Source model preparation
For SolidWorks® Simulation users

SolidWorks® Simulation can be used to create a numerical FEA model, which can be exported either into the GEO or INP format to get a suitable source model for ProTOp. Unfortunately, neither the GEO nor the INP output generated by SolidWorks® Simulation can contain multiple load cases. As multiple load cases are an absolute necessity for topology optimization, a special procedure is required to make this possible.

NOTE. SolidWorks® Simulation can not export multiple load cases to a single GEO or INP output model. To get multiple load cases into ProTOp, a special procedure is needed.

Source model preparation outline

To prepare a ProTOp usable FEA model with SolidWorks® Simulation, the procedure is roughly the same as preparing a usual FEA simulation model. More precisely, the following steps should done:

• Create a CAD model (generate geometric model and volume regions)
• Create a FEM model (define and assign materials, define loads, boundary conditions, create mesh, and export either a GEO or INP file; Simulation module)

When SolidWorks® Simulation is used to get the source model, pay attention to the limitations of the corresponding importer, either GEO or INP.

Disconnected regions problem

In recent versions of SolidWorks® Simulation there is an issue that needs attention in order to ensure that the exported FEA model is valid and suitable for ProTOp. Namely, if the options available for mesh generation are not properly selected, the exported mesh may exhibit disconnected regions. An unintentionally disconnected mesh causes either wrong FEA results or total FEA process failure.

To make sure the mesh is exported correctly and suitable for ProTOp, follow these steps while preparing the FEA model in SolidWorks® Simulation:

1. Go to Connections -> Component Interaction ...

2. Go to Global Interaction -> Edit Definition ...

3. In the Component Interaction panel select the following options:

• Interaction Type: Bonded
• Components: Global Interaction
• Advanced: Enforce common nodes between touching boundaries and Surface to surface

4. Go to Mesh -> Create Mesh ...

5. In the Definition tab of the Mesh panel select the following option:

• Mesh Parameters: Standard mesh

6. Proceed with the FEA model preparation as usual ...

Enforcing linear tetrahedral elements

Since linear tetrahedral elements are the preferred option in ProTOp, it is recommended to enforce linear elements as follows:

1. In the Mesh Quality tab of the Mesh panel select the following option:

• Draft

2. Proceed with the FEA model preparation as usual ...