Hello everyone,

At Wood & Co, we are currently developing a MODSIM workflow that I would like to share with you.

Our main objective is to create virtual construction bricks (currently starting with a specific CLT brick) that automatically embed Eurocode calculations directly into the design process. Since these bricks rely heavily on CATIA visual scripting, we are linking them to SIMULIA to leverage Finite Element Analysis.

During this development, we faced two main challenges and wanted to share our approach to solving them:

Challenge 1: Linking Generative Geometry to SIMULIA
There is no direct link between geometries generated by CATIA visual scripting and SIMULIA. Working with scripted geometries requires mapping the FEA mesh, boundary conditions, and loads to a dynamically changing model without breaking the simulation ties.
* Solution: We bypassed this by using Proximity Groups. Instead of trying to select the parametric geometry directly, the proximity group dynamically captures the adjacent mesh within a specified tolerance. This provides a stable support for boundary conditions and loads, allowing the FEA model to update seamlessly alongside the generative geometry, as you can see in the video.

Challenge 2: Bridging Pure Physics with Building Codes
SIMULIA outputs pure physics (raw stress, strain, and displacement). However, as structural engineers, our end goal requires comparing these outputs against strict building standards (like the Eurocodes), which FEA solvers natively do not contain.
* Solution: We are implementing a hybrid Analytical-Numerical-Analytical workflow using EKL (Enterprise Knowledge Language) and SIMULIA. For example, when it comes to the CLT brick:

1. Analytical (EKL): We use EKL to apply Eurocode 5 homogenization rules (e.g., the Gamma Method) to simplify the composite CLT panels into an equivalent homogeneous material.
2. Numerical (SIMULIA): These homogenized properties are passed to SIMULIA via EKL rules. We run the FEA to extract the maximum bending stress, shear, and deflection values.
3. Analytical (EKL): The simulation results are fed back into a final EKL rulebook containing the Eurocode 5 analytical formulas. This calculates the final utilization ratios to automatically flag whether the structural element verifies the building code.

We believe this combination of CATIA visual scripting, SIMULIA, and EKL automation is incredibly powerful for structural verifications in the AEC industry, making these virtual construction bricks truly "code-aware."

I wanted to share this in detail to see if anyone has used a similar approach. Please don't hesitate to share your opinions, feedback, or any ideas on how we can improve this process.

@JF @TB @AF @RD @LS