The software is an application-specific extension to the Opera electromagnetic simulation package. It provides a front-end to the simulator that speeds design entry by means of Wizard-style dialog boxes. Users select the style of motor or generator they want to design from a library of all common types, including induction, brushless permanent magnet and switched reluctance motors, and synchronous motors or generators. Then, dialog boxes allow you to enter parameters to define mechanical geometry, material properties and electrical data, and the FEA model is automatically created.

The use of parameterized models and the ability to load and modify previous designs have made it possible for users to perform ‘what-if?’ design investigations. Cobham has integrated a unique optimization tool that makes it simple for users to find the best solution across the design space. While auto-optimization tools are not new, they usually require manual intervention if the globally optimal solution is to be found, and the simulation times involved often make this impractical. The Optimizer selects and manages multiple goal-seeking algorithms including stochastic, descent, particle swarm, and Kriging to eliminate the need for manual intervention.

Setting up an Optimizer run from the Machines Environment is easier. Because most FEA simulations can take as little as a few seconds, the integrated software makes it possible to thoroughly explore the design space. Thousands of simulations can typically be executed within hours, making the perfect solution achievable for all users – without expert assistance.

 The 2D Machines Environment has an extensive library of rotating machine design styles and design components. However, if there are still any unusual features that need to be incorporated in designs, users also have open access to the scripts that generate the models, and can modify them at will to automate proprietary motor and generator design concepts. A library of common material properties is also included in the design software. Again, if users employ any special materials, such as an unusual grade of steel for laminations, then a new menu item can be created. Cobham will also generate custom scripts for users on request. A 3D version of the Machines Environment is available.

Cobham Technical Services

www.cobham.com/technicalservices

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Dassault Systèmes worked with Mougin and his team to simulate the iceberg’s trajectory and its evolution by taking into account data such as variations in ocean temperatures, wind force and direction, sea currents, and boat drag force. They inserted this data into a 3D model of the iceberg to simulate what would happen all along the voyage.

The critical challenge presented to Dassault Systèmes’ engineers was to demonstrate, using virtual technology, the technical feasibility of displacing the iceberg in a controlled manner while reducing its melting. The project, managed by Cédric Simard, Interactive Strategy & Marketing Project Director at Dassault Systèmes, involved a number of steps:

1. Model the iceberg with CATIA based on a cloud of points obtained by scanning a real iceberg with radar.
2. Calculate and simulate the way the iceberg would melt using CATIA Systems and SIMULIA.
3. Simulate the way the iceberg would melt if surrounded by a protective isothermal “skirt” imagined by Mougin to slow the melting process.
4. Calculate how much fuel the boats would consume depending on the winds and currents encountered along the way

Various scenarios were simulated, such as number of boats needed, different departure dates and climate conditions, and the behavior of the boats and iceberg in the event of a storm or turbulence. In addition to enabling the team to visualize these scenarios, the simulation also allowed the scientists to test how to deploy the isothermal skirt around the iceberg.

Dassault Systemes

www.3ds.com

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The ability to model the mechanical responses of cells to physical stimuli presents many opportunities to the world of medical research. Chief among these is the ability to further our understanding of the etiology of many diseases. There are a wide variety of diseases whose etiology or clinical presentation are either known or suspected to be related to abnormal cellular mechanics, alteration of the cellular processes that regulate transmission of mechanical stimuli into biochemical responses, or changes in tissue structure. Because physical distortion can affect cell how cells grow, specialize themselves for specific tasks, move, and whether they live or die, the ability to predict the mechanical behavior of cells in response to pathological conditions and medical treatments may be critical to prevention and treatment of many of these diseases.

