ANSYS Explicit STR Features

Built on Proven Solver Technology

Newly introduced in ANSYS 12.0, ANSYS Explicit STR software is the first explicit dynamics product to use the native ANSYS Workbench environment. The solution method used by ANSYS Explicit STR software is based on the robust and time-tested Lagrange (STRuctural) solver of the ANSYS AUTODYN analysis program. ANSYS Explicit STR software is the only structural program that is fully integrated into a unified environment capable of incorporating a range of multiphysics solutions, including electrical, thermal, mechanical and computational fluid dynamics (CFD).

A key benefit of ANSYS Explicit STR software is the workflow advantage of operating within the ANSYS Workbench environment.

Click to view larger image
ANSYS Workbench project page showing prestress analysis with ANSYS Mechanical (static), explicit setup with explicit dynamics and analysis with ANSYS AUTODYN

 

Familiar User Interface

A new paradigm for managing simulations is used with the ANSYS Workbench GUI at ANSYS 12.1. The ANSYS Workbench GUI now consists primarily of a toolbox region, project schematic, tool bar and menu bar. Models setup for other analysis systems, such as thermal and static structural, can be persistently linked to an explicit dynamics solution and transfer material data, mesh, connections, loads and constraints.

Click to view larger image   Click to view larger image
Common format for all analysis systems in ANSYS Workbench. Project page and project detail page shown for explicit dynamics.

Streamlined Workflow

The real benefit of ANSYS Explicit STR software is the work flow afforded by operating in the ANSYS Workbench environment. While many different simulation processes are possible, here is an example of the typical steps a user might take:

  • Select the material models to be used from the extensive explicit material library available within engineering data
  • Associatively link to a parametric CAD model or import a geometry
  • Create a smooth explicit mesh using the new explicit preference option and/or patch-independent mesh method within the ANSYS meshing platform; automatically create part-to-part contact by using the new body interactions tool
  • Fine tune contact specifications, if desired, by utilizing breakable or eroding contact options
  • Load and/or support an assembly and/or parts as usual
  • Use cylindrical geometry for initial and boundary conditions
  • Solve either in the background or via remote solution manager (RSM)
  • View progress of solution interactively in real-time using concurrent post-processing capabilities, new to the ANSYS Workbench environment at ANSYS 12.0
  • Explore alternative design ideas via parametric changes to the CAD model and easily perform re-solves, just like other ANSYS Workbench environment based applications
  • Use the ANSYS design exploration capability to automate the parametric model space exploration

Native CAD Import and Robust Meshing

Native, bi-directional CAD connectivity, available for all mainstream CAD programs, and automatic meshing with advanced options are provided through the ANSYS Workbench platform. The ANSYS Workbench platform also allows the import from most neutral geometry formats, such as IGES, STEM and PARASOLID.
 

Click to view larger image

The ANSYS Workbench platform also provides a wide range of highly robust and automated physics based meshing tools including tetrahedral meshes, pure hexahedral meshes, mixed hex/tet/pyramid meshes, inflation layers and high quality surface meshes.  Users also have the ability to control many advanced meshing options such as body, surface or edge sizing controls, sphere of influence, inflation layer meshing, mesh defeaturing tolerances and much more.



Add-On Modules

Geometry Defeaturing and Editing

ANSYS DesignModeler provides geometry modeling functions unique for simulation. Features include CAD geometry defeaturing, fluid or electromagnetic enclosure creation, detailed geometric modeling and concept model creation tools.

ANSYS SpaceClaim Direct Modeler is ideally suited for conveniently modifying geometry, creating geometric parameters for analysis.

Six-Sigma Analysis and Design Exploration

ANSYS DesignXplorer performs robust design analyses of any ANSYS Workbench platform simulation, including those with CAD parameters. The ANSYS DesignXplorer software allows users to study, quantify and graph various analysis responses.. It incorporates both traditional and nontraditional optimization through a goal-driven optimization method.