ANSYS SpaceClaim Direct Modeller for Beam and Shell Structural Simulation – Application Brief

Accurate structural analysis of large, complex assemblies has traditionally been a time consuming and difficult study/application. Establishing a quality mesh on geometry can be difficult by itself and a long time may be required to obtain a solution. Structural analysis technology has out of necessity evolved, and users can now take advantage of the ability to mesh and solve much simpler, representative geometry. Complex models can be reduced to 1-D and 2-D elements, respectively called beams and shells. This provides a “lightweight model” representation, while still delivering accurate solutions. While significantly reducing solve time, use of beams and shells still has a number of geometry challenges that often negate the intended benefits if not adequately addressed.