Changing the mesh type in SolidWorks is a crucial step when it comes to creating accurate and realistic simulations. By adjusting the mesh type, you can control the level of detail and accuracy of your simulation results. In this tutorial, we will explore how to change the mesh type in SolidWorks using a step-by-step approach.
Step 1: Opening the Simulation Tab
To begin, launch SolidWorks and open the desired model or assembly. Once you have your model open, navigate to the top menu and click on “Simulation”. This will open up the Simulation tab, where you can access all of the simulation tools.
Step 2: Accessing Mesh Controls
With the Simulation tab now open, locate and click on “Mesh” in the toolbar. This will bring up a drop-down menu with various mesh-related options.
Step 2.1: Mesh Settings
In the “Mesh” drop-down menu, select “Mesh Settings”. This will open a dialog box where you can fine-tune specific settings related to meshing in SolidWorks.2: Mesh Type
In the “Mesh Settings” dialog box, navigate to the “Mesh Type” section. Here, you will find a range of options for different types of meshes that can be applied to your model.
Step 3: Choosing a Mesh Type
To change the mesh type, simply select one from the available options in the “Mesh Type” section. The most commonly used mesh types include:
- Tetrahedral Mesh: This type of mesh is ideal for complex geometries and irregular shapes. It consists of tetrahedral elements and provides accurate results for most simulations.
- Hexahedral Mesh: Also known as a brick mesh, this type of mesh comprises hexahedral elements.
It is best suited for regular and symmetrical geometries, offering efficient computation.
- Shell Mesh: This mesh type is specifically designed for thin-walled structures, such as sheet metal parts or shells. It consists of surface elements and provides quick solutions for such components.
Step 4: Applying the Mesh Type
Once you have chosen the desired mesh type, click on “OK” to apply the changes. SolidWorks will automatically generate the selected mesh type for your model based on its geometry.
Step 5: Fine-tuning the Mesh
To further refine and optimize your mesh, you can adjust additional settings such as element size, curvature-based refinement, or local regions refinement in the “Mesh Settings” dialog box.
Conclusion
In this tutorial, we have explored how to change the mesh type in SolidWorks. By following these simple steps, you can easily modify the mesh type according to your specific simulation requirements.
Remember to consider the complexity of your model’s geometry and select an appropriate mesh type to ensure accurate results. Experiment with different options and fine-tune the settings to achieve optimal simulation outcomes.
Now that you know how to change the mesh type in SolidWorks, you can take advantage of this powerful tool to enhance your design process and make more informed engineering decisions.