Simcenter Amesim

Simcenter Amesim is a commercial simulation software for the modeling and analysis of multi-domain systems. It is part of systems engineering domain and falls into the mechatronic engineering field.

Simcenter Amesim
Modelling and Simulation with Simcenter Amesim
Developer(s)Siemens PLM Software
Initial release1995
Stable release
Simcenter Amesim 2020.1
PlatformCross-platform
Available inEnglish, Chinese
Typemodeling, simulation, Graphical User Interface
LicenseProprietary
WebsiteSimcenter Amesim website

The software package is a suite of tools used to model, analyze and predict the performance of mechatronics systems. Models are described using nonlinear time-dependent analytical equations that represent the system’s hydraulic, pneumatic, thermal, electric or mechanical behavior. Compared to 3D CAE modeling this approach gives the capability to simulate the behavior of systems before detailed CAD geometry is available, hence it is used earlier in the system design cycle or V-Model.

To create a simulation model for a system, a set of libraries is used, they contain pre-defined components for different physical domains. The icons in the system have to be connected and for this purpose each icon has ports, which have several inputs and outputs. Causality is enforced by linking the inputs of one icon to the outputs of another icon (and vice versa).

Simcenter Amesim libraries are written in C language and also support Modelica[1] which is a non-proprietary, object-oriented, equation based language to model complex physical systems containing, e.g., mechanical, electrical, electronic, hydraulic, thermal, control, electric power or process-oriented subcomponents. The software runs on Linux and on Windows platforms.

Simcenter Amesim is a part of the Siemens PLM Software Simcenter portfolio. This combines 1D simulation, 3D CAE and physical testing with intelligent reporting and data analytics. This portfolio is intended to provide engineers and analysts with a comprehensive solution for development of complex products that include smart systems, through implementing a Predictive Engineering Analytics approach.[2]

History

The Simcenter Amesim software was developed by Imagine S.A. a company which was acquired in June 2007 by LMS International, which itself was acquired in November 2012 by Siemens AG. The Imagine S.A. company was created in 1987 by Dr Michel Lebrun from the University Claude Bernard in France, to control complex dynamic systems coupling hydraulic servo-actuators with finite-elements mechanical structures. The initial engineering project involved the deck elevation of the sinking Ekofisk North Sea petroleum platforms. In the early 1990s, the association with Pr C. W. Richards,[3][4] coming from the University of Bath in England, led to the first commercial release of Simcenter Amesim in 1995 which was then dedicated to fluid control systems. Simcenter Amesim is used by companies in the automotive,[5][6][7][8] aerospace[9][10][11] and other advanced manufacturing industries.[12][13][14]

Usage

Simcenter Amesim is a multi-domain software. It allows to link between different physics domains (hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanic, electrical, thermal, electromechanical). It is based on the Bond graph theory.

The modelling of a system is done in four steps:

  • sketch mode: in which the different components are linked,
  • submodel mode: in which the physical submodel associated to each component is chosen,
  • parameter mode: in which the parameters for each submodel are set,
  • run mode: in which the simulation is started and results analyzed.

Between the submodel and parameter mode, the Simcenter Amesim model is compiled. Under the Windows platform, Simcenter Amesim works with the free Gcc compiler, which is provided with the software. It also works with the Microsoft Visual C++ compiler and its free Express edition. Since the version 4.3.0 Simcenter Amesim uses the Intel compiler on all platforms.

Platform facilities

Simcenter Amesim features:

  • Platform Facilities
  • Analysis Tools
  • Optimization, Robustness, DOE
    • Design Of Experiments (parameter study, full factorial, central composite), optimization (NLPQL, genetic algorithm), Monte-Carlo (random, Latin Hypercube, Optimized Latin Hypercube, with uniform or gaussian distribution)
  • Solvers and Numerics
    • LSODA, DASSL, DASKR, Fixed-step solvers, discrete partitioning, parallel processing, Simcenter Amesim/Simcenter Amesim cosimulations
  • Software Interfaces
    • generic co-simulation (to be used to co-simulate with any software coupled to Simcenter Amesim), functional mock-up interface (export)
  • MIL/SIL/HIL and Real-Time
  • Simulator Scripting
    • scripting functions to pilot the simulations (from Microsoft Excel thanks to the provided Visual Basic subroutines, from MATLAB, Scilab, Python), circuit API (to build your own Simcenter Amesim-based applications in C and in Python version), script file generator (circuit API file automatically written from the existing model)
  • Customization
    • own customized pre and post-processing tools with python, script caller assistant, editor of parameters group, app designer
  • Modelica Platform
    • support of the Modelica modeling language, and support of subsets of the Modelica Standard Library (MSL) with dedicated tools: modelica editor, modelica import assistant, modelica compiler, modelica assembly
  • 1D/3D CAE
    • CAD Import (an integrated CAD reading, processing, parameter extracting and sketch generation tool), CFD software co-simulation (Simcenter STAR-CCM+, Fluent, CFX, [Simcenter STAR-CD], Eole, ...), FEA import of reduced modal basis with pre-defined frontier nodes, MBS software cosimulation and import/export (Simcenter 3D or MSC.Adams)
  • Development
    • The user can develop his own submodels, by assembling different standard submodels (supercomponent) using the Component Customization functionality, or by programming them in C or in Fortran with Submodel Editor. The C source code of most of the standard submodels are provided allowing the user to start from this base to fit them to his needs.

