Importing CAD Geometry in MotionView for Multibody Dynamics Simulation

Welcome to the Multibody Dynamics for Automotive Applications using MotionView and MotionSolve blog series! In this chapter, we will explore the CAD import utility in MotionView and how it integrates multibody dynamics modeling with vehicle system simulation. This chapter also marks the completion of the first module, where we will use a trunk lid mechanism as an example for automotive engineering simulation. 

Understanding the CAD Import Utility in MotionView 

The CAD import utility in MotionView relies on the HyperMesh CAD import engine. This tool supports importing various CAD and FE formats directly into MotionView software, allowing for easy visualization, meshing, and parameter definition. This feature is particularly beneficial for automotive simulation tools, where importing complex geometries is essential for multibody dynamics for automotive applications. 

Some of the key capabilities of this import tool include: 

• Importing each component as an individual part with mass, center of gravity, and inertia properties automatically calculated. 
• Importing geometry alone without its associated mass and inertia properties, allowing flexibility in model building. 
• Automatic meshing of surfaces, which are then exported as H3D files for visualization in multibody simulation software. 
• Assigning density-based mass and inertia to components, ensuring accurate vehicle dynamics simulation. 

Additionally, MotionView offers the option to launch HyperMesh for interactive meshing, enabling greater control over the mesh quality, especially for contact simulations. 

Supported CAD and FE Formats in MotionView 

MotionView supports various CAD and FE formats, allowing seamless import from different design tools. Some of the supported formats include: 

• HyperMesh (.hm) 
• OptiStruct (.fem) 
• Parasolid (.x_t, .x_b) 
• STEP (.stp) 
• SolidWorks (.sldprt, .sldasm) 
• UG-NX (.prt) 
• JT (.jt) 

The ability to import diverse file formats ensures smooth integration with automotive engineering simulation workflows. 

Steps to Import CAD Geometry in MotionView 

There are two ways to access the CAD import utility in MotionView: 

1. Using the File Menu: 

• Navigate to File > Import > Geometry 
• This opens the CAD import dialog box. 

2. Using the Toolbar Shortcut: 

• Click on the "Import Geometry" icon in the toolbar. 
• This opens the same dialog box for quick access. 

Key Options in the CAD Import Dialog Box 

The CAD import utility in MotionView consists of several sections: 

1. Import Options: 

• Import the CAD model with mass and inertia properties. 
• Import only the geometry without mass and inertia. 

2. File Name Section: 

• Select input file format from the supported formats. 
• Specify an H3D file name for visualization in MotionView. 

3. Meshing Options for Surface Data: 

• Automatic meshing of CAD geometry. 
• Interactive meshing using HyperMesh for finer control. 

4. Locator Point Section: 

• Specify coordinates or node IDs for positioning the geometry. 
• Once these options are configured, clicking OK completes the import process. 

Conclusion 

The CAD import utility in MotionView is an essential tool for multibody dynamics analysis in automotive simulation software. By leveraging this feature, engineers can seamlessly integrate CAD models into vehicle dynamics software, ensuring accurate multibody simulation software results. In the next chapter, we will explore how curve data can be used as constraints and forces in MotionView for automotive engineers. 

Stay tuned for more insights on multibody dynamics training and certification! 

This blog is part of our ongoing Multibody Dynamics blog series. If you missed the previous posts, check them out here.  

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