September/October 2006 Summer 2006

Vol. IX

________________ ________________ ________________

Danas Engineering Strategy ABAQUS/CAE Enhances Productivity and Visualization PSA Peugeot Citron Designs PSA Peugeot ExploresExplores Designs Using ABAQUS for CATIA V5 Using ABAQUS for CATIA V5 AUC 2007 Call for Papers AUC 2007 Call for Papers

ABAQUS INSIGHTS is published by

In this issue:
1 2 3-4 5-6 7-9 10 11-13 14 15 16 17-18 ABAQUS Training Schedule and Web Seminars Letter from CTO: A Passion for Solving Real Problems ABAQUS In the News Product Updates Danas Engineering Strategy PolyOil Designs Lightweight, Durable Offshore Oil Equipment PSA Peugeot Citron Explores Designs Using ABAQUS for CATIA V5 Ghent University Simulates Realistic Balloon Stent Deployment University Program News ABAQUS Alliance Partners News ABAQUS Users' Conference Updates

Rising Sun Mills 166 Valley Street, Providence, RI 02909-2499 Tel. +1 401 276-4400 Fax. +1 401 276-4408 info@abaqus.com

WWW.ABAQUS.COM
Editor: Tim Webb Contributors: Karen Curtis Jan Demone Karen Donovan, The Parker Group Bruce Engelmann Asif Khan Marc Schrank Subham Sett Production Manager: Laura Wistow

Copyright 2006 ABAQUS, Inc. All rights reserved. The following are trademarks or registered trademarks of ABAQUS, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Dassault Systmes: ABAQUS, ABAQUS/Standard, ABAQUS/Explicit, ABAQUS/CAE, ABAQUS for CATIA V5, and the ABAQUS logo. The 3DS logo and SIMULIA are trademarks or registered trademarks of Dassault Systmes. Other company, product, and service names may be trademarks or service marks of their respective owners.

ABAQUS Training Schedule

ABAQUS offers a variety of training seminars to help customers use our products successfully. These seminars range from introductory to advanced analysis, covering specific topics and applications. To view the worldwide course schedule and to register for a course, visit www.abaqus.com/support/sup_training_sched.html.

ABAQUS Web Seminars

Live Web Seminars*: September 19, 21 Accelerate Medical Device Development October 9, 12 November 28, 30
*Dates subject to change.

Improve Simulation Accuracy with Adaptive Remeshing in ABAQUS Avionics Simulation with ABAQUS

Replays of Past Web Seminars: ABAQUS Version 6.6 Update Web Seminar - Part 1 and 2 ABAQUS for CATIA V5 Version 2.3 Update

Register for these and other free web seminars at www.abaqus.com/webinars.

L E T T R R R A N E E T TR R RA A AI AI IN I T T TR RA A AI IN IN NI NI IN NG R RA RA AI IN IN NI IN IN NG NG G S A AI IN IN NI IN IN NG G G S S S C I N N G S S C C C H N NI IN IN ING G G S S C C H H H E IN N G G S SC C CH H HE E E ED D N G G S SC SC CH H HE ED ED DU DU DU UL G S SC C H H E E D L L U S SC CH H HE ED ED DU DU UL UL LE LE E T E T C H E E D U U D L L E E H T T R H E ED DU U UL LE LE E E T T TR R RA AI A R E DU U L LE E D T T TR R A AI IN IN N L E U UL LE E T TR TR RA RA AI AIN IN NI IN IN LE E T T R A A I IN N I IN N G G I N G I N R A T TR TR RA AI IN INI NIN IN IN NG G G S S R G G A I N I N S S C C A AIN AIN IN NIN IN NG G G S S S SC CH CH HE C IN IN IN IN G G S SC CH CH H HE ED ED I N NG G G G S SC SC CH HE E ED ED DU U G S S S C H H E D D U U L S SC C CH CH HE ED ED DU UL UL LE LE C H H E E U L E E

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TRAINING SCHEDULE
North America Schedule of Classes

JuneDecember 2006

A Passion for Solving Real Problems Drives Our FEA Strategy

These are exciting times at ABAQUS. Our enduring commitment to produce the highest quality finite element-based software tools, backed by the best support and services, continues to help our customers succeed. Our passion for technology and innovation keeps us at the forefront of software development. And advancements made in FEA software technology and computer hardware are now leading us into an era of realistic simulation, where all significant aspects of a physical system are modeled from first principles. A primary benefit of realistic simulation is that engineers can get insight into product performance that would otherwise be impossible because of the increased fidelity and predictive nature of the calculation. What are the important factors in making realistic simulation a reality? I would nominate three: a multidisciplinary approach to advanced physics modeling, a strategy for exploiting improvements in highperformance computing, and a passion for advancing technology that makes a positive impact on society. In the early days of FEA software, ABAQUS made its mark with highly accurate physics modeling. Nonlinear material response, such as plasticity and creep, and industry-leading contact formulations constitute the heart of our software. As ABAQUS has grown, weve expanded our focus on highly accurate physics modeling to include more and more physical phenomena, an essential ingredient for realistic simulation. A few of our recent and ongoing technology initiatives are co-simulation functionality for fluid-structure interaction, material damage and failure modeling, articulated system response through connector elements, and adaptive remeshing for nonlinear accuracy control. Most of this advanced capability is enabled via the sophisticated yet easy-to-use interactive modeling environment of ABAQUS/CAE, which provides the most comprehensive coverage of advanced ABAQUS functionality available on the market (see page 6). ABAQUS is also taking advantage of high-performance computing. Improvements in software and hardware performance over the past 30 years have enabled larger and larger models to run to completion. Digital models now include tremendous detail, which enables analysis at the system or product level and drastically reduces the number of engineering assumptions. Our customers sometimes create model sizes that outstrip even todays vast hardware capabilities, so it is imperative that we continue to deliver innovative solutions for performance. In recent years we have greatly improved the ability of both ABAQUS/Explicit and ABAQUS/Standard to scale to large numbers of processors through parallel execution. With ABAQUS/Standard Version 6.6 we released a DMP sparse solver for the first time, and initial reports of DMP performance are very good. You can expect even better scalability and reduced memory usage in upcoming releases. Other highlights include leveraging multicore chip technology, high-performance network interconnects for clusters, software architecture and database improvements, and better I/O performance. We will continue to focus on delivering realistic simulation enabled by advanced FEA technology in which high-performance computing for large models is a critical component. As far as passion, ABAQUS has plenty. It sparks new discoveries and reveals elegant solutions. ABAQUS developers excel at creating software that allows our customers to evolve their methods and improve the accuracy and usefulness of their simulations. Our customers are equally passionate. From your requests for enhancements, it is obvious that you love to push the envelope and drive the evolution of our software tools. We are fortunate that you are also very willing to share your experience and knowledge, not only at our international users conference and regional users meetings, but at many important industrial conferences and forums around the world (see page 18). As I write today, our development team is hard at work on many new projects, such as finalizing the new ABAQUS Version 6.6 Extended Functionality release (see page 5), building the next full release of ABAQUS Version 6.7, and planning for ABAQUS Version 6.8 and beyond. As we work to meet your requirements, the specifics of our development investments may vary but we remain committed to the advancement of finite element technology and processes with the overall goal of delivering realistic simulation. Lastly, I want to know this: Are you taking advantage of the many feature enhancements and performance improvements in ABAQUS Version 6.6? We know it can be hard for users to keep up to date on all of the changes and new features, so I encourage you to attend your Regional Users Meetings to learn more about the newest product release and our ongoing plans. I hope you are as enthusiastic as I am about our recent technology innovations. I can assure you that bigger and better things are yet to come! Very truly yours,

