Implicit FE Analysis with Altair HyperMesh & OptiStruct

Compare explicit and implicit finite element analyses, illustrating when explicit methods excel for short, dynamic events and when implicit methods offer fast, stable solutions for nonlinear or static problems.

Explore the full spectrum of finite element types—1d bars, 2d shells, 3d solids, and zero-dimensional mass and spring elements—along with linear and quadratic options, selection criteria, and key limitations.

Explore the three main implicit analysis types: linear, non-linear, and buckling, covering static and dynamic cases, multistep loading, and frequency-based vibration insights for structural design.

Explore the main implicit solvers used in finite element analysis, comparing direct, iterative, and eigenvalue solvers, and learn how memory, scalability, and licensing influence solver choice for large models.

Learn stress extrapolation and post-processing best practices in HyperMesh and OptiStruct, including nodal extrapolation from integration points and advanced averaging for accurate results.

Select and maintain a consistent unit system for length, force, and time using MMS as the default, ensuring accurate implicit FE analysis with Altair HyperMesh and OptiStruct.

Explore linear contact definitions in OptiStruct, including slave-master pair dynamics, MP constraints, freeze contact, and slight contact to prevent penetration in linear analyses.

Learn the theory and use cases of linear static analysis, solving K U = F with stiffness matrices, elastic range, and sparse matrices, and extracting forces, displacements, stresses, and reactions.

Demonstrates a linear static analysis workflow: define material properties and safety factors, set boundary conditions and contact, mesh with first- and second-order elements, and compare displacement, stress, and SBC forces.

Analyze an Eyebeam under a 10-ton load using linear static analysis, perform symmetric modeling and detailed meshing, define contacts, and automate thickness extraction to compare results.

Explore modal analysis to predict natural frequencies and mode shapes using stiffness and mass matrices, and assess resonance risks; learn testing approaches with impact and shaker tests.

Demonstrates a modal analysis of a plane structure using symmetry, meshing, and steel material, executing eigenfrequency analysis and comparing results with literature to assess accuracy.

Explore modal analysis using Altair HyperMesh and OptiStruct through a 2D mid-surface modeling workflow of lap joints, mesh generation, and results comparison with solid models.

Analyze linear buckling theory and use cases with Altair HyperMesh and OptiStruct via linear static analysis and buckling diagrams, highlighting limitations from geometry and material nonlinearity.

Model a beam with one-dimensional elements to perform a linear buckling analysis using Altair HyperMesh and OptiStruct. Apply boundary conditions, sections, and materials, and compare buckling factors to results.

Explore inertia relief analysis for static analysis of unconstrained structures using the finite element method in Altair HyperMesh & OptiStruct, balancing external forces with inertial forces.

Explore inertia relief analysis in HyperMesh with OptiStruct, example 1, applying pressure loads, defining six translational constraints, and evaluating displacements, stresses, and SPDC forces.

Introduce non-linearity, covering material non-linearity from plasticity, damage, and rate effects; geometric nonlinearity from large deformations; and contact or changing-status phenomena.

Explore nonlinear analysis solution procedures, including Newton iterations, residuals, and stiffness updates, with examples of a nonlinear spring and incremental loading for convergence criteria.

Understand non-linear contacts and contact types in implicit finite element analysis, focusing on master-slave interfaces, search distance, contact element creation, and friction modeling.

Investigate non-linear contact behavior between two cylinders with a small gap using Altair HyperMesh and OptiStruct, defining frictional master–slave contacts and a non-linear static analysis.

Explore non-linear contacts and contact types through a second example, modeling plates and an impactor in HyperMesh, detailing 3D/2D meshing, friction contact, and the effect of zero clearance on convergence.

Explore nonlinear contacts and frictional contact types as a solid block slides along a plate, using track parameters in a two-step nonlinear static analysis with a large displacement option.

Explore large displacement analysis in finite element modeling, comparing linear and nonlinear responses, nonlinear strain measures, and changing global stiffness; learn when to enable large displacement for accurate equilibria.

Investigate large displacement effects by modeling a simple beam with linear and nonlinear static analysis. Show how nonlinear analysis updates the stiffness matrix, altering deflection and contours.

Outline material non-linearity from elastic behavior to plastic hardening. Compare isotropic and anisotropic materials, rate effects, and various non-linear material models.

Explore bolt pretensioning in Altair HyperMesh and OptiStruct, modeling torque-induced tension with one- and three-dimensional representations, section cuts, and end-point forces in implicit FE analysis.

Model a bolt pretensioning scenario in OptiStruct using HyperMesh, with symmetry in loading and boundary conditions. Inspect stresses, frictional contacts, and protective interfaces to evaluate the structural response.