Best software for simulation in Machine Design mechanical Engineering stream?

Question

The simulation software should be in such a way that any changes in the dimensions of the object/machine part we design should be possible. For example in an IC engine if i want to change the diameter of the bore or number of strokes per minute it should be possible.Secondly animation of the same should be possible i.e movement of the machine parts of different dimensions should be seen virtually ( realistic way )

Answer 1

Simulation by itself is available in 3D modeling applications like ProE, Catia, Solidworks, etc.

The above applications can also do element analysis, which becomes extremely calculation intensive as the number of elements being analyzed increases. Here is where the amount of computing power available really makes a difference in how well the software performs.

In complicated designs, such as an engine, a through study of the service requirements is used to establish a base design to limit the variables involved in the final finite element analysis of a model.

The principle used to achieve a flexible design is called parametricity. The more components that are affected by the change of one of the features, the more complex the model becomes.

I have used all three of the above as well as several other engineering design software packages and for the money, my vote is for Solidworks. It all depends on how complex you want to get, just have deep pockets.

Answer 2

I agree with your other responder, but my vote would be Pro/E. Working Model software does some neat simulation stuff as well, but not the CAD or FEA, although they may have interfaces with such packages.

However, because the software can do it, doesn't mean that the average user can do it. These high end software products require total immersion from the user to be able to achieve the level of expertise required to perform the dyanamic analysis you are seeking to do. This could mean months or years of training and experience. There is a lot of frustration along the way.

A group experience is much better than trying to do it yourself. Also, once you dedicate your soul to one of these systems, it is sort of a psuedo-lifetime commitment to work with this software. This can impact your portability in the job market.

Answer 3

Hi

I am not quite the expert that can help you for your application. However I came across your question and I have been struggling to find a solution for my application. I wonder if any one can help here:

I have 3 conveyors that move tins and I would like to put speeds on the conveyors to see the parts move and then be able to change the geometry of the conveyors to fine tune my design? Currently I have SolidWorks 2008 professional at work and I am able to build a model, but not able to animate the movement of the parts successfully.

Can you help with advise here? Or do you know of affordable software that I can use to assist me with such a simulation?

Thanks

Grant