Unleash the Power of ANSYS AIM for Multiphysics Simulations

Unleash the Power of ANSYS AIM for Multiphysics Simulations

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is ANSYS AIM and Sustain?
3. The Capabilities of ANSYS AIM and Sustain
   • Fluid Flow Analysis
   • Structural Analysis
   • Multi-Physics Simulations
4. Key Features of ANSYS AIM and Sustain
   • Integrated Geometry Modeling
   • Automation and Customization
   • Design Exploration and Optimization
5. Using ANSYS AIM and Sustain for Fluid Flow Analysis
   • Importing Geometry
   • Meshing and Boundary Conditions
   • Solving the Fluid Flow
   • Analyzing the Results
   • Parameterizing Design Points
6. Using ANSYS AIM and Sustain for Structural Analysis
   • Importing Geometry and Applying Loads
   • Meshing and Material Assignment
   • Solving the Structural Analysis
   • Analyzing the Results
   • Parameterizing Design Points
7. Customizing Templates and Extensions
   • Downloading and Installing Extensions
   • Creating Custom Templates
8. Conclusion

Introduction

ANSYS AIM and Sustain are integrated engineering simulation solutions that enable engineers to perform 3D engineering simulations in an easy-to-use environment. These products, built on the ANSYS technology, provide a comprehensive set of simulation tools for fluid flow analysis, structural analysis, and multi-physics simulations.

In this article, we will explore the capabilities of ANSYS AIM and Sustain and how they can be used to optimize designs, evaluate alternatives, and improve product performance. We will also discuss the key features of these products, such as integrated geometry modeling, automation and customization, and design exploration and optimization. Additionally, we will provide a step-by-step guide on using ANSYS AIM and Sustain for fluid flow and structural analysis, as well as information on customizing templates and extensions.

By the end of this article, You will have a better understanding of ANSYS AIM and Sustain and how they can be utilized to streamline the engineering simulation process, increase productivity, and enhance product performance. So let's dive in and explore the powerful simulation capabilities offered by ANSYS AIM and Sustain.

What is ANSYS AIM and Sustain?

ANSYS AIM and Sustain are advanced engineering simulation software that provide an integrated solution for 3D engineering simulation. They are built on the ANSYS technology, which has been the golden standard in the analysis world for over 40 years. These products are designed to offer engineers a user-friendly environment for performing comprehensive engineering simulations, from geometry creation and preparation to meshing, physics setup, and results processing.

ANSYS AIM and Sustain aim to simplify The Simulation process and make it accessible to engineers of all levels of expertise. They provide predefined templates and workflows that guide users through the entire simulation process, making it easy to set up and analyze complex engineering problems. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced analyst, ANSYS AIM and Sustain offer a user-friendly interface and powerful simulation capabilities to meet your engineering simulation needs.

The Capabilities of ANSYS AIM and Sustain

Fluid Flow Analysis

ANSYS AIM and Sustain provide powerful tools for performing fluid flow analysis. With predefined templates and workflows, users can easily import or Create geometry, generate meshes, define fluid flow boundaries and conditions, and solve for fluid flow behavior. The software offers a range of options for analyzing fluid flow, including incompressible and compressible flow, laminar and turbulent flow, and steady-state and transient flow.

Fluid flow analysis in ANSYS AIM and Sustain enables engineers to evaluate the behavior of fluids within a given geometry, study the effects of different flow conditions, and optimize designs for better performance. The software provides visualizations of fluid flow behavior, such as streamlines, velocity contours, pressure distributions, and mass flow rates, allowing engineers to gain insights into the fluid dynamics of their designs.

Structural Analysis

ANSYS AIM and Sustain also offer powerful tools for performing structural analysis. Engineers can import or create geometry, define material properties, generate meshes, Apply boundary conditions and loads, and solve for stress and deformation behaviors. The software supports various types of structural analyses, including static, dynamic, thermal, and modal analyses.

With ANSYS AIM and Sustain, engineers can evaluate the structural integrity of their designs, optimize designs for strength and stiffness, and predict the behavior of structures under different loading conditions. The software provides visualizations of stress and deformation behaviors, such as equivalent stress distributions, displacement contours, and mode shapes, enabling engineers to assess the performance and reliability of their designs.

Multi-Physics Simulations

One of the unique capabilities of ANSYS AIM and Sustain is their ability to perform multi-physics simulations. Engineers can combine fluid flow analysis with structural analysis to study fluid-structure interactions and analyze complex engineering problems involving coupled physics. The software allows for the transfer of results from fluid flow simulations to structural simulations, enabling engineers to understand the effects of fluid forces on structural behavior.

Multi-physics simulations in ANSYS AIM and Sustain enable engineers to study the interactions between fluid flow and structural behavior, optimize designs for performance and durability, and gain deeper insights into complex engineering problems. By considering the coupling between different physics, engineers can make more informed design decisions and improve the overall performance of their products.

