NASTRAN data generation and management using interactive graphics

A method of using an interactive graphics device to generate a large portion of the input bulk data with visual checks of the structure and the card images is described. The generation starts from GRID and PBAR cards. The visual checks result from a three-dimensional display of the model in any rotated position. By detailing the steps, the time saving and cost effectiveness of this method may be judged, and its potential as a useful tool for the structural analyst may be established.