Exploring Modeling And Simulation Examples in the Real-World

Many designers struggle to bring their concepts to life. However, modeling and simulation has revolutionised the engineering space in recent years, allowing people to solve intricate problems in designing, modeling, and optimisation. Numerous programs make use of these functions, allowing you to understand how your schematics work in physical space.

In this article, we explore real-world examples of how modeling and simulation have solved engineering challenges and produced tangible results.

Why is Modeling and Simulation important?

Modeling and Simulation is used when a design needs to be heavily examined before construction. It helps to predict how it functions when exposed to physical stimuli, and is vital when it becomes impractical to study a design in real life.

1. Understand Complex Systems

Engineers often grapple with complex structures in their designs, where the slightest miscalculation can lead to significant flaws.

This is where modeling and simulation resolves the issue. By creating a simulation model that replicates the real-world behaviour of a design, and comparing it to historical data, engineers can identify potential issues ahead of time. Dealing with interconnected parts requires the use of tools like 3DEXPERIENCE solutions, which play a pivotal role in data gathering for informed decision-making processes.

2. Cost-Effective Analysis

Simulation models provide a cost-effective analysis option for engineers. Physical prototypes can quickly develop at extremely high costs, and take a long time to build. The manufacturing processes could take 4-8 weeks and cost up to $20,000 to create. That's where simulation modeling comes in. Making use of a computer model can allow for testing and problem-solving without the financial cost of these prototypes.

Software like SOLIDWORKS provides invaluable data, empowering decision-makers to navigate these design challenges and save costs. Design errors can be rectified early on, minimising the loss of profit from defects discovered during production or post-launch phases. Future-focused firms embrace these tools not only as an expense-saving measure but also as part of their strategic approach towards innovation-driven growth.

3. Risk Reduction

In the era of Simulation-Based Engineering Science (SBES), potential design flaws or performance issues can be resolved at the design stage. Computer simulation tools enable thorough risk management in engineering designs. This feature is vital for engineers aiming to produce well-optimised and reliable prototypes that can withstand real-world conditions. This simulation analysis is a preventative mechanism against product failure.

Making use of a simulation program such as SIMULIA can assist in structural mechanic simulation, CFD simulations, and FEA simulation. Through the use of a dynamic simulation, risks associated with cost overruns, system malfunctions or safety violations in real-world systems can be eliminated.

Real-World Examples of Modeling and Simulation in Design

Modeling and simulation is especially useful when making large structures, which cannot be prototyped or tested in lab settings. Many industries have found real-world applications for these simulations, and they're a vital part of the construction, engineering, and architectural industries.

Here are some real-world examples where FEA plays a major role:

Engineering: Use of FEA in Structural Analysis

Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is a discrete event simulation method that helps engineers predict how structures will react to real-life forces like temperature, pressure, vibration and other random variables. The value of this FEA simulation model is its ability to identify weak areas before physical tests or implementation, reducing risks associated with structural failures immensely.

FEA divides complex structures into smaller, manageable geometric shapes known as finite elements. These small pieces allow for more accurate predictions about stress levels and potential points of failure within the structure.

Engineers can input data to enhance decision making in their design processes. They're able to test various scenarios using different materials, connection strengths, and load factors on models simulated by FEA software, resulting in higher manufacturing efficiency and cost-effective production methods.

There are even plans in Singapore to create a 3D model of the entire country, making use of 3DEXPERIENCE to power urban planning. Finite Element Analysis remains a pivotal component of modern structural development and is a showcase of how modeling and simulation can be used in the real world.

Aerospace: Use of Computational Models in NASA Projects

NASA relentlessly employs computational models in their various aerospace projects. Complex, nuanced factors such as aerodynamics, weight distribution, propulsion and material resistance play a vital role in the science of spacecraft design and launch strategies. As such, being able to test these factors and study the simulation output is crucial to success.

Data derived from these models has been the keystone of many successful operations. Whether it's material analysis, flight path calculation, or aerodynamic design, modeling and simulation is an irreplaceable part of the aerospace industry. NASA finds invaluable assistance from their state-of-the-art computational modeling tools.

Modeling and Simulation Tools by SEACAD

SEACAD offers a wide range of modeling and simulation tools. As an official partner of SOLIDWORKS in Singapore, we provide 3D design solutions that transform the process of product development. Not only do these tools make it easier for engineers to visualise concepts, but they also make analysing different variables a simple task. Our 3DEXPERIENCE range contains a multitude of simulation software that caters to designers in any industry.

CATIA: CATIA V5 is a 3D design tool that helps architects and engineers carry out 3D sketching and Class-A modeling. It enables businesses to collaborate across platforms, and has integration with multiple processes and tools. It offers high-quality insights into key factors of quality and performance in product development.

SOLIDWORKS: SOLIDWORKS encompasses a whole portfolio of industry solutions, such as SOLIDWORKS Professional and SOLIDWORKS PCB, which is used for electronic designs and circuit board manufacturing. These 3D tools are able to create schematics and models for designs.

SIMULIA: Even more advanced than SOLIDWORKS is SIMULIA, a range of simulation tools that cover advanced functions such as FEA analysis, continuous simulation, and Monte Carlo simulation. One such tool is SIMULIA XFLOW. This predictive analytics tool applies computational fluid dynamics (CFD) principles to enable users to anticipate flow, heat transfer, or force parameters within their designs.

The Transformative Power of Modelling and Simulation Solutions

Modeling and simulation distinctly elevate the engineering design process by tackling intricate challenges. The use of sophisticated software like SOLIDWORKS and SIMULIA has empowered engineers and decision-makers to mitigate risks and achieve greater cost-efficiency.

As the leading SOLIDWORKS reseller in Singapore, we offer support and consultancy along with our wide range of 3D design and engineering solutions. Contact us now to find out more about our product line, receive a quote, or pursue training courses.