DST Design Simulation Technologies announced the availability of SimWise v8.5. This release introduces new capabilities for CAD integration and FEA solving along with a 64-bit version of the product. According to the company, SimWise complements existing CAD and PLM infrastructure by working directly with product design data and adding simulation specific objects. "SimWise provides simulation capabilities previously available only in high cost products designed for use by engineering analysts," said Jeff Arrigotti, DST director of sales. "Simulation has its greatest impact when it is used as an integral part of the design cycle allowing more design alternatives to be explored; resulting in better final designs. SimWise has the power and the cost effectiveness to make up-front simulation a reality for all product teams no matter the size." New capabilities include a 64-bit version that allows large models to be simulated and better utilizes the capabilities of today's computer hardware, and an associative interface with Solid Edge that translates Solid Edge parts, assemblies and assembly constraints to SimWise via a Solid Edge add-in. Associative translations via an add-in are also available for SolidWorks and Autodesk Inventor. It also includes expanded data translation capabilities. SimWise can read the following data formats: Catia V5, NX, Creo/Elements, SolidWorks, Inventor, ACIS, Parasolids, STEP, IGES, and STL. A new data translation API allows anyone to transfer part and assembly constraint data to SimWise, and there are enhancements to the Finite Element Solver to support normal modes, buckling, and steady state thermal analyses. For more information, visit DST. Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company's website. | 
