SolidWorks 2010 Bible

Chapter 11: Editing and Evaluation

Welcome to SolidWorks SimulationXpress

When you start SimulationXpress, an image welcomes you to the tool and lets you know what to

expect from the process. It also issues a disclaimer that seems to downplay the value of this tool.

There is also a link here for some valuable web-based training if you are new to analysis or simula-

tion. Figure 11.16 shows the new Welcome screen.

FIGURE 11.16

Welcoming you to the SimulationXpress software

If you are a veteran SimulationXpress user, starting with SolidWorks 2010, most of what you see

here is new, including the order of the steps and some of the terminology.

Applying Fixtures

Every analysis must have at least one face that is held stationary in order for the analysis to work.

These are usually faces on the bottom of the part.

In SolidWorks 2010, Fixtures are what was formerly referred to as Restraints. You must apply

Fixtures to the part to be analyzed as the first step in the process. A PropertyManager appears to

collect the faces you select. Fixtures are fixed, meaning they are the faces in the analysis that

remain perfectly stationary. These are usually some sort of mounting location, or a welded area.