Which Software is Better: ANSYS or Hypermesh for CAE Applications

When choosing between ANSYS and Hypermesh, it is essential to consider the specific application and stage of the CAE (Computer-Aided Engineering) process. Both software tools serve unique functions but cater to different critical aspects of CAE workflows.

Introduction to ANSYS and Hypermesh

ANSYS is a renowned solver software used for various types of engineering analysis, including static structural analysis, linear and non-linear dynamic analysis, thermal analysis, and multibody dynamics (MBD). On the other hand, Hypermesh is a pre-processing software primarily used to create solver decks for solvers used in all types of analyses. This includes creating the mesh or grid for complex geometries that define the problem space, which is crucial for obtaining accurate and realistic results.

Importance of Pre-Processing in CAE

In the CAE process, pre-processing is the foundation for accurate and reliable analysis. The quality of the pre-processed model, particularly the mesh, significantly influences the final results. A well-meshed model is essential for obtaining accurate solutions, especially in cases where the geometry is complex or the physics are highly non-linear.

Hypremesh's Role in Pre-Processing:

Geometry Creation and Cleanup: Hypermesh enables users to generate and clean up complex geometries, removing any unnecessary details that could lead to meshing errors. Meshing: Hypermesh supports various meshing techniques, including 1D, 2D, and 3D meshing, which are critical for capturing the behavior of different types of parts and components. Quality Check: Ensuring the quality of the mesh is essential to avoid numerical inaccuracies and model convergence issues. Hypermesh provides tools to visualize and refine the mesh to meet the required quality criteria. Connection Assigning: Providing the connectivity between different elements in the model is crucial for accurate analysis. Boundary Condition and Solver Deck Preparation: Hypermesh helps in defining the boundary conditions, which are essential for solving the problem using the selected solver.

Why Hypermesh is Recommended:

Hypermesh is widely recognized for its comprehensive pre-processing capabilities, making it an excellent choice for industries that require precise and robust meshing for accurate analysis. Its user-friendly interface and extensive features make it easier for engineers to prepare complex models for analysis.

Role of ANSYS in Solver Processing

ANSYS serves as a powerful solver that can handle a wide range of engineering analysis problems. It is particularly adept at solving static structural analysis, linear and non-linear dynamics, thermal analysis, and multibody dynamics (MBD). Unlike Hypermesh, ANSYS has a built-in pre-processor, but many industrial users opt for Hypermesh due to its superior pre-processing abilities and lower licensing costs.

CAE Workflow Overview

The CAE process can be broadly divided into three stages:

Pre-Processing: This stage involves creating and cleaning up the geometry, defining the mesh, and preparing the boundary conditions to solve the problem. Solver: This is where the actual analysis takes place. Solvers like ANSYS read the prepared model from the pre-processor and perform the necessary calculations to generate results. Post-Processing: In this stage, engineers analyze the results, visualize the data, and draw conclusions from the analysis.

Hypermesh and ANSYS Integration:

In a typical CAE workflow, Hypermesh is used for pre-processing, and the created solver deck is then imported into ANSYS for solving. ANSYS, with its advanced solver capabilities, processes the problem, and the results are often analyzed using ANSYS's built-in post-processor.

Conclusion and Career Path

For those interested in a career in CAE, mastering Hypermesh is a valuable stepping stone. Hypermesh's comprehensive pre-processing capabilities make it an essential tool for engineers. Many renowned institutions, such as G2G Innovation Pune, offer training programs to help learners become proficient in Hypermesh, opening doors to lucrative careers in CAE.

Choosing between ANSYS and Hypermesh ultimately depends on your specific needs and the phase of the CAE process you are addressing. Both software tools are indispensable in the field of CAE, and their combined use can significantly enhance the accuracy and reliability of your engineering analyses.