Hints and Tips

Short list of hints and tips to get you started with SimSolid.

SimSolid has unique numerical solution methods that help eliminate many of the limitations found in traditional FEA, making geometry handling significantly easier and completely removing the need for meshing. To maximize your efficiency and accuracy with SimSolid, keep these updated tips noted.

  1. Embrace CAD geometry "as is"
    Full detail is fine
    SimSolid is designed to analyze all geometric detail, including fillets, rounds, small holes, imprints, and even complex surface constructions with odd face transitions or small splinter surfaces.
    Tolerance for imprecision
    SimSolid is tolerant of imprecise geometry, significantly reducing the time spent on pre-processing. Unlike traditional simulation tools that often require extensive cleanup of CAD models, SimSolid can directly work with models containing imperfections. This includes gaps and penetrations, provided they are proportional to the overall geometry and do not represent gross errors. This unique capability allows you to focus on the design and analysis
  2. Never merge assemblies – Keep parts separate
    Unlike traditional FEA, where merging parts might be suggested for meshing, do NOT merge assemblies in SimSolid.
    Improved accuracy and speed
    Merging parts reduces accuracy and slows down the solution process in SimSolid.
    Optimal handling
    Always keep all CAD parts as separate entities. SimSolid's unique adaptive solution excels at efficiently handling assemblies with hundreds or even thousands of individual components.
  3. Confidently handle large and complex assemblies

    SimSolid thrives on complexity and scale.

    Include all components
    It is perfectly acceptable to include small parts like bolts, nuts, and washers in your assembly. SimSolid's unique adaptive solution process works efficiently on models with numerous components.
    Real-world models
    This means you can analyze your actual design assembly, not a heavily simplified representation, leading to more reliable results.
  4. Master connections for accurate assembly behavior

    Connections are crucial for realistic assembly analysis in SimSolid.

    Automated detection
    Start with SimSolid's powerful automatic connection tools. They are highly effective at identifying various contact types (for example, bonded and sliding).
    Resolution levels
    For critical interfaces or areas needing higher fidelity, utilize the Resolution Level setting within connection definitions. The High resolution level is set when we deal with non-linear contacts. This will in-turn increase the number of contact points which might be necessary when dealing with frictional contacts. The Extreme resolution level is particularly beneficial for thin solids or intricate PCB models, ensuring accurate through-thickness behavior. For bonded contact conditions, it is fine to model the contacts with Normal resolution level.
    Manual refinement
    If needed, refine or add connections manually. Pay close attention to gap and penetration tolerances for precise contact definition.
    Troubleshooting rigid body motion
    If you encounter unexpected rigid body modes (beyond the initial six for unconstrained models), it often points to an under-constrained part or a mechanism. Check the connections, especially for very thin components or large size disparities. Increasing connection resolution or manually adjusting properties can resolve this.
  5. Optimize solution settings for desired accuracy

    SimSolid's multipass adaptive solver is always working to refine your results.

    Adaptive refinement
    The solver continuously refines the solution until it reaches the desired accuracy. Enable Adapt to features to improve the accuracy, when the part(s) has critical features.
    Custom settings
    Use the Custom solution settings when higher precision is required. This will allow to set dedicated refinement level for a specific group of parts or to a single part.
    Thin solids and PCBs
    SimSolid includes improved adaptation methods specifically for thin shell-like bodies and PCBs to ensure accurate through-thickness performance. Ensure Adapt to thin solids is enabled in the solution settings.
  6. Leverage design studies for rapid iteration
    SimSolid's Design Study feature is a game-changer for design exploration.
    Copy and compare
    After importing your initial geometry (the "Baseline Design Study"), copy the Design Study to create variations. This lets you to explore different material changes, different connections especially when iterating with different seam/spot weld size without re-importing the CAD.
    Automatic feature cloning upon importing design variants
    When a design variant is imported, SimSolid automatically clones existing materials, analyses, and connection definitions to the new study, saving significant setup time. This is invaluable for "what-if" scenarios.
  7. Master post-processing and visualization

    Effective interpretation of results is key

    Result animations
    Adjust the deformation speed slider for better visualization of dynamic results. Remember that the animation scale can be adjusted to show maximum values clearly.
    Flexible legend
    You can move the results legend anywhere in the graphics area for optimal viewing.
    Export deformed shape
    Exporting the deformed shape is possible, particularly useful for multiload case analyzes.
    Result graphs
    Path length along a projected line in result graph output, offering more detailed result visualization.
  8. Stay current and utilize learning resources
    Latest releases
    Always check the What's New sections in the official Altair documentation or release notes for the specific SimSolid version.
    Interactive tutorials
    SimSolid comes with numerous interactive Tutorials and Verification Problems. These are excellent for learning new workflows and reinforcing best practices.
    Community and support
    Engage with the Altair SimSolid Community forum. It's an invaluable resource for sharing knowledge, asking questions, and getting expert assistance.