Editor’s Pick: Better Simulation to Find that Last Smidgen of Factory Process Imperfection

Dear DE Reader, 

There are lots of simulation and analysis solutions on the market to help create great products. But there aren’t so many simulation and analysis solutions that help create great manufacturing processes. Which is why the tacit knowledge of machinists is so valued in most manufacturing companies—these guys really know when a “smidgen” more tolerance is needed, no matter what the designs say. 

MSC Simufact Forming is one of those rare products that also understands when that smidgen is needed, which is why the update to version 16 is our Editor’s Pick of the Week. This new release offers a broad range of improvements that provide a clear understanding of most forming processes in manufacturing, from cold forming to hot forging and more. 

Many routines have been rewritten to provide greater software speed and accuracy. The overall product has been upgraded for ease of use. It is more intuitive, making it more efficient to build models of complex manufacturing processes. There are new intelligent context menus with integrated dialog, automatically responsive to the steps toward designing the right model.  

Model visualization is also updated, reducing compute time for full 3D visualization. The models generated by Simufact Forming are practice oriented, reducing calculation time without sacrificing clarity. It fits well with Simufact Forming’s Best-Fit technology, which offers one-click ability to compare simulation and reference models. 

Geometry data checking has updated functionality, allowing users to set up robust simulation models by quickly identifying geometry defects. The data generated by geometry data checking helps in repairing errors in the CAD model. You can then use the updated CAD model, re-importing it into Simufact Forming to set up the manufacturing model. This process also allows users to retrace any corrections, maintaining data trail credibility. 

The ability to use post particles—user-defined measuring points—are enhanced in this update. They can now be used to measure deformable dies and 2D simulations, and used as virtual sensors at any position for evaluation purposes. This is handy in many situations, including when a simulation finds an imperfection such as a fold formation. The user can define the measuring points during post-processing and then run the simulation forward and backward. 

There is so much more to share than will fit in this email, such as new use of symmetry properties (mirror and axial) to extend the model and gain a deeper understanding; one-click import of data from Simufact Welding and Simufact Additive; enhanced compatibility with CAD and other CAE products; and much more. Read about it all in this week’s Product Brief. 

Thanks for reading, we will be back next week with another Editor’s Pick. And do try to enjoy your summer—unless you are in the southern hemisphere!

—The DE Editors

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