Modified on
16 Sep 2024 05:00 pm
Understanding the types of Finite Element Analyses: FEA using SolidWorks
Skill-Lync
Welcome back to Skill-Lync's blog series on Finite Elements Analysis (FEA) using SolidWorks – giving you a comprehensive foundation in some of the fundamentals of FEA.
In our previous blog, we touched upon the various methods of solving engineering problems and how FEA is one of the most efficient methods for practical problem-solving.
In this blog post, we'll delve deeper into some essential concepts related to Finite Element Analysis using SolidWorks, building on the foundational knowledge covered in our earlier posts.
Structural Analysis
In this session, we'll explore what structural analysis entails, particularly within the context of FEA. When we refer to "structure" in structural analysis, we're not just talking about civil structures like bridges and buildings. Instead, it also encompasses a wide range of mechanical components, such as gears, bolts, and pistons. These components, under working conditions, experience various loads and forces. To assess the resulting stresses and strains, we perform a finite element analysis.
_1726485897.png)
By conducting FEA, we can determine the displacement values of components under load, which allows us to derive other crucial quantities like stress and strain. In previous posts, we've touched on several specialized types of analysis, such as buckling, fatigue, and drop tests. These specialized analyses are designed for specific testing scenarios, each with dedicated modules in SolidWorks.
Static vs. Dynamic Analysis
For most general structural applications, we primarily rely on either static or dynamic analysis, depending on the study's nature.
Static Analysis
In static analysis, we assume that the forces acting on the model are quasi-static. This means the load increases very slowly, allowing us to neglect acceleration and velocity. Essentially, we start with point A (the initial conditions) and arrive at point B (the final result) without considering any intermediate data. The final results at point B are what we use to draw meaningful conclusions. A common example of static analysis is simulating the load on a chair.
Dynamic Analysis
Conversely, dynamic analysis considers inertial and damping forces, accounting for the acceleration and velocity of the components before determining stress and strain. In dynamic analysis, the intermediate results at each step are reliable and can provide valuable insights. A good example here would be simulating the compression of a spring, where the system, the load applied, or both might change over time.
To summarize, static analysis is suitable for systems where time does not play a role, and the applied loads remain constant. On the other hand, dynamic analysis is necessary when either the system or the loads vary over time.
Linear vs. Nonlinear Analysis
Both static and dynamic analyses can be further categorized into linear and nonlinear types.
Linear Analysis
In linear analysis, we assume a direct relationship between stress and strain throughout the simulation. This assumption works well when the material remains within its elastic limit, meaning its stiffness does not change. Linear analysis is appropriate when the forces acting on a component are consistent in direction and magnitude, or when the component is part of a larger assembly. For instance, simulating the stress on a bolt in an off-road vehicle would be a typical use case for linear analysis.
Nonlinear Analysis
However, when a material's stiffness changes due to reaching or exceeding its yield strength, or when large deformations occur, we must turn to nonlinear analysis. Nonlinear analysis is crucial in situations where the contact points within a system change during the simulation, such as when a beam deflects and contacts a support bracket. In such cases, relying on linear analysis could lead to inaccurate results because it wouldn't properly account for these changing conditions.
Types of Nonlinearity
Nonlinearity in materials can arise from various factors:
Geometric Nonlinearity
When the stiffness of a material changes due to alterations in the model's shape—such as large displacements or rotations—we encounter geometric nonlinearity. To obtain accurate results, nonlinear analysis is necessary. SolidWorks often detects large deflections during linear simulations and prompts users to switch to a nonlinear approach.
Material Nonlinearity
Material nonlinearity can occur due to creep (when a material's stiffness changes over time under load) or when a material surpasses its elastic limit. Metals typically enter a nonlinear region beyond their elastic limit, while non-metals can behave nonlinearly even within the elastic range.
Contact Nonlinearity
As discussed earlier, contact nonlinearity occurs when the contact status between components changes during the simulation. The cantilever beam with a support bracket example is a perfect illustration of this phenomenon.
Summary
In this post, we explored the differences between static and dynamic analysis, as well as between linear and nonlinear analysis. We also examined the types of nonlinearities that can occur in materials and how they impact FEA. Understanding these concepts is crucial for selecting the appropriate analysis type in SolidWorks, ensuring accurate simulation results.
In the next post, we'll guide you through the transition from the modeling environment in SolidWorks to the simulation environment. Stay tuned!
Would you like to have a more interactive demonstration of the above concepts?
Skill-Lync has released a FREE comprehensive course covering FEA with SolidWorks in detail! Check it out here.
Right from the user interface's fundamentals, menus and options, this course covers most aspects of the tool from a practical perspective. It even includes a certificate to add to your resume after completion!
Check out our hands-on course today and add SolidWorks to your list of skills!
Let’s get #IndustryReady together, one skill at a time!
Author
VishruthiGirish
Author
Skill-Lync
Subscribe to Our Free Newsletter
Continue Reading
Related Blogs
Explore the fundamentals of vehicle dynamics and ultimate trends in the field from design and modeling to control with Skill Lync's exclusive course on the subject. Read about how Skill-Lync's CAE courses can help you get employed.
29 Jul 2020
In this article, we will briefly discuss the working, applications, and features of the one-dimensional systematic simulation tool, GT-Power, in Emission Control Strategy, engine calibration, hybrid vehicle modeling. Read about how Skill-Lync's CAE courses can help you get employed.
29 Jul 2020
This article offers a brief introduction to the globally accepted standard of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing, and its importance for the entire manufacturing process. Read about how Skill-Lync's CAE courses can help you get employed.
29 Jul 2020
In this blog we will read about Going a step into Biomechanics and how Skill-Lync's CAE course will help you get employed.
10 May 2020
The powertrain is the most prominent source of vibrations that affects the driving experience for the people on board. This blog from Skill-Lync examines these vibrations to help enhance that experience.
22 Aug 2020
Author
Skill-Lync
Subscribe to Our Free Newsletter
Continue Reading
Related Blogs
Explore the fundamentals of vehicle dynamics and ultimate trends in the field from design and modeling to control with Skill Lync's exclusive course on the subject. Read about how Skill-Lync's CAE courses can help you get employed.
29 Jul 2020
In this article, we will briefly discuss the working, applications, and features of the one-dimensional systematic simulation tool, GT-Power, in Emission Control Strategy, engine calibration, hybrid vehicle modeling. Read about how Skill-Lync's CAE courses can help you get employed.
29 Jul 2020
This article offers a brief introduction to the globally accepted standard of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing, and its importance for the entire manufacturing process. Read about how Skill-Lync's CAE courses can help you get employed.
29 Jul 2020
In this blog we will read about Going a step into Biomechanics and how Skill-Lync's CAE course will help you get employed.
10 May 2020
The powertrain is the most prominent source of vibrations that affects the driving experience for the people on board. This blog from Skill-Lync examines these vibrations to help enhance that experience.
22 Aug 2020
Related Courses
