Modeling and Simulation

Modeling – The creation of figures or designs representing shape or form in three dimensions.

Simulation – The imitation of behavior, situation or process.

Modeling and Simulation is a discipline for developing an understanding for the interaction of parts and how they combine to function as a whole.

In our context of Modeling and Simulation, computer generated models, usually represented in three dimensions, are coupled with defined parameters to imitate function or processes. The combination of Modeling and Simulation allows for the user to more completely understand whether what they have created makes sense or not.

Modeling starts with the creation of shapes, using computer software. In the product development environment, it starts with CAD (Computer Aided Design); three dimensional (3D) CAD, then, CAE (Computer Aided Engineering). One of the elements that make up CAE is Finite Element Analysis (FEA).

Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

Finite element based modeling and simulation software tools assess product behavior under load using analysis outputs such as:

• Stress, strain, and displacement distributions
• Temperature distributions
• Vibration frequencies and mode shapes
• Frequency response

Analysis capabilities include:

• Linear and non-linear materials behaviour
• Elastic-plastic response
• Large displacements, large strains, contact analysis
• Transient and steady-state thermal analysis
• Laminates

Advantages

• Better understanding of product behavior
• Early identification and rectification of potential deficiencies
• Confidence in performance prior to any testing
• Reduced time to market