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Finite element analysis (FEA) is a computerised method for predicting how a product reacts to real-world forces, vibration, heat, fluid flow and other physical effects. Finite element analysis shows whether a product will break, wear out or work the way it was designed. It is called analysis, but in the product development process, it is used to predict what's going to happen when the product is used.
EA works by breaking down a real object into a large number (thousands to hundreds of thousands) of finite elements, such as little cubes. Mathematical equations help predict the behaviour of each element. A computer then adds up all the individual behaviours to predict the behaviour of the actual object.
Finite element analysis helps predict the behaviour of products affected by many physical effects, including:
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Simulation Mechanical (US site)
Study finite element analysis (FEA) and mechanical event simulation.
CFD, CFD Viewer (US site)
Use computational fluid dynamics models to compare design alternatives.
Moldflow (US site)
Optimise and validate your injection moulding process.
Inventor Professional
Develop, manage and deliver great products with digital prototyping abilities.
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Product Design & Manufacturing Collection (AU Site)
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Robot Structural Analysis Professional (US site)
Calculate and analyse large, complex structural models.
Students can push the boundaries of finite element analysis and simulation with Autodesk software. Download the same, full version software that more than 9 million designers, engineers and digital artists are using, including Autodesk Inventor Professional, Autodesk CFD, Autodesk Moldflow Advisor Ultimate and Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis Professional software.
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