Bruce Engelmann CTO

ABAQUS In the News

Desktop Engineering February 2006, pages 34-37 FEA Moves into Uncharted Waters Ken Short, Vice President of Strategy and Marketing for ABAQUS, Inc., talks about unified FEA in this overview article on advanced simulation by contributing editor Louise Elliott. The idea is to break away from individual silos of products, tools, and user skills, he notes. The automotive world wants to get as close as possible to using a single model for all simulation. Automotive Engineering International March 2006, pages 81-83 Advancing Crashworthiness Simulation This article by Marc Schrank, Director of Product Management for ABAQUS, describes a longstanding collaboration between ABAQUS and BMW in developing software for simulating automotive crashworthiness. He notes that a physical crash test can be carried out only once, but simulation allows engineers to perform thousands of virtual crash tests to better understand vehicle and occupant behavior. The project started in 1999 with the development of a crushable foam material model. In 2005, BMW chose ABAQUS for all future crashworthiness simulation. NASA Tech Briefs March 2006, pages 55-56 Buckling and Fracture Analysis of Composite Skin-Stringer Panel Using VCCT and FEA Software One of the main failure modes for the skin of an aircraft is buckling, writes Kyle Indermuehle, Manager of ABAQUS Aerospace Industry Solutions. This technical essay on simulating composite structures describes experimental testing that an Australian research lab performed on an aircraft skin-stringer panel. Analysts then used ABAQUS to model the panel and stringer and to predict the structures behavior under load with good correlation to real-world results. European Automotive Design March 2006, pages 34-38 Sounding Off In this comprehensive article, reporter Jeff Daniels surveys the current challenges that automakers face in eliminating noise, vibration, and harshness from the driving experience. The days are gone, he says, when noise engineers, armed with a stethoscope, used to travel in the boots of new models. The first page of the article features a vibration mode image from ABAQUS of a 9 kHz squeal on a Delphi front disc brake. Mechanical Engineering May 2006, page 22 Plastics Push Offshore This case study about UK-based PolyOil Ltd. describes the use of ABAQUS software to simulate the behavior of downhole equipment for offshore oil drilling. PolyOils cast polymer umbilical clamp has a lower coefficient of friction and weighs half as much as a metal clamp. Analysis of the clamp, performed by the British firm AMEC-NNC, helped PolyOil verify that its product would prove durable in one of the toughest industrial environments on earth (page 10). Desktop Engineering March 2006, pages 16-19 Analyzing Analysis, Part 2 Contributing editor Pamela Waterman takes on a host of topics in this broad overview on the relationship between CAD and FEA. She quotes Dale Berry, Director of Industry Solutions at ABAQUS, on the topic of application-specific GUIs devised by analysts for use during product design. I think this approach will continue to be the bridge between advanced FEA workflows and the needs of the typical designer, he says.

Adhsion March 2006, pages 14-18 (German language) Adhesives are becoming ever more popular in automotive design. This increase in use requires the evaluation of adhesive behavior under crash-type loading. Good correlation between experiment and simulation can be reached only if damage and failure of the adhesive is taken into account. In this article DOW Automotives describes the successful calibration of the physical behavior of their adhesive BETAMATE using the porous metal plasticity model in ABAQUS/Explicit, which is based on Gursons theory. Share Your Stories
If you would like to have your case study published in the press, send an e-mail with a brief description of your application to info@abaqus.com. See more stories at www.abaqus.com/news.

Yokohama Co-Develops New Technology to Quiet Tire Noise

Realize the Tire Acoustic Resonance Prediction during the driving condition

Acoustic resonance of the tire cavity is a significant contributor to vehicle interior noise. This effect is more pronounced when passing over certain road Bio-Information features such as the seam Measurement line of the road. As the tire Attached to the Vehicle interacts with the road surface, the vibration causes a resonance of the air inside the tire cavity. This vibration is transferred through the vehicle supension to the body and to various parts of the vehicle. The acoustic resonance of a tire is strongly influenced by the vehicle speed and the deformation of the tire structure. Yokohama Rubber Co. Ltd. has announced that, together with ABAQUS, it has jointly developed new simulation technology for predicting the acoustic resonance within a tire under real driving conditions. Up until now, coupled structural-acoustic analysis was only capable of simulating the tire under stationary conditions. It is believed that this is the first time the technology has been capable of predicting the acoustic cavity resonance of the tire against its driving speed under realistic driving conditions. This technology adds new capability to Multi-Scale Simulation, a part of Yokohamas Third-Generation Design Infrastructure Technology, which was announced in May, 2005.

Flowchart of Multi-Scale Simulation using the new technology

Macro-Scale Micro-Scale

Meso-Scale

Multi-Scale Simulation is Nano-Scale capable of not only simulating the stand-alone tire but also includes the effect from passenger, vehicle, road condition, tire structure, and compounds and polymers to predict the behavior of the overall tire system. This technology will enable Yokohama to predict the true tire performance under the real conditions and to significantly improve the design accuracy and flexibility of the tire to create a quieter ride.

For more information, visit www.abaqus.com/tire. To learn more about Yokohama Rubber Company, visit www.yrc.co.jp.

New VP of Worldwide Operations

Scott Berkey has joined ABAQUS as Vice President, Worldwide Operations. He will provide strategic and operational direction for global sales, services, and field technical support functions. Scott has an impressive business background in engineering technology and enterprise collaboration, said Mark Goldstein, CEO of SIMULIA. His leadership and knowledge will assist ABAQUS and the SIMULIA brand in achieving our growth objectives. ABAQUS has an excellent reputation for technology, quality, and customer support, said Berkey. I look forward to providing the right solutions to our customers that will enable them to extend the benefits of simulation across their organizations. Berkey comes to ABAQUS after serving as CEO of Axentis, Inc., a developer of enterprise management software. Prior to this, he was president and CEO at Proficiency Ltd, a provider of product data integration and engineering collaboration software. Berkey has also held executive-level positions at SDRC, including responsibilities for the Asia/Pacific region, Metaphase operations, and North American sales. Berkey earned a B.S. degree in Applied Science at Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, and an M.B.A. degree at Xavier University, Cincinnati, Ohio.

Richard Boger Selected as Inventive Young Engineer

Richard Boger of the ABAQUS Central office in West Lafayette, Indiana, has been recognized by the National Academy of Engineering (NAE) as one of the United States brightest young engineers; and he will participate in the NAEs 12th annual Frontiers of Engineering symposium in Dearborn, Michigan. During the nomination process, Richard submitted details on a multidisciplinary project that involved collaboration between industry and academia to determine how microscopic details of material structure can have practical implications to metal forming processes. The engineering profession has an obligation to use our intelligence and creativity to solve the worlds real problems, said Richard, senior engineer for ABAQUS. This is what makes working for ABAQUS so exciting. Through our daily activities, we are truly equipping the worlds engineers with the tools and methods they need to improve society. Richard is part of an exceptional group of engineers from organizations such as 3M, Alcoa, Boeing, Intel, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Microsoft, Motorola, and Sandia National Labs. They will gather to discuss how multiple fields can collaborate to solve complex problems. They will also examine issues surrounding nanotechnology-biology interfaces, intelligent software systems and machines, supply chain management, and personal mobility.