Key Features of ANSYS AIM and Sustain

Integrated Geometry Modeling

ANSYS AIM and Sustain provide integrated geometry modeling capabilities, allowing engineers to create and modify geometries directly within the software. The integrated geometry modeling environment, powered by ANSYS SpaceClaim, offers a range of tools for creating, editing, and preparing geometries for analysis. Engineers can import geometry from various CAD systems, make edits and changes, and prepare assemblies or parts for analysis.

The integrated geometry modeling environment in ANSYS AIM and Sustain simplifies the process of creating fluid flow volumes, applying parameters, and editing geometries. It provides an intuitive interface that allows engineers to work on geometries efficiently and effectively, eliminating the need for separate CAD software and streamlining the simulation process.

Automation and Customization

ANSYS AIM and Sustain offer automation and customization features that enable engineers to streamline their simulation workflows and tailor the software to their specific needs. The software provides predefined templates and workflows for different analysis types, guiding users through the simulation process. Engineers can customize these templates or create their own templates to standardize best practices and methodologies within their organizations.

The automation and customization capabilities of ANSYS AIM and Sustain allow engineers to automate repetitive tasks, reduce manual errors, and enhance productivity. By creating custom templates, engineers can ensure that the analysis process follows specific guidelines and incorporates domain expertise. This makes it easier for designers and engineers with limited simulation experience to perform accurate and reliable simulations, leading to improved product performance and reduced time to market.

Design Exploration and Optimization

ANSYS AIM and Sustain provide capabilities for design exploration and optimization, allowing engineers to evaluate different design alternatives, improve designs, and optimize product performance. The software supports parameterization of CAD geometries and simulation inputs, enabling engineers to create design points and study the effects of changing design and simulation variables.

Design exploration and optimization in ANSYS AIM and Sustain enable engineers to perform what-if scenarios, assess the impact of design changes on simulation results, and identify optimal designs Based on predefined performance criteria. With the ability to automate simulations and analyze a large number of design points, engineers can iterate through the design process more efficiently, leading to better design decisions and improved product performance.

In the next sections, we will provide step-by-step instructions on using ANSYS AIM and Sustain for fluid flow analysis and structural analysis, as well as information on customizing templates and extensions.

Note: Pros and cons are not applicable for this section.

Using ANSYS AIM and Sustain for Fluid Flow Analysis

Importing Geometry

To perform fluid flow analysis in ANSYS AIM and Sustain, the first step is to import or create the geometry of the system under analysis. ANSYS AIM and Sustain support various CAD systems, allowing users to import geometry files directly into the software. Alternatively, users can create geometry within the integrated geometry modeling environment using the tools provided by ANSYS SpaceClaim.

Once the geometry is imported or created, users can Visualize the geometry and make any necessary edits or modifications. ANSYS AIM and Sustain provide a range of geometry editing tools, such as creating fluid flow volumes, adding or suppressing components, and applying geometry constraints. By utilizing these tools, users can ensure that the geometry is suitable for fluid flow analysis.

Meshing and Boundary Conditions

After the geometry is prepared, the next step is to generate the mesh. ANSYS AIM and Sustain offer automatic meshing capabilities, allowing users to quickly generate meshes that are suitable for fluid flow analysis. The software provides options for controlling mesh resolution, refining the mesh in specific regions, and applying inflation criteria for accurate boundary layer representation.

Once the mesh is generated, users need to define the boundary conditions for the fluid flow analysis. This includes specifying the fluid properties, such as density and viscosity, and setting up the inlet and outlet conditions. ANSYS AIM and Sustain provide user-friendly interfaces for assigning materials, specifying boundary conditions, and configuring the physics settings for fluid flow analysis.

Solving the Fluid Flow

With the geometry prepared and the boundary conditions defined, users can proceed to solve the fluid flow analysis. ANSYS AIM and Sustain utilize the advanced solvers from ANSYS to accurately compute the fluid flow behavior within the system. The software supports both steady-state and transient fluid flow simulations, allowing users to study the time-dependent behavior of fluid flow phenomena.

The solving process usually takes some time, depending on the complexity of the geometry and the physics settings. ANSYS AIM and Sustain provide progress indicators and status updates to keep users informed about the solving progress. Once the fluid flow analysis is complete, users can proceed to analyze the results and gain insights into the flow behavior.

Analyzing the Results

ANSYS AIM and Sustain offer various visualization tools to help users analyze the results of the fluid flow analysis. Users can visualize streamlines, velocity contours, pressure distributions, and other Relevant flow parameters to gain insights into the flow behavior. The software provides interactive tools for exploring the results, such as animation, slicing, and probe points, allowing users to extract detailed information from the simulation results.

