The SimScale SimWiki is a place where you can learn the most important terms related to and needed for the understanding of computer-aided engineering (or engineering simulation).
Within this Wiki, you will find explanations of concepts, features, equations in connection with Finite Element Analysis, Computational Fluid Dynamics and Thermal Analysis.
We divided SimWiki into 2 parts.
One is in the Documentation and the other one here in this Forum Category.
SimWiki in the Documentation gives you explanations to questions that consider the bigger picture of simulation, whereas here in the Forum, SimWiki is a place for smaller, more detailed questions with community interaction.
What is engineering simulation?
Engineering simulation, also know as computer-aided engineering (CAE), refers to the use of sophisticated graphical software to analyze designs and solve engineering problems. CAE includes Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Thermal Analysis, Multibody Dynamics and Optimization. Find out more by reading our dedicated CAE | Computer Aided Engineering article.
Understanding CAE
Used primarily in Aerospace and Automotive since the 1950s, nowadays computer-aided engineering is standard in almost all industries, from Heavy Equipment, HVAC and Manufacturing to Consumer Goods and Electronics for simulating, validating and optimizing product designs.
The main purpose of CAE is to test, predict and improve the robustness, performance, energy efficiency, and durability of components and assemblies, in the end creating better products and reducing the number of required physical prototypes and the time to market.