SolidWorks Simulation Essentials
Instructor Led Analysis Training Course
This course is designed to make SolidWorks users productive more quickly with the SolidWorks Simulation Bundle. This course will provide an in-depth coverage on the basics of Finite Element Analysis (FEA), covering the entire analysis process from meshing to evaluation of results for parts and assemblies. The class discusses linear stress analysis, gap/contact analysis, and best practices.
Course details and prerequisites:
Duration: 3 Days
Type: Instructor Led
Level: Basic
Prerequisites:
- Attended the SolidWorks Essentials course
- Basic mechanical engineering concepts is recommended
After the training you will be able to:
- Create better designs by performing analysis and evaluating the behavior of your parts and assemblies under actual service conditions
Course Outline
Introduction to FEA
- About This Course
- What is SolidWorks Simulation?
- What Is Finite Element Analysis
- Build Mathematical Mode
- Build Finite Element Mode
- Solve Finite Element Mode
- Analyze Result
- Errors in FEA
- Finite Elements
- Degrees of Freedom
- Calculations in FEA
- Interpretation of FEA Results
- Units of Measurement
- Limitations of SolidWorks Simulation
Lesson 1: The Analysis Process
- Objectives
- The Analysis Process
- Case Study: Stress in a Plate
- Project Description
- SolidWorks Simulation Options
- Preprocessing
- Meshing
- Postprocessing
- Multiple Studies
- Reports
Lesson 2: Mesh Controls, Stress Concentrations and Boundary Conditions
- Objectives
- Mesh Control
- Case Study: The L Bracket
- Project Description
- Case Study: Analysis of Bracket with a Fillet
- Case Study: Analysis of a Welded Bracket
- Understanding the Effect of Boundary Conditions
Lesson 3: Assembly Analysis with Contacts
- Objectives
- Contact Analysis
- Case Study: Pliers with Global Contact
- Pliers with Local Contact
Lesson 4: Symmetrical and Free Self-Equilibrated Assemblies
- Objectives
- Shrink Fit Parts
- Case Study: Shrink Fit
- Project Description
- Analysis with Soft Springs
Lesson 5: Assembly Analysis with Connectors
- Objectives
- Connecting Components
- Connectors
- Case Study: Vise Grip Pliers
Lesson 6: Compatible/Incompatible Meshes
- Objectives
- Compatible / Incompatible Meshing
- Case Study: Rotor
Lesson 7: Assembly Analysis Mesh Refinement
- Objectives
- Mesh Control in an Assembly
- Case Study: Cardan Joint
- Problem Statement
- Part 1: Draft Quality Coarse Mesh Analysis
- Part 2: High Quality Mesh Analysis
Lesson 8: Analysis of Thin Components
- Objectives
- Thin Components
- Case Study: Pulley
- Part 1: Mesh with Solid Elements
- Part 2: Refined Solid Mesh
- Solid vs. Shell
- Creating Shell Elements
- Part 3: Shell Elements - Mid-plane Surface
- Results Comparison
- Case Study: Joist Hanger
Lesson 9: Mixed Meshing Shells & Solids
- Objectives
- Mixed Meshing Solids and Shells
- Case Study: Pressure Vessel
Lesson 10: Mixed Meshing Solids, Beams & Shells
- Objectives
- Mixed Meshing
- Case Study: Particle Separator
Lesson 11: Design Scenarios
- Objectives
- Design Study
- Case Study: Suspension Design
- Part 1: Multiple Load Cases
- Part 2: Geometry Modification
Lesson 12: Thermal Stress Analysis
- Objectives
- Thermal Stress Analysis
- Case Study: Bimetallic Strip
- Examining Results in Local Coordinate Systems
- Saving Model in its Deformed Shape
Lesson 13: Adaptive Meshing
- Objectives
- Adaptive Meshing
- Case Study: Support Bracket
- h-Adaptivity Study
- p-Adaptivity Study
- h vs. p Elements - Summary
Lesson 14: Large Displacement Analysis
- Objectives
- Small vs. Large Displacement Analysis
- Case Study: Clamp
- Part 1: Small Displacement Linear Analysis
- Part 2: Large Displacement Nonlinear Analysis
Appendix A: Meshing, Solvers, and Tips & Tricks
- Meshing Strategies
- Geometry Preparation
- Mesh Quality
- Mesh Controls
- Meshing Stages
- Failure Diagnostics
- Tips for Using Shell Elements
- Hardware Considerations in Meshing
- Solvers in SolidWorks Simulation
- Choosing a Solver
Appendix B: Customer Help and Assistance
- Customer Help and Assistance
