SOLIDWORKS Simulation Essentials Training Course

Course Description: Learn in-depth 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 Length: 3 Days

Prerequisites: Knowledge of SOLIDWORKS and basic mechanical engineering concepts is recommended.

Who should attend: All SOLIDWORKS Simulation users wishing to create better designs in SOLIDWORKS by performing analysis and evaluating the behavior of their parts and assemblies under actual service conditions.

Topics

Introduction

About This Course

What is SOLIDWORKS Simulation?

What Is Finite Element Analysis?

Build Mathematical Model

Build Finite Element Model

Solve Finite Element Model

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 and Mesh Refinement

• Objectives
• Connecting Components
• Connectors
• Case Study: Cardan Joint
• Problem Statement

Lesson 6: Compatible/Incompatible Meshes

• Objectives
• Compatible / Incompatible Meshing
• Case Study: Rotor

Lesson 7: 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 8: Mixed Meshing Shells & Solids

• Objectives
• Mixed Meshing Solids and Shells
• Case Study: Pressure Vessel

Lesson 9: Beam Elements- Analysis of a Conveyor Frame

• Objectives
• Project Description
• Summary
• Questions

Lesson 10:Mixed Meshing Solids, Beams & Shells

• Objectives
• Mixed Meshing
• Case Study: Particle Separator

Lesson 11: Design Study

• Objectives
• Design Study
• Case Study: Suspension Design
• Summary
• Exercise

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