MODEL PHYSICS

Capability: Comsol Multiphysics 4 is a modeling and multiphysics simulation tool with a new interface that allows users with all levels of physics modeling experience to build and run simulations. The tool features interfaces with a number of CAD environments including Inventor, SolidWorks, and Pro/Engineer. The desktop lets users organize their workflow and provides an overview of their simulation jobs. The application also features a fast-frequency sweep modal solver for structural, acoustic, and electromagnetics simulations and a frequency-response solver for multiphysics-prestressed structures. The upgrade supports parallel processing on standard multicore-powered desktops and cluster computing distributed memory systems.

Hardware: PC running the Windows, Linux, Solaris, or Macintosh operating system.

Developer: Comsol Inc., 1 New England Executive Park, Suite 350, Burlington, MA 01803; (781) 273-3322; fax (781) 273-6603; www.comsol.com.

Cost: $9,995.

www.me.hotims.com/25729-70

ASSESS PRESSURE

Capability: Finglow Software is a suite of programs used in the design and assessment of pressure vessels as well as in shell and tube heat exchangers. The software performs detailed calculations in accordance with the requirements of the appropriate sections of the relevant design code or standard, including ASME VIII, PD 5500, EN 13445, Stoomwezen, TEMA and Welding Research Council Bulletins 107 and 297. Comprehensive error checking is performed. The program checks the limitations specified by the code or standard and checks additional requirements needed to comply with good engineering practice. It includes a comprehensive material database and allows users to produce detailed printed reports. Verification manuals are included as standard with each software release.

Hardware: PC running Windows 2000, XP, or Vista.

Developer: Finglow Inc., 460 County Road 43, Bailey, CO 80421; (303) 838-2654; fax (303) 816-7423;
www.finglow.com.

Cost: $475, starting. Price depends on the module and configuration selected.

www.me.hotims.com/25729-71

HOW HOT?

Capacity: Coolit version 9 is computational thermal and flow analysis software for electronics. Designers can build complex integrated circuit chip models, using either model constructors or creating them from scratch using basic Coolit building blocks. They can also pick them from the expanded IC package library. The IC package models can be converted by clicking the mouse into compact resistor models if desired. The software now incorporates two new compact resistor model options: a Delphi option and a new 14-resistor model option. The Delphi option lets users specify a resistor network using Delphi methodology for generating environment-independent compact resistor models of IC packages. Such models are currently available from many IC package manufacturers. The 14-resistor compact model can be used for converting detailed models built in Coolit.

Hardware: PC running Windows 2000, NT, or XP.

Developer: Daat Research Corp., P.O. Box 5484, Hanover, NH 03755-5485; (603) 643-2999;
www.daat.com.

Cost: $15,900, starting. Price depends type and length of the license, and options.

www.me.hotims.com/25729-72

SKETCH AND ANALYZE

Capability: GrafiCalc 2010 is mechanical design virtual prototyping software with which users can simulate and validate their product’s performance and evaluate its ability to be manufactured to specification. The software combines the disciplines of sketching, calculation, optimization, motion simulation, data acquisition, and tolerance analysis.

Hardware: PC running Windows 2000, NT, or XP.

Developer: Geomate Co., 3474 Nova Scotia Ave., San Jose, CA 95124; www.inventbetter.com.

Cost: $995; $1,395 in Europe.

www.me.hotims.com/25729-73