MBS (Multibody System) and FEM (Finite Element Method) are both numerical methods used for simulating mechanical systems. However, MBS is more suitable for modeling systems with rigid bodies, while FEM is better suited for systems with deformable bodies.
The choice between MBS and FEM depends on the type of system you are modeling. If your system involves a lot of rigid bodies, MBS would be a better choice. If your system has deformable bodies or complicated geometries, FEM would be more appropriate.
Yes, it is possible to combine MBS and FEM in a simulation. This is known as a co-simulation, where MBS is used to model the rigid bodies and FEM is used to model the deformable bodies.
MBS is generally faster and more efficient for simulating systems with rigid bodies. It also requires less computational power and can handle larger systems with more degrees of freedom.
FEM can be more computationally expensive and time-consuming compared to MBS. It also requires more expertise and experience to properly set up and analyze a simulation using FEM.