New ABAQUS Extended Functionality Release Makes New Features Available More Quickly
This year we are introducing a new type of ABAQUS release that is intended to get new and improved features into your hands for production usage more quickly. We are calling this the ABAQUS Extended Functionality release. The first such release is referred to as ABAQUS Version 6.6-EF1. If you have used ABAQUS products for a number of years, you are probably familiar with our annual release cycle-approximately once a year a general ABAQUS release is distributed (for example, ABAQUS Version 6.6-1), with subsequent maintenance releases (such as ABAQUS Version 6.6-2, etc.) made available in the months before the next general release. Each general release includes new and improved features and performance gains, while maintenance release content is strictly limited to addressing bugs that have been identified, along with incorporating additional supported compute platforms. During any release cycle, development for the next general release is well underway even before the current general release is made available. For example, while ABAQUS Version 6.6-1 started shipping in April 2006, the ABAQUS Version 6.7 development cycle had already begun in October 2005. There are dozens of development projects that are carried out over the course of each development cycle, some that span the entire cycle, and others that are much shorter in duration and completed several months ahead of the general release. The ABAQUS Extended Functionality release is designed to take advantage of these already completed features and to make them available to you in a fully tested and fully supported release, prior to the next general release. Thus, ABAQUS Version 6.6-EF1 will be released in Q4 2006, with enhancements provided for both the analysis products (ABAQUS/Standard and ABAQUS/Explicit) as well as ABAQUS/CAE. A sampling of enhancements includes: Fully integrated shell and solid elements in ABAQUS/Explicit Improvements to the DMP sparse solver in ABAQUS/Standard Improved support of functional distributions for loads and boundary conditions in ABAQUS/CAE We plan to present these enhancements, as well as to address questions that we anticipate will arise, in a lecture at the Regional Users Meetings being held throughout the world over the next few months. We encourage you to contact your local ABAQUS office or representative and to register for the user meeting in your region (see the schedule on page 18). If you do not see an immediate need for the new and improved features in the ABAQUS Extended Functionality release, you can continue to work productively within ABAQUS Version 6.6 releases (the Version 6.6-1 general release and its subsequent maintenance releases). All enhancements available in Version 6.6-EF1, along with many others, will be available in ABAQUS Version 6.7-1, which is planned for release in Q2 2007.

Using the extended functional distributions capabilities in ABAQUS/CAE Version 6.6-EF1, a wide range of spatially varying attributes including surface heat flux can be defined on parts such as this exhaust manifold.

The ABAQUS Extended Functionality release will be shipped to customers as requested on a customer-by-customer basis. Please contact your local ABAQUS office or representative if you believe that the ABAQUS Version 6.6 Extended Functionality release will improve your application of ABAQUS products, and arrangements will be made to ship the release to you.

ABAQUS for CATIA V5 Version 2.3 Now Available

The latest release of ABAQUS for CATIA V5 extends its ability to deploy advanced ABAQUS methods as proven workflows across the enterprise. The newest release leverages the latest technology in ABAQUS Version 6.6 and CATIA V5 R16 to deepen its analysis capabilities, with particular emphasis on new enhancements in contact modeling, connections, and usability. ABAQUS for CATIA V5 Version 2.3: Provides access to complete functionality of ABAQUS Version 6.6 performance improvements. Takes advantage of ABAQUS Version 6.6 contact capabilities, including the ability to model applications involving large sliding between parts, using the surface-to-surface formulation. Usability enhancements include the ability to view some or all of the parts in a complex contact analysis, which can assist in confirming the selection of contact surfaces. Leverages the weld modeling functionality of CATIA V5 to enable rapid definition of a large number of rigid or flexible connections, such as spot, seam, and surface welds. Enables the modeling of shell structures with continuum shell elements, which permits the use of the actual CAD geometry of the structure rather than an approximate midplane and offsets of adjoining components.
For more information, visit www.abaqus.com/AFC_V5.

New Features in ABAQUS/CAE Increase Productivity and Enhance Results Visualization

If you are not currently using ABAQUS/CAE, now is the time to evaluate the new features available in ABAQUS Version 6.6. Every license of ABAQUS provides access to ABAQUS/CAE, which provides the most comprehensive interface for ABAQUS analysis capabilities on the market. It integrates modeling, analysis, job management, and results visualization in a consistent, easy-to-use environment. With the exciting new features and tools in ABAQUS Version 6.6, you are likely to find that you will be able to replace existing third-party tools and to improve your overall analysis productivity. While there are dozens of new capabilities in ABAQUS/CAE Version 6.6, this article focuses on adaptive remeshing and displaying background images and movies. Adaptive Remeshing The next time you find yourself asking questions such as How good is my mesh?, Where should I refine my mesh to improve accuracy?, or How much mesh refinement should I add?, you can get the answers by using the new adaptive remeshing capability in ABAQUS Version 6.6. Displaying Background Images and Movies Displaying your simulation results in the context of the real world improves your ability to clearly demonstrate how your simulation results relate to real product performance. The new visualization features in ABAQUS/CAE can help you compare analysis results to physical test results, visualize how a component interacts within a complete system, and improve the ease with which you build your simulation model. The new features enable you to display an image or a movie in the background of a viewport (i.e., the window in which ABAQUS displays your model). This gives you the ability to display the results of your analysis in context with experimental results, which can help you and your team better understand the phenomena being modeled. Displaying a video clip of the modeled event overlaid with an animation of the analysis results can make for dramatic animations. Such a comparison can enhance the results credibility or help identify areas in the simulation that need accuracy improvement. You can customize the display of imported images and movies by repositioning the image or movie, stretching or compressing it in either direction, or adjusting its translucency. The options in the movie editor allow you to adjust the timing and duration of the movie so that it can be synchronized with the result animations. Background images not only allow you to show your results in context, but they also can help with modeling tasks. You can create geometry based on an image of a physical component. If you are creating a complex assembly of multiple parts, a background image may help you position the part instances more effectively. Be sure to take advantage of the new image and movie display capabilities the next time you need to make a persuasive presentation to your colleagues, your management, or your customer.

Adaptive remeshing improves the quality of stress results with targeted mesh refinement.

The goal of the new adaptive remeshing capability is to obtain a solution that satisfies discretization error targets while minimizing the number of elements and, hence, the computational expense. This new feature allows ABAQUS/CAE and ABAQUS/Standard to work together to determine an optimal mesh. The adapted mesh will be customized automatically for your specific model and its accompanying load history. If you choose to allow ABAQUS/CAE to remesh your model iteratively, the adaptivity process controls the adaptive remeshing for you. You need only define the remeshing rule and apply the rule to the regions in your model that you want to be remeshed. You can use the default remeshing rule to improve your mesh with little intervention. Alternatively, you can modify the remeshing rule (for example, by changing the error indicator targets) to meet your needs for a particular analysis.

Simulation results can be superimposed over a photograph or video.

Be sure to attend the upcoming Regional Users Meetings and web seminars to learn more about ABAQUS/CAE. For more information, visit www.abaqus.com/products/cae.

