SIMTEQ Newsletter July 2024

Introduction

events

Product of the month

The art of engineering

New releases

Tips & Training

Celebrating Success: A Stellar July at SIMTEQ Engineering!

We are happy to share that the 5th Year of our SIMTEQ Users' Conference was a resounding success! We are immensely grateful to all who attended, our admired presenters and our special guests for making this event truly memorable. Your participation and insights have once again proven why our community is at the forefront of engineering innovation.

A special thank you goes out to Mitch Muncy, who traveled a long way to host the MSC Apex and Nastran Workshop. The workshop was an outstanding success, providing immense value to all attendees. For those who couldn't attend, we're pleased to inform you that the recording is now available.

Looking ahead, we're excited to announce two upcoming CPD-accredited courses:

Structural Mechanics Course: 6th and 7th of August (2 days)
Finite Element Analysis Fundamentals Course: 19th to 23rd of August (5 days)

These courses are perfect opportunities to expand your knowledge and stay at the cutting edge of your field.

Additionally, we're gearing up for another significant event: Electra Mining, taking place from 2nd to 6th of September. Make sure to register now and join us for what promises to be an incredible showcase of industry advancements.

We look forward to many more successful events and collaborations in the future!

Regards

Managing Director

The highlight of the Year! SIMTEQ Engineering Users' Conference

What an Exceptional Day!

We are delighted to announce the successful conclusion of our highly anticipated conference. With heartfelt gratitude, we extend our sincere thanks to all the attendees, distinguished speakers and esteemed partners who contributed to this remarkable event. Your unwavering support and active participation made it an enriching and unforgettable experience for all.

The conference brought together a diverse community of simulation engineering enthusiasts and together, we explored the forefront of technological advancements, groundbreaking methodologies and real-world applications. The exchange of knowledge, ideas and expertise was truly inspiring, underscoring the power of collaboration and collective growth.

We are immensely proud of the accomplishments shared during these insightful sessions, as well as the valuable networking opportunities that have fostered long-lasting connections within the industry.

As we wrap up this memorable event, we want to express our deepest appreciation for your presence and contributions. Without each and every one of you, this conference would not have been the resounding success that it was.

For those who were unable to attend, fear not! We will soon be sharing comprehensive highlights, key takeaways and exciting announcements from the conference through our social media platforms, so stay tuned.

Once again, thank you for being a part of this incredible journey. We look forward to continuing this extraordinary pursuit of excellence together and we can't wait to welcome you back at future events!

Best Presenter Award!

We are proud to announce that the Best Presenter Award at our User's Conference on the 23rd of July once again went to Ryan Raubenheimer!

Ryan captivated us with his insightful presentation on "Stability Analysis of an Amphibious Vehicle Using Co-Simulation," showcasing his expertise with ADAMS, CradleCFD, MSC Apex and MSC-Co-Sim.

His in-depth analysis and innovative approach demonstrated the power of engineering simulation in solving complex challenges. Congratulations to Ryan, on this well-deserved recognition!

SIMTEQ Training and Workshops

We were proud to have Mitch Muncy, the Senior Product Development Manager of MSC Apex, visited South Africa! This rare occasion was made even more special by arranging a dedicated MSC Apex & Nastran workshop on the 24th of July, the day after the SIMTEQ Users’ Conference.

Mitch had much more to share beyond his 30-minute presentation slot at the conference, so we put together a full-day interactive workshop. This year marked the 10th anniversary of MSC Apex and the latest release has been the most significant incremental release ever.

We believed attendees greatly benefited from meeting and learning from Mitch, who is at the helm of MSC Apex’s development.

Workshop Highlights:

New Solution Sequences in MSC Apex
Non-linear Analysis
Dynamics
Nastran Modules
Contact
Post-Processing
Composites
And more!

This was a valuable opportunity to learn from one of the best in the field. We are grateful for Mitch's visit and look forward to applying the knowledge and skills gained from this exceptional workshop.

Actran

Acoustic and vibration simulation software is essential in today's engineering landscape, providing critical insights and solutions for managing sound and vibrational impacts across various industries. This simulation tool allows engineers to model, predict, and analyze how different materials and structures respond to sound and vibration, facilitating the design of quieter, more efficient and safer products and environments.

