Simulation engineers spend a lot of time making extensive alterations to complex simulations to assess different product and design configurations. This has led many organizations to attempt to automate these workflows—often to no avail.
Novus Nexus intends to solve this challenge and is letting engineers be the judges—for free. At the end of July, the company released a new method for trying out its no-code automation processor called CAENexus. The promise is to automate simulations with minimal effort. Let's take a closer look.
About the New Pilot Program
At the heart of Novus Nexus’ approach is a geometry-independent simulation template. Instead of needing extensive adjustments or intermediate steps, this platform integrates with simulation-ready CAD models. The transition is reported to be smooth, enabling engineers to transition from design to simulation without unnecessary hurdles.
Central to this streamlined approach is CAENexus. This automation tool has another crucial role: meshing, generating comprehensive reports and ensuring that the simulation process is thorough.
Reasons to Try CAENexus
Novus Nexus developed CAENexus with a focus on no-code technology, which offers an ease of implementation that means more people can use it effectively.
This also supports the software’s focus on compatibility. This solution works with numerous CFD solvers such as Ansys Fluent, OpenFOAM and Altair Acusolve, as well as FEA solvers such as Dassault Systèmes' Abaqus, Ansys Mechanical and MSC Nastran, allowing integration into existing processes. And even if there's a concern about lesser-known software or specific modules, the pilot program allows for real-world testing, ensuring compatibility before any larger commitments are made.
CAENexus is also highly customizable, which helps companies tailor the process to their specific needs, from a proof-of-concept to a fully customized automated simulation
All of this leads to increased efficiency, particularly as the program accelerates simulation throughput, so users can make faster and more accurate design decisions.
The biggest challenge for companies is overcoming the skepticism that comes with introducing new software tools. Considering many companies lean towards legacy software, introducing new solutions can often incite hesitation. Novus Nexus understands this natural reluctance. This is why they are offering a pilot program, allowing teams to test the robustness and reliability of their software without any financial commitment. This lets users confidently present a tried-and-tested solution at their next meeting.
How Does CAENexus Work?
CAENexus doesn’t try to replicate human interaction with a complex simulation process. Instead, it uses an abstract modeling approach that configures a geometry-independent simulation template that can be connected to ready CAD models. There is also an automation processor tool within CAENexus that directly creates solver configurations, handling both the meshing process and the creation of basic reports.
For their pilot projects, customers provide typical CAD models, allowing Novus Nexus to set up an automated CAENexus process tailored for hands-on, real-world testing at the customer's premises.
Overall, the CAENexus solution was designed to be faster and more straightforward than traditional automation tools, with abstract modeling, a specialized automation processor and real-world testing opportunities.
Interesting CAENexus Capabilities
Many existing tools have a steep learning curve and complicated command sequences. CAENexus, however, offers on a user-centric approach with a no-code environment that simplifies automation, catering to elite simulation experts as well as fresh engineers.
Novus Nexus’ tool also allows customers to transition from a basic proof-of-concept to a fully customized automated simulation. Whether adjusting to specific CAD models or refining processes based on on-site tests and feedback, Novus Nexus collaborates with clients to tailor solutions to their unique requirements.
Compared to traditional tools, which can often encounter challenges when automating intricate geometric variations or anything beyond a parameterization sweep, leading to potential simulation inaccuracies or inefficiencies, CAENexus uses geometry-independent simulation. In contrast to many existing tools, CAENexus utilizes an abstract model, which acts as a geometry-independent simulation template. This method promises consistent and reliable simulations irrespective of the complexity of the geometry, ensuring smoother simulation processes.
Compatibility With Other Simulation Software Tools — And Why It Matters
CAENexus fits perfectly among existing engineering tools while bringing its own distinctive features into the mix.
But how exactly does this program overcome the limitations in traditional automation processes? The answer is fourfold:
- Workflow: If companies already use tools such as COMSOL Multiphysics or MSC Nastran, they probably want to be able to transfer data, cross-verify simulations and not have to hop between different platforms. CAENexus covers that by integrating the workflow into one place.
- Cross-System Multiphysics Integration: While many tools offer multiphysics simulations, CAENexus has the ability to integrate and handle multiphysics data across various simulation systems, providing a comprehensive approach to problem-solving.
- Optimized Resource Utilization: CAENexus connects with other programs, ensuring optimal utilization of both software and human resources. This streamlined approach leads to cost savings and expedited project timelines.
- Consistency and Best Practices: The integration makes sure simulation know-how is applied consistently and aligned with the best industry practices, which leads to more accurate results.
Things to Consider when Trying the Pilot Program
While automation is beneficial, the increased complexity does come with challenges. The more you automate, the more reliant you become on that automation, and when issues arise (as they occasionally do in any system), diagnosing and fixing them might require specialized expertise.
Dependency on a single vendor can also be a concern. If Novus Nexus's solution becomes integral to a company's workflow, there could be a risk of vendor lock-in. This leaves the company dependent on Novus Nexus's future updates, pricing changes or any other strategic decisions they make.
Lastly, although the system might be designed for ease of use, any new tool requires training. The more intricate and powerful the tool, the more intensive the training and onboarding process might be.
A Few Final Words
We’re entering a new era in engineering simulations. Processes are becoming more intricate while the demand for quicker, more efficient results grows.
Novus Nexus promises a potential change, offering a platform that prioritizes user experience without compromising functionality. Plus, the emphasis on integration and interconnectivity aims to address an engineer’s long-standing pain points – the need for a holistic, streamlined experience without juggling multiple platforms.
However, as with any new solution, patience is key. For engineers and companies willing to adapt and evolve, the future holds vast potential for innovation and growth. And a risk-free chance to implement one of these potential solutions becomes that much more enticing.