Danas Engineering Strategy: "Simulation Is Process and Product Development"

Based in Toledo, Ohio, Dana Corporation is a global supplier of axle, driveshaft, engine, frame, chassis, and transmission technologies to the automotive, commercial vehicle, and offhighway industries.Their products are integrated into more than 60 million vehicles annually. The company is currently in the process of implementing a vertical integrated engineering approach in which CAE plays a strategic role. Dana is standardizing CAE workflows across their global engineering operations in an effort to support innovation, shorten the development cycle, and reduce costs. ABAQUS software is at the center of Danas engineering initiative. Recently, INSIGHTS had the privilege of interviewing two of the project architects, Frank Popielas and David Nash. Popielas is the Manager of Advanced Engineering for the Sealing Products Group and has been with Dana since 1994. He is responsible for the groups global CAE activities, lab activities, and development of newly advanced materials and products. Popielas also leads the Dana CAE council. Nash has worked for Dana for 19 years and is currently Director of Research and Development for Sealing Products. He is responsible for new product development, material development and testing, product testing, computer simulations, and warranty analysis for molded products. What is the most significant challenge you face in your engineering and product development process? Popielas: The push to have development completed quickly is tremendous. In the past we might have had two years to develop a product. Now we talk in terms of months, a year at most. To go through a development project from start to finish within this kind of timeframe, you need to have the proper tools and a system in place for using them. You have to incorporate different simulation techniques and connect them into one approach covering design, manufacturing, and cost. Correlation and validation of the simulation results play a major role in this. When you are in the engineering business, everything that you manufacture or even propose as a product, you have to validate. If you cant validate product performance in a short amount of time, then you are not in business. How important is simulation as a driver for innovation in your process? Nash: Simulation is really our time machine. Its all about how we get from an idea to a proven concept faster. It is an integral part of how we develop new products and improve existing products. It allows us to try out more ideas and to optimize them more quickly. At Dana, product development is a collaboration between the engineers and the analysts, often including materials people and R&D people, who are all feeding ideas. The better job we can do of collecting all these ideas, funneling them into a system and filtering out the best ones, the better shot we have at delivering a product improvement or new innovation to the market. What types of projects in your company currently leverage simulation? Nash: Within the Sealing Products Group, we use simulation technology in the development of almost all our productscylinder head cover modules, thermal-acoustic protective shields, cylinder-head gaskets, molded gaskets, and air induction components. We utilize FEA and CFD technology. Speed to market and product differentiation are huge challenges, and simulation is integral, almost a starting and ending point of the whole process. Probably the cylinder-head gaskets are the best example of where weve been able to truly automate the process. They used to take weeks to develop, and now they take hours, maybe days at most. Popielas: We have pushed simulation technology farthest in leading Dana product groups such as Torque and Traction, Sealing Products, and Thermal Product Solutions. Our CAE council is developing standards so we can better support each other and help other groups reach the same level of CAE capabilities. The idea is to have a system where we do the first optimization as early as possible in the development

Frank Popielas (top), Manager of Advanced Engineering for the Sealing Products Group, and David Nash, Director of Research and Development for Sealing Products, for Dana Corporation.

process. As soon as we put a CAD model on the screen, we want to have the capability to optimize the design from different perspectives. It might be geometry, it might be function, it might be cost. So using simulation early in the design process is important. Popielas: Exactly. Because this is where you save most of the time. You have highly qualified analysts develop those optimization capabilities, then you train your product and design engineers how to use the system. They make choices, such as the material used for the product, the type of fastener, the thickness of the material, and maybe some product-specific boundary conditions. Its very straightforward because the engineers dont have to have a detailed understanding of the CAE software. The idea is to have web-based interfaces in place so they can submit a simulation just like they would have submitted a simulation request. It gets submitted automatically, the simulation happens in the background, and they get a report back automatically. Some of these tools are already implemented.

Dana designs and manufactures a broad range of products that are integrated into more than 60 million vehicles annually.

Such an approach isnt for new product development. Its for well-defined products that we have in production and that need simulation support on a regular basis. Updates and development of new standards, simulation techniques, processes, designs, and products are the analysts responsibility. What trends do you see happening in your business that will drive your simulation processes in the future?
ABAQUS enables Dana to analyze sealing pressure of the gasket elements, the sealing gap movement caused by the alternating combustion pressure, and the warping and the distortion of the cylinder head and block.

What are the steps to take in automating a simulation process? Popielas: First you need to make decisions on your requirements and objectives. What product features are you interested in? What features have the most impact on product performance? Once you decide this, you can look into what kind of software to use and develop proper preprocessing techniques. Internally developed scripts help us to support these efforts. We use Python as a glue code. The model, or the input file, is defined by the Python script and is automatically submitted to the compute system using queuing. Once the solution is completed, it goes to a postprocessing computer, which plots pictures from different views and at different scales.

Nash: As far as under-the-hood automotive, the trends are smaller design envelopes, demands for increased efficiency and increased power out of smaller packages, reduced emissions, and cost reduction. Advanced analysis tools will help us develop products using nontraditional materials in applications where the technology did not previously allow it. Integration of components is also key, so we will determine how to combine functions to reduce components, weight, fasteners, and package space. What is your current practice, or future vision, for leveraging simulation collaboratively across multiple disciplines? Nash: We need to be stronger in process simulation. Historically, we have focused on the analysis of the product function and the interaction with its environment and mating components. This has grown into optimization methods to get to the best design faster, in
(continued)

Danas Engineering Strategy continued

place of traditional iterative methods. But for us, process analysis has been sequential. We need to pull this forward and tie it into the design optimization process more formally. Maybe, for example, theres some small aspect of a design that's not wrong, but if we do it a different way, we could reduce the cycle time five seconds without affecting function. This is done today, but its often done sequentially, rather than upfront and collaboratively. How is simulation being used to collaborate with your customers and suppliers? Nash: Ive got a project that Im working on right now with one of our suppliers. Were both using ABAQUS as our simulation tool, and were using each others resources and expertise in the development of a brand new product line. Its something that is not out on the market anywhere today. We think were going to be able to deliver a substantially new product at a good value, something that will give our customers an improvement in their cost position and represent a whole new product line for Dana. We extended our collaboration beyond the R&D people and included design people, engineers, and materials experts within the Dana organization. I brought in our supplier to be part of that. They are doing some of the analysis, and we are doing some of the analysis; but the ideas are coming from everywhere. Why did you choose to implement ABAQUS as an integral part of your engineering strategy? Popielas: It goes back a few years. We benchmarked the available software packages on the market across two of our product groups, so we could compare results. And both groups concluded that ABAQUS is the package of choice. A couple of things came into play. The code is the best in the market for simulation, especially from a nonlinear perspective, but we wanted more than just excellent software. We also wanted a partner we could work with to develop new simulation features. ABAQUS clearly was the one here. We are able to have very open and close communication about what we would like to have in new releases to benefit us. Its really joint R&D. The other very interesting thing is, ABAQUS is not just taking care of its own product. Its also looking at how to interact with other CAE packages that are important to us. How do you measure the value or return on investment of your simulation strategy? Popielas: Its actually very straightforward. We have a number. For example, we have a certain gasket to make, and in the past we might have gone through five or more iterations to make it right, to make it function. Now our goal is first time right. In order to achieve that, we use simulation techniques. We dont need as many prototypes anymore, and we dont have to do as much dyno-testing. Its not so much saved cost as avoided cost. Im talking about millions here. This is what the company saves every year, due to CAE.
David Nash (top), discusses innovative design improvements in a plastic cylinder head cover module. Frank Popielas outlines Danas engineering strategy at the 2006 ABAQUS Users Conference.

