Simulation, Modeling, and Analysis of mechanical Systems

Using the libraries in the domain Mechanics the user is able to execute simulation and analysis tasks on mechanical systems ve­ry ef­fi­ci­ent­ly. The elements allow the quick creation of models with the de­sired de­grees of freedom (1-dimensional, planar, and 3-dimensional). Mechanical systems in SimulationX are assembled from mass and inertia elements, spring-damper elements, and force elements. These elements are parameterized with physically motivated parameters.

 

The network-oriented modeling approach coincides with the engineer’s perspective on mechanical systems. The Mechanics domain is also the base for modeling Power Transmission systems as well as Fluid Power systems with mechanically operating components.

 

SimulationX Mechanics Libraries

 

Linear and Rotary Mechanics

The libraries Linear Mechanics and Rotary Mechanics provide the basic functionalities of one- and two-dimensional (planar) mech­an­ical struc­tures. The possibilities to use characteristics and ex­pres­sions for parameterization and to concentrate elements in substructures allow the cre­ation of com­plex mech­anical systems, e.g., auto­mo­tive power­trains or converting or tool machines. All elements can be con­nected to elements of the libraries in the Power Trans­­mis­sion or Controls domains.

 

MBS Mechanics

The library MBS Mechanics permits the modeling of 3-dimensional multi-body systems (MBS) with open as well as closed kinematic loops. Through the im­­port of CAD data, arbitrarily complex shaped bodies can be in­te­grated in the model. Different interface elements ensure that MBS structures can be con­nected to sub-models operating in other domains (Linear and Rotary Mechanics, Hydraulics or Controls). The simultaneous 3D view allows the synchronous visualization of the model during modeling, parameterization, and simulation. Application fields are, for instance, the analysis of wind energy plants, automotive powertrain and chassis modeling, or the simulation of converting machines.

 

Interfaces

Several interfaces extend the functionality of the Mechanics libraries and connect to other software tools applied in the development process.

 

• Modal System
  • The Modal System integrates flexible bodies in 1D mechanics simulations, using modal parameters obtained from measurements of FEM analyses. This integrates, e.g., car bodies, housings, or machine frames into simulation models. For modal analysis data generated in the FEM tool ANSYS^® an import filter largely automates the process. 

• Standard CAD Interfaces
  • The Standard CAD Import integrates arbitrarily shaped bodies into MBS models. The import is based on STL and thus independent of the used CAD system. Mass and inertia parameters are automatically calculated.

• Advanced CAD Interfaces
  • A structured import for complete assemblies is available for the CAD systems Autodesk Inventor^® and Pro/ENGINEER^®.