For many components, this type of calculation is sufficient. Linearization is particularly appropriate when only small elastic deformations are expected and when using rigid joining methods such as bolts or welds.

For example, the bending and torsional stiffness of a vehicle body is a linear problem. The expertise mainly lies in selecting the appropriate sheet metal joining techniques and boundary conditions.

For this category, the following software systems are particularly recommended: MSC/Nastran, ABAQUS, and ANSYS.

In linear strength analysis, stresses are considered within the elastic range. With a sufficiently fine mesh in areas of high stress gradients, and when component connections and boundary conditions can be linearized, reliable results can be expected.

A structure subjected to external loads is brought into equilibrium with the corresponding inertial forces. This special case of linear static strength analysis allows components to be examined without the influence of supports.

This method is frequently used, for example, to determine stresses in vehicle body structures under dynamic driving loads.

For these applications, the following software systems are particularly recommended: MSC/Nastran, ABAQUS, and ANSYS.

The possible buckling load and associated torsion behavior (also called the buckling method) one claimed to pressure component in the vehicle sector are rarely used.

We offer topology, sheet thickness, and shape optimization.

Topology Optimization is often used to optimize the trimming of sheet structures and material usage in complex cast components. Multiple load cases can be considered simultaneously during optimization. The resulting structure provided by the software is then used to create a new design, taking into account manufacturing constraints as well as all functional requirements.

Sheet Thickness Optimization is applied, for example, to optimally distribute wall thicknesses in a vehicle body while considering both static and dynamic target values. The new thicknesses are then finalized together with crash and strength requirements. Another application is optimizing wall thickness distribution in plastic injection-molded components.

Shape Optimization allows geometric dimensions of a structure to be varied. When geometry is available, this can include radii, diameters, or overall dimensions. If only FE meshes are available, the structure can be adjusted within defined limits through parameterization of node coordinates.

To estimate component service life, previously calculated stresses are fed into a durability program. The loading can be multiaxial, and the stresses can be derived from linear/nonlinear static unit load analyses or linear/nonlinear dynamic transient calculations.

Through extensive experience—particularly in the field of vehicle body structures—we have built a substantial knowledge base in durability assessment. For a well-known automotive manufacturer in Germany, we have successfully integrated durability processes into vehicle development. Current applications focus on commercial and off-road vehicles.

In combination with our testing department, we can offer the complete workflow, from wheel load measurement on full vehicles, generation of sectional loads, to full durability simulation.

Durability analyses are performed using the comprehensive FEMFAT software.

Thermal calculations are particularly important when clamped components operate over a wide temperature range. In such cases, the resulting thermal stresses in the structure can lead to component damage or unacceptable deformations.