LMS Releases DADS/Engine for Simulation and Optimization of Dynamic Engine Performance.

LEUVEN, BELGIUM--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 23, 1999--

LMS International, today announced the release of DADS/Engine. Developed in collaboration with BMW AG, DaimlerChrysler and other major engine manufacturers, this new software suite extends the mechanical simulation capabilities of DADS, by providing specialized elements for the high-fidelity dynamic analysis and animation of complete engine systems. This application-focused software assists engine analysts to predict accurate loads in order to optimize engine performance, reduce physical prototypes, and shorten time to market.

DADS/Engine enables engine designers to build functional virtual prototypes using familiar engine terminology. This interactive tool simplifies the process of analyzing the complex dynamic interaction of engine components due to high accelerations, oil-bearing dynamics, cam and spring contact, and combustion forces. DADS/Engine simulates the non-linear dynamics caused by deformation of engine components that simultaneously undergo high-frequency excitation, large displacements, and intermittent contact. Results include loads, velocities, positions, and accelerations for all parts in the engine system.

DADS/Engine includes new modules for Helical Spring, Hydrodynamic Bearing, Flexible Crankshaft, Cam Profile Generator, Cam Contact, Combustion Force, Tachometer Element, and Speed Sweep. Today customers are using DADS/Engine to analyze valve train dynamics (including cam, lifters, rocker arms, valves, and springs), temperature dependent hydrodynamic bearings, and flexible rotating crankshafts interacting with flexible engine blocks.

"DADS/Engine provides a detailed simulation of valve spring behavior, which helps meet our goal of building the best engines possible," says Dr. Rolf Schlachter, Senior Engineer at BMW AG. "Ongoing technology transfer between LMS and BMW AG is resulting in the development of intelligent selection of flexible modes to collect the spring parametric data. This user-friendly interface makes it a practical tool for simulation engineers at BMW AG."

"Close collaboration with our engine customers has enabled LMS to introduce high-fidelity dynamic analysis and engine visualization capabilities not found in any other mechanical simulation software on the market today." states Rex Smith Director of LMS Mechanical Simulation Technologies Division.

LMS CADSI and DADS are registered trademarks and DADS/Engine is a trademark of LMS Computer Aided Design Simulation, Inc. All other trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.