Structural Mechanics Overview

Structural Analysis

Structural analysis is about predicting the response of a mechanical system to a given loading condition. The structure can be as simple as a single bracket up to a complete model of an aircraft. The loading conditions vary from a simple force on a component to a car crashing sideways into a barrier. Behaviour can be static or dynamic, linear or non-linear.


The solutions from MSC.Software are based on the finite element method (FEM) which is the industry standard for structural analysis.

MSC.Nastran is an industry-standard solver in fields such as aerospace and automotive for use as a general FEM code.  It can handle extremely large models with ease. It is also really good with transient models, especially with linear-transient and modal-transient methods.

MSC.Marc is the solver of choice for static and dynamic load analysis of structures that behaves in an extremely non-linear manner. It has excellent contact algorithms, a large number of non-linear material models and advanced iterative schemes for solving complex non-linear problems.

MSC.Dytran is a specialized FEM code for predicting short duration events and / or Fluid-structural interaction. Cars crash simulations and airbag-deployment are examples of what it is often used for.

MD.Nastran (Multi-Disciplinary Nastran) is a based on the MSC.Nastran analysis file. It has the abilities of Nastran, Marc and Dytran built into a single solver. This allows easier transfer of a model from one analysis type to another.

MSC.Patran is a pre- and post-processor for the MSC suite of solvers. It is used to set up the models for submission to the solvers as well as for looking at the results after the solution has completed.

MSC.SimXpert is a new-generation pre- and post-processor for the MSC solver solutions. It is developed with the capabilities and methodology of MD Nastran in mind, making it easy to run vastly different analysis types on a single component from a common graphical user interface.