Fluent CAD Connection Integrates Core CAE Technologies

By DE Editors

Fluent Inc., a subsidiary of ANSYS, Inc. (Southpointe, PA), has released Fluent Connection 1.1, which creates simulation models based on design data from existing CAD packages. Integrating core CAE technologies with independent design tools has been a key part of the ANSYS strategy for nearly a decade; this latest release brings direct integration to the Fluent products as well.

The Fluent UGS NX Connection, Fluent Pro/ENGINEER Wildfire Connection, and Fluent SolidWorks Connection products operate within the CAD system user environments. According to Fluent, the packages provide tools for checking and conditioning the 3D geometry model in order to ensure that it has been properly prepared for the next step in the simulation process. By providing a way to check the CAD model for possible simulation-related issues, Fluent Connection helps CAD users correct geometry issues that would otherwise impede the process.

Fluent Connection can also take into account the unique requirement of fluid flow simulations to include a description of the fluid volume inside or surrounding the 3D solid model.

In addition, a Fluent Connection user can launch Fluent’s FloWizard 2.1 or GAMBIT 2.3 simulation environment directly from the CAD system. The CAD model will be automatically loaded into the Fluent environment using native readers that eliminate the need for translation of the geometry data.

The Fluent Connection software products have been built using development tools provided under the PTC Partner Advantage Program and UGS and SolidWorks partnership programs.
   
Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.