COSMOSWorks Basic Course

This course addresses the needs of SolidWorks users who wish to use the Finite Element Analysis (FEA) package COSMOSWorks concurrently with CAD to support the product design process and replace physical prototyping with FEA simulation. It combines an overview of FEA theory with hands-on examples illustrating both the FEA theory and software specific functions of COSMOS/Works.

The course covers the entire analysis process starting from CAD model, creating the mathematical model, meshing, solving and ending with the analysis of results. Participants review applicable FEA modeling techniques, use of different element types, accuracy of FEA results, types of analyses in FEA as well as commonly encountered traps and misconceptions. The computer hands-on training is complemented by overview of FEA management is also included. The course covers the types of analyses most commonly performed during the concurrent CADFEA process: linear static, modal, contact stress, buckling and thermal analyses as well as structural optimizations studies.

Outline

The following topics are covered in the course:

• Review of basic concepts in FEA and their implications on FEA accuracy
• The FEA process: from CAD model to FEA results
• Mathematical model and modeling errors
• Discretization errors and meshing problems
• Influence of meshing on quality of results
• Types of finite elements
• Element quality and mesh controls
• Solution methods
• Useful modeling techniques
• Benchmarking in FEA
• Structural optimization with FEA
• Interfacing with CAD
• Iterative Design-FEA process
• FEA management and quality assurance
• Common misconceptions and traps of the FEA

Prerequisites

Students attending this course are expected to have the following

• Attended SolidWorks Essentials
• Mechanical/Industrial design experience
• Reviewed the following SolidWorks on-line tutorials:
  • Advanced design
  • COSMOSXpress