Superior Acoustic Performance

Actran is a premier software solution for simulating acoustics, vibro-acoustics and aero acoustics. Utilizing the technologies of finite/infinite element methods (FE/IFE), as well as the Discontinuous Galerkin Method (DGM), Actran provides a rich library of materials, elements, boundary conditions, solution schemes and solvers. With the high-performance solution coupled with an easy-to-use modelling environment, engineers can gain insight into the acoustic behaviour of their products and improve designs early in the product development cycle.

By taking advantage of Actran’s superior solvers and parallel processing capabilities, users can solve bigger problems faster. The mesh adaptivity allows optimal acoustic meshes to efficiently compute acoustic analyses. The automation capability by scripting allows running more design iterations in a shorter time. Engineers can now improve the time to market for their products with increased confidence in the designs.

Tailor-made Simulation solutions

Actran is packaged to suit your specific analysis requirements. You can get started with the foundation module of Actran Acoustics, which provides a wide set of acoustic analysis capabilities. For specific advanced analysis requirements, you can choose to add specific modules to reach a higher level of complexity of the simulated physics

Actran Acoustics

Actran Acoustic is the foundation module of the Actran family. It excels in the analysis of sound radiation from vibrating structures, sounds produced by pulse signals, intake and exhaust noises, noise produced by HVAC systems, cabin noise analysis and acoustic analysis of audio devices like musical instruments.

2. Actran VibroAcoustics

Actran VibroAcoustics is an advanced simulation tool that specialises in acoustic analysis in the:

Automotive: Noise problems from power trains, intake & exhaust, passenger cabin, trim, seats, hoses, tyers, windows and window shields.
Aerospace: Sound transmission through cockpit and fuselage, noise propagation in the air distribution system, response to TBL excitation
Defence departments: Underwater acoustics, sonars

3. Actran AeroAcoustics

Predict the Noise Generated by Complex and Turbulent Flows. Actran AeroAcoustics is the simulation tool of choice when it comes to the analysis of air conditioning modules (HVAC), car side mirror noises, noise produced by spinning fans, airframe noises as well as air distribution systems.

4. Actran SNGR

When it comes to the fast prediction of the noise generated by complex and turbulent flows Actran SNGR is the tool for the job. Utilizing a hybrid approach SNGR computes aerodynamic noise sources from steady flow simulations performed with CFD codes such as Fluent, StarCCM+, OpenFOAM, PowerFLOW, ST/Tetra etc.

A typical application for SNGR is the acoustic analysis of aerospace landing gear and trailing edges.

5. Actran for Trimmed Body

Actran for trimmed bodies combines the solving powers of Actran and Nastran to accurately predict the acoustic response of a trimmed vehicle body. This module utilizes a poroelastic element library based on the Biot theory to model porous materials, utilizes a visco-elastic element library to model elastic shells or heavy layers and defines acoustic elements for modelling air gaps.

The applications for this Actran include the analysis of the acoustic transmission through components in real-life mounting conditions and trimmed body modelling using a combination of Actran detailed models in physical coordinates and a Nastran body in-white modal model.

6. Actran TM

Actran TM is a powerful Acoustic simulation solution for turbomachinery noise prediction.

Actran TM enables you to model turbofan using a decomposition of incident analytical or numerical spinning duct modes, translate unsteady CFD results into incident duct modes, analyse acoustic propagation and radiation taking into account a non-uniform mean flow and much more.

6. Actran DGM

Model noise propagation in complex flows using Actran DGM. By using DGM you can analyse your acoustic models with a time domain solver, set up and analyse 2D, axisymmetric and 3D models, solve linearized Euler equations using discontinuous elements and predict noise propagation in complex physical conditions.

This includes the acoustic analysis of exhausts of turbomachinery, inlets of large turbomachines, sound radiation from large vibrating structures and much more.

Whether addressing noise pollution in urban planning, ensuring the structural integrity of aerospace components, or enhancing the acoustics of concert halls, Actran is the tool for the job. It helps in meeting stringent regulatory standards, improving product performance, and reducing development costs by minimizing the need for physical prototypes and extensive testing. In a world where precision and innovation are paramount, acoustic and vibration simulation software stands as a cornerstone of modern engineering practices.

WHY Engineering?

Mechanical engineering can be an appealing subject to study, as it involves designing, researching and manufacturing technology. Mechanical engineering degrees can equip people for many jobs, including product design engineering and management consulting. If you're considering studying mechanical engineering, it's helpful to learn the reasons that other people choose this degree.

