SIMULIA Structural Mechanics Engineer (SME) is one of the roles in the 3DEXPERIENCE Simulation product portfolio. This role allows the use of Explicit Dynamics solver for high-speed nonlinear analysis such as Impact Analysis and Drop Testing. Users can apply complex material models that are readily available in the material database or use the Material Calibration tool to import experimental material test data.
In our last session of this project, we reviewed 3D printing of this prototype. In this installment, we will walk through the use of drop test simulation.
This article covers:
Drop Test Setup
Using the Mechanical Scenario Creation app within SIMULIA Structural Mechanics Engineer (SME) role, we will set up the drop test simulation of our knife handle.
Assembly is simplified to include only key components contributing to the mass. A planar surface represented as a non-deformable rigid body is defined as the target or rigid floor on which the knife handle is dropped. When it comes to meshing, SME provides robust meshing capabilities and various element types.
A surface mesh of quad elements is used for a rigid floor. The carving knife handle and internal components are meshed using tetrahedral elements. An initial velocity and gravity are defined for the drop test.
>> On-Demand Webinar: Performing Drop Test Simulations
Running the Analysis
Since SME is a cloud-based solution, users can take advantage of the multi-core scaling with Abaqus solver technology to run the analysis. It offers the option to execute analysis on the cloud using credits or tokens to access more memory or run locally on the user’s machine.
The stress and displacement plots for this analysis is shown below. SME offers powerful visualization and postprocessing capabilities, including automatic report generation and sharing data with the team.
Taking users beyond simple stress analysis, Dassault Systèmes’ SIMULIA Structural Mechanics Engineer (SME) allows design engineering teams and product stakeholders to collaborate more efficiently to build robust products with increased confidence.
Video Overview
Watch the video below for a full narrative of this drop test simulation using this dynamic tool that can help you create a more robust design.
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