints in existence to use this one.)
A curve-curve constraint restricts a curve defined on the first part to remain in
contact with a second curve defined on a second part. The curve-curve constraint is
useful for modeling cams where the point of contact between two parts changes
during the motion of the mechanism. The curve-curve constraint removes three
2D Curve‐Curve Constraint degrees of freedom from your model. The curves always maintain contact, even
Tool when the dynamics of the model might actually lift one curve off the other. You can
examine the constraint forces to determine if any lift-off should have occurred. If
your results require an accurate simulation of intermittent contact, you should

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model the contact forces directly using a vector force. This, like the point-curve joint,
has the option to select either a curve or an edge for both the first and second
constraints.
Creates a spherical joint that allows the free rotation about a common point of one
part with respect to another part. The location of the spherical joint determines the
Spherical Joint Tool: point about which the joint’s parts can pivot freely with respect to each other. Same
options as all joints.
Creates a screw joint that specifies the rotation of one part about an axis, as the
part translates along the axis with respect to a second part. The screw joint does not
require that the two parts remain parallel with respect to the axis of rotation and
translation. However, the z-axis of the coordinate system marker on the first part
and the z-axis of the coordinate system marker on the second part must always be
parallel and co-directed. After you create a screw joint, you need to specify the pitch
Screw Joint Tool
value. The pitch value is the distance from one peak on a thread of the screw to the
next thread. It defines the amount of translational displacement of the first part for
every rotation of the second part about the axis of rotation. Same options as all
joints.
Creates a planar joint that allows a plane on one part to slide and rotate in the plane
of another part. The location of the planar joint determines a point in space through
which the joint’s plane of motion passes. The orientation vector of the planar joint is
perpendicular to the joint’s plane of motion. The rotational axis of the planar joint,
which is normal to the joint’s plane of motion, is parallel to the orientation vector.
Point Joint Tool
Same options as all joints.
Creates a gear pair that relates the motion of three parts and two joints using a
marker, called the common velocity (CV) marker, to determine the point of contact.
The Gear Joint tool connects two of the parts, which are called the geared parts, by
coupling together the allowable degrees of freedom in two joints. The coupled joints
are attached to the third part, called the carrier part. The joints can be translational,
revolute, or cylindrical joints. Using different combinations of joint types and
orientations, you can model many different physical gears, including spur, helical,
planetary, bevel, and rack-and-pinion. When you create the joints to be geared
together, you must create them so the first part you select is a geared part and the
second part is the carrier part. Therefore, the I marker parameters of the joints
Gear Joint Tool
must belong to the geared parts and the J marker parameters must belong to the
carrier part. In addition, the CV marker must belong to the carrier part. The gear
uses the location of the CV marker to determine the point of contact or mesh of the
two geared parts. The direction of the z-axis of the common velocity marker points in
the direction of the common motion of the geared parts. This is also the direction in
which the gear teeth forces act. The location of the CV marker is constant with
respect to the carrier part. Its location does not change when the direction of power
flows through the gear changes.
The parallel axes joint constrains the z-axis of one part to the z-axis of another part.
The first part you pick is constrained with respect to the second part. Same options

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Parallel Axes Joint Tool as all joints.

Much like the parallel axis joint the perpendicular axes tool constrains the z-axis of
one object to another such that they are at all time perpendicular to each other.
Perpendicular Axes Joint Tool Same options as all joints.
The orientation tool constrains all the axes of the first object to match that of the
second. Same options as all joints.
Orientation Joint Tool
The inplane joint constrains two objects such that their planes remain the same.
Same options as all joints.
Inplane Joint Tool
This constrains one part so that it can only move along a straight line defined on a
second part, the first object is constrained to the second. The location of the inline
joint on the first part must remain on the z-axis of the second part. Same options as
Inline Joint Tool all joints.


