Convert $$F to KEY

Understanding the .f and .key file formats

The .f file extension is commonly associated with Fortran source code files. Fortran is a high-level programming language used primarily for scientific and engineering applications. Files with the .f extension contain human-readable source code that can be compiled into executable programs.

The .key file extension is most often linked to ANSYS Workbench or LS-DYNA keyword files. These files are used to define simulation parameters, material properties, and other input data for finite element analysis (FEA) software. The .key format is a structured text file that follows specific syntax rules required by the simulation software.

How to convert .f to .key

There is no direct, automated way to convert a Fortran source code file (.f) to a keyword input file (.key) because they serve fundamentally different purposes. However, if your Fortran code generates data or models that need to be used in an FEA simulation, you can follow these steps:

1. Compile and run your Fortran program to generate the necessary output data (such as node coordinates, element connectivity, or material properties).
2. Format the output data according to the .key file syntax required by your FEA software (e.g., LS-DYNA or ANSYS).
3. Manually create a .key file or use a script to automate the formatting process.

For advanced users, you can write a custom Fortran program or a Python script to output data directly in the .key format.

Recommended software and tools

• ANSYS Workbench: Use the pre-processor to import data and export as a .key file.
• LS-PrePost: A free pre- and post-processor for LS-DYNA that can help you create and edit .key files.
• Python: Use Python scripts with libraries like NumPy to process Fortran output and generate .key files.
• Text editors: Advanced editors like Notepad++, Sublime Text, or VS Code can help you manually edit and format .key files.

For example, in ANSYS Workbench, you can use File → Export → LS-DYNA Input to save your model as a .key file after importing your data.

Summary

While there is no direct .f to .key file converter, you can use your Fortran program to generate the required data and then format it into a .key file using scripting or FEA pre-processing tools. LS-PrePost and ANSYS Workbench are recommended for handling .key files, while scripting languages like Python can automate the conversion process.