Hello everyone,
I’m interested in hearing your opinions on finite element analysis (FEA) software that can directly handle Rhino geometry. The analyses I perform are linear static with surfaces (quad elements), not solids. I’m looking for a way to minimize the time required to transfer geometry from Rhino to an FEA software.
Ideally, I would like to define the thickness properties in Rhino layers and have them recognized by the FEA software.
In my experience, ANSYS with SpaceClaim (SC) can read 3DM geometry effectively, although it doesn’t recognize thickness properties. However, there are cases where intersecting breps are not properly recognized in SC and need manual adjustment.
I have also tried RFEM, which handles planar surfaces well and recognizes thickness properties, but it’s challenging to import anything else than planar srfs. (Trimmed nurbs are not recognized at all)
Karamba plug-in lacks quad meshing and for post processing is not optimal.
I’ve heard that Strand7 and Lusas are capable of handling trimmed NURBS, but I haven’t personally tried them yet.
I’m open to hearing about your experiences and recommendations for FEA software.