Simulation Leader Introduces Generative Design Engine

MSC Software introduces MSC Apex Generative Design, an all-new automated generative design solution based on proven MSC technology. The product combines the intuitive Apex interface with a new generative design engine and the manufacturing knowledge of MSC Simufact and MSC Digimat for build process simulation.  

MSC says the software delivers “a new and innovative approach” for design optimization, overcoming the constraints of classical topology optimization techniques. The result, MSC says, is a drastic reduction in the effort required to achieve design optimization for additive manufacturing. 

Image courtesy of MSC Software.

Apex Generative Design imports existing geometries or meshes, from CAD, STL or MSC Nastran. It then uses the imported data to find optimized design candidates. It performs design validation inside the familiar Apex environment. The results can be exported to common CAD platforms for immediate use, or exported to MSC Simufact Additive or MSC Digimat AM. 

The new generative design engine is based on finite element analysis but does not use a density field. Instead, it uses a very fine mesh with what MSC says are “well-defined elements.” The algorithm can directly evaluate occurring stresses and derive distinct geometries that would take hundreds or thousands of trial-and-error simulations to repeat manually. 

MSC says the advantages of using Apex Generative Design include the ability to create automated meshing without specific prior knowledge of finite element analysis; generation of multiple design candidates and the creation of smoothed parts ready to print using additive manufacturing processes. Designs are lightweight, lowering material waste. 

Image courtesy of MSC Software.

MSC says Apex Generative Design optimizes in a stress-oriented manner, enabling true bionic-shaped design with homogenous stress distribution for high part reliability. The parts contain the complex structures that can only be built by additive manufacturing processes, improving quality and reducing weight.

Conventional optimization software requires the use of additional retransition software to move computer-generated structures into CAD. By comparison, Apex Generative Design automates retransition as a core function of the software. Intelligent algorithms in the product also accomplish automated smoothing and mesh optimization, and can do so without a predefined build space. 

MSC Apex Generative Design is now available from MSC Software.   

For more information, click here. 

For a video introducing MSC Apex Generative Design, click here. 

See why DE’s Editors selected MSC Apex Generative Design as their Pick of the Week.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.