Femap

Infobox_Software
name = Femap


caption = Composite Wing Leading Edge Structure Modeled in Femap
developer = Siemens PLM Software
latest_release_version = V9.3.1
latest_release_date = May 2007
operating_system = Windows XP
genre = Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) software
license =
website = [http://www.femap.com/ www.femap.com]

Femap is an engineering analysis pre- and postprocessor for the simulation of complex engineering problems using the finite element method. It runs on Microsoft Windows and provides CAD import, modeling and meshing tools to create a finite element model, as well as postprocessing functionality that allows mechanical engineers to interpret analysis results. The finite element method allows engineers to virtually model components, assemblies, or systems to determine behavior under a given set of boundary conditions, and is typically used in the design process to reduce costly prototyping and testing, evaluate differing designs and materials, and for structural optimization to reduce weight.

Product simulation applications include basic strength analysis, frequency and transient dynamic simulation, system-level performance evaluation and advanced response, fluid flow and multi-physics engineering analysis for simulation of functional performance.

Femap is used by engineering organizations and consultants to model complex products, systems and processes including satellites, aircraft, defense electronics, heavy construction equipment, lift cranes, marine vessels and process equipment.

Product Configuration

Standalone Pre- and Postprocessor
Femap
- CATIA v5 CAD Access (add-on)

Bundled Solutions
Femap with NX Nastran (includes statics, nonlinear, heat transfer)
- Dynamics (add-on)
- Advanced Nonlinear (add-on)
- Optimization (add-on)
- Rotor Dynamics (add-on)
- DMAP (add-on)
- Superelements (add-on)
- Aeroelasticity (add-on)
- Structural Analysis Toolkit (add-on)
Femap Thermal Solver
- Femap Advanced Thermal Solver (add-on)
Femap Flow Solver

Femap is licensed as either a nodelocked or floating license application.

History

1985 - ESP founded and Femap originally developed as a pre- and postprocessor to Nastran
1999 - ESP acquired by SDRC
2001 - SDRC acquired by EDS
2004 - Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software suite spun off to form UGS
2007 - UGS acquired by the Automation & Drives Division of Siemens and Siemens PLM Software formed

Femap product development continues as a CAD neutral and solver independent application which is available bundled with NX Nastran or standalone where typically it is used with independent solvers such as NEi Nastran, MSC/MD Nastran, LS-DYNA, ANSYS and ABAQUS.

Case Studies

Reviews

Al Dean (11-Oct-2006) [http://www.mcadonline.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=319&Itemid=73| Femap V9.2 Review] MCAD Magazine

Al Dean (26-Apr-2006) [http://www.mcadonline.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=226&Itemid=73| Femap V9.1 Review] MCAD Magazine

Bill Fane (Jan-2006) [http://www.dpncanada.com/images/stories/2006/January/dpn_janfeb06_pg18.pdf| Femap V9.1 Review] Design Product News

Femap in the Press

[http://machinedesign.com/ContentItem/72212/FEUpdateSimulatingStructuralDiscontinuitiesUsingSprings.aspx Simulating Structural Discontinuities Using Springs]
Structural joints in any assembly typically present an abrupt increase or decrease in stiffness compared with the surrounding structure. [http://machinedesign.com Machine Design] - Applied Analysis & Technology Inc.

[http://machinedesign.com/ContentItem/72063/FEUpdateAFewIdeasforHandlingContactinFasteners.aspx A Few Ideas for Handling Contact in Fasteners]
As ever-more-complex assemblies require simulation, more is demanded from simulation software. [http://machinedesign.com Machine Design] - [http://www.femap.com Siemens PLM Software]

[http://www.manmonthly.com.au/articles/Technology-advances-offer-industry-a-boost_z73683.htm Technology Advances Offer Industry a Boost]
Substantial increases in usability and power in the latest FEA packages can offer huge savings in less raw materials used, less weight, stronger product and reduced time to market. [http://www.manmonthly.com.au Manufacturing Monthly] - [http://www.endurasim.com.au Endurasim]