How do you expect the role of simulation within your company to change in the future compared to the past 10 years? Nash: More analysis, more tightly integrated into the design process and development process. Also key will be more-efficient analysis through scripting and automation. Simulation will focus more on up-front development in areas such as materials and functionality. We see CAE being right in the center of future product development, covering manufacturability, functionality, cost estimation, and so forth. It will drive PLM systems. Popielas: Simulation will become much more open and interoperable. We see thats where ABAQUS is headed. If you want to implement something new, you have to be open. For us, simulation will be a platform that integrates special technologies and exchanges data among different software packages without losing information. We have one thing in mind: simulation is process and product development.

For More Information:

Download Danas 2006 ABAQUS Users Conference paper at www.abaqus.com/solutions/sol_automotive.html. To learn more about Dana Corporation, visit www.dana.com.

PolyOil Designs Lightweight, Durable Offshore Oil Equipment

In the challenging environment of offshore oil exploration, cast polymers, which have high molecular weight and viscosity, offer some noticeable advantages. The casting process involves a chemical reaction inside the mold that produces a material that is strong, durable, and corrosion resistant. Polymer is lighter than steel, making devices safer for an operator to lift and maneuver. The material also has a low friction coefficient (0.032 compared to 0.092 for steel), which reduces the potential for hang-up while running thousands of feet of cable and pipe through steel casings. Oil rigs cost in the neighborhood of $250,000 a day to lease, not counting labor, so avoiding unnecessary downtime is a huge benefit. Umbilical Protector Ensures Reliable Drilling One cast polymer product from PolyOil that has gained significant market acceptance is an umbilical protector called the Poly-Tector. Umbilicals are long cables that contain electronic, hydraulic, and fiber optic wires used to control subsea well operations. In normal use, umbilical cables can undergo tension loads of up to 1000 kg. The umbilical protector is used to prevent damage to the cables from contact with adjacent equipment that is constantly moving with ocean currents and waves. It also supports the weight of the massive length of cable hanging from the rig. During deployment, the Poly-Tector clamps the umbilical cable to the outside of steel pipes every 30 to 40 feet. The pipes are threaded together and lowered inside a large-diameter steel casing, called a riser, to the wellbore on the seabed. The Poly-Tector is hinged on one side so it opens like a clamshell and then closes and bolts securely around the steel pipe. A separate smaller aperture in the clamp holds the umbilical cables securely in place. Using Analysis to Customize the Poly-Tector PolyOil recently designed a custom version of the Poly-Tector for a large oil company. To evaluate the performance of the customized clamp design, PolyOil enlisted analysts from AMEC-NNC, based in Cheshire, UK. AMEC-NNC is a major engineering consultancy for the nuclear power industry and offers specialized services in structural integrity, failure investigation, and risk assessment. To simulate the custom umbilical protector, AMEC-NNC used ABAQUS because it has a material model that is well suited to analyzing cast polymer and because it provides excellent contact and nonlinear analysis capabilities.

An umbilical protector from PolyOil is installed on a section of steel pipe to secure the umbilical lines as the assembly is lowered into the riser. Image courtesy of PolyOil Ltd.

The goal of the analysis was to understand how the customized Poly-Tector would behave under real-life loading conditions. AMEC-NNC analysts imported the digital geometry for the Poly-Tector directly into ABAQUS. They created the finite element mesh, added surrounding surfaces for the pipe and the riser casing, and simulated multiple nonlinear contact conditions. The analysts focused on four load cases. First, they studied the stresses generated by tightening the bolts. Next, they simulated sideways impact on the hinge side and on the clamp side. Finally, they simulated a bending force. ABAQUS enabled the analysts to quickly examine three different load magnitudes for each case. Analysis Guides Design Improvements The ABAQUS simulation predicted that a load of 4.75te to the clamp side would cause excessive deformation to the umbilical aperture. AMEC-NNC recommended adding thickness to a rib, which enabled PolyOil to make a straightforward design change before committing to the cost of producing the mold tool. Simulation also saved the company time and cost in full-scale physical testing. An additional benefit is that the simulation model is readily reusable for design analysis of the Poly-Tector with different constraints and boundary conditions. Based on the results of this program, PolyOil believes that advanced FEA will play an increasingly important role in the development of innovative cast polymer products for the oil drilling industry.

For More Information:

PolyOil Ltd, located in Westhill, Scotland, designs and develops downhole equipment for the offshore oil drilling industry. Their goal is to improve the reliability, durability, and friction resistance of downhole equipment by replacing traditional steel products with products made from modern materials, such as cast polymers. For more information, please visit www.polyoil.com.
The von Mises stress plot in the male portion of the Poly-Tector reveals that the central stiffening rib should be widened to support the operational loads. Image created by AMEC-NNC, courtesy of PolyOil Ltd.

To learn more about AMEC-NNC, go to www.amecnnc.com or contact Nawal Prinja at nawal.prinja@amecnnc.com.

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PSA Peugeot Citron Explores Designs Using ABAQUS for CATIA V5

Fabien Debarle and Mathieu Durix, PSA Peugeot Citron

Background In the automotive industry, engineers need to explore a wide range of design solutions that involve many different parameters and constraints. At PSA Peugeot Citron, we have developed an implementation of ABAQUS for CATIA V5 (AFC) that helps us perform nonlinear analysis efficiently on assemblies that undergo a large number of design iterations. Our implementation provides engineers with simulation results very early in the pre-design phase and again later during final design. Analyses in the Pre-Design Phase Our goal in using FEA in the pre-design phase is to define a product model that meets several stress, strain, displacement, and fatigue requirements in predetermined critical regions. At this early stage in the product lifecycle, the CAD model geometry is parameterized so it can be modified easily to accommodate model changes from a number of sources. The initial design necessarily uses a simplified geometry, because the values of many parameters are not yet known. During this phase, we perform several analyses of different candidate CAD solutions. The results from a pre-design analysis enables design engineers to propose necessary modifications to the geometry at the time when changes are least expensive and most effective. Previous studies have compared the analysis inaccuracies between simplified models and the corresponding complete models, and the inaccuracies have been determined to be acceptable. The basis for the pre-design analysis is a parameterized CAD model created in CATIA V5. The model presented in this case study is a knuckle assembly (Figure 1), which is part of the automotive chassis. To perform the analyses, we developed a workbench in CATIA V5 from which we can access the parameterized CAD model.

clamp piece

Figure 2. Two versions of the knuckle assembly pre-design model: with a clamp (left) and without a clamp (right).

At any time, we can choose to switch from one design architecture to another. For example, we can switch from a knuckle assembly with a clamp piece to a knuckle assembly without a clamp piece (Figure 2). The mechanical analysis is initialized using ABAQUS for CATIA V5. We simulate the performance of the knuckle under bolt preloading and service loading conditions to determine the values and locations of the maximum stresses and strains. Once we have obtained these results for a given pre-design model, we can quickly implement possible design improvements. Knuckle Assembly Workbench

Figure 3. Design engineers define analysis attributes by means of a graphical user interface specified by PSA Peugeot Citron.

