CAD Import for Heavy Equipment Models with Simscape

Simscape helps you design heavy equipment. In this video, we're going to see how to import CAD assemblies. Mechanical designs for heavy equipment are usually stored in CAD software. Information from the CAD assembly can be imported into a Simscape model. For some CAD packages, a plugin has been provided that automates the process.

A Simscape model is generated from the CAD assembly. It contains the parts, joint locations, and permitted degrees of freedom. For software where no plugin is available, Simscape can read many CAD native formats. This includes proprietary formats, as well as CAD neutral formats, such as STEP and STL.

Data from finite element software can also be imported to model flexible bodies. Once imported, the mechanical model can be extended with hydraulic actuation, electrical motors, and control systems. You can download the model we have provided and see how CAD geometry has been utilized within the model.