Applying a Finite Element Model to a Simulation

The Finite Element Model action in the Setup section of the action bar for a scenario allows you to choose the FEM representation used for your simulation. A FEM is required to simulate the behavior of a product under the conditions that you define in the simulation.

If finite element models already exist, you can Select the one you want to use. You can preview the finite element model to see the applied mesh. If a mesh is specified but not yet generated, use the preview process to generate a preview of the mesh. If you want to specify a new finite element model, you can Create one.

Your finite element model choice is not permanent; you can change it later. However, you must have a finite element model to define most aspects of the scenario. If you change from one finite element model to another, you can run a consistency check to determine the impact of your change on the simulation. When you select a new finite element model, the app enables you to start the Model Checker to complete the consistency check.

When you create a finite element model, you can choose from several initialization methods. Each method has advantages and disadvantages. All methods allow you to continue defining the simulation scenario. All methods except None also define a mesh for the finite element model. You can use the Mesh Creation app to review the mesh definition; Mesh Creation is also where you edit the mesh or create a new one.

If you choose None, you must use Mesh Creation to define a mesh for the finite element model before you can run a simulation. Creating a finite element model without an initial mesh allows you to precisely define the mesh parameters. This ensures that the mesh is suitable for your simulation.

You can also create the finite element model and mesh independent of a scenario. To do so, you must open a model creation app without a scenario.