Modules and Accessories

Multi-Processor Design (MPD) Module
In order to speed up an optimization, DOE, or reliability design study, HEEDS^® Professional can perform multiple design evaluations simultaneously on multiple processors. When performing simultaneous (parallel) evaluations with HEEDS over several processors or machines, a 1:1 speedup is achieved for the overall design study. When time is of the essence, parallelization of the design study is a very effective way to get solutions faster.

Also, each evaluation may involve multiple steps (analyses) and require the use of several different CAE tools. For example, one evaluation may involve the use of a CAD model to create a new geometry, a Mesher to generate a new finite element mesh, a Pre-processor to generate a complete finite element model, a CAE Solver to perform the finite element analysis, and a spreadsheet-based cost model. Each of these steps within a design evaluation may utilize a different software package whose license exists on a different machine. Hence, for a single design evaluation it may be necessary for data to flow to several different machines and different CAD/CAE tools.

This is all handled automatically within the optional HEEDS Multi-Processor Design Module. Each set of analyses can be performed on the same set of machines or on a different set of machines, to account for the case in which software licenses are available on different machines. The HEEDS MPD module has its own queuing process, but it can also interface with third-party grid software such as LSF, PBS-pro, and Microsoft Cluster Server 2003.

The MPD module can be added on to your HEEDS Professional software package. Please contact us for more information.

Interface Portals for CAE Tools
In addition to its generic interface that supports virtually all commercial and in-house proprietary CAE tools, HEEDS Professional also has direct interfaces, called portals, for many simulation software packages. Each portal allows HEEDS Professional to directly communicate with and extract data from the model’s input or output files.

• HEEDS Portals for Abaqus and LS-DYNA
  Within HEEDS Professional, Abaqus and LS-DYNA users can easily define shape, sizing and material design parameters, multidisciplinary design goals, and analysis models to judge a design’s performance. Then, HEEDS performs design iterations automatically, searching for optimized designs that simultaneously meet all targets and criteria.
  
  
• HEEDS Portal for NX
  When you're trying to configure an NX journal file manually, it can be difficult to figure out which expressions are available to be adjusted and where to find them in the file. With the new portal for NX, you can bring a part file into the Modeler, easily view all of the expressions that can be changed, and select the ones you want to treat as design variables. Then, during a HEEDS study, HEEDS will automatically create a new part file for each potential design using the NX API.
   
• HEEDS Portal for Excel
  This portal displays an Excel-like sheet inside of the Modeler. To use the portal, you simply create an Excel sheet containing your variable and response data, and then specify that file as both your input and output file inside of the HEEDS Modeler. HEEDS parses the file and allows you to tag variables and responses directly in the file through the Modeler.
  

When you purchase HEEDS Professional software, one interface portal of your choice is included at no cost. You may further customize your software by adding on any of the CAE interface portals. Please contact us for more information.