As you strive to mechanize your 3D CAD assemblies and perform motion studies with them, you might find it convenient to start with a motion analysis with Altair® Inspire™. With it, you can start investigating system dynamics and extract loads with an intuitive setup process, then easily transfer your mechanized model to MotionSolve to continue your advanced multi-body dynamics work.

Extend the physics of multi-body systems by including more complex attributes, such as linear and nonlinear flexible bodies for increased elastic realism, as well as stress and fatigue assessments, easily applying existing finite element (FE) models from Altair® OptiStruct® and Altair® HyperWorks®. You can also include automated contact between 3D CAD geometry, model friction, and clearance in joints.

MotionSolve also lets you build accurate system-level models of your equipment. Exercise the model through a series of tests to generate precise component load time histories. Apply these loads on detailed FE representations of components for strength and fatigue calculations. Additionally, perform topology optimization with realistic loads to minimize weight while satisfying stiffness and other strength targets.

Easily assemble realistic models of passenger cars, multi-axle buses, trucks, or two-wheeled vehicles using parametric templates and automation tools. Utilize flexible bodies, nonlinear connectors, control systems, and powertrain modeling. Run vehicles through standard road or laboratory tests to evaluate and assess their dynamic behavior, determine component loading, improve comfort and handling characteristics, enhance passenger safety, and extend component durability.

Couple MotionSolve with Altair Activate® and Altair Compose® to enable the holistic simulation of a smart systems involving moving parts, sensors, actuators, and controllers – including Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL). For the ultimate realism with mechatronic digital twins, co-simulate high-fidelity mechanical plant models with accurate electrical models, motors, hydraulics, control systems, and more.

MotionSolve works together with Altair® EDEM™ to include the interactions between multi-body equipment and granular materials to predict the behavior of the combined systems. Simulate wheeled or tracked ground vehicles operating in different types of soft soils.

Easily transfer your multi-body dynamics models to applications including the Altair Partner Alliance’s Vortex® Studio Create and bring a mechatronic system to life, which gives users an extended use of virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) and operator-in-the-loop simulations.

Couple with design of experiment (DOE) and optimization software such as Altair® HyperStudy® to explore alternatives and obtain optimal motion performance based on many possible design configurations and/or operating conditions.

Course instructors can provide future engineers with a better, more tangible education by leveraging Altair’s motion simulation technology. Students will be able to bring equations to life, see how their hand calculations are proven correct, and test how different parameters influence results.