Hi everyone,

I am currently working on a platform model originally created in SolidWorks and exported as a .sat file. The structure consists of a flat plate supported by several I-beams underneath. 

Various rotational equipment and other components are mounted on the platform, placing localized weights on different areas. For reference, I’ve attached the images that show the platform and the arrangement of its supporting beams. My goal is to study the vibration behavior of the system, particularly to extract the natural frequencies and compare them with the operating speeds of the mounted equipment. 

I would greatly appreciate your guidance on the best way to model and simulate this system in Abaqus/CAE. Specifically, I am uncertain whether it is best to: Import the assembly as a full 3D deformable solid, or Simplify the model using shell or wireframe (beam) representations. 

Additionally, I have several questions as I set up the simulation: 

1- For the vibration analysis, is it necessary to include both the flat plate and the I-beams, or is it acceptable to model only one of them?

2- Should I simplify the flat plate by removing holes or cutouts before meshing? If the I-beams must be included, should I model them as full 3D solids or as simplified beam sections? 

3- What is the best way to define constraints between the I-beams and the plate—would a *tie constraint be appropriate? 

4- How should contact or connectivity between the flat plate and the I-beams be treated if both are included in the model? 

5- Finally, what meshing strategy would you recommend for each component to balance accuracy and computational efficiency? 

As I am still developing my experience with structural FEM analysis, I would truly value your input on how to set up this model correctly in Abaqus. 

Thank you in advance for your time and help.