You can use Automated FEM methods with individual products or assemblies. You can use them to create an
assembled finite element model (FEM) representation and to mesh an assembly made of
subproducts with 3D shape representations. Automated FEM methods can also run procedures to idealize geometry or to complete other tasks on a
product before meshing.
Automated FEM provides general-purpose and specialized methods you can use to prepare an FEM.
General-Purpose Automated FEM Methods
The general-purpose Automated FEM methods use basic techniques to mesh any model geometry.
- Standard
- Manages solid and surface meshes for multiple bodies using basic
parameters of mesh type, element order, size, sag, and thickness (for
shell elements). This method can import and mesh point fasteners if they
are included in the model.
- Empty FEM
- Creates an empty finite element model linked to selected shapes.
Specialized Automated FEM Methods
The
specialized Automated FEM methods create FEMs intended for a specific purpose.
- Axisymmetric
- Creates a cut through a 3D model to produce a 2D axisymmetric
representation, the required cylindrical axis system, the FEM, and the
mesh. You can then add model and scenario features to this simplified
representation to generate results that represent the 3D design.
- Lattice
- Provides controls to create the FEM for additive manufacturing designs
created with the Lattice Design
app.
- Functional Structure
- Provides controls to create the FEM for large steel structures. For more information, see
Creating Functional Structure Finite Element Models.