The specific CATIA V5 workbench for the knuckle assembly makes extensive use of CATIA Knowledgeware, which captures essential engineering practices and know-how and makes use of Visual Basic (VB) scripting. All of the graphical user interfaces (GUIs) are specified by PSA Peugeot Citron (Figure 3). Thanks to this approach, the workbench is usable by any design engineer. From within the knuckle assembly workbench, the design engineer is able to define CAD architecture and geometric parameters, material properties, mesh sizes, boundary conditions, and load cases (e.g., static analysis, modal analysis). Once the engineer defines the FEA model, the input files are generated automatically and submitted from the knuckle assembly workbench to ABAQUS running on remote servers.

Figure 1. The knuckle assembly (at right) is part of an automotive chassis.

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Geometric Parameters and Material Properties In the pre-design phase, the parameterized CAD model is simplified geometrically but is still physically representative of the actual knuckle assembly. The model is defined in CATIA V5 using the Part Design, Assembly Design, and Knowledgeware workbenches. The knuckle with a clamp piece (Figure 4) is an assembly of seven parts: the knuckle, the shock damper, the clamp piece, two nuts, and two bolts. The most influential parameters have been identified previously through numerical simulations. The pre-design CAD model is built so that these parameters can be modified easily. The material properties can be specified in the GUI or imported from a file written in an ABAQUS format. Elastic and plastic properties are supported.
Kinematic and Distributing Couplings

forces forces clamp

Figure 5. Boundary conditions for the knuckle assembly defined in ABAQUS for CATIA V5.

shock damper body clamp piece

Boundary conditions, such as clamps (Figure 5) Load cases imported from an existing file that comes from a separate program (sample loads are left and right turns, braking, and sidewalk shock) The order of steps for the mechanical simulation history is as follows: Step 1: Step 2: Step 3: Step 4: Step 5: Contact initialization and bolt tightening between the knuckle and the clamp piece Bolt tightening fixed Service loading Service loading Service loading

knuckle

Figure 4. Simplified CAD model for the knuckle assembly.

Meshing Using the GUI, the design engineer provides information on the desired mesh size, and then the mesh is generated automatically in the CATIA V5 Advanced Meshing Tools workbench (FMS/FMD) in two steps. First, the software creates a surface mesh using a local mapped mesh and local element size at the surface, using the FMS module. Next, tetrahedron filler meshing is performed using the FMD module to generate the actual parabolic tetrahedral elements (C3D10M) needed for the structural analysis. We use a surface mesh and a tetrahedron filler to control the surface mesh quality and to limit the total number of elements in the model. Since the mesh specifications are associated with geometric entities of the CAD model, the mesh specifications persist and the mesh rebuilds automatically after any modifications. Preprocessing ABAQUS for CATIA V5 is used to generate the mechanical analysis properties and simulation history of the knuckle, including the following: Nonlinear materials Bolt tightening connections between the knuckle and the clamp piece Contact between the knuckle, the clamp piece, the bolts, and the shock damper

The steps continue until all loading analyses are complete. We are able to generate the input files with much of the necessary analysis data. However, because some additional features are necessary to completely define the analysis model, we have extended the ABAQUS input file using VB scripting. For example, because we need to perform several separate analyses, we split the input file generated by AFC into several input files and add the *RESTART, READ command (Figure 6). Using this approach, we do not need to perform the initialization steps for each service loading analysis.
(continued)

Figure 6. Visual Basic scripting streamlines the input file so analysis is more efficient.

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PSA Peugeot Citron Explores Designs

Running the Analysis and Postprocessing We run ABAQUS/Standard on remote servers, so the job submission is done automatically via LSF software that we interfaced with AFC. Each load case represents one job, which is run independently on one or two processors. Depending on the queue at the servers and the mesh sizes, results are usually complete in a couple of hours. As noted earlier, the goal of pre-design analysis is to determine whether different iterations of the simplified knuckle assembly model have areas of excessive stress and plastic strain. Postprocessing is performed in ABAQUS for CATIA V5. Once an analysis is complete, the results file is automatically returned to a specific directory and the engineer loads the file into AFC to postprocess and view the results. The results show the minimum and maximum principal stresses, von Mises stresses, PEEQ, and so on (Figure 7).

continued

we can modify geometric parameters in the CATIA V5 model in an effort to improve the design. The associativity between the CAD model and the analysis model enables modeling and analysis iterations to be performed with minimal effort. Analyzing the Final Design In the design phase we perform the same analyses that we did in the pre-design phase but on a final design. Switching from a simplified pre-design model to a more complicated final design is made possible through a specific GUI in the knuckle assembly workbench that takes advantage of the CATIA publications feature. This feature allows users to replace an attribute of a model with another without breaking any links. Mesh specifications have to be made. Then all of the ABAQUS input files can be generated automatically and submitted to the remote servers. The input steps are the same as those shown in Figure 6. Conclusions ABAQUS for CATIA V5 is very useful for performing advanced nonlinear analyses based on a parameterized CATIA V5 CAD model or on a final design (coming from CATIA V4 or V5). Using a combination of CATIA Knowledgeware, AFC with Visual Basic scripting, and in-house programs, we have defined complete simulation workflows suitable for design engineers within the CATIA V5 environment. The value in this approach is that all loads, constraints, and boundary conditions defined within AFC maintain associativity with the CATIA model and are updated automatically after any design modifications. Consequently, we are able to evaluate early versions of the knuckle assembly design based on predetermined critical parameters and to easily modify the geometry until we determine an acceptable design. We can also analyze the final knuckle assembly design easily and quickly. This is very expedient when more than 30 different analyses may be necessary for complete evaluation. Our innovative implementation of ABAQUS for CATIA V5 will enable engineers at PSA Peugeot Citron to verify design performance and durability more efficiently and effectively.

Figure 7. Sample analysis results for an early version of the knuckle assembly. If predicted performance is unacceptable, it is easy to modify the geometry and submit another analysis.

The maximum stresses often occur on the surfaces. ABAQUS calculates the stress and strain results at the integration points of solid elements. These integration points are only a small distance from the surface. However, in areas of high stress gradients, extrapolating the integration point results to the surface nodes indicates results that are inaccurate. One of the most effective ways of determining the surface results is to use surface skinning, a thin layer of membrane elements positioned at the surface of a solid body. The strains in this membrane correspond to the strains experienced at the surface in the solid model. While ABAQUS for CATIA V5 enables surface skinning with shell elements, surface skinning is not yet available with M3D6 membrane elements, so we perform this postprocessing technique using an in-house program. Rapid Design Iterations Once we have the simulation results from each pre-design analysis, we classify the tested parameter sets as either acceptable or unacceptable. This procedure allows us to determine very early in the product lifecycle which knuckle assembly design responds to all of the modeling constraints. When analysis results show excessive strains in a critical area,

Fabien Debarle graduated in 1999 from the French Institute for Advanced Mechanics (IFMA). In 2000 he integrated the Methods and Tools Development Department at PSA Peugeot Citron. He is now numerical modeling specialist engineer for chassis parts and powertrain components and is responsible for all ABAQUS solutions at PSA Peugeot Citron. Contact Fabien at fabien.debarle@mpsa.com. Mathieu Durix graduated in 2003 from the Mechanical and Aeronautical National School (ENSMA). He first worked for PSA Peugeot Citron as a consultant, creating pre-design and design model workbenches. In 2006 he joined the Methods and Tools Development Department as a crashworthiness numerical modeling engineer. PSA Peugeot Citron is a member of the AFC Customer Review Team, which helps define requirements for ABAQUS for CATIA V5 software. Learn about PSA Peugeot Citron at www.psa-peugeot-citroen.com. Request PSAs 2006 ABAQUS Users Conference paper at www.abaqus.com/AFC_V5.

