"The time saved by not having to simplify and clean-up
geometry, as well as the meshless analysis, offers the
opportunity to investigate more variants and load cases
than with traditional FE tools in the past.”
– Evert Vierhout
Owner, Vierhout Engineering
In this particular use case, VE had to analyze the structural steel machine frame in
high detail. The frame had a mass of about 20 tons and was approximately 32 meters
long. The focus was to perform analyses with different load cases and very detailed
framework conditions of contacts and forces. In addition, a check had to be performed
whether the custom frame would be strong and stable enough to comply with Euro
Code requirements. A significant advantage of using SimSolid was that the complete 3D
detailed model, a large assembly, was analyzed, including bolts and nuts with tightening
torques and pre-tensions. Parts with contacts such as flange connections were analyzed
geometrically, non-linearly, including friction and separation contacts. The results of these
analyses were very detailed and clearly displayed in 3D with material stress, displacements,
modal frequencies, and reaction forces on the foundations. Based on this success,
SimSolid is now being applied for all complex analyses and simulations at VE. The analyses
are more detailed and can be fully executed on 3D solids. With SimSolid, the complex 3D
CAD composition detail models (at production level) can be used, including all details such
as major welding and bolt-nut connections. Due to the mesh-free simulation method of
SimSolid, the meshing phase of the design process can be entirely eliminated. This allows
more attention to many details and custom settings such as contacts, loads and
pre-tensions, and offers more development time to investigate design variants.
Solutions Ahead: Simulation Paves the Way
Through the efficient and detailed analysis, Vierhout Engineering sees a lot of potential
in SimSolid and will continue using it in future customer 3D CAD export projects.
“SimSolid goes further in efficiency and detail than traditional FEA systems, which is a big
advantage. The time saved by not having to simplify and clean-up geometry, as well as the
meshless analysis, offers the opportunity to investigate more variants and load cases than
with traditional FE tools in the past,” said Evert Vierhout, Owner Vierhout Engineering.
“We are very happy with the results and look forward to supporting our customers using
this efficient solution.”