In addition to visualizations, ANSYS AIM and Sustain also provide quantitative data, such as mass flow rates, pressure drops, and forces. Users can generate reports, export data, and share the results with colleagues or clients. The software allows for in-depth analysis of the fluid flow behavior and facilitates informed decision-making in the design process.

Parameterizing Design Points

One of the key features of ANSYS AIM and Sustain is the ability to parameterize design points and perform design exploration studies. Users can define design variables, such as Dimensions, material properties, and boundary conditions, and perform simulations for different design points. By varying these design variables and analyzing the corresponding simulation results, users can gain insights into the sensitivity of the design to different parameters.

Parameterizing design points in ANSYS AIM and Sustain enables users to explore different design alternatives, evaluate their performance, and optimize the system for specific objectives. The software provides tools for organizing and managing design points, allowing users to easily compare results, generate reports, and make informed design decisions.

In the next section, we will discuss how to use ANSYS AIM and Sustain for structural analysis, including importing geometry, applying loads and constraints, generating meshes, solving the analysis, and analyzing the results.

Note: Pros and cons are not applicable for this section.

Using ANSYS AIM and Sustain for Structural Analysis

Importing Geometry and Applying Loads

To perform structural analysis in ANSYS AIM and Sustain, users need to import or create the geometry of the system they want to analyze. Similar to fluid flow analysis, ANSYS AIM and Sustain support various CAD systems and allow users to import geometry files or create geometry within the integrated geometry modeling environment.

Once the geometry is imported or created, users need to apply loads and constraints to simulate the system under specific conditions. ANSYS AIM and Sustain provide user-friendly interfaces for applying loads, such as forces, pressures, temperatures, and displacements. Users can also define constraints, such as fixed supports, sliding connections, and flexible joints, to accurately model the system's behavior.

Meshing and Material Assignment

After applying loads and constraints, users need to generate the mesh for the structural analysis. ANSYS AIM and Sustain offer automatic meshing capabilities, allowing users to generate meshes that are suitable for structural analysis. The software provides options for controlling mesh resolution, refining the mesh in specific regions, and applying mesh controls to accurately capture the system's behavior.

Once the mesh is generated, users need to assign material properties to the geometry. ANSYS AIM and Sustain provide a materials library with a wide range of predefined materials, such as metals, plastics, composites, and fluids. Users can also define their own material properties and save them for future use. Material assignment in ANSYS AIM and Sustain ensures that the structural analysis accurately reflects the system's material behavior.

Solving the Structural Analysis

With the geometry prepared, loads and constraints applied, and the mesh generated, users can proceed to solve the structural analysis. ANSYS AIM and Sustain utilize the advanced solvers from ANSYS to accurately compute the stress and deformation behavior of the system. The software supports various types of structural analyses, including static, dynamic, thermal, and modal analyses.

The solving process in ANSYS AIM and Sustain may take some time, depending on the complexity of the geometry, the physics settings, and the desired accuracy. The software provides progress indicators and status updates to keep users informed about the solving progress. Once the structural analysis is complete, users can proceed to analyze the results and gain insights into the system's behavior.

Analyzing the Results

ANSYS AIM and Sustain offer various visualization tools to help users analyze the results of the structural analysis. Users can visualize stress distributions, deformation contours, mode shapes, and other relevant structural parameters to gain insights into the system's behavior. The software provides interactive tools for exploring the results, such as animation, sectioning, and probe points, allowing users to extract detailed information from the simulation results.

In addition to visualizations, ANSYS AIM and Sustain also provide quantitative data, such as maximum stresses, displacements, natural frequencies, and mode shapes. Users can generate reports, export data, and share the results with colleagues or clients. The software allows for in-depth analysis of the structural behavior and facilitates informed decision-making in the design process.

Parameterizing Design Points

Similar to fluid flow analysis, users can parameterize design points in ANSYS AIM and Sustain for structural analysis. Users can define design variables, such as dimensions, material properties, and load magnitudes, and perform simulations for different design points. By varying these design variables and analyzing the corresponding simulation results, users can gain insights into the sensitivity of the design to different parameters.

Parameterizing design points in ANSYS AIM and Sustain enables users to explore different design alternatives, evaluate their performance, and optimize the system for specific objectives. The software provides tools for organizing and managing design points, allowing users to easily compare results, generate reports, and make informed design decisions.

In the next section, we will discuss how to customize templates and extensions in ANSYS AIM and Sustain to tailor the software to specific needs and workflows.

Note: Pros and cons are not applicable for this section.

Customizing Templates and Extensions

ANSYS AIM and Sustain offer customization options to tailor the software to specific needs and workflows. Users can customize existing templates, create new templates, and even download extensions from the ANSYS Application Store to enhance the software's capabilities.

