Modeling and Simulation Applications
Computer-Aided Design (CAD) Applications:
Conceptual modeling and drafting
Autocad, Microstation, Vectorworks, Rhinoceros, form.Z, Maya 3D Studio Max and many others
Design Development Environments
CATIA, Digital Project, SolidWorks
These high-end modeling environments are feature-based and parametric. They are geared to the support of design development activities during which the basic nature of the design is fixed, but changes of individual parameters are constantly necessary as the design evolves. Users can devise logical relations between model features, create macros, design configurations, to just mention a few. Multiple part models can be arranged in assembly files that replicate how a product would be assembled in reality. Both environments include a wide array of add-ons to support specific activities such as mold-making, sheet metal design, computational-fluid dynamics or structural design (see below).
Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) Applications and Robotic Simulations
MasterCAM, RobotStudio, RobotMaster
The offline programming of CNC machines and robotic devices is extensively used in the industry. These environments include a limited 3-D modeling capability and good file import options. MasterCAM is used to generate the CNC machine instructions for more complex contouring and surfacing operations. Users can simulate a machining operation in order to detect possible programming errors and determine the length of a given cutting operation. RobotStudio is used to create movement paths and actions of robotic devices.
Energy Simulation
DOE 2
Energy +
Access to Transolar
Ecotect
Lighting Simulation
Lightscape
Radiance
DaySim
Structural Design Applications
Formfinder
This conceptual formfinding tool for prestressed cable nets and tensile fabric structures includes a simple graphical user interface. On specification of the boundary conditions and the degree of internal prestress, the resulting equilibrium figure is generated. It can be exported as a DXF file into common CAD applications for further manipulations.
Cosmos (add-on to SolidWorks), CATIA Finite-Element Module
These finite-element analysis environments are used for the analysis of complex architectural components (e.g. castings), thin structural surfaces, reinforced concrete structures and all other designs that cannot be represented as a bar network. Automated meshing tools facilitate the normally tedious meshing process. Material properties can be specified for a wide range of engineering materials. Advanced functions include optimization and non-linear analysis.
Multiframe 3D and 4D (including Section Maker and Steel Designer)
These structural analysis environments support linear and non-linear analysis of bar networks in steel and timber. On the specification of the system geometry, the connections, supports and loads, they supply the stresses, deflections and other important data. Dynamic behavior of systems and seismic design activities are also supported. Designs can be checked for code compliance, and users can design custom member sections and materials.
Hypershape
Topology optimization is an advanced technique to optimize, within an FEA environment, a structural element for criteria such as stiffness or strength. Used for advanced studies, it is a generative shape finding technique that, within a pre-defined solution space, unravels structurally optimal solutions for specific challenges..