Highly non-linear simulations can be difficult to converge using the implicit simulation tools. The implicit route can involve several restarts trying different settings each time. Another methodology is available for these non-linear simulations that is explicit dynamics. Explicit dynamics can be used to simulate anything from quasi-static simulations to hypervelocity impacts.
This wire crimping analysis (shown above) is highly nonlinear with large deflections and complex contact. With explicit this is easier to set up as we can specify global contact.
This can be done within the implicit method also, however, due to the ribbing in the boot it can be tricky to define all of the contacts. Explicit takes care of both the contacts and the physics involved in this simulation.
To put an analogy to each simulation type, for an implicit solution your goal is to get to the top of a mountain and try to find the way to get there. If the mountain is too high and very rough you will find a way only by trial and error.
Force Convergence of a non-converging implicit simulation
For an explicit simulation you climb up the mountain step by step. If you make a step that is too big you may fall down.
Implicit and Explicit Example Applications
Running an explicit dynamics simulation requires trade offs between ease of use (effort for setup), accuracy and the time to complete a simulation. ANSYS explicit solutions make it easy and convenient to make the trade-offs required to complete a project in the shortest time with the least amount of labor.
With an explicit simulation we can go further than an implicit solution in that we can model the failure of structures.
Explicit Pull Through and Breaking
The following features separate explicit from implicit:
- Large element deformation
- Complex contact
- Breakable bonded contact
- Breakable spot-welds
- Failure of material
- Erosion of material (automatic element death)
- Reinforcement
To take your simulations further watch this on demand webinar called Using Explicit Simulations To Go Further where we go into more details on explicit simulations, particularly when a simulation may be switched from implicit to explicit — extending the range of non-linear simulations available to an ANSYS Structural user.
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