Simulations (3-D)

HiCAD's simulation options enable you to perform a wide range of movement analyses and function simulations. In this way you can find and correct possible errors in your design long before the actual production takes place. Furthermore, you can use your simulations for your product presentations - also in the form of videos if desired. For instance, you can also simulate camera pannings by defining a sequence of views.

HiCAD offers the following technologies:

• Simulation
  Use this tool (Simulation docking window) to simulate and animate movements of parts in an assembly. HCM constraints can also be used in the process, in order to link the movements of the parts to certain conditions. Two simulation modes are possible here:
• Motion simulation
  Enables you to assign motors to the parts to control their movements (translations or rotations). This also includes a collision check. Furthermore, you can define time intervals for the simulation.
  
  
• Physical simulation
  Here, too, movements are controlled by the definition of associated motors. If in this mode a moving part collides with a motionless part, the latter will also be moved as a result. Unfixed (HCM) parts will drop as a result. In this mode, the additional factor of gravity is taken into account.

In contrast to the other HiCAD simulation technologies, HiCAD distinguishes here between the calculation speed of the simulation and the "Play" speed of the simulation. While for the technologies listed below the "Play" speed depends on the performance of the computer used, the "Play" speed here corresponds exactly to the specified speed.

• Assembling simulation
  Use the Assembling simulation functions to control and evaluate assembling, transport and movement simulations for a product according to its 3-D model. These simulations can also be used for product presentations, as they also allow a derivation of videos in AVI format. In contrast to the new Motion simulation, however, HCM constraints are not taken into account here, and the "Play" speed of the simulation depends on the performance of your computer.
• HCM simulation
  The functions that used to be available in HiCAD via 3-D Standard > HCM will no longer be located on the Ribbon from HiCAD 2014 onwards. To access these functions, click on the Settings icon at the top right, select Toolbars and activate the Simulation (Compatibility) checkbox.
  

For new simulations, please always use the new Simulation docking window.

Tools (3-D) • Model and Process Parts (3-D)