Structural analysis using analytical methods and numerical software tools (FEA)
Competences
Structural analysis using both hand calculations and PC-based numerical FEA tools (mainly Siemens NX and NASTRAN):
- stress and stiffness analysis
- stability analysis (buckling)
- modal analysis and vibration/response analysis
- anisotropic materials (carbon fiber, fiberglass)
- nonlinear structural analysis for large deformations
- nonlinear transient/dynamic structural analysis (for example crash analysis)
- result verification and plausibility checks using both hand calculations and experimental measurements
Approach
Structural analyses are almost universally required in all hardware-related projects where mechanically loaded components are present. It could be a stress analysis to confirm the load-bearing capacity of a structure, evaluate the deformation of it or understand a specific behavior, or a modal/response analysis to solve vibration problems and guarantee safe operation for machinery.
In simple cases hand calculations suffice. More complex mechanical structures, on the other hand, require software tools (FEA/FEM) to discretize the geometry and numerically compute the stresses and deformations involved.
Our structural analyses always include plausibility checks and result validation against simplified hand calculations or experimental measurements. This guarantees the necessary confidence in the data we provide and allows us to calibrate the complexity of our numerical analysis according to our motto: “As simple as possible and as detailed as necessary.”
A numerical model as small as possible, but still faithfully reproducing the reality, provides a remarkable boost in efficiency to the development process, as computing time is drastically reduced. This allows for faster design iterations and ultimately saves time, reduces development costs and increases the overall product quality.
For this precise reason, if model geometry and simulation requirements allow it, we always choose beam and shell elements over 3D elements, and always try to keep the latter to a minimum.
We don’t provide just data, however. We have the know-how required to interpret the results and use them to identify the root causes of structural problems and weaknesses and to formulate optimizations and corrective measures.
Our expertise further extends into less common fields such as the modeling of anisotropic materials (e.g. carbon fiber), or the simulation of non-linear models due to large deformations as found in highly flexible or elastic structures, or large strains and deformations as found in impact and crash phenomena.
Applications
- structural design and stress analysis of a mechanical component/system
- weight optimization of a mechanical structure
- buckling analysis of shell structures (for example paneling)
- investigation and optimization of the vibration behavior and/or the transient excitation behavior of a mechanical structure or assembly
- structural mechanical analysis of terminal ballistics phenomena
- analysis of impact effects
- design of punching tools