Type of element used in SolidWorks Simulation Express

[jerzy]

I often analyze models created in SolidWorks for which my clients have done a preliminary
analysis using the Simulation Express program included with SolidWorks. Sometimes I am asked why our results differ if we both are using solid elements. Does anyone know what kind of tetrahedron element
Solidworks Simulation Express uses, 4-node or 10-node?

Thanks

Jerzy

 

[mmar2087]

Hi Jerzy.
Simulation Express uses 10-node tetrahedron elements.
But the Express version is only a sneak-a-peak one with minimal control over boundary conditions.

 

[missil3]

I would think differences arise from more than just element type. Mesh quality, boundary conditions, Material models, solve type among others

I believe solidworks simulation express only does linear analysis ?

 

[mmar2087]

Only linear analysis, and hardly I would say.
The solver is the same as in the full package though, and it is possible to make some use of it.
By doing small surfaces with splitlines you can (almost) perform a 3-2-1 minimum restraint setup with balanced loading, if you use pressure instead of force.
But you still have the limitation with meshing and post processing options.

 

[DanStro]

There is also no way that I could find to manually refine a mesh. I don't even think there is a way to actually see the mesh so I can never tell if the mesh is properly refined around holes,corners,...etc.

Some of the difference could be in how refined the mesh is in the areas of interest, compared to your clients.

Han primo incensus

 

[jerzy]

Thank you all for your insightful and quick responses. I suspected that 4-node tets were not used
because the Express results would differ even much more than they do from my results.

One key cause of the difference I think is that Express reports averaged nodal stresses rather than elemental stresses. The difference could be significant if the mesh is not refined enough.

Thanks again.

Jerzy

 

[mmar2087]

It is possible to look at the mesh and also to change the global settings.
Right before hitting RUN you can select "change" and then alter the mesh.
To view the mesh, right click on the part in the simulation tree and select "show mesh".

 

[DanStro]

I can change the mesh density but I don't see the option to view the mesh. This is for Simulation Express 2011, maybe this is new in 2013 (which I don't use yet).

Han primo incensus