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Simulation Tools


Reset Simulation

Stop Simulation

Start Simulation

Replay Simulation

Model Verify Tool


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Static Equilibrium Tool

Initial Conditions Tool

ADAMS/Vibration

Linear Modes

Linear States

Save/Delete Simulation
Results

Save Simulated Position

Animation Controls

Linear Modes Controls

Applying Motions to Joints
Motions Descriptions
This tool rotates the first part that the joint connects about the z-axis of a second
part. The right-hand rule determines the sign of the motion. The z-axis of the first
part must be aligned with the z-axis of the second part at all times. The angle is zero
when the x-axis of the first part is also aligned with the x-axis of the second part. The
one option you have is that you can specify the speed of the motion in displacement
Rotational Motion Tool: units per second. By default, creates a rotational motion with a speed of 30 degrees
per second.
The single point motion tool prescribes the motion of two parts along or around one
axis. When you create a point motion, you specify the direction along which the
Single Point Motion Tool
motion occurs. You can impose a point motion on any type of idealized joint. Point


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motions enable you to build complex movements into your model without having to
add joints or invisible parts. Point motion also has many more options than rotational
or translational motion. You are able to set the rotational or translational speeds,
you can only have one of these which is set by choosing the characteristic. Also like
with the joints you can choose the object and location of the joint as well as the grid.
This part is similar to the rotation motion tool except that it translates the objects.
You are able to specify the speed of the object; its default is 10 millimeters per
second. After typing in the desired speed all you need to do is click on the

Translational Motion Tool translational joint to apply motion.
General point motion is similar to single point but it prescribes the motion of two
parts along or around the three axes. You only have the option of location and grid.
Once you set up this a box will pop up and ask you to specify the translations and
General Point Motion Tool rotations that are occurring in your system.
Tools
Tools Descriptions
This tool allows you to move objects once they have been placed on the grid. You are
able to either rotate and/or translate the object. The way this works is that you set
the degrees that you want to rotate the object by and then click on the arrow above,

this will rotate the body by the angle of your choice. It works the same for
By Increments Tool translation, enter a distance and then click on the arrows to move the object. With
this tool you are also able to reset the view plane to that of the objects and you can
change the objects axis. (Note: An object rotates around its center of origin this is
changed to the point where you set the view plane.)
The exact position tool allows you can position an object precisely by specifying the
translational coordinates and the rotational angles of the object’s position handle
relative to the working grid axes, global coordinate system, or any object on the
screen. In addition, you can display the current position of an object’s position
handle. The way that you display an objects coordinates is by pressing get, it appears
Exact Position Tool
at the bottom of the toolbar. You may also change the coordinates, and after setting
them to your specifications you may press set and the object will move to its new
location.
This ties the location of a modeling object to a point or marker. You can either
superimpose the object on the point or marker (collapse the two objects) or keep the
object offset from a point or marker (maintain current distance). The way this works
f(x) Tool is that you click on the object you want to set and then the marker. If you
superimpose the object on the point (or marker) the object will move when ever the

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point is moved and keep the current relationship. If you try to maintain the current
distance you have a bit more freedom. What happens is the closest part of the object
will continue to move to maintain its relationship to the point but the rest of the body
won’t so the object stretches out.
This tool is very useful; it allows the user to copy objects. The way the point-to-point
tool works is that you choose either Selected or Copy (you can choose both or
neither but its better to choose one) and then you can move the object (or place a
copy of the object) at a selected location. If you choose From To when you move the

Point‐to‐Point Tool object you select your object and then select a point where you want to move your
object (or have the copy placed). If you choose Vector you are able to set the vector
length and then select the vector direction to get the object to move.
By selecting this tool the working grid toolbar pops up, this can also be done by going
to the menu at the top of the screen and selecting Settings Æ Working Grid…. This
menu is fairly self-explanatory and with it you can change your grid settings, such as
dimensions and spacing between points. You can also switch to polar coordinates in
Working Grid
this window, which is useful for measuring angles.
This tool ties the orientation of a marker, constraint, or force to a marker. You have
three options for tying the orientation: Same As, Along Axis, or In Plane. The Same As
option works much the same way as the f(x) tool does. It keeps the orientation of the
object the same as a marker or keeps the orientation offset from a marker. The
Collapse and Maintain options are similar to those in the f(x) tool, and the steps to
parameterize are the same as well. Along Axis keeps an axis of a marker, constraint,
or force pointed toward a marker. This is useful if a marker in your model defines a
unique axis used in a joint or force. Along Axis only controls one axis of the object.
f(Θ) Tool
ADAMS/View positions the object at an arbitrary angle about the axis. The In Plane
option controls the orientation of a marker, constraint, or force by pointing one axis
towards one marker and another axis towards another marker. This completely
determines the orientation because the third axis must be perpendicular to the first
two, with the positive direction based on the right-hand rule.
Rotates objects about an axis or aligns them with the axes of other objects. You can
set the alignment in the following ways: About - Rotates an object about the axis of
another object, Align - Rotates an object about its axis to align it with another object,
Align Same As - Aligns an object to the orientation of another object, Align One Axis -
Orients an axis of an object to be in the same direction as the axis of another object.
Align & Rotate Tool Align Two Axes - Orients an object so it is the same direction as the axis of another
object and rotates the object about that axis to place a second axis in the plane
defined by the two directions. You can rotate an object that you select during the
rotate operation or rotate all objects currently selected. In addition, you can rotate a
copy of the selected objects instead of the actual objects
This tool allows you to create a global position handle with respect to the grid which
you can translate and rotate selected objects. When you create a global position
Object Position Handle handle, ADAMS/View turns off the object position handle for individual objects. You

