DesignSpace R6.1 New Features

What’s New in DesignSpace 6.1?

DesignSpace 6.1 has been released and has many new and impressive features. Old features have been improved as well.

ANSYS Geometry Processor, AGP (add-on module)

The AGP is a solid modeller that works as a plug-in for DesignSpace. It can produce parts and assemblies and has full parameter exchange with DesignSpace. The AGP is not a 3D-CAD system, it is developed for companies who are not using any 3D-CAD today but still need a powerful solid modeler for FEA-analysis. The software reads Parasolid (.x_t) and ACIS (.sat) files. It exports AGP database, Parasolid and ANSYS Neutral format (.anf). The AGP is the perfect tool for the analysis department that needs to do smaller changes of a CAD-model to make it more suitable for analysis.

DesignXplorer (add-on module)

With DesignSpace 6.0, ANSYS introduced parametric simulations. DesignXplorer take parametric simulations to a whole new level. This add-on module gives the user the possibility to study different parameters importance for a specific result (for example deformation or stress). By entering the upper and lower limit of one or more parameters you allow the software to do a number of simulations. Based on these simulations you get graphs as 2D curves or 3D response surfaces. You may then just adjust the value of a parameter and the graphs update instantly. This is the tool for companies who really aim for optimised designs.

Graphic window splitter

The user now has the possibility to split the graphic widow in 1,2 or 4 parts. This makes it possible to view result of different designs at the same time to compare solutions or to view the loads at the same time as you view the results.

Eigenvalue buckling analysis

Normally, in linear elastic structures, deformation is proportional to the applied load. Buckling occurs at a point where the structure continues to deform without any increase in loading. DesignSpace determines the multiplication factors (or eigenvalues) for the load that will make a structure buckle. In general only the lowest buckling mode is of interest, since the structure will fail before reaching any of the higher-order buckling modes. Therefore, usually only the lowest eigenvalue needs to be computed. This analysis also provides the shape of the buckled structure.

Modal stress, strain and deformation

In the previous release, DesignSpace was able to perform a modal analysis to determine the vibration characteristics (natural frequencies and mode shapes) of parts and assemblies to guard against self-destruction induced by relatively small, repetitive loads at key frequencies. Now, stress, strain and deformation results for natural frequencies can be determined. This is useful in comparing relative distributions of stress to plan for removal of material to meet frequency control, as well as weight requirement.

Contour display

Colour contour result plots can now be viewed as capped section contour displays or capped isosurface displays. This display capability allows for viewing internal results of parts that were not visible from an exterior vantage before.

Database size

The size of the database is approximately 50 % smaller. 

Distance tools