Short-duration dynamics

Dynamic events that take place within a short time and are highly nonlinear are usually analysed with finite element models using explicit time integration. Such models allow nonlinear material models and complex contact to be simulated.

Our engineers are experienced in simulating short-duration dynamic events — the impact of objects, burst safety or explosions, for example. State-of-the-art simulation techniques make it possible to verify components and assemblies by analysis at an early design stage, before the first prototypes exist. This allows for significantly shorter product development times and cost savings.

Some of the available analysis options are listed below:

Drop and crash tests

When simulating drop, impact or crash tests, the component under analysis is initially positioned in the simulation model in front of a given obstacle at the impact velocity to be applied. Most of the kinetic energy is converted into strain energy. The friction and damping arising during deformation can be taken into account.

Typical results include deformations, strains, reaction forces, velocities and accelerations.

Containment analysis

Containment analysis examines the failure of components that pose a serious hazard if they do fail. Examples include couplings or turbine wheels that burst at full speed, where it must be ensured that no fragments injure bystanders or damage other components. The analysis uses material models that account for failure. The adequate sizing of housing parts or guards is determined by analysis and optimised, so that no cost-intensive prototypes are needed.