VSMCs are modeled here using a linear elastic material model together with truss elements in Marc which simulate the cytoskeletal fiber network that provides the cells with much of their internal structural support. Geometric characterization of single VSMCs in 2D cell culture is achieved using confocal microscopy in conjunction with novel image processing techniques. These techniques allow for the creation of representative 3D model structures consisting of the cell nucleus, cytoplasm, and actin stress fiber network of each cell, which are then imported into Patran for structural analysis with Marc. Mechanical characterization is achieved using atomic force microscopy (AFM) indentation and stress relaxation techniques. Material properties for each VSMC model are input based on values individually obtained through experimentation, and the results of each model are compared against those experimental values.

This study is believed to be a significant step towards the viability of finite element models in the field of cellular mechanics because the geometries of the cells in the model are based on confocal microscopy images of actual cells with mechanical data obtained immediately prior to imaging and thus, the results of the model can be compared against experimental data for those same cells. These types of models could one day be used to decrease the cost and speed the development of new drug discovery and regenerative medicine therapies, as well as increase our understanding of the relationship between the structure and function of biological cells.

MSC Software

www.mscsoftware.com

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The software also provides a secure Proctored Browser which reduces cheating by ensuring students stay inside the Maple T.A. environment until the test or assignment is completed. While using this browser, students cannot access other web sites or programs on their computer. Other security enhancements include the ability to require that Maple T.A. tests are taken from a specified list of IP addresses, to ensure students can take assignments only from approved computers or labs. These and other security features are also available in the Maple T.A. MAA Placement Test Suite for institutions that want greater security in their placement testing process.

Maplesoft

www.maplesoft.com

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SimPowerSystems lets engineers model and simulate electrical power ystems in Simulink for automotive, aerospace, defense, and industrial applications. SimPowerSystems models can connect to models built using Simscape and other domain-specific add-on products such as SimMechanics and SimHydraulics.  This helps engineers to detect integration issues between electrical, mechanical, and control systems early in the development process before any physical hardware is built.

Key new capabilities include:

Interface Elements to connect SimPowerSystems and Simscape circuits, enabling engineers to more easily extend SimPowerSystems models to other physical domains and create custom physical modeling components using the Simscape language

Support for Simscape Editing Mode, allowing all other Simscape users to work with SimPowerSystems models including viewing, simulating, changing numerical parameters, and generate C code from the model.

MathWorks

www.mathworks.com

3D CAD Tips

“Autodesk provides the technology and expertise to streamline our entire design process, so we can beat our competition on the track and in the marketplace. Now that we have incorporated Autodesk Product Design Suite, it has enabled us to further enhance our workflow.”

Following a race weekend, the drivers brief Kelly Racing’s in-house design and engineering team on what precisely went right and wrong during the race. The designers then set to work with Inventor Professional software to make modifications to the existing car parts that can enhance performance and save the team time. For example, improvements to the front end of the car, in particular the suspension assembly, has increased traction and grip by 8%, leading to faster lap times or shaving 1% of total car weight through design and material optimization.

Even the most minor modifications play a vital role in a sport where a fraction of a second can be the difference between first and 21^st place. Engineers then test revised designs with Autodesk Simulation CFD to optimize aerodynamic performance and ensure the components are able to perform at speeds of up to 300 kilometers (188 miles) per hour. Autodesk Simulation Multiphysics software is also used to predict and validate the mechanical performance of the new components. Autodesk Vault Professional data management software helps manage the design process from initial concept to final release, providing the engineering team with greater control over the design process right up until the component or part is manufactured, released to the race department and put on the car.

Embracing Digital Prototyping has been a winning strategy for Kelly Racing. A new racing team typically takes six or more years to register its first win, but just barely into its third season, Kelly Racing has already scored two victories along with nine podium finishes.

Autodesk, Inc.

www.autodesk.com

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According to Alan McKim, SimuTech vice-president of customer service, “We were pleased to work with Toyota and Tiercon to assure they achieved the results they were looking for. SimuTech is ideally positioned to help other companies realize that upfront analysis in the design process helps them save time and money, as well as optimize designs. ANSYS’ advanced physics modeling capabilities combined with engineering expertise can eliminate the need for trial and error testing. Though the majority of our work is providing engineering technical support and guidance to our ANSYS software users, were more than happy to work the Tiercon and Toyota by providing advanced consulting services for this particular analysis.”