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Students at Los Alamos Dynamic Summer School Gain Experience in Advanced FEA Methods
The Los Alamos Dynamic Summer School is a very selective 9-week summer school. Top upper-level, US-citizen, undergraduate students from universities around the nation are selected to attend lectures and to work in small teams with a Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) mentor on research projects related to structural health monitoring, damage prognosis and model validation, and uncertainty quantification. Their objective is to produce a conference publication summarizing their results by the end of the summer. Over the last seven years, 111 students from 34 academic institutions have participated in the summer school. This year 21 students participated in the program. The program has developed a curriculum that involves all students performing an experimental modal analysis on a test structure and then subsequently using ABAQUS to perform a finite element modal analysis using a variety of different elements and/or mesh densities. The experimental and numerical data generated by the students then form the basis for a series of lectures on model validation and uncertainty quantification. One project that has been undertaken by the students was the study of vibration modeling and suppression in tennis racquets. Students set up physical tests and FEA models to explore how add-on vibrational dampers affect the sweet spot of a tennis racquet. The model was simplified for finite element analysis with the use of beam elements. String intersections were modeled with shared nodes. The handle was modeled using solid elements. A negative temperature was applied to the strings to simulate tension. The results for the racquet in this study show that commercial vibration dampers have a negative impact on handle transmissibility. The numerical model demonstrates that mode shapes are unaffected by increased string tension though their frequencies are increased substantially.

Using ABAQUS for their projects has significantly enhanced the students learning experience.
- Charles Ferrar, Director, Dynamics Summer School, Los Alamos National Laboratory
Above, a comparison of Mode 2 is shown with and without a damper.

For more information on Los Alamos Dynamic Summer School, visit www.lanl.gov/projects/ei/DSS/index.shtml.

ABAQUS Version 6.6 Student Edition Now Available

ABAQUS Student Edition provides an ideal means for expanding your ABAQUS knowledge and developing simulation expertise to ace upcoming projects. This updated student edition is also an excellent tool for industrial customers to continue to develop their professional FEA skills outside of the workplace. For colleges and universities using the ABAQUS Research Edition or ABAQUS Teaching Edition, the Student Edition expands the students experience by providing them the opportunity to use the software outside the lab and classroom. ABAQUS Student Edition leverages the capabilities of ABAQUS/CAE, ABAQUS/Standard, and ABAQUS/Explicit to solve FEA problems of limited size (1000 nodes) that do not require user subroutines. The software is available for both the Windows XP and Windows 2000 Platforms and includes complete online documentation, making it a valuable off-site reference. ABAQUS Educational Products: ABAQUS Student Edition Affordable personal finite element analysis tool for solving limited size problems Ideal tool for students to become more proficient in applying FEA methods ABAQUS Teaching Edition Complements the Research Edition in classroom settings Allows simultaneous access by 20+ students Cost effective tool for introducing students to the theories and methods of advanced FEA ABAQUS Research Edition Provides the advanced functionality of the commercial version Simulates behavior of advanced nonlinear materials, complex surface contact, and problems requiring user-defined subroutines
Order your ABAQUS Student Edition online at www.abaqus.com/student.

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Improving the Design of Flow Management Devices

Vernay Labs, Yellow Springs, Ohio develops a flow management device called VernaFlo that is customizable for use in applications that require consistent, reliable fluid flow over a wide range of fluid pressures. These devices consist of elastomeric rubber components, housed in the flow path, that deform under the influence of the incoming flow. It is critical to understand the interaction between the fluid flow and the structural deformation since this affects the device shape and, hence, the subsequent flow behavior. A fully coupled fluid-structure interaction (FSI) analysis was performed using the ABAQUS co-simulation interface to MpCCI to couple with FLUENT.

Coupled structural fluid results indicate valve deformations with increasing fluid pressures.

The simulation results are useful in guiding decisions on modifying the shape of the rubber component to meet performance requirements. Coupled fluid analysis with ABAQUS will help Vernay Labs eliminate what has been historically the cut and try approach to product development when fluid flow plays a significant role.

For More Information:

Source: A Fluid-Structure Interaction Analysis of the VernaFlo Flow Control Device, AUC 2006, Jim Bailey - Vernay Labs, Subham Sett ABAQUS, Inc., Jeff Benko - Fluent Inc. Request a copy of the complete AUC 2006 paper at www.abaqus.com/fsi.

Vernay specializes in the innovative design and highvolume manufacture of precision elastomeric products. Vernay VernaFlo flow controls are customdesigned fluid flow management devices.

Benchmark Study for ABAQUS on Compute Clusters

With the release of Version 6.6-1, ABAQUS/Standard now provides enhanced support for execution on compute clusters through the Distributed Memory Parallel (DMP) execution support of the element operations and the direct linear equation solver. While this allows many FEA models to take advantage of cluster computing, some limitations exist. Recently, ABAQUS and Linux Networx completed a benchmark study entitled, Running ABAQUS/Standard Version 6.6 on Compute Clusters, which is available at the ABAQUS web site. This benchmark paper demonstrates potential performance improvements when running ABAQUS/Standard on compute clusters and discusses the role of system hardware, configuration, and analysis execution settings on performance, including: the role of the interconnect type, the effect of I/O speed, the effects of memory settings, and performance differences between dual core and single core processors.

In the FSI analysis the ABAQUS structural sub-domain includes the rubber component, which is defined to be in contact with a rigid housing. The effects of geometrical and material nonlinearities are considered to account for fluid pressures as high as 150 psi. The CFD sub-domain models the flow path around this rubber valve with upstream variations in pressure accounted for with a variable pressureinlet condition. The fluid in use is water and is modeled as a turbulent, incompressible fluid. Local remeshing in the CFD model is used to account for the deformations associated with the structural analysis. The computational results were in good agreement with the experimental data and showed how the rubber insert controls the effects of upstream inlet pressure on the bulk fluid flow rate. The results also indicated that at higher pressures the rubber component deforms significantly and establishes full contact with the rigid housing and that cavitation effects on the CFD side cannot be neglected.

Request the complete benchmark study at http://www.abaqus.com/alliances/alliances_linux_networx.html.

