Editor’s Pick: Finite element analysis inside product design 

PTC makes available cloud-native Onshape Simulation, a new finite element analysis (FEA) solver that is part of the MCAD’s Assemblies subsystem. The company says the addition of FEA technology “provides meaningful mechanical guidance early and often” as an engineer iterates on a design. 

The new solver works with key Onshape features such as configurations, variables, branching and merging, and sharing. 

PTC says Onshape Simulation “respects your Assembly mates” by providing immediate visualization of part connections. The company says the result is rapid analysis of stress, deformation and factors of safely for mechanical assemblies under static loads.

Onshape is a cloud-native MCAD solution that runs from any browser with an internet connection. The new simulation features are a part of the cloud-native architecture, making it also available on any device with an internet connection and a browser. 

PTC says Onshape Simulation supports linear static analysis, providing expert mechanical guidance. There is interactive visualization for Von Mises stress, safety factors and deformation. Designers can use Simulation to ensure maximum loads are below product yield strength. 

Onshape Assembly Mates—such as fastened, revolute, and slider—automatically translate into simulation kinematics. The company says this results in a simplification of FEA analysis and ensures “an accurate physical representation of your assembly.” 

PTC says defeaturing or meshing is not required, and that loads and constraints can be applied directly to either full parts or individual part faces. 

Onshape Simulation includes direct connection to Onshape’s built-in PDM technology. The company says the data generated by Onshape Simulation can be securely shared instantly with other Onshape users. 

As a cloud-native engineering solution, PTC says all elements of Onshape—including Simulation—can leverage as little or as much high- performance computing power as needed, without buying extra hardware. 

PTC Onshape Simulation is currently in beta release for Onshape Enterprise and Professional plan users. For more information click here. 

For a video, click here.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.

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