Spend less time on model build with CAE platform

Performance optimization
OptiStruct can now operate as a strong nonlinear solver, with major improvements that elevate its functionality to simulate large displacement analysis and hyper-elastic materials like rubber with an extremely efficient use of parallel computing to maximize speed. Its optimization capabilities have been enhanced to introduce new response types and multi-model optimization (MMO), allowing one efficient solution for components that are common across different structures.

AcuSolve can now be coupled with MotionSolve® for a more accurate analysis of the flow of air or other fluids while the structural part is moving. An example would be simulating the effect of an adjustable rear wing on sport vehicle aerodynamic performance. This solver coupling represents one of the suite’s many multiphysics capabilities.

RADIOSS furnishes more physics and even more accurate results for crack-propagation modeling through the extended finite element method (XFEM) and enhanced capabilities for airbag deployment. RADIOSS also offers improved parallelization for multi-domain methods and advanced mass scaling for better performance.

Both HyperStudy and OptiStruct now offer integration with Excel. An engineer may export tradeoff studies to spreadsheets allowing to do post-processing independent of HyperStudy or, in OptiStruct, include Excel calculations as a response type in the optimization run.

Lightweight design
Altair is well-known for its expertise in designing composites structures. Pre-processing features in HyperWorks have been enhanced for improved usability. New, advanced methods of visualizing composite simulations in both the pre- and post-processing stages are now available, with the ability to visualize material, element and ply systems and overlay them with stresses. Additionally, new material laws and failure criteria for laminated composites and polymers are included.

HyperForm now moves beyond metal forming to apply its capabilities to composite forming for sandwich and multilayered structures. The HyperMesh® drape estimator calculates thickness and angle variations that result from draping. These are very convenient accessories available to every HyperWorks user.

Lead time reduction
With the latest release of HyperWorks, engineers spend less time on the model build and get solutions more quickly. For instance, mass customization requires manufacturing many different versions of the same product. Altair has completely rewritten the part-replacement tool so that, if engineers are bringing in a new geometry, they can simply exchange the parts and all the connections are updated automatically. A new comparison tool can compare any combination of computer-aided design (CAD) and finite element geometry and highlight the differences. Enhanced direct modeling capabilities in HyperMesh allow users to quickly generate such geometries as reinforcement ribs without needing to go back to a CAD system.

Post-processing enhancements provide users with faster access to results and better ways to analyze them. Bidirectional communication between the HyperWorks desktop and PowerPoint is now possible. Results are now cached so that users may switch quickly between result sets when working on larger models.

HyperMesh, HyperView and HyperGraph each feature a new, unified Entity Editor to help modify all parameters of model or post-processing session entities faster. In the HyperMesh Entity Editor, new entities, components, properties and materials may be created much more efficiently. Solver documentation also is implemented into the Entity Editor via tool tips.

Interoperability between HyperWorks, CAD and product lifecycle management (PLM) systems allows engineers and designers to communicate easily and share product modifications in a truly collaborative environment. With HyperWorks 13.0, Altair has added bi-directional support for Windchill and Total Materia to the list of supported PLM systems and material databases.

Particular attention has been paid to the development of solutions for industry-specific use cases. HyperWorks Virtual Wind Tunnel, a complete solution for automotive external aerodynamics, is now part of the HyperWorks suite as is a new aerospace user profile. Other solutions for NVH, drop test simulation and more are now available as HyperWorks solutions via an innovative delivery and licensing system.

“This release of HyperWorks advances the most current trends in product design,” said James Dagg, Chief Technical Officer of Altair. “With an even sharper focus on tools for the analysis and design of composite structures, it facilitates processes for the mass customization of products. HyperWorks continues to offer a broad array of advanced solvers enabling engineers to simulate a wide range of physics, from the analysis of linear and nonlinear phenomena in structures to fluid flow, thermal, and electromagnetic behaviors.”