A minor but very useful enhancement in 12.0.1 is that the spring element COMBIN14 now accepts real constant input for either an initial force or initial force-free length. Either option allows users to model preloaded springs in a very convenient manner.

This feature is also exposed in Workbench Mechanical (Simulation) 12.0.1. After adding a “Spring” from the “Connections” branch, one can enter this preload in the Details view.

It’s cool seeing even some of the oldest element types in ANSYS still being enhanced!