Physical libraries

To create a system simulation model in Simcenter Amesim, components from different physical domains are assembled. The physical libraries have been developed through engineering services and partnerships with customers. In version 2019.1, Simcenter Amesim offered 48 libraries (> 6500 multi-physics models) to answer various application requirements.

Some Simcenter Amesim libraries:

  • Control:
    • Libraries: signal and control, engine signal control
    • Components: continuous blocks, tables, functions, logics, hysteresis, discrete signal, routing, bus, cyclic components, ...
  • Electrics:
    • Libraries: electric motors and drives, electric storage, electrical basics and converters, electric static conversion, electromechanical, automotive electrics, fuel cell
    • Components: resistor, inductor, capacitor, transformer, battery, alternators, synchronous machines, induction machines, direct current machines, generators, direct Park, reverse Park, rectifiers, inverters, choppers, graduators, wires, fuses, relays, fans, blowers, lamps, window lift systems, magnetic coils, airgaps, leakages, piezoelectric actuators, ...
  • Mechanics:
    • Libraries: 1D mechanical, 2D mechanical, 3D mechanical, cam and followers, powertrain, vehicle dynamics
    • Components: masses, springs, dampers, cams, rocker-arms, followers, rack and pinion, screw nut, worm gear, levers, gears, bearings, seals, couplings, clutches, chassis, tires, ...
  • Fluids:
    • Libraries: hydraulics, hydraulic component design, hydraulic resistance, filling, pneumatics, pneumatic component design, gas mixture, moist air
    • Components: tanks, volumes, orifices, pressure drops, bends, expansions, contractions, T-junction, bearings, poppets, spools, pistons, jacks, diaphragms, leakages, sealings, ... hydraulic/pneumatic pipes with wave effects and water-hammer effect, flexible hoses, speed of sound, shocks, ... fluids and gases properties database, ...
  • Thermodynamics:
    • Libraries: thermal, thermal-hydraulics, thermal-hydraulic component design, two-phase flow, air conditioning, cooling system, heat exchangers assembly tool
    • Components: thermal capacities, conduction, convection, radiation, exchangers, radiators, condensers, pumps, thermostats, compressors
  • IC Engine:
    • Libraries: IFP drive, IFP engine, IFP exhaust, CFD1D
    • Components: drivers, gearboxes, crankshaft, camshaft, cylinder, combustion, wall heat exchanges, air path, engine valves, compressors, turbochargers, pipes, injectors, after-treatment, catalyst, ...
  • Aerospace & Defense:
    • Libraries: aeronautics and space, gas turbine, aircraft fuel systems, liquid propulsion, aircraft electrics
    • Components: flight mission definition, atmosphere models, flight dynamics (point mass, longitudinal, lateral, 6DOF), propellers (use of XFOIL to compute lift and drag characteristics), compressors, turbines, fuel tanks with acceleration, orifices, flap valves, compressors/pumps/turbines, combustion chambers, nozzle, electric VFG, transformer rectifiers, three-phase loads, DC generic loads ...

Simcenter system-simulation solutions

Simcenter Amesim :

  • Simcenter Amesim:
    • an integrated, scalable system simulation platform which allows system simulation engineers to virtually assess and optimize the mechatronic systems' performance. It boosts overall system engineering productivity from the early development stages until the final performance validation and controls calibration. Ready-to-use multi-physics libraries combined with application and industry-oriented solutions supported by powerful platform capabilities let system simulation engineers rapidly create models and accurately perform analysis.
  • Simcenter Amesim Component Customization:
    • a tool for model customization and IP protection to adapt and customize the appearance of models, create and publish ready-to-use catalogs, facilitate the exchange of models using the encryption capability.
  • Simcenter Amesim Run:
    • a run-only version to share validated models and run existing Simcenter Amesim models by non-experts.
  • Simcenter Amesim Submodel Editor:
    • a tool to develop new components in order to capitalize the know-how

Simcenter Sysdm :

  • manages system data originating from Simcenter Amesim and other system simulation tools, providing a collaborative environment for model-based systems engineering data.

Simcenter System Architect :

  • provides simulation architects and project engineers with a platform that will help them rapidly create heterogeneous system simulation architectures and seamlessly evaluate system performance.

