MSC APEX - Structures

CAE tool for computational parts based computational analysis

OVERVIEW

MSC Apex 2020 - New Highlight Features

 

MSC Apex Structures is an integrated module of Finite Element solver, which provides users the access to linear (and very soon, nonlinear) structural analysis. From now, Apex supports four types of linear analysis, linear statics, linear buckling, normal modes, and frequency response. MSC Apex Structures packages an intuitive user interface for scenario definition, analysis readiness check, and integrated solver. This solution is unique in that it combines computational parts and assemblies based technology with a generative framework, which enables interactive and incremental analysis.

The integration of the user interface with solver gives users a unique ability to interactively and incrementally validate and solve FEM models. At the user’s demand, a series of solver checks can be run against individual parts and assemblies, and the model diagnostics are reported in the Analysis Readiness panel. This Incremental Validation and Solution philosophy is a creative and intelligent revolution to the very time-consuming traditional workflow where pre/post processor and solver are separate.

 

Linear Statics

Normal Modes

 
 

Linear Buckling

 

Frequency Response

 
 

STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS WORKFLOW

 

  1. Set Model and Analysis Context

Define the analysis type and a subset of parts and assemblies to be the context of evaluation.

 

2. Validate Models Before Analysis

Use the integrated analysis readiness tool to validate the context has valid model representations for the chosen analysis type.

 

3. Join Dissimilar Meshes Rapidly

Reduce the need to align nodes across mesh parts using mesh independent glue technology.

 

4. Make Generative Changes

Track the status and manage the update of downstream updates whose parent has been modified.

 

5. Generate and Visualize Results for Linear Statics

Define a linear static scenario and execute the integrated solver methods to generate results interactively.

 

6. Generate and Visualize Results for Frequency Response

Perform frequency response analysis & use a results exploration toolset to develop solutions to mitigate and control structural vibrations.

 
 
 

MSC Apex Generative Design 2020 now builds upon the MSC Apex Framework as its user interface. The intuitive and versatile functions of this modern CAE environment significantly simplify and accelerate model setup and do not require intensive training or advanced knowledge. Existing geometries can be imported and adapted with the extensive CAD manipulation functions. Based on the restrictions and objectives, the innovative Generative Design Algorithm generates optimized lightweight structures, ideally suited for additive manufacturing with their bionic structures. The intelligent smoothing generates high-quality surfaces and directly manufacturable components. Design for Additive Manufacturing at it's best!

MSC APEX - CAPABILITIES

 

Generative Framework

Update geometry, mesh, material, property and behaviors, glue: mesh dependent connection, load and boundary conditions, scenarios and results automatically with changes to the model.

Incremental Validation

Geometry specific (part, sub-assembly, assembly).

Generative Analysis Readiness for mesh, materials, properties, LBC’s, interactions, and simulation settings to guide the user on quickly preparing run-ready models.

Incremental Solve

Perform linear structural analysis with embedded computational parts and assemblies based philosophy.

Study Manager

Manage multiple scenarios (model representations, output requests, analysis type).

Linear Structural Analysis

  • Linear Statistics

  • Normal Modes

  • Linear Buckling

  • Frequency Response

Results Exploration

  • Use a powerful probe tool to identify critical displacements and stresses

  • Animate structural deformations and contour changes.

  • View and switch interactively among multiple normal modes via modes navigator

  • Utilize a results manager to explore analysis results by study, entities, and analysis types.

  • Transform results to cartesian, cylindrical, and spherical coordinate systems.

  • View colorful fringe contours of physical quantities of interest such as displacements, stresses, strains, etc.

  • Demonstrate vector plots of displacement, applied loads, constraint reactions, and more variables.

  • Create sensors and monitor responses at specific locations, such as displacements and stresses

  • Display results in XY plots

  • Explore results under specific failure criteria.