Run Options: SimSolid vs OptiStruct
Use the options on the Run Analysis window to define your analysis. Options vary based on whether the SimSolid or OptiStruct solver has been selected.
Run SimSolid Analysis | Run OptiStruct Analysis |
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Name
When you run an analysis, the name of the run defaults to the name of the model. However, you can assign your own name to the run in the Run Analysis window.Element Size (OptiStruct)
The element size dictates the quality of your optimization results. In general, the smaller the element size, the more accurate the result, but the slower it will run.
The element size is calculated from the smallest features in the CAD. Cleaning up the CAD so there are fewer features will help jobs to run faster.
Normal Modes
You can choose whether or not to include normal modes, and how many, in your analysis. The results show the shape of the vibration at that frequency. You may also select whether to include supports from a particular load case in the drop-down menu.Buckling Modes (Linear Buckling or Eingenvalue Buckling)
Buckling modes are used to predict when a part will bend or collapse under load. You may select the number of modes and which buckling load cases to include. The resulting buckling load factors help you determine the load required to cause your part to buckle. If the value is in-between -1 and 1 buckling is expected for the given load.Modal Prestress
Prestressed loadcases are linear.
- If the preloading is compressive, it typically has a weakening effect on the structure (for example, column or pillar under compressive preloading).
- If the preloading is tensile, it typically has a stiffening effect (for example, rotorcraft blade under centrifugal preloading).
Solution Settings (SimSolid)
Solution Settings are available to refine SimSolid solutions.
SimSolid employs a proprietary adaptive technology to automatically refine the solution in the areas where it is necessary to achieve the highest accuracy. Multiple solution passes are performed and with each pass, accuracy measures are created, and equations are enriched locally as required. The only settings specified manually are the maximum number of solution passes along with a small set of optional settings.
Settings can be applied globally to the entire assembly or locally to individual groups of parts. This allows you to first determine the overall system response, then quickly drill-in to specific areas of interest.
The settings are specified independently for each analysis. This provides a convenient method to do analysis comparison and solution convergence studies.
To adjust settings for all load cases, click the Open button.
Adaption | Procedure |
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Global![]() |
Select the Global option.
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Global +
Local![]() |
Select the Global + Local option.
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Custom | Select the Global + Local option and
adjust settings as needed.
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