MSC Apex model of a composite layup airplane structure
MSC Apex’s latest release, Harris Hawk, is targeting a unique composite modeling and simulation experience that closely mimics the steps of the manufacturing process, introducing a new geometry tool for surface extensions to eliminate manual rework and to allow engineers to automate model preparation tasks.
Instead of using Finite Element Abstractions (FEA), MSC Apex allows engineers to manipulate physical representation such as fabric, layups, plies, panels, and zones.
With this in mind, users are promised that within a few hours they can become efficient with composite modelling and on-the-fly failure calculation
CAE has been a key driver for reducing cost and accelerating innovation, yet MSC believes that the current processes still suffer workflow inefficiencies and results often come too late in the design cycle – especially when designing composite structures – leading it to the advances in Harris Hawk.
Modeling productivity
This release introduces a new geometry tool for surface extensions to eliminate manual rework and to allow engineers to automate model preparation tasks.
Generative tie connections for assembly creation can now take minutes instead of hours.
‘Users can now create large assemblies of parts using mesh dependent connections while preserving the product structure’, explains MSC, adding that it has also added high performing hex-meshing tools to help users mesh complex solid geometries.
Complete structural analysis
MSC Apex Harris Hawk expands its structural analysis capabilities with support for multi-events static analysis.
Users can now manage multiple load cases. It also features the ability to define pre-stiffening in the linear bucking scenario. A brand new model browser-picking tool should better support result processing for model introspection.
Open and complementary
Beyond modeling productivity and structural analysis, MSC Apex Harris Hawk continues to build on an open and interoperable framework with a full set of Python Scripting APIs for conceptual modeling iterations and interoperability for MSC Nastran-Patran with exporting of scenarios.
