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Atkins, Rotherham uses various tools to
extend its insight into a wide variety of engineering disciplines and industries.
One of the most widely used of these tools is Finite Element Analysis, a
computational technique that allows designers to test concepts by means of
computer generated models. The models allow our engineers to
explore stress levels, thermal gradients or fluid flow regimes under a wide
variety of load conditions and analysis types. In turn the model results enable
detailed evaluation and reporting regarding the structural integrity of
structures or mechanisms.
FEA techniques are equally applicable for concept design,
parametric design evaluation, design verification or failure investigation.
Irrespective of the technique adopted or stated applications, our
engineers are vastly experienced in using analysis results to provide
engineering solutions.
In recent years both the hardware and software has become more
sophisticated and running speeds have increased to unimaginable rates compared
to only a short time ago. This has resulted in the ability to produce fine mesh
models of an intricate nature at a more cost effective and faster rate which has
opened the technology to a much wider client base than previously possible.
Additionally software development has reached the stage where complex non-linear
analysis is now possible using affordable computational equipment. Large scale
deflection, material non-linearity, contact, fatigue, fracture mechanics and
fully coupled analysis techniques mean that we can offer clients a wide
variety of solution techniques to suit individual requirements.
While access to such design tools is becoming more widespread the
skill and experience to use them correctly is not and the old adage "rubbish in
- rubbish out" is still a valid maxim.
Our Computational Analysis department has
developed these skills and experience over a considerable period of time and by
continually keeping abreast of the latest hardware and software technology has
maintained its position amongst the world leaders in this increasingly important
area of expertise.
Some illustrations of the wide variety and nature of the work
undertaken by us are shown here.
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