static/kinematic analysis & synthesis

[BugE]

We are looking into different software packages to do both static and kinematic analysis. 2D is good enough in most instances.

What we want from the software:
[ul]
[li]forces/force distribution in links of a set of structural components (for example a four-bar mechanism) at all points at rest and in motion (doesn't need to include dynamic effects)[/li]
[li]plotting motion paths, possibly with automated optimisation to a path[/li]
[li]add friction coefficient to a slider and rotating joints
[/ul]

What we have tried so far:
SolidWorks (2010) Motion Analysis
Works well for plotting paths, no optimisation (until SW2012). Getting forces on the joints is tedious and not very intuitive. Doesn't let me input friction. This is important because the friction increases with the increase of force on the sliding joint, so I can't substitute it with a simple force.

SAM (

http://www.artas.nl/en/sam)

Very good for path optimisation/plotting and tracking input forces, but doesn't give me joint forces and doesn't let me input friction. Interface very outdated, doesn't let me input beam lengths, just coordinates. Imports DXF, but doesn't seem to handle even mildly complex very well (frequent hangs). I would like to be able to give relations between elements (like in SolidWorks)

Engissol Dynamic Edition (

http://www.engissol.com/2d-frame-analysis-dynamic-edition.html)

Very visual representation of force distributions of static constructions, but doesn't let me import DXF and drawing tools are very limited. No sliding joints or friction.

Any suggestions are very welcome!

BugE

 

[Twoballcane]

Have you looked into PTC Pro Mechanica?


Tobalcane
"If you avoid failure, you also avoid success."
“Luck is where preparation meets opportunity”

 

[TheTick]

SW Motion does have friction. Whoever told you otherwise is not looking.

 

[MotionGirl]

There used to be a package called Camlinks I used in the past. Very good for kinematics and forces (forces due to inertia and springs etc). Friction input was limited, but you could input a constant force if you wanted. I've just done a search on Camlinks and there is a product called MechDesigner. It seems to tick a few of the boxes you are looking for.

 

[BugE]

Thanks all for the input!

@Twoballcane - I guess that's nowadays called Creo Simulate? Since we already work with SolidWorks, that's a bit overkill for our application, though it looks promising (even the Creo package as a whole, hum)

@TheTick - Spot on, need to look into that better.

@MotionGirl - Thanks! I looked at their website, but unless I'm missing something, MechDesigner doesn't let me plot forces (even though at an older cached website it said "Forces and torques available at any joint for bearing and motor requirements - MechDesigner will automatically estimate mass, inertia, radius of gyration, or you can input your own values". Also, friction is essential in some of my cases, and since the normal force could vary during the motion, a constant force wouldn't do the trick...

 

[MotionGirl]

BugE. You are right - I thought Forces were included as it promised on the old website. I for one am going to keep my eye on it as I know Camlinks was pretty useful and if this is going to be 3D version, then i'll be very interested.