Geometry

Can I move components in SimSolid?

SimSolid doesn’t support changing the location of the components in the assembly. Components positioning must be done outside SimSolid.

Is it possible to import geometry without creating a new design study?

Yes. New geometry can be imported to existing design study.

Right mouse click on Assembly in project tree and click on Import option from the context menu.
In the Windows file browser, specify the file to import the parts from.

What do the symbols at the side of the component name means?

SimSolid automatically classifies geometry upon import, identifying parts as sheets, bolts, rotors, springs, nuts, washers, and other categories. This classification is essential for assigning the correct contact conditions and applying specific boundary conditions. Additionally, it enables the use of tailored adaptation functions during the solution phase, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of the analysis based on the characteristics of each part.

What type of components can SimSolid import?

SimSolid supports the import of both skins and solids. If the solids are not watertight, SimSolid attempts to repair them during the import process. However, any parts that cannot be repaired will be excluded from the import.

Is it possible to change/edit the geometry inside SimSolid?

SimSolid does not allow for direct editing of geometry within the software. However, you can import models from CAD systems like Onshape, Fusion 360, and Inspire. This means you can make necessary modifications in these platforms and then seamlessly transfer the updated design into your existing SimSolid session, streamlining your workflow and enabling efficient design iterations.

What CAD format is the most recommended format in SimSolid?

SimSolid prefers native CAD formats for importing models. Neutral CAD formats like JT and Parasolid are the next best options.

Does SimSolid support connecting PDM systems?

Yes. SimSolid supports connecting to SimSolid Onshape and Teamcenter.

Can I work with STL format?

STL should only be used for organic shapes such as lattices, topo-optimized shapes, etc. SimSolid uses an efficient faceted geometric approach and since STL files have a flat assembly tree structure, SimSolid determines the part face structure based on surface curvature that can lead to missing fillet faces. It is therefore recommended to use CAD geometries that have CAD part faces.

Is it possible to import surfaces in SimSolid?

SimSolid allows importing surfaces and allows inflating them into solid geometry. The surfaces need to be inflated into solids before running any analysis.

What is the difference between CAD readers in geometry import options?

Parasolid	Uses inspire reader which has a third-party reader from CoreTechnologie (CT) and converts them to Parasolid libraries Reads and tessellates Parasolid files using Parasolid libraries directly Reads all other formats using CT reader and tessellates using Parasolid engine
Parasolid and Spatial	It is recommended to use this when working with CATIA files Uses spatial for reading and tessellation of CATIA files and the above mentioned Parasolid reader for all other file formats
Legacy	Uses CT reader to read CAD and tessellate the geometry

What should be avoided in terms of poor geometry?

The general rule is to use actual manufacturable geometry. It is recommended to never merge parts or defeature.

Is it possible to determine any geometric defects prior to running analysis?

It is recommended to assess models for geometric defects—such as overlaps, gaps, and non-manifold faces—by clicking the Check Geometry Defects in the Assembly workbench. This tool helps identify and rectify any issues in assemblies, ensuring they are properly prepared for accurate simulations.

Why are the bolts in my assembly not recognized by SimSolid?

Bolts in SimSolid are identified by their geometric patterns, including hexagonal, double hexagonal, conical, and circular heads and shafts. Parts can be manually converted into bolts. To do this, select the part you want to convert, right-click on it, and choose the Set Part as Bolt option from the context menu.

What is the criteria of BCs application to new imported geometries? Proximity or part names?

To retain materials and connections, parts must be identical, meaning they must have the exact same set of vertices. For boundary conditions applied on face, spot, edges or vertex:

Identifying Similar Entities: When an identical part is not available, SimSolid searches for nearby entities, focusing on those with the greatest overlap with the original part.
Special Criteria for Face Types: For specific geometric entities, such as cylindrical faces, the software seeks out similar cylindrical faces that have the same or parallel axes.
Topological Comparisons: The tool examines how faces are connected and their adjacency relationships. For example, if two parts share a single identical face while having different adjoining faces that connect similarly, SimSolid can still identify and map the boundary conditions.