Understanding 1D, 2D, and 3D FEA Analysis Using SolidWorks

Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is a powerful tool for engineers, enabling precise analysis of stress, strain, and displacement in structures. In this blog, part of the CAE Simulation using SolidWorks series, we’ll walk through performing 1D, 2D, and 3D FEA on a uniformly loaded cantilever beam. By the end of this post, you’ll understand when to use each type of analysis and how to set it up in SolidWorks CAE simulation. 

Performing 3D FEA Analysis in SolidWorks 

Step 1: Model the Beam 

• Open SolidWorks and start a new part. 
• Draw a rectangle (30 mm x 30 mm) on the front plane to create a square cross-section. 
• Extrude the sketch to 500 mm to form a cantilever beam. 

Step 2: Set Up the Static Analysis 

• Go to Simulation > New Study and select Static Analysis. 
• Apply Alloy Steel as the material for the beam. 
• Fix one end of the beam to simulate a cantilever condition. 
• Apply a uniform load of 1000 N on the opposite face. 

Step 3: Mesh and Run the Simulation

• Right-click on Mesh, select Create Mesh, and set a global element size of 6 mm. 
• Run the simulation. 

Results: 

• Maximum von Mises stress: 5.8×107 N/m25.8 \times 10^7 \, \text{N/m}^25.8×107N/m2 
• Displacement and strain plots: Animatable for detailed visualization. 

By analyzing the results, we observed stress and deformation patterns along the beam. SolidWorks simulation tools simplify this process, providing engineers with accurate and actionable insights. 

Performing 1D FEA Analysis 

For simpler simulations, a beam can be analyzed as a single element using 1D FEA. 

Step 1: Simplify the Model 

• Go to Simulation > New Study and name it 1D Static. 
• Right-click on the part and select Treat as Beam. 

Step 2: Define Boundary Conditions 

• Fix one end of the beam. 
• Apply a downward force of 1000 N across the entire beam. 

Step 3: Mesh and Run the Simulation 

• Create a mesh, where the beam is treated as a single element. 
• Run the simulation and observe results such as bending moment and shear force diagrams. 

Results: 

1D FEA offers a quick and efficient way to analyze long, slender members while maintaining accuracy. It’s particularly useful for analyzing bending stresses in beams with high length-to-width ratios. 

Performing 2D FEA Analysis 

Step 1: Convert to Shell Element 

• Start a new study, name it 2D Static, and define the part as a shell element. 
• Assign a thickness of 30 mm to the shell. 

Step 2: Apply Loads and Constraints 

• Fix one edge of the shell. 
• Apply a uniform load of 1000 N to the opposite face. 

Step 3: Mesh and Run the Simulation 

• Use a 6 mm mesh for the shell. 
• Run the simulation and analyze results. 

Results: 

2D shell elements strike a balance between computational efficiency and accuracy, making them ideal for thin-walled structures. 

Comparing 1D, 2D, and 3D Results 

1D Analysis: Quick and efficient for beams with a high length-to-width ratio. 

2D Analysis: Balances computational effort and accuracy, ideal for thin structures. 

3D Analysis: Provides the most detailed results but at a higher computational cost. 

By comparing the results, engineers can choose the most appropriate analysis method based on their requirements. Skill-Lync's SolidWorks CAE Training equips you with the knowledge to make these decisions effectively. 

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between 1D, 2D, and 3D FEA is crucial for efficient problem-solving in CAE simulation with SolidWorks. Whether you're analyzing a cantilever beam or a complex structure, SolidWorks' powerful simulation tools and Skill-Lync's CAE course ensure you’re well-prepared for any challenge. 

This blog is part of our ongoing CAE Simulation using SolidWorks. If you missed the previous posts, check them out here.  

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