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Basics of Modeling Structural Mechanics

In Part 1 of this course on structural mechanics modeling in COMSOL Multiphysics^®, we begin with an overview of key concepts, definitions, and addressing some foundational questions. We then follow this discussion with a step-by-step modeling demonstration of a structural mechanics application. This article serves as a starting point if you are new to modeling any type of structure in COMSOL Multiphysics.

Discussion: Introduction

In this introductory discussion, we begin by defining the objectives when modeling structural mechanics, such as determining the strength and flexibility of a structure, as well as computing any dynamic properties. We introduce important concepts like stress and strain, and outline the governing equations based on conservation and balance laws, as well as material models. We then provide a general overview of various boundary conditions that can then be applied to represent the loads and constraints on your structure.

Demo: Modeling a Static, Structural Application

Follow along in the software to run a linear static analysis on a bracket, using the Solid Mechanics interface. This enables you to experience the fundamentals of modeling a structural mechanics problem. You will be guided through navigating the Model Builder workspace during the tutorial. The modeling workflow includes setting up the model environment, defining parameters and functions to be used in the model settings (available here), importing the geometry (available here), creating selections of boundaries and adding a Centroid Measurement feature, assigning materials, applying the loads and constraints when defining the physics, generating the mesh, running the simulation, and then adding some additional visualizations of results through Results Templates.

Further Learning

For a detailed overview of the software user interface and for additional step-by-step, guided practice of structural mechanics modeling we recommend following this article with the resources listed below.

• Documentation: Introduction to COMSOL Multiphysics (see the Example 1: Structural Analysis of a Wrench section)
• Course: How to Navigate the COMSOL Multiphysics^® User Interface
• Blog Posts:
  • How to Use the Load Plots in Structural Analyses
  • How to Evaluate Stresses in COMSOL Multiphysics^®