Page | 74
are also able to reset it to its normal attributes if you make a mistake.
The mate face tool positions an object by mating one object face with another object
face so they are in the same plane. The objects must be in shaded render mode to
mate their faces. While this may not place the objects exactly next to each other it
Mate Faces Tool will place the mated faces on the same plane.
Pressing Coordinate System allows for a window to pop up, it will allow you to choose
between Cartesian, Cylindrical, and Spherical. You also have the ability to change the
rotation sequence when dealing with objects and deciding if it should be body fixed or
Coordinate System space fixed (rotations with respect their original orientation or their body
orientation).
This button has a table pop up which allows you to move objects either by increments
or to precise coordinates. You can select to move the objects relative to a specified
object’s coordinate system, called the reference coordinate system. You can also
select to move objects relative to the screen. In addition, you can use the Precision
Precision Move
Move dialog box to view the coordinates of one object in relation to another.


P a g e | 75
Create Forces

Forces Descriptions
The spring damper represents a force acting over two parts over a distance and
along a set direction. To use this tool you need to specify the location of the spring-
damper and the point it acts on the two parts. You are able to specify the damping
Translational Spring‐Damper and stiffness values as coefficients, you have the ability (by setting the damper to 0)
to create a pure spring or to create a pure damper.
This simply allows the user to set gravity in the simulation. By clicking on the plus or
minus X, Y, or Z’s you are able to set Earth’s gravity in that specified direction. Also
Gravity you are able to turn off gravity if it does not affect your simulation.
The single-component force tool applies a translational force in two different ways.
You can either select the part, the location and the point of application or you can
use two parts and select the parts and the locations of the point of application on
each part. One option that you have is specifying the number of parts and the nature
of the force direction. You can select it for a space fixed, this applies a single-

Single‐Component Force Tool component force to one part you select and this remains fixed in space during the
simulation. Another type is body moving, this is late the space fixed except that the
direction of the force changes as the bodies position changes on the screen. Also
there is two bodies which applies the force to two parts that you select and the
direction is based on the line of sight between the two selected locations. Like with

Page | 76
joints you need to pick how you want the coordinates for the force defined. You can
either have it constant (select a force) or customize (write a force code).
A torsion spring is a rotational spring-damper; it is applied between two parts. It
applies a torque to the first part selected (the action body) and applies and equal and
opposite reaction torque on the second part (the reaction body). The options are just
Torsion Spring Tool like that of the translational spring except you have KT instead of K and CT instead of
C.
This creates an aerodynamic or hydrodynamic force; this material is outside of the
realm of this tutorial.
Creating Aerodynamic Force
This tool applies a rotational force to either one part or two specified axis, you are
able to specify the point of application and the direction. This single-component has

Single‐Component Torque many similarities between the force and the torque. All of the customizing options
are the same for this tool except that it applies a torque instead of a force.
This is a linear force that represents the force acting between two parts over a
distance. The bushing apples a force and a torque, you will need to define the six

Bushing components. In many ways when you use this tool you can think of it as a combination
of the single torque and force tools.
This is not dealt with in the following tutorial.

