SCIENCE

Austrian research and competence center implements advanced data management and CAE tools to streamline interaction between automotive industry and research: Altair Engineering today announced that "The Virtual Vehicle Competence Center" (vif) has implemented Altair Data Manager (ADM) as their simulation data management system at vif's Mechanics Department and has extended their use of HyperWorks computer-aided engineering (CAE) software. ADM was implemented at vif to address automotive industry requirements regarding simulation data management and is used jointly with the institute's research and industry partners. The HyperWorks suite is used to solve problems in areas of mechanical stress; handling; powertrain optimization; multi-body dynamics; linear and nonlinear structural analysis; and pedestrian and passenger safety. "As an independent research center, we are confronted daily with individual customer demands, especially regarding data management, software tools and solvers, and must react quickly and flexibly," said Harald Schluder, area manager in Mechanics at vif. "To efficiently realize research projects for the automotive industry and to better serve the needs of our customers, we have implemented ADM as the CAE data management tool. Certainly, one reason was the large variety of Altair products included in the HyperWorks suite. The Altair products work well in combination with the data management system and enable us to customize software in response to our customers' requirements." Altair HyperWorks is an integrated CAE framework containing best-in-class solutions for complete virtual product development. HyperWorks delivers an open, programmable platform that is easy to integrate into existing processes. ADM enables CAE analysts to manage, organize and control processes and data. "CAE data management is a major issue in today's automotive industry," said Dr. Detlef Schneider, managing director, Altair Germany. "We are pleased that vif has chosen ADM to manage its CAE data and is using HyperWorks to generate that data. Close cooperation with research and competence centers such as vif continues to be of great importance to us. We know that they collaborate with leading automotive companies and define the future of vehicle development and technology with their research projects. We expect to see a growing use and acceptance of ADM in all areas of the automotive industry. Altair is proud to be an active part of the process to shape the future of automotive development with our customers and tools."