SimuTech Group
www.SimuTechGroup.com

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All parameters specified in Creo can be interactively linked with your simulation geometry which enables multiphysics simulations involving parametric sweeps and design optimization to sync up with the CAD program. The LiveLink for Creo includes all the capabilities of the Comsol CAD Import module and enables import and defeaturing of CAD files from all major CAD packages.

In addition, the Parasolid geometry kernel from Siemens PLM Software is now the default geometry kernel for those who use the CAD Import module and the LiveLink products for CAD. Parasolid enables the handling of more advanced geometry objects for any of the LiveLiink products, including versions for AutoCAD, Inventor, Creo Parametric, Pro/E, SolidWorks, and SpaceClaim.

Comsol

www.comsol.com

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After creating the first designs in NX and preparing static-mechanical calculations with the ANSYS Workbench platform using STL file format data, icotec delivered prototypes using the laser sintering method for an evaluation by a surgical team. Concurrently, surgical operating tools were designed. According to Ramon Huppi, icotec project manager, “Due to the synchronous technology of NX, we have more possibilities to move surfaces and define manufacturing-ready roundings.” For example, different sizes and modifications for the cervical spine resulted in a large project family. The tool design team compensates for this variety using an efficient inlay technique. Huppi added, “For tool manufacturing, we send a Parasolid file to our service provider who uses it as a starting point for the programming.”

Once the first genuine samples are made using one of icotec’s CFM machines, the approval tests can be conducted. Static and dynamic tests as well as studies under compression, torsion, or shear are performed by external labs in up to five million cycles. Changes are done quickly using synchronous technology.

Teamcenter handles all aspects of part management. This includes controlled check-in and check-out directly in the CAD system and searching for precursors, revision status, and handling a comprehensive and daily drawing management process for the development team.

In the future, the company plans to use special Teamcenter capabilities to support the approval processes for the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In addition, the company plans to start leveraging the powerful data organization functionality to streamline the management of more than 30 years of aircraft spare part inventories and warranty obligations.

Siemens PLM Software

www.siemens.com/plm

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The SlapShot XT is the first robot capable of executing a slap shot like a professional hockey player. The robot’s integrated advanced electronics and software allows the gathering of data never seen before, enabling even more detailed analysis of the results to support further refinements in hockey stick design. The SlapShot XT is bringing about revolutionary changes in the way hockey sticks are developed.

MapleSim played a critical role in the design and development of the SlapShot XT. The software allowed Hockey Robotics to efficiently and accurately simulate the coupled dynamic electrical and mechanical behavior of the equipment. MapleSim enabled the concurrent study of the flexible body deformation and rigid body motion of the machines, allowed them to quickly prototype the designs, and investigate the coupled motion of the mechanisms easily. A four-bar mechanism was synthesized to match the hockey player’s motion, and subsequent dynamic and stress analyses were used to develop and confirm the performance of the resulting robot design. A flywheel maintained the stick’s momentum during contact with the ice, and the robotic hands allowed the stick to bend about two axes, storing and releasing strain energy throughout the shot. The final design was evaluated using NX 6.0 from Siemens PLM Software and finite element models of the components.

The robot provides repeatable, unbiased test data on the performance and durability of hockey sticks. According to Dr. John McPhee, chief scientist at Hockey Robotics, “MapleSim allows us to perform engineering analysis that was previously too challenging and computationally intensive for our industry to undertake.”

Future projects at Hockey Robotics involve using MapleSim to develop as rapid prototyping tool that they believe has the potential to permanently change the way that hockey sticks are designed and evaluated. They expect that their new solutions will provide shorter development cycles and substantial reductions in development costs for hockey equipment manufacturers.

Maplesoft

www.maplesoft.com

3D CAD Tips