Solutions

For SOLIDWORKS Users

Solutions for SOLIDWORKS

If you design assemblies that move and use SOLIDWORKS, SimWise 4D can provide you with extensive and comprehensive simulation capabilities, all integrated with SOLIDWORKS. SimWise 4D offers a complete set of simulation capabilities including 3D Dynamic Motion Simulation, Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Optimization, Fatigue Life Calculations, and integration with Control System simulation software.

SimWise 4D is the most cost-effective simulation product that is integrated with SOLIDWORKS. It can bi-Directionally transfer parts, assemblies, assembly mates, design variables and dimensions between SOLIDWORKS to SimWise 4D. Once within SimWise 4D simulation specific information can be added resulting in a functional operating prototype allowing a multitude of Simulations to be run directly using the information from SOLIDWORKS.

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If the SOLIDWORKS model is modified, the changes can be sent from SOLIDWORKS to SimWise, where the modification will be reflected in the SimWise model without effecting any Simulation specific information added to the SimWise model.

SimWise provides the following simulation capabilities:

3D Dynamic Motion simulation including the ability to model 3D contact, gears, actuators and connections between parts. SOLIDWORKS mates are automatically converted to motion joints.
Finite Element Analysis (FEA) including static, normal modes, buckling, steady state and transient thermal, and combined structural thermal analyses.
Combined Motion and FEA simulation allowing the dynamic forces resulting from the motion of your design to be combined with other loading conditions to produce a complete stress profile of your design as it moves throughout its range of motion
Optimization allows SOLIDWORKS dimensions and variables along with simulation specific quantities to be used as optimization parameters and constraints. Multiple motion, FEA, or Motion + FEA simulations are run to allow a design objective like minimum weight or maximum speed to be achieved.
Co-Simulation with MatLab/Simulink allows a SimWise model to be used as a Simulink plant model providing for a control system modelled in SimuLink to control a SimWise motion model. The control system can be validated against a mechanical model that incorporates all of the physical effects or the real thing.
Fatigue Life Calculations can be determined using the optional SimWise Durability module. The stress time history calculated by a Motion + FEA simulation is used to determine the fatigue life of any part in the assembly.

SimWise 4D provides the following:

Feature	Benefit
Integrated with SOLIDWORKS.	Product is built and streamlined for Simulation. No need to use a SOLIDWORKS license while simulating.
Extensive set of simulation capabilities.	Handle your current simulation needs and ready for your future needs. 3D Dynamic Motion, FEA, Optimization, Control System Co-simulation, and Fatigue life calculations.
Bi-directional data flow.	SOLIDWORKS variables and dimension can be used with optimization allowing part shape to be modified by SimWise optimization engine. Geometry updates reflected in simulation model while maintaining simulation specific objects. Material properties imported from SOLIDWORKS.
Virtual prototype of your design.	Allows questions like "Does it Work?", "Will it Break?", "How long will it last?" and "Where can it be improved?" to be answered without building physical hardware or running physical tests.
Export models to high end systems.	Export FEA and Multibody Dynamics models to high-end simulaton systems for advanced analysis. No need to recreate data in those systems.
Cost effective.	Provides high-end simulation capabilities at a cost compatible with your SOLIDWORKS licenses.