The protocol for naming files during an eta/DYNAFORM session includes attaching suffixes that specify the file types to the file names. The appropriate file names are listed in the options area of the display screen.
Examples of suffixes include:
1. eta/DYNAFORM database file name: filename.df
2. eta/DYNAFORM geometry data file name: filename.lin
3. IGES geometry data file name: filename.igs, or filename.iges
4. VDA surfaces data file name: filename.vda, or filename.vdas
5. Data Exchange file name: filename.dxf
6. Stereolithography file name: filename.stl
7. ACIS file name filename.sat
8. CATIA4 database file name: filename.model
9. CATIA5 database file name: filename.CATPart
10. STEP file name: filename.stp
11. UG database file name: filename.prt
12. Pro-E database file name: filename.prt or filename.asm
13. NASTRAN input file name: filename.nas or filename.dat
14. LS-DYNA input file name: filename.dyn or filename.k
15. LS-DYNA model file name: filename.mod
16. LS-DYNA input file name: dynain
17. ABAQUES input file name: filename.inp
Example: When reading in a line data file, eta/DYNAFORM prompts for a line data filename (all file names in that directory with the suffix .lin are listed in the options area). The user then selects the appropriate file name. If the user wishes to import multiple files in the same directory, he can click the IMPORT button after the file name is selected. The dialog box will stay open until OK or CANCEL is clicked.
This practice simplifies file name selection and organizes the user's work directory.