SolidWorks 2011 Parts Bible - Matt Lombard [178]
SimulationXpress uses a combination of the Task Pane on the right of the graphics window and the PropertyManager on the left side of the graphics window. In this book, I am using the detached PropertyManager, so I can position it for more compact screen shots.
SimulationXpress is intended as a quick and dirty analysis run to see whether you are even close to having a part that will stand up to the loads you apply to it. As with any type of analysis, the results are only of value if the setup was correct and if you are able to interpret the results.
In this chapter I do not aim to teach analysis theory or best practice; this is simply a quick overview of how to use the tool. FEA is a field of study unto itself, and you should learn it from a dedicated resource. Analysis is a field that depends on approximations and simplifying assumptions. Knowing how and when to make the correct approximations and assumptions along with being able to interpret approximated results are some of the keys to success not provided by this book.
As you step through the process, the notes in the Task Pane seem to continually prompt you that various conditions will require the next level higher (not free) in order to correctly solve the model. SimulationXpress is clearly a sales and marketing tool, but if your needs are simple, and you understand the process, you may be able to get useful information from it.
Welcome to SolidWorks SimulationXpress
When you start SimulationXpress, an image welcomes you to the tool and lets you know what to expect from the process. It also issues a disclaimer that seems to downplay the value of this tool. There is also a link here for some valuable Web-based training if you are new to analysis or simulation. Figure 12.17 shows the new Welcome screen.
FIGURE 12.17
Welcoming you to the SimulationXpress software
If you are a veteran SimulationXpress user, most of what you see here may be new, including the order of the steps and some of the terminology.
Applying Fixtures
Every analysis must have at least one face that is held stationary in order for the analysis to work. These are usually faces on the bottom of the part.
In the past, Fixtures were referred to as Restraints. You must apply Fixtures to the part to be analyzed as the first step in the process. A PropertyManager appears to collect the faces you select. Fixtures are fixed, meaning they are the faces in the analysis that remain perfectly stationary. These are usually some sort of mounting location or a welded area.
On this part, I have used the Split Line feature to split out areas of the bottom face around the bolt holes to represent sections of the part that will not move regardless of how much force is applied to the part.
The dark blue underlined text in the Task Pane offers links to simple animations showing some possibilities for assigning Fixtures. Clicking the Add a fixture link in the Task Pane brings up the Fixture PropertyManager, shown in Figure 12.18.
FIGURE 12.18
Assigning fixed faces using the Fixture PropertyManager
Applying Loads
You can apply forces or pressures to model faces. Forces are normal to selected faces by default, but you can select an axis, edge, or sketch element to specify a selected direction for the force. Again links in the Task Pane enable you to see small video hints or tool tips. Figure 12.19 shows the Loads interfaces.
FIGURE 12.19
Applying loads to the model in SimulationXpress
Selecting a material
The third step in setting up SolidWorks SimulationXpress is to assign a material. Once you have made your selection, click Apply. Figure 12.20 shows some of the materials selection. Materials can be created or customized in the same way that you would create or customize standard SolidWorks materials.
FIGURE 12.20