Export an Analysis Model
You can export an analysis model of the composite feature to a Nastran or an HDF5 file and use it in simulation tools for further analysis. The NASTRAN or the HDF5 export is based only on shell elements, not on 3D elements even if the composite feature is solidified. When you export an analysis model to a HDF5 file, the non-SI units are converted by default to SI units.
Export an analysis model as follows:
1. Click > 
Export Analysis Model. The Save a Copy dialog box opens.
Export Analysis Model. The Save a Copy dialog box opens.2. Open a directory to save the exported model.
3. To change the default file name, type a name in the New file name box.
4. Select the type of export in the Type list.
5. (Optional) For advanced settings, click Options. To change the default Nastran export settings, see Specify Nastran Export Settings. To change default HDF5 export settings, see Specify HDF5 Export Settings.
6. Click OK.
Specify Nastran Export Settings
In the Nastran Export Profile Settings dialog box specify the following settings:
1. Specify one of the following Element Shape options to create the mesh:
◦ Linear—Use linear elements to create a mesh. The linear elements have only corner nodes, straight edges, and planar faces. They do not have mid-edge nodes. These elements are best suited for models with relatively planar and straight-edge topologies, where they can improve the solution times.
◦ Parabolic—Use parabolic elements to create a mesh. Parabolic elements have mid-nodes at each edge. Parabolic elements can flex at the added nodes. This ability to flex enables the elements to conform to curved model surfaces better. When you select Parabolic, you can select Fix Elements to adjust the mesh.
2. Select Use default maximum element size to set maximum element size equal to 1% of model size. To set a different value, clear Use default maximum element size and type a value in the Element size box.
3. Select Export analysis geometry to export the base surface quilt split with all ply boundaries.
4. Click OK.
Specify HDF5 Export Settings
In the HDF5 Export Profile Settings dialog box, specify the following settings:
1. Select Export analysis geometry to export the layup surface which is split with all ply boundary curves.
2. Select Use draping results for fiber orientations to export the true orientations of the fibers obtained from the draping process.
3. Click OK.