We were honored to have Thomas Feister from TriMech Solutions present at the 2026 SIMULIA Americas Users Conference in Novi, Michigan, May 13-14, 2026.

Abstract: 

The goal of FEA automation hasn't changed — reduce manual effort, increase throughput, and make simulation-driven design a reliable part of the engineering process. What has changed is the platform. This presentation takes a candid, comparative look at the automation strategies available in Abaqus CAE and Isight versus those offered by the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, exploring how familiar approaches — scripting, process templating, and workflow integration — are reimagined in a cloud-connected, data-centric environment.
From Python scripting in Abaqus CAE to the structured simulation templates and app-based automation of 3DEXPERIENCE, we will examine how the building blocks of automation have evolved, what transfers directly from one platform to the other, what requires rethinking, and where entirely new capabilities emerge. Whether your automation toolkit today is built on Isight process flows, custom scripts, or a mix of both, this session offers a strategic perspective on navigating the transition and positioning your team for the workflows of tomorrow.

Presenter: 

Thomas Feister

Technical Manager, Structures - TriMech Solutions

Tom Feister leads the structures simulation team at TriMech Enterprise Solutions. His background includes metal forming, materials testing, damage modeling, process optimization, structural integrity, and tire workflows. He honed his expertise in finite element analysis (FEA) in previous positions at EWI, KTH Parts, Scientific Forming Technologies Corporation (SFTC), and AutoForm Engineering. Tom specializes in helping engineers develop new skills in FEA that can be used to create a safer and more sustainable world. He is also an Ohio-certified Professional Engineer (PE) in the metallurgical and materials field.