Autodesk ForceEffect is a new mobile simulation app for iPad that allows engineers to quickly and easily simulate design options during the conceptual phase. ForceEffect provides an intuitive environment for drawing, constraining and simulating concepts using free body diagrams by simply tapping objects to select, move, rotate and scale. Real time solving capabilities provide immediate feedback on the performance of a design, enabling users to bring engineering to the point of the problem-whether they're in the field, at the office or in the class room.
ForceEffect solves static systems analysis using free-body diagrams. Users simply create diagrams by leveraging existing design images or create new systems from scratch.
Using the scaled static image, users can easily create joints, supports and loads, and compute reaction forces. User can then easily manipulate the geometry to iterate on the design quickly and efficiently and calculate new reaction forces to optimize the design. Unlike the traditional approach of using paper, pencil and a calculator to develop equations for design options, Autodesk ForceEffect does all simulation and engineering calculations on iPad.
Autodesk ForceEffect generates a rich results report that can be printed, emailed or viewed using any Web browser. In addition, export capabilities enable easy workflow continuation in any CAD design application.
"Autodesk ForceEffect is a mobile conceptual simulation app that brings engineering to the point of the problem," said Robert "Buzz" Kross, senior vice president, Manufacturing Industry Group at Autodesk. "This user-friendly app can greatly benefit engineers, students and technical DYIers who need to quickly and easily evaluate their designs upfront in the design process."