Downloading and Installing Extensions

The ANSYS Application Store provides a range of extensions that users can download and install to extend the functionality of ANSYS AIM and Sustain. These extensions include additional templates, tools, and features that can be integrated into the software's existing capabilities.

To download and install extensions from the ANSYS Application Store, users can visit the store's Website, browse the available extensions, and select the ones that meet their requirements. Once downloaded, users can install the extensions by following the provided installation instructions. The extensions will then become accessible within ANSYS AIM and Sustain, enhancing the software's capabilities for specific analysis types or industry applications.

Creating Custom Templates

ANSYS AIM and Sustain allow users to create custom templates to standardize best practices and methodologies within their organizations. Users can create templates for specific analysis types, design processes, or industry standards, and customize them to meet their specific requirements.

To create a custom template, users can utilize the scripting and customization features in ANSYS AIM and Sustain. These features, based on IronPython scripting and XML, allow users to define additional tasks, workflows, inputs, and outputs for their templates. Users can create workflows that guide users through specific analysis processes, automate repetitive tasks, and ensure consistent analysis configurations.

By creating custom templates, users can ensure that their engineering simulation workflows follow specific guidelines and incorporate domain expertise. Custom templates can be shared among team members, facilitating collaboration and standardizing analysis practices within the organization.

Conclusion

ANSYS AIM and Sustain are powerful engineering simulation software that provide an integrated solution for 3D engineering simulation. They offer a comprehensive set of tools for fluid flow analysis, structural analysis, and multi-physics simulations, enabling engineers to optimize designs, evaluate alternatives, and improve product performance.

With ANSYS AIM and Sustain, engineers can perform complex engineering simulations without the need for extensive simulation expertise. The software provides predefined templates and workflows, as well as automation and customization capabilities, making it accessible to engineers of all levels of expertise. Whether it's fluid flow analysis, structural analysis, or multi-physics simulations, ANSYS AIM and Sustain offer a user-friendly interface and powerful simulation capabilities to meet a wide range of engineering needs.

By utilizing ANSYS AIM and Sustain, engineers can streamline their simulation workflows, increase productivity, and enhance product performance. The software enables engineers to perform in-depth analyses, explore design alternatives, and optimize designs for specific objectives. With the ability to customize templates and utilize extensions, users can tailor the software to their specific needs and workflows, improving efficiency and accuracy in the engineering simulation process.

In conclusion, ANSYS AIM and Sustain provide engineers with the tools they need to simulate and analyze complex engineering problems, make informed design decisions, and optimize product performance. With its user-friendly interface, powerful simulation capabilities, and customization options, ANSYS AIM and Sustain are a valuable asset for engineers in various industries.

For more information about ANSYS AIM and Sustain or to request a demo, please contact your account representatives at Tristar or visit the ANSYS website. Harness the power of engineering simulation with ANSYS AIM and Sustain and take your product designs to the next level.

Note: Pros and cons are not applicable for this section.

Highlights

• ANSYS AIM and Sustain are integrated engineering simulation solutions.
• They offer comprehensive tools for fluid flow analysis, structural analysis, and multi-physics simulations.
• ANSYS AIM and Sustain provide a user-friendly interface and automation features for efficient simulations.
• Customization options allow users to create templates and integrate extensions for tailored workflows.
• Design exploration and optimization capabilities enable users to evaluate design alternatives and optimize product performance.

FAQs

Q: What is the difference between ANSYS AIM and Sustain? A: ANSYS AIM and Sustain are different products within the ANSYS simulation suite. AIM focuses on integrated engineering simulation, while Sustain is specifically designed for sustainable design and analysis. Both products offer similar capabilities but cater to different industry needs.

Q: Can ANSYS AIM and Sustain perform multiphysics simulations? A: Yes, ANSYS AIM and Sustain support multiphysics simulations, allowing users to analyze fluid-structure interactions and other coupled physics problems. The software enables the transfer of results between different simulations, facilitating accurate analysis of complex engineering systems.

Q: Can ANSYS AIM and Sustain be customized for specific workflows? A: Yes, ANSYS AIM and Sustain provide customization options, allowing users to tailor the software to their specific needs and workflows. Users can create custom templates, define additional tasks and workflows, and integrate extensions from the ANSYS Application Store to enhance the software's capabilities.

Q: Can ANSYS AIM and Sustain be integrated with other CAD systems? A: Yes, ANSYS AIM and Sustain support integration with various CAD systems, allowing users to import geometry directly into the software. The software provides tools for geometry editing and preparation, making it easy to work with CAD models and analyze complex engineering systems.

Q: Can ANSYS AIM and Sustain be used by engineers with limited simulation experience? A: Yes, ANSYS AIM and Sustain aim to make engineering simulation accessible to engineers of all levels of expertise. The software provides predefined templates, user-friendly interfaces, and automation features, enabling engineers with limited simulation experience to perform accurate and reliable simulations.