What is mechanical engineering?

Mechanical engineering is a branch of science and technology that delves into the processes behind the design, manufacturing and maintenance of any system involving machines. It's a broad level of engineering science, as it focuses on the general knowledge around all branches of mechanical work. Mechanical systems may include a wide range of technology, including plumbing, elevators and heating and air-conditioning systems.

10 reasons to study mechanical engineering:

1. Overcome new challenges

As a mechanical engineer, you may face programs that require a wide range of specialized skill sets. You may gain the chance to learn an advanced new manufacturing process, or you may become an expert in a particular field of engineering to find a solution to your current projects and problems. Considering the wide range of sciences associated with mechanical engineering, you may end up building additional skill sets.

2. Have a wide range of career options

Mechanical engineering may offer jobs in a wide range of areas, such as sales, agriculture, chemistry or construction. They may also find themselves in diverse areas of study, such as working in robotics, nanotechnology or aeronautics. Mechanical engineering may be a base skill set that may set you up for many career opportunities in your future.

3. Create more job opportunities

There may be a high demand for mechanical engineers because of their broad range of knowledge and their role in continually developing technologies. Mechanical engineering may also offer a large variety of entry-level jobs to begin with, as many careers associated with technology require the knowledge learned through studying. Mechanical engineers may also gain the opportunity to narrow their field to specific expertise, which may lead them into a specialized career path.

4. Gain a broad range of knowledge

Mechanical engineering may have a broader impact on people's everyday lives. As you get into the field, you may learn a diverse range of interesting subjects. These subjects may include things like aerospace, biomedical technology or automotive work. Mechanical engineers may gain the opportunity to learn the manufacturing processes from start to finish, allowing you to refine your career goals and interests.

5. Gain chances to think creatively

Mechanical engineering gives you the opportunity to gain skills in creative thinking. This may give you the opportunity to think independently, creating new solutions to whatever problems you may encounter. You may also gain the chance to tinker, encouraging the innovative nature that can lead to new ideas and projects.

6. Be able to contribute to society

Mechanical engineering may have a larger influence on modern society, as the processes involved supply a large variety of helpful technologies. Engineers may also become directly involved in the creation and advancement of transport infrastructure. Working in mechanical engineering may also give you the opportunity to work with the systems that support the distribution of food, medicines and other consumables, providing for the well-being of society.

7. Enjoy your passions

Studying mechanical engineering may give you the general knowledge to expand to any form of expertise related to technology. Mechanical engineers may become more interested in aerospace science, scientific research, machinery manufacturing or other specific branches of engineering. This learning environment encourages being passionate, as it may give you the chance to branch out to a focused form of study based on interests.

8. Learn transferable skills

Mechanical engineering may offer coursework that encourages skills transferrable to any career path you decide to take. This may include broader skills like problem-solving, data analysis and project management, which may help you in any career you may choose. Studying in the field may also give you the opportunities to work in teams, which may help you develop valuable skills like strong leadership and communication.

9. Learn how everything mechanical works

Mechanical engineering may be a primarily hands-on field, which may allow for the opportunity to engage actively with projects. This real-world experience may lead to a better understanding of the complex systems of our world works, allowing your knowledge to break them down into simpler and more understandable components. Mechanical engineers may learn how to isolate and fix problems in these systems, which may give you access to a broader range of skills of maintenance for technology in your everyday life.

10. Always have more to learn

Mechanical engineering is a general field that encompasses all forms of technology, which is something that may always expand into newer territories. Studying this knowledge may give you the opportunity to continue to broaden your knowledge and skill set by always offering something new to learn. Becoming a mechanical engineer may give you the tools you need to explore new ideas as technology continues to develop.

Simufact Additive 2024.2

Simufact Additive 2024.2 is now available at the Software Download Center.

Look forward to the new highlights of Simufact Additive 2024.2, which include:

Enhanced PBF process and defect analysis (PDA)

- GUI settings - The PDA module has been updated for improved performance and accessibility. All numerical settings, including accuracy and output management, are now integrated directly into the GUI, removing the need for .ini file edits. The refined accuracy slider offers clear control, mapping onto grid sizes ranging from 'Low' at 150 (default) to 'Very High' at 2000. Legacy projects will adopt these new defaults for uniformity. The activation of 3D defects as a default option and the removal of the test feature flag streamline the process. An improved CPU performance leads to speed up of at least double speed.
- Defect distribution in the legend & 2D maps - The PDA module now offers advanced visualization for defect identification across different maps. For better clarity, non-defective components are marked green. Histogram bars in the legend display defect percentages, allowing a straightforward visual assessment. In 2D maps, a defect distribution slider targets problematic layers, while a new threshold feature disregards insignificant defects, focusing on more severely affected layers. Layer stripe angle and defect statistics are displayed, aiding in inspection. These upgrades overall enhance efficiency in defect inspections.