Simcenter Webapp Server :

  • offers a cost-effective, easy-to-use, zero-installation solution. This server-client, web-based solution provides access to system simulation results relevant to model consumers thanks to predefined model parameterization.

Education and research

Simcenter Amesim is used by engineering schools and universities. It is also the reference framework for various Research projects in Europe. A free Simcenter Amesim Student Edition license can be downloaded here.

Release history
Name/VersionBuild NumberDate
AMESim - 1995
AMESim 1.0 v100 1996
AMESim 1.5 v150 1997
AMESim 2.0 v200 1998
AMESim 2.5 v250 April 1999
AMESim 3.0 v300 June 2000
AMESim 3.5 v350 May 2001
AMESim 4.0 v400 March 2002
AMESim 4.1 v410 April 2003
AMESim 4.2 v420 September 2004
AMESim 4.3 v430 October 2005
AMESim Rev 7A v700 April 2007
AMESim Rev 7B v710 December 2007
AMESim Rev 8A v800 June 2008
AMESim Rev 8B v810 December 2008
AMESim Rev 9 v900 November 2009
AMESim Rev 10 v1000 November 2010
AMESim Rev 11 v1100 November 2011
AMESim Rev 12 v1200 March 2013
AMESim Rev 13 v1300 December 2013
LMS Imagine.Lab Amesim 14 v1400 February 2015
LMS Imagine.Lab Amesim 15 v1501 July 2016
Simcenter Amesim 16 v1600 January 2018
Simcenter Amesim 17 v17 October 2018
Simcenter Amesim 2019.1 v2019.1 April 2019
gollark: Which is long and inconvenient versus just saying "yes, this is an osmarkshypotheticalchatprotocol™-v2.1-capable system".
gollark: There's no particular benefit to it, and it makes it hard/unuseful to say you have a server/client supporting "XMPP" if that might mean a ton of different combinations of modules.
gollark: Putting core features into extensions brings nothing but more complex negotiations and fallbacks, and makes it a bit more annoying to depend on in other features.
gollark: … what 44 things did they do before that?
gollark: This seems like another bad thing to be in an extension.

See also

References
  1. "Modelica and the Modelica Association".
  2. "Siemens PLM Software Simcenter".
  3. Sanada, K., Richards, C. W., Longmore, D. K., Johnston, D. N. and Burrows, C. R. (1993). Practical requirements for modelling the dynamics of hydraulic pipelines. 2nd JHPS International Symposium on Fluid Power.CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
  4. Tilley, D. G., Richards, C. W., Tomlinson, S. P. and Burrows, C. R. (1991). Role of simulation in the design of fluid power systems. IFAC Symposium on Computer Aided Design in Control Systems.CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
  5. Zhang Dong-xu; Zeng Xiao-hua; Wang Peng-yu; Wang Qing-nian (2009). Co-simulation with Amesim and MATLAB for differential dynamic coupling of Hybrid Electric Vehicle. Intelligent Vehicles Symposium, 2009 IEEE. doi:10.1109/IVS.2009.5164373.
  6. Guizhi Sun; Minxiang Wei; Jinju Shao; Man Pei (2007). Automotive Powertrain Modeling and Simulation Based on Amesim. SAE Asia Pacific Automotive Engineering Conference.
  7. CHEN Fei; SUN Ren-yun; CHEN You-rong; SHAN Yu-mei (2009). "Research of Closed Loop Control for CNG Engine Injection Based on Amesim/Simlink". Journal of Xihua University (Natural Science Edition).
  8. Integration of Physical Amesim Engine Model in Hardware in the Loop Environment, Dedicated to Engine Control Unit Testing. SAE World Congress & Exhibition. 2007.
  9. LI Kuo,GUO Ying-Qing(College of Power Engineering and Energy,Northwestern Polytechnical University,Xi'an Shanxi 710072,China) (2009). "Application of Amesim in Aero-Power Plant System". Computer Simulation.CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
  10. GUO Jun; WU Yafeng; CHU Nisheng (2006). "Application of Amesim in aircraft hydraulic system". Computer Aided Engineering.
  11. PAN Hui; ZHANG Li-hui (2011). "Application of Amesim in dynamic characteristic simulation of liquid rocket engine system". Journal of Rocket Propulsion.
  12. Wang Tao Tao Wei (West Branch of Zhejiang University of Technology) (2008). "Amesim-based Motion Simulation and Control of Hydraulic Excavator". Metal Mine.
  13. "Robust trajectory tracking control of hydraulic excavator bucket". Journal of Jilin University (Engineering and Technology Edition). 2006.
  14. Zhong Hua Huang; Hong Wei Gao; Ya Xie (2012). "Hybrid Excavator Test Bed Hydraulic Load System Design". Advanced Materials Research. Advanced Designs and Researches for Manufacturing: 1322–1325.
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