The status of a newly developed, fully integrated computer design and analysis software system is discussed. A family of five software codes have been integrated to create a single design tool for product designers.
A few specific plastic components have been chosen to demonstrate the design process from concept through production. From a single workstation, a designer can complete CAD design, finite element modeling, structural analysis, heat transfer, moisture growth, mold fill, redesign, and interface to IGES.
Newly developed non-linear material and non-linear geometry solution techniques that offer greatly reduced computer time are featured. The status of graphic pre and post processors are shown, including full color mapping of plate, solid and layered elements.
The development of these software systems represents tools for the designer of the future.