Enhanced shape comparison

- Surface Deviation - Surface deviation is now automatically computed during result import, dispensing with manual recalculation in the shape comparison dialog. This new addition exists in the revamped “Quality” group and cannot be modified or overwritten. The legend limits are based on the maximum absolute value calculated, meaning the part appears green when the deviation is zero. For L-PBF optimization results, the surface deviation data aligns with the distortion value.
- Tolerance Check - This feature facilitates a dimensional accuracy check by comparing the distorted geometry with the initial shape. The tolerances are defined in the Shape Comparison dialog and adapt in real time with input changes. Surface deviation and tolerance check are available for the last increment of the simulation. This feature ensures a more intuitive and efficient shape comparison analysis, aiding you towards better design decision-making.
- Export Results - To widen the scope for further analysis, any active result value can be copied to the clipboard for analysis, statistics, scripts, and more. This export includes mesh node coordinates and nodal values.

Greater control on export to CAD– The 'Export to CAD' function has been enhanced for higher usability with customizable settings in the GUI. These control the trade-off between accuracy and surface smoothness. The settings include Matching, Edge fit, and Interior fit tolerance, and an optional 'Keep out-of-tolerance fits'. Improved warnings during CAD import ensure optimal simulation sensitivity. Additional upgrades for handling non-manifold geometries are due in the 2024.3 update.

Upgrade to Simufact Additive 2024.2 and benefit from the new features that improve your daily work!

Click here to learn about What’s New in Simufact Additive 2024.2.

Simufact Welding 2024.2

Congratulations on receiving Simufact Welding Release 2024.2, part of the comprehensive suite of virtual product development (VPD) tools from Hexagon. Whether this is your first experience with Simufact Welding or you are receiving it as part of a periodic upgrade, this Delivery Letter can help you get acquainted with your software package. We want to make sure you know what changed for this release and are aware of all the valuable resources available to support your use of Simufact Welding To quickly install and configure Simufact Welding according to your personal preferences and company guidelines, refer to the Installation and Operations Guide.

This release includes a lot of fixes and improvements in the background and prepares for the future. Besides that, the highlights of the release include:

New Shape comparison tool
Cooling and Clamping Only license
Further improvements

Simufact Welding 2024.2 is now available at the Software Download Center.

Click here to learn about What’s New in Simufact Welding 2024.2.

Simufact Forming 2024.2

We are pleased to inform you about the new software release Simufact Forming 2024.2, that is now available in the Software Download Center.

We are thrilled to announce the release of our latest updates for Simufact Forming. As always, our mission is to provide you with the best user experience while constantly innovating and adding new features.

Here are the top 5 highlights from the new release:

Extended Python Functionalities: Python scripting for resistance spot welding has been expanded for more versatile and efficient operations.
Improved Resistance Spot Welding: Experience our improved robust resistance spot welding with increased measuring capacity, electrode database, and distinctive icons.
Hybrid Contact Addition: Enjoy optimized simulations with the new "hybrid contact" type, improving deformable element handling and self-contact situations.
Sheetmesher Improvements: Enhance accuracy with our updated 'Sheetmesher,' allowing manual selection and securing of surfaces before meshing.
QT Libraries Update: We have updated our QT libraries for better performance. Ensure to configure GPU rendering over remote desktop for Windows 10/11 for smooth operations.

Remember, consistency and the best quality performance is our goal. We hope these updates will enhance your user experience and optimize your process.

Visit the SimCompanion website to further explore the latest features in detail. Upgrade to Simufact Forming 2024.2 and take advantage of the new features designed to enhance your daily work!

MSC Apex Tip

Solid Splitting

Whether you are creating, modifying or meshing complex shaped weld fillets, these solid split tools are just what you need.

Multiple faces can be used as references to split solids into complex partitions or separate solids,

Option 1: Split solids using multiple (including curved) surfaces: