Question:

How does the Ramp block work?

Answer:

The Ramp block allows you to gradually change a value, based on the Scalar field. Ramp functions can be applied to several types of fields. Another way to think of a Ramp is a gradual transition, like walking up a ramp. It takes you from one level to another, incrementally.

• • Scalar field: The field driving the Ramp.
    • There are a lot of options to use for this input, which is where the power of this block really shines. Some examples are (but not limited to):
      • Simulation Results: Von Mises Stress, Displacement Results.
      • Implicit Bodies
      • Point
      • Plane 
      • Imported Point Maps converted into Scalar fields (using Field from Point Map).
  • In min/In max: The boundary where the Ramp begins (In min) and ends (In max). These values are in relation to the Scalar Field (with 0 mm usually being the neutral edge of the field). 
  • Out min/Out max: The Ramp output values. Out min is the starting value at the In min, and Out max is the value reached at the In max. They are the new values as a function of the Scalar field.
  • The values ramp between the In min and In max values. Before In min, the value stays constant at the Out min value, and after In max, the value stays constant at the Out max value.   
    • When defining these values make sure to include units.
  • Continuity: Represents how the values will ramp from In min to In max.

The image below shows a Field View of a Ramp block used in a Thicken Body block. The body input is a Cylinder and the Thickness is defined by the Ramp block. The Ramp block uses a Plane from Normal block as its Scalar field. When you use the Turbo colormap, you can see the transition of the Thickness values from In min to In max. You can also see how it the values are constant when it isn't between the In min and In max values. Use the Probe values toggle to see the values in the field.

The image below shows the different Continuity options. Using the Field Viewer with a Turbo colormap, you can see how the transitions differ with each option.

When you use an Implicit body for the Scalar field, a value of 0 refers to the outline of the body. Positive values are outside of the body and negative values are within it. 

You can see the effect of a Ramp created with a Torus as the Scalar field in the image below, using the same setup with a Thicken Body block and a Cylinder.

Watch the demonstration and download the attachment for a detailed example. 

Download the Example File:

• Example File

More on this topic:

• Modify Geometry with Ramps Walk-through
• How to create a quadratic ramp
• Can I use a Ramp in a Shell?