Collaborative Simulation Environment for mechanical system design

Widespread application of product performance analysis in mechanical product design stage demands to efficiently manage simulation flow and engineering data. Therefore, the solution of Collaborative Simulation Environment (CSE) was presented, and its function framework and system architecture were analysed. The key technologies of multi-hierarchy Engineering Data Management (EDM) and simulation flow control were researched. Engineering data can be classified and hierarchically managed through multi-hierarchy EDM technology based on XML. Effective management for simulation flow can be carried out through simulation flow control technology based on workflow management technology. On the basis of the architecture and key technology of CSE solution, flow model platform and web portal of some suspension system CSE were developed, using which the product simulation period can be greatly shortened and the design efficiency can be increased. The results of application show the validity of the method.