SimulationX used to model a three-dimensional rope and belt drive. (Image courtesy of ESI Group.)
SimulationX is based on the open-source Modelica modeling language. This is consistent with many system simulation software options available.
As a result, SimulationX has access to the large list of physical models within the Modelica library. ESI also notes that its adaptation of the software is easy to use and includes an open architecture and its own respectable library.
One improvement in SimulationX is its ability to simulate three-dimensional rope and belt drives. Engineers can use a model library of pulleys, drums, belts and ropes to determine the interactions, forces and torque experienced by all the parts.
Other model elements added to SimulationX include:
- Circuits
- Detents
- Closing devices
- Disk cam mechanisms
- Indexers
- Dog clutches
- Hydraulic break systems
These improvements target engineers that are designing equipment for the transportation, energy, manufacturing, mobile machinery and mining industries.
Two particularly interesting new models include the non-Newtonian fluids and GreenCity models. The former can simulate what it would be like to drill into mud or work with polymer melts. The latter can model complex energy systems including storage, consumption, charging and use of volatile energy sources to optimize the energy efficiency of a modern city.
Additionally, design engineers in the biomedical industry will likely be interested in SimulationX’s new microfluidics library. With these models, engineers can simulate and assess the physiological flow through organs and microcirculatory systems. This can help to develop tools like microfluidic cell cultures and lab-on-a-chip systems. This will also help to reduce controversial animal testing with expensive and time-consuming physical medical prototypes.
This is the first release of SimulationX since it joined ESI’s portfolio with the purchase of ITI GmbH earlier this year. It seems, however, that many customers will find the release impressive given the review from the automotive engineering service provider IAV GmbH.
“We achieve continuous optimization of our internal development processes and time frames by effectively using SimulationX,” said IAV GmbH’s Bernd Findeisen. “We are looking forward to the variety of new features and enhancements in the new v3.8.”
Other additions to SimulationX include an updated user interface and results visualization as well as improved calculational methods.
To learn more about ESI’s portfolio, read “ESI Virtual Performance Solution Release Focuses on CFD Applications.”