SimSolid vs. OptiStruct Analysis

You can choose whether to use SimSolid or Optistruct as the solver when running a structural analysis.

You have the option of using either the SimSolid or OptiStruct solver when running a structural analysis in Inspire. Both solvers have unique capabilities and are best used in different situations.

When to Use the SimSolid Solver	When to Use the OptiStruct Solver
Design analysis focus Linear statics Modal vibration Rapid re-analysis of geometry changes Complex parts Large assemblies Solids only	Design optimization focus Single parts Small assemblies Surface and solid models Mesh based Motion analysis

The SimSolid solver gives you the ability to edit geometry, which was not possible in the stand-alone version of SimSolid, as well as yielding significantly faster results when running an analysis in Inspire. Linear static and normal modes analyses are supported when using the SimSolid solver, as well as all boundary conditions and results visualizations. SimSolid extends Inspire’s solver capacity and makes it much faster to analyze large assemblies and complex parts. Note that the SimSolid solver is only valid for analysis and cannot be used for optimization.