MODELLING AND SIMULATION Fig 1. The torsional mode of flexible rotor blades of a helicopter swashplate assembly g
solvers are all able to be linked to Motion in time and space to solve problems other codes could not.’ The democratisation of the simulation
software itself is another rising trend and one that’s impacting today’s solutions. Baker said: ‘Simulation is highly valuable, but challenging for teams that are not experts, so we need to make it easier to leverage MBD models. This means making the models easily consumable in other applications, such as Virtual Test Drive (VTD) or Simulink, while still delivering the benefits of high-fidelity representations. Incorporation of built-in tests and key result metrics is critical for these teams to leverage these models to explore design changes or ‘what if’ scenarios.’ It’s not just the products that are
increasing in complexity, the number of MBD applications and industries is also expanding. Pett said: ‘There are, of course, the obvious sectors like construction equipment and automotive, where MBD is well established but faster growth is being seen in the area of electronics and high- tech: component placement, PCB handling and foldable electronics devices are all seeing MBD being applied to problems.’ Again, electrification is having a
significant impact. Pett added: ‘NVH and E-drive train are two areas getting huge focus at the moment. Customers want to be able to analyse more scenarios and more designs in a shorter timescale in as automated a way as possible. Ansys Motion’s integration into Ansys tools
like Minerva, Twinbuilder, PyAnsys and Optislang will ensure Motion is accessible in the right way to the right people.’ To address the challenges of increased electrification and make the simulation software available to all, changes are being made. Baker explained the impact for Hexagon’s Adams software: ‘We have been investing in streamlining the ways Adams can be coupled with electrical systems and in developing automated suites of validation tests to be executed.
”Simulation is highly valuable, but challenging for teams that are not experts, so we need to make it easier to leverage MBD models”
One example of this is by leveraging the Functional Mock-up Interface (FMI).’ FMI is a software-independent standard
for simulation model interoperability and exchange. The standard enables controls or electrical engineers to integrate a high fidelity Adams model of their mechanical systems with controls and electrical simulation models they have created using other tools. These combined electro-mechanical models can then be tested without the need to be trained on the Adams application. Electrical and controls
system development engineers can, therefore, utilise Adams with their day-to- day workflows. In the MBD powertrain area, Hexagon includes the Romax portfolio of products. These deliver tailored and intuitive applications for people in various roles. Baker added: ‘We are working on integrating those with our Adams product line to deliver comprehensive powertrain solutions from design to validation.’ Another way Hexagon is providing easier access to MBD simulation is through the Adams Modeler. This utilises its next-generation MSC Apex modelling technology to make it easier for new users to access the accuracy and power of Adams, but with an intuitive user interface with contextual features, guided workflows and help, along with powerful script- based automation. Baked added: ‘Within this interface, we
have made finite element-based workflows integral to the product to provide higher fidelity models with less effort.’ Multiphysics modelling is a challenging
area too for multibody dynamic simulation, as Soami explained: ‘When modelling any multibody system interacting with a fluid, such as a windmill or flow valve, a coupled fluid–multibody dynamics problem is critical.’ Recently, Raychem RPG, a Comsol
Certified Consultant, used multibody functionality for several applications. The team successfully designed a Mobius band turbine gas flowmeter, in which they coupled the turbulent flow functionality with the multibody dynamics functionality to evaluate the stresses on the turbine blades and the torque developed, thereby optimising the turbine design. In another project, they used the flexible multibody dynamics functionality available in Comsol Multiphysics to model an auto tensioning device (ATD) for the Indian Railways. They used polymer springs in this device while performing a multibody dynamics analysis for the entire assembly. ‘As a result of this analysis, they were able to reduce the components in the ATD from
Ansys Motion simulating tank treads 24 Scientific Computing World Autumn 2021
Ansys Motion simulating a chain sprocket
Ansys Motion simulating landing gear @scwmagazine |
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