In this blog series we are debunking 5 myths of multi-body dynamics. In this first blog, we address the myth that MBD simulation is motion analysis.
Multibody Dynamics (MBD) simulation stretches far beyond merely simulating the motion of constrained mechanisms. It lays the foundation for collaborative systems development and serves as a basis for various stakeholders in the dynamic system design process to base engineering decisions. Ultimately, it is an avenue to realize the potential of an engineered system to its fullest.
The breadth and depth of MBD simulation applications can be visualized concisely by considering frequencies and amplitudes of engineering interest. Consider the engineering of an automotive vehicle, for example. Simulations of vehicle handling are primarily focused on low-frequency responses associated with vehicle events, such as vehicle cornering.
At the other end of the spectrum, applications simulating vehicle ride and NVH (Noise, Vibration & Harshness) characteristics capture phenomena related to higher frequencies and lower amplitudes. These include vehicle responses to bumps on the road or the impact of drivetrain vibrations on the occupant. Durability engineers work across the frequency spectrum to study the effect of the various ride, handling, and NVH design attributes on vehicle loads.
The frequency characteristics of interest dictate the fidelity required in the MBD model. In general, the higher the frequency response, the higher the model fidelity needed. In order to manage these different use cases centrally, the more advanced MBD simulation solutions now incorporate multiple vehicle configurations in a single model assembly and multiple configurations within a single sub-system.
A single model database can be created that represents vehicle configurations to various levels of fidelity (flexible, beam, rigid) and tailored to specific frequency responses (handling, ride, durability). This approach makes it possible to efficiently maintain those configurations as the model is enriched and refined with new data and improvements from all parties.
Multibody Dynamics simulations are today utilized by engineers to develop the most complicated mechanical systems known to man. They are an indispensable tool in the engineering development arsenal to study various system responses, manage trade-offs while operating within product constraints, and realize an engineered product to its fullest potential.
To learn more about myths associated with Multibody Dynamics simulations, read the White Paper, Debunking the Five Myths of Multibody Dynamics Simulations.
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