A study of the process of using Pro/ENGINEER geometry models to create finite element models

Methods for building Pro/ENGINEER models which allowed integration with structural and thermal mesh generation and analyses software without recreating geometry were evaluated. This study was not intended to be an in-depth study of the mechanics of Pro/ENGINEER or of mesh generation or analysis software, but instead was a first cut attempt to provide recommendations for Sandia personnel which would yield useful analytical models in less time than an analyst would require to create a separate model. The study evaluated a wide variety of geometries built in Pro/ENGINEER and provided general recommendations for designers, drafters, and analysts.