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Structures
Set up your model and run a structural analysis or optimization.
Structural Analysis
Set up and run a linear static analysis using the SimSolid or OptiStruct solver. You can also analyze normal modes and buckling modes.
SimSolid vs. OptiStruct Analysis
You can choose whether to use SimSolid or OptiStruct as the solver when running a structural analysis.
Contacts in SimSolid
Changes to contacts for SimSolid analysis.

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Parametric Modeling
Create parametric sketches, geometry, and PolyNURBS with construction history and variables.
Implicit Modeling
Create implicit models with primitives, lattices, point clouds, fields, offsetting, Booleans, inverting, smoothing, morphing, and filleting.
Structures
Set up your model and run a structural analysis or optimization.
- Model Setup
  Create connections and apply loads, constraints, materials, and manufacturing controls to your model.
- Structural Analysis
  Set up and run a linear static analysis using the SimSolid or OptiStruct solver. You can also analyze normal modes and buckling modes.
  - SimSolid vs. OptiStruct Analysis
    You can choose whether to use SimSolid or OptiStruct as the solver when running a structural analysis.
    - Select a Solver
      Choose whether to use the SimSolid or OptiStruct solver in the Preferences.
    - Supports in SimSolid
      Changes to contacts for SimSolid analysis.
    - Contacts in SimSolid
      Changes to contacts for SimSolid analysis.
    - Reaction Forces in SimSolid
      Use the Reaction Forces tool to visualize the resultant forces and moments between parts, or at supports or grounded fasteners.
    - Limitations for SimSolid Analysis
      Limitations for SimSolid versus OptiStruct analysis.
  - Run Options: Local vs. Remote
    Choose whether to run jobs locally or on a remote job server.
  - Run Analysis and Export a FEM File
    Define and run a linear static, normal modes, or buckling modes analysis, then export a FEM file.
  - View Structures Analysis Results
    Use the Show Analysis Results tool to view the results of a linear static, normal modes, or buckling modes analysis in the Analysis Explorer. View and animate results, add callouts, and compare results from different runs.
  - Analysis Result Types for Structures
    Inspire provides several types of linear static analysis results, as well as normal modes and buckling modes analysis.
  - Animate and Record Results
    Use the Animation Toolbar that appears at the bottom of the modeling window to animate and record results.
- Structural Optimization
  Set up and run a topology, topography, or gauge optimization.
- Report
  Generate PPT or PDF reports from analysis results. The Report tools are available after you have run an analysis.
Motion
Set up and run a motion analysis, plot the results, and export the results.
Fluids
Prepare and run a computational fluid dynamics simulation.
Design Explorer
Evaluate designs by using geometric variables and applying a design-of-experiments (DOE) or optimization method. We recommend fully constraining your sketch when sketch variables are used in the design exploration.
Manufacture
Set up and run a basic porosity or thinning analysis.
Print 3D
Prepare and run an additive manufacturing simulation, and export a file for 3D printing.
Rendering
Adjust the materials and environment of objects in the scene to create a photorealistic image.
Inspire Python API
Learn how to access the Inspire Python API including online help, quick start demos, and the Extension Manager.
Reference
View the glossary, frequently asked questions, and errors and alerts.
Keyboard Shortcuts and Mouse Controls
Learn keyboard shortcuts and mouse controls for common operations.

Contacts in SimSolid

Changes to contacts for SimSolid analysis.

Contacts are defined differently depending on which solver you use, which may result in a greater number of contacts. If you switch between solvers, you will need to open the Contacts tool, click Find, and then redefine contacts using the appropriate method.

You can find and review any disconnected groups of parts using the Disconnected Groups tool on the Contacts icon.

Tip: To find and open a tool, press Ctrl+F. For more information, see Find and Search for Tools.

Note: This tool only appears when the SimSolid solver has been enabled in the Preferences.