TIRE Statement
This creates a translational force between two parts in your model using three
orthogonal parts. The only real difference between the single and triple is that there
are different characteristics offered with the three force component. You can have a
constant force which lets you enter constant force values or lets ADAMS/View use
default values. A Bushing-like one which allows you enter stiffness and damping

Three‐Component Force Tool coefficients and lets ADAMS/View create a function expression for damping and
stiffness based on the coefficient values. You are also able to build a Custom force
which you modify to enter function expressions or parameters to a user-written
subroutine that is linked to ADAMS/View.
The field element creates a translational and rotational force between two locations.
The field element can apply either linear or nonlinear force depending on the values

Field Element that you specify after you create the field. You also have the option to set the grid
and determine if it will be a multi-component force.
The modal force, or MFORCE, allows you to distribute a force to one or more, or all
nodes of a flexible body. The magnitude of the force can vary in time or position, and
can even be made dependent on a state variable. Examples of modal force
applications are pressures on journal bearings, simulating magnetically induced
Create/Modify Modal Force fields, or the modeling of airfoil flutter. Modal forces are a special class of forces
called distributed loads that can only be applied to flexible bodies. These will not be
dealt with in this tutorial.
This tool creates a rotational force between two parts in your model using three
orthogonal components. It is very similar to the single component torque except
Three‐Component Torque there are three torques to specify.

P a g e | 77
Tool
This tool creates a massless beam with a uniform cross-section. You enter values of
the beam’s physical properties, and ADAMS/Solver calculates the matrix entries
defining the forces that the beam produces. The beam creates a linear translational
and rotational force between two locations that define the endpoints of the beam. It

Beam creates markers at each endpoint. The marker on the action body, the first part you
select, is the I marker. The marker on the reaction body, the second part you select,
is the J marker. The forces the beam produces are linearly dependent on the relative
displacements and velocities of the markers at the beam’s endpoints.
This is an important force to understand because it relates how free-moving bodies
interact with one another when they collide during a simulation. Contacts are
grouped into two categories: Two-dimensional contacts, which include the interaction
between planar geometric elements (for example, circle, curve, and point) and
Three-dimensional contacts, which include the interaction between solid geometry
(for example, spheres, cylinders, and revolutions). When you select this tool a box
pops up on the screen. The first thing you do after selecting the contact name is to
Create/Modify Contact
pick the contact type, select the type that best represents the contact that is going
to occur, after that fill out the object names in the boxes. After that you can select
how you want the forces to work, if there is and impact force and you can even
choose the frictional force. (Note: For more information on this topic look at
ADAMS/View Help.)
This functions much like the forces explained before, it creates a rotational and
translational force between two parts in your model using six orthogonal
Six‐Component General components
Force Tool

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LEEARNN

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Familiarizing Yourself with Adams/View

STARTING ADAMS-View v. 12.0

I. Setting the gravity

Making the Part

Editing and Manipulating Parts

How to Create Joints

1. Select the Revolute Joint tool

around the point:

II. Simple Joints

occur and the translational joint will be shown:

III. Complex Joints

IV. Advanced Joints

IMPOSING FORCES AND MOTION

Imposing External Forces on Bodies

• To impose an external force:

3. Select a Run-Time Direction according to the following:

• · Constant – ADAMS/View allows you to specify a constant value.

Imposing Motion on Joints

I. Applying Rotational Motions

1. Right click on the motion tool stack to see all motions.

II. Applying Translational Motions

1. Right click on the motion tool stack to see all motions.

3. Enter a desired speed in the Speed field.

Springs and Spring Forces

1. Left click on the spring tool in the main toolbox.

2. The spring options screen will appear in the main toolbox:

SIMULATING THE MODEL

Important Note: This window is individual to each model

How to simulate the model

I. The simulation panel

II. Setting the end time

III. Setting the time steps

How to measure physical characteristics

Characteristics can be plotted for any object created in ADAMS/View.

Characteristics include position, velocity, acceleration, momentum, etc.

Creating Plots from Measurements

1. Right click on the white part of any measurement graph window.

Tutorial 1 : Simple Pendulum

o Creating rigid bodies

AB is a uniform bar with a mass of 2 kg and a length of 450mm. Bar

Verify that the Units text field is set to MMKS - mm,kg,N,s,deg.

Figure 1. Welcome to ADAMS.

1.2. Making the bar.

The button stack for parts appears.

1.3. Setting the mass of the bar.

The Modify Rigid Body dialog box appears.

The mass of the bar is now set at 2 kg.

1.4. Setting the position of the bar.

The bar is now at a 30 degree angle from horizontal.

1.5. Creating a pivot.

1.6. Setting initial motion.

1.7. Verify the model.

The information palette appears.

2. Click on the Verification icon.

The Info Window appears.

The completed model should appear similar to Figure 3 below:

Figure 3. Completed pendulum model.