Computers in engineering

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Multiphysics analysis tools

Ansoft Corp. has added two new tools to its Maxwell EM product line: EMSS 3D and 2D Thermal. EMSS 3D integrates the company's finite-element electromagnetic analysis solutions with system-level simulation solutions such as SPICE. EMSS provides a complete electromagnetic-to-system design environment for engineers to study design tradeoffs and conduct what-if analyses. The software eliminates expensive prototype iterations and speeds time-to-market by accurately predicting nonlinear effects of source and load transients, induced voltages, and currents as well as position and velocity of moving parts.

FEA user interface

Adding new and convenient functionality to its finite-element-analysis software, Algor, Inc.'s new graphical user interface is designed to enable right-click application, modification, and removal of loads, constraints, and finite-element properties for all analysis types. The new interface features the capability to define load and constraint sets within design scenarios to keep track of various loads and constraints, especially when performing multiple analyses on the same part. The software also has a tree view of model parts and associated data that can be used to select and mesh individual parts easier.

PLC upgrade

The VersaMax EZ Program Store device from General Electric Fanuc enables end users to program and configure field upgrades to VersaMax modular CPUs. The accessory is designed to be used with VersaPro programming software and the RS-232 or Ethernet port. The EZ Program Store is flash-based and can be overwritten many times. The device can be programmed and sent to end customers, who can then press a button to activate the configuration program.

Hybrid simulation software

LMS International has released LMS DADS 9.6, the mechanical simulation software that enables engineers to integrate actual test data with virtual prototypes. DADS 9.6 allows manufacturers to predict and analyze the dynamic behavior of vehicles, aircraft, and other mechanical systems during the design phase. The software's open architecture enables DADS to provide template-based interfaces to be designed for engines, timing belts, landing gear, motorcycles, vehicle suspensions, and other applications.

Chassis cabling

The "Backwards" RBC PC chassis from CyberResearch, Inc. provides front access to expansion-card connectors, a USB port, a power switch, and drive bays. The unit is suitable for test lab and industrial applications that require front access to facilitate cable and probe changing. It is available in 14-slot passive backplane or ATX motherboards and can be rack-mounted or placed on a benchtop.

Visualization software

Analytical Graphics, Inc. and Simulyze, Inc. are jointly marketing Flight Control, a commercial, off-the-shelf visualization software solution system. Flight Control integrates planning data and near real-time operational and intelligence data to analyze and interact with a 3-D virtual battlespace. Software applications include data gathering for the military and intelligence communities.

Measurement and control

Measurement Computing Corp. recently released the PCI-DAS-TC board—a 16-channel thermocouple input board for PCI bus computers. The unit is based on a noise-immune voltage-to-frequency supported analog-to-digital converter. An onboard microprocessor performs all system controls and converts analog input data into temperature.

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