Softwares for mechanical engineering

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around recommendations for software used in mechanical engineering, specifically for automotive and aerospace design. Participants explore various software options for design, modeling, and analysis, addressing both commercial and freeware solutions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants recommend software such as AutoCAD, ProE, SolidEdge, and Alibre for 3D modeling.
  • One participant shares a positive experience with Autodesk Inventor, noting its intuitive design aspect compared to NX2.
  • There are inquiries about the specific purpose of the software needed, suggesting that different software serves different functions, such as analysis or design.
  • Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software is mentioned, with a suggestion to research more about it.
  • Linkage design software options like Sam, WATT, and Lincages are noted, with Lincages being more educational in nature.
  • SolidWorks is highlighted as an easy-to-use CAD package, while UG (Unigraphics) is mentioned for its design and manufacturing capabilities.
  • One participant points out the vast number of programs available for mechanical engineers, emphasizing the need for clarity on the specific requirements to make a suitable recommendation.
  • A resource link for finite element analysis is provided, discussing the choice between commercial software and freeware options.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a variety of software options and preferences, indicating that there is no consensus on a single best software solution. The discussion remains open-ended with multiple competing views on the most suitable software for different needs.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the importance of specifying the intended use of the software, which may affect the recommendations. There are mentions of limitations in usability for freeware options compared to commercial software.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in mechanical engineering software, particularly those involved in automotive and aerospace design, may find this discussion beneficial.

mans
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some one please recommend me some good softwares for auto n aero designing...please please if ne one has ne knowlegde regarding dis...please help me out
 
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AutoCAD, ProE, SolidEdge, FEM, etc

What is the exact purpose of the software?
 
Alibre is also a good, inexpensive 3D modeling software.
 
I recently had the pleasure of playing with Inventor (made by autodesk). I liked it a lot. It was easy to use and the design aspect was more intuitive than UG (I use NX2 mostly).

Are you looking for some sort of analysis software? Look at MCS Adams or any of their other software. It takes a while to learn how to use (my opinion on the UI is that they took the worst parts of UNIX and M$ and combined it all into on crappy interface); however, once you figure it out you'll have access to a lot of good data.

Are you looking for finite element analysis software (google FEA and you'll get more info than I can share here myself)?

Are you looking for lincage design software? There are only a couple of packages available as far as I know that do this--One is called Sam the other is WATT and there is a third call lincages. The last is more of educational use but you could use it to aid in lincage development.

Oh, another CAD package--can't forget this-- I use quite a bit is solidworks. Real easy to use.

If you need software more for manufacturing and design then UG might be good for you. UG has a design suite as well as a manufacturing suite. UG integrates with IDEAS and can be used in conjunction with Adams for design and analysis.

There are probably 47092387409238714 programs available for ME's; however, pointing you toward one is a little tough unless you tell us what you need the software for.
 
IFER has a good characterization from where you can first go through public domain stuff for different purposes and the "move up" the ladder :

http://www.engr.usask.ca/~macphed/finite/fe_resources/fe_resources.html

Suppose the question is whether you want straightforward (even simple) packages -> commercial, or want to go with the no cost option -> freeware with typically "some" limitations in usability etc.
 
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