Dynamic Wind Loading: Using Autodesk CFD & Nastran to Predict Fatigue Failure

Wind Analysis is very common, but the dynamic effects are often overlooked. In this class, we will conduct a Transient CFD analysis on a vertical plate (cantilevered highway sign), and obtain the forces. These transient forces will be subsequently be used as input to a dynamic FE analysis, which will be used to predict the Fatigue Life of the structure itself. Finally, the results will be compared to a simplified “steady-state static analysis”. Attendees will learn about the CFD-FEA coupling capabilities in Autodesk and be shown the workflow in detail. Additionally, discussion will revolve around transient/dynamic FE analysis, tips & tricks, common pitfalls, and best practices.