Developing a Model (FEM Mode)
Before you can analyze a model in FEM mode, you must develop it. In developing a model, you complete a number of different tasks—from creating the part geometry to adding the characteristics, properties, and definitions that transform the part into a Creo Simulate model. The following is a list of the tasks you complete:
• Planning and building your part—You need to build your model geometry. You build your geometry in Creo Parametric using methods that promote easy simulation modeling and improve analysis times.
• Simplifying your model—You can speed up your solution times and ease your simulation modeling tasks if you work with a simplified model. Creo Parametric provides various techniques that you can use to simplify your model before or during your Creo Simulate session.
• Defining a system of units for your model—You need to define a system of units for your model. You can select a predefined system of units or create a custom system of units.
• Defining modeling prerequisites for your model—You can define a variety of modeling prerequisites in Creo Simulate. For example, you can define coordinate systems for your model. Creo Simulate uses coordinate systems to help determine the direction and placement of a load, the orientation of a material, and for certain types of constraints.
You can also define datum geometry, surface regions, and volume regions. These features give you a more versatile approach to placing loads, constraints, connections, and idealizations.
• Defining modeling entities for your model—You can add the following modeling entities:
◦ Materials—You need to define the material or materials that your model will be made of. You can also define material orientations.
◦ Constraints—For Structure, you need to define the extent to which your model can move in space. For Thermal, you need to define the convection conditions and prescribed temperatures that act as boundary conditions for the model.
◦ Loads—For Structure, you need to define the external forces that act on your model relative to its constraints. For Thermal, you need to define the heat loads that act on your model.
• Defining idealizations—Creo Simulate typically treats Creo Parametric parts and assemblies as solid models. Some models, or portions of a model, may be better suited for other types of meshes—shell or bar meshes, for example. To accommodate this type of model, you can create shell or beam idealizations that the software will include when you mesh the model. You can also add specialized idealizations such as masses, and springs. These entities enable you to model concentrated masses, enforced gaps between geometry, and general six-degree-of-freedom spring connections between points.
• Defining connections—You can define various connections in your model. For example, you can create contacts for your model or add spot welds. Connections tell Creo Simulate where the different parts of your model contact as well as describe the nature of that contact. Creo Simulate uses this information to develop an appropriate mesh.