A discussion of the virtual testing of mechanical systems, presenting theories and techniques implemented in the FEDEM Multidisciplinary Simulation Software. The basis for this approach is the non-linear FE formulation and the Master-Slave techniques used for modelling joints and transmissions.

Automation in the Virtual Testing of Mechanical Systems: Theories and Implementation Techniques provides a practical understanding of Knowledge-Based Engineering (KBE), an approach that is driving automation in engineering. Companies are using the technology to automate engineering tasks, achieving gains in output, and saving time. This book will be the main source of information available for implementing KBE systems, integrating KBE with the finite element methods, and showing how KBE is used to automate engineering and analysis of mechanical systems. The process of combining KBE with optimization techniques is explored, and the use of software tools is presented in some detail. Features Introduces automation with Knowledge-Based Engineering (KBE) in generic mechanical design Develops a framework for generic mechanism modeling including a library format Explores a KBE environment for generic design automation Includes design cases in KBE Gives a presentation of the interwoven technologies used in modern design environments