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Customers Share Knowledge at the 2006 ABAQUS Users' Conference

The 2006 ABAQUS Users Conference was an exhilarating convergence of ABAQUS users from around the world. With the release of ABAQUS Version 6.6, attendees were among some of the first users to view the significant number of new features and enhancements now available. We extend special thanks to our invited lecturers, Steve Engelstad of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company and Frank Popielas of Dana Corporation, for taking time to share their experiences and achievements using ABAQUS. We also thank all of our customers who presented papers and our alliance partners who sponsored the event. The conference would not have been a success without the combined efforts of all participants. Image and Animation Contest Winners This year was the inauguration of the Annual Image and Animation Contest. The winners received a spaceball pointing device and a free Advanced Seminar at the ABAQUS Users Conference. The Image Winner was Frank Smith of the Boeing Company. His entry represents an early implementation of nonlinear internal loads modeling. Currently this type of analysis is used for engineering investigations of fatigue cracking. The Frank Smiths image represents an implementation of nonlinear internal benefits of this type of loads modeling. analysis include cost savings due to early detection of potential design issues. Research also indicates a potential weight savings of 10% from using nonlinear internal loads to size parts. The Animation Winner was Jason Tak-Man Cheung of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University. His finite element model of the human ankle-foot system allows predictions of plantar pressure distribution as well as the internal stress/strain of the bony and soft tissue structures. This provides a time and cost effective alternative to the experimental approach to quantify the biomechanical effects of different pathological, surgical, and orthotic conditions during gait.

Boston, Massachusetts provided a great atmosphere for learning, networking, and entertainment.

Conference Banquet and Cirque de Simulation Better than ever, this years conference banquet and entertainment offered guests the opportunity to mingle and network while enjoying breathtaking views of Boston and stunning acrobatics by worldclass performers. We look forward to Paris as our new venue for AUC 2007. Make plans now to participate. Conference Presentations and Proceedings Current ABAQUS customers can view the ABAQUS General Lecture presentations through our online support system under ABAQUS Answer 3051 (login required). You may now order copies online of the AUC 2006 Proceedings Book and CD. The cost for these items, including shipping, are as follows: Pricing 2006 Proceedings Book and CD 2006 Proceedings CD only

$200 $125

Jason Tak-Man Cheungs animation of the human ankle-foot system captured the attention of the ABAQUS Users Conference audience.

Order AUC Proceedings at www.abaqus.com/products/auc_order.html.

17

ABAQUS Customers Present at Global Conferences

A simple search for ABAQUS at engineering societies web sites reveals hundreds of papers from customers who are presenting their applications at industry conferences around the world. The 2006 SAE World Congress reveals 31 papers on the use of ABAQUS for a range of automotive applications including fatique, side impact, heat treatment, bolts, belts, spot welds, brakes, valve covers, chassis, manifolds, connecting rods, cylinder heads, adhesive joints, airbags, tires, and many more. A search of the AIAA web site results in 200 matches dating from 1984-2006. Papers are available on topics such as; thermomechanical analysis, damage predictions for composite laminates, analysis of cylindrical shells, adhesively bonded joints, shape optimization, solar sails, shape memory alloys, telescope mirrors, bird strike impact, sandwich panels, flexible bodies, acoustics, landing gear systems, and frequency predictions for turbine engine blades. The 2006 Electronic Components and Technology Conference featured 20 papers on the use of ABAQUS. EuroSimE 2006 and ITHERM 2006 had a combined total of 10 papers featuring ABAQUS. Electronics applications include solder-joint reliability due to shock and vibration, microsystem packaging, drop testing, heat dissipation, and many others. These presentations are proof that our customers are pushing the envelope of ABAQUS technology to develop reliable and innovative products. Thank you for sharing your applications of ABAQUS. Make plans now to present at AUC 2007.

AUC2007 AUC2007 May 2224

Paris, France May 2224 Paris, France
Call for Papers Share for Papers Call your ABAQUS success with fellow

users! Present an accepted paper and receive Share your ABAQUS success with fellow $100 off your registration fee and $100 off an users! Present an accepted paper and receive Advanced Seminar! $100 off your registration fee and $100 off an Advanced Seminar!

Deadlines:

Abstract and Permission Form: Draft Manuscript:

Draft Manuscript: Final Manuscript:

Deadlines:

December 1, 2006 January 25, 2007 March 1, 2007

March 1, 2007 January 25, 2007

Abstract and Permission Form: December 1, 2006

Final Manuscript:

Visit: www.abaqus.com/AUC2007 Visit: www.abaqus.com/AUC2007

2006 ABAQUS Regional Users' Meetings and Update Seminars

Learn about the new features in ABAQUS Version 6.6 and the upcoming release of ABAQUS Version 6.6 Extended Functionality at your Regional Users Meeting and Update Seminar. Contact your local ABAQUS office or visit www.abaqus.com/news/regional_meetings.html for more information.
Aug. 30-31 Sep. 15 Sep. 18-19 Sep. 21-22 Sep. 26-27 Sep. 28 Oct.4-6 Oct. 10 Oct. 11-12 Oct. 18 Oct. 23-25 Oct. 30 Oct. 30-31 Sao Paulo, Brazil Prague, Czech Republic Erfurt, Germany Oslo, Norway Lafayette, IN, USA Cleveland, OH, USA Pisa, Italy Bangalore, India Toronto, Ontario, CA Houston, TX, USA San Francisco, CA, USA Taipei, Taiwan Tokyo, Japan Nov. 1-2 Nov. 7-8 Nov. 9 Nov. 9-10 Nov. 13 Nov. 15 Nov. 15-16 Nov. 16 Nov. 16-17 Nov. 17 Nov. 20-21 Nov 20-21 Nov. 24 Detroit, MI, USA Beijing, China Providence, RI, USA Istanbul, Turkey Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Bangkok, Thailand Manchester, U.K. Paris, France Leuven, Belgium Singapore Vienna, Austria Madrid, Spain Poznan, Poland

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About ABAQUS, Inc. Founded in 1978, ABAQUS, Inc. is the worlds leading provider of advanced Finite Element Analysis software and services that are used to solve real-world engineering problems. The ABAQUS software suite has an unsurpassed reputation for technology, quality, and reliability and provides a powerful and complete solution for both routine and sophisticated linear and nonlinear engineering problems. ABAQUS delivers a Unified FEA environment that is a compelling alternative to implementations involving multiple products and vendors. In October 2005 ABAQUS became a wholly owned subsidiary of Dassault Systmes, the world leader in 3-D and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solutions. ABAQUS, Inc. is headquartered in Providence, RI, USA, with worldwide R&D centers, offices, and distributors for development, technical support, sales, and services. For more information, visit www.abaqus.com

About SIMULIA In 2005, Dassault Systmes acquired ABAQUS, Inc. and announced SIMULIA, the brand that encompasses all DS simulation solutions, including ABAQUS and CATIA analysis applications. SIMULIA provides a scalable portfolio of simulation solutions, as well as an open platform to support integration of multidisciplinary analysis with its industry leading partners. By building on established technology, respected quality, and superior customer service, SIMULIA makes realistic simulation an integral business practice that enables engineers and scientists to improve product performance, eliminate physical prototypes, and drive innovation. For more information, visit www.simulia.com

Copyright 2006 ABAQUS, Inc. All rights reserved. The following are trademarks or registered trademarks of ABAQUS, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Dassault Systmes: ABAQUS, ABAQUS/Standard, ABAQUS/Explicit, ABAQUS/CAE, ABAQUS for CATIA V5, and the ABAQUS logo. The 3DS logo and SIMULIA are trademarks or registered trademarks of Dassault Systmes. Other company, product, and service names may be trademarks or service marksof their respective owners.