looking for inexpensive 2d software for loading linkages\levers

[aroundhere]

Ive been doing alot of linkage/scissor arm type mechanisms lately. I use sworks and the premium linear simulation that comes with premium sworks. I would like to find a 2d software that I can draw lines in, attach pivot points, sliders and then be able to apply a force that generates what my forces will be in other parts of the linkage. I dont need stresses or deflections. Just a simple way to play with and determine forces quickly. I found a couple of expensive kinematics programs (working model 2d)for example, but this and some other programs I have found are far more than I need. Is there anything like this in existence? thanks.

 

[cowski]

If you have access to an Apple or Android device, try out ForceEffect and ForceEffect Motion apps.

http://www.inventortales.com/2012/12/a-holiday-with-autodesk-force-effect.html

 

[GregLocock]

Thanks for making me look for WM 2D

http://www.design-simulation.com/WM2D/Index.php

, it is a great program.

Cheers

Greg Locock


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[IDS]

Thanks for making me look for WM 2D

http://www.design-simulation.com/WM2D/Index.php

, it is a great program.

Looks interesting.

Can you give an indication of the cost?

Doug Jenkins
Interactive Design Services

http://newtonexcelbach.wordpress.com/

 

[MikeHalloran]

ISTR that WM was priced in the 2000 USD range when it first came out, but that was a long time ago, when that was a lot of money. ;-)


Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA

 

[GregLocock]

3000 now.

Cheers

Greg Locock


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[johnbridge231]

I would also consider this app:

http://engissol.com/2d-frame-analysis-dynamic-edition.html

 

[GregLocock]

As I understand it that is for linear geometry only, yjay is displacements are assumed to be small. In a mechanical linkage rotations of 360 degrees are common. Looks nice though.

Cheers

Greg Locock


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[swertel]

Force Effect also runs as an app within Google Chrome, which more or less just takes you to their website.

https://forceeffect.autodesk.com/FE.html

--Scott
www.wertel.pro

 

[drawoh]

aroundhere,

Why not do this with SolidWorks? Its 2D drawings routines allow all sorts of parametric modelling. I have modelled mirror scanners in 2D. I have even done crude ray tracing. Linkages should be easy.

--
JHG

 

[aroundhere]

Force Effect is very close to what I am looking for. This is a cool program. Draw a few beams and apply forces, and it automatically gives you the loads at all joints. This is what I wanted. A way to draw complex linkages, but not spend the time doing the vector statics calculations. I know...Im lazy. Force Effect will also generate all of the statics calculations and free body diagrams in a report. I havent really played with Force motion, but it appears that you can import your design from force Effect and apply motion to it. It will give you a curve plot and forces. This will apparantly run thru the dynamics and give you the same reports. This is great for initial design to play with to get you in the ballpark. I would never trust this for any final design. Plus, I do enjoy doing the math. All this does it help speed up the initial design and allow you to play around with the potential design.

The problem for me is that it only runs on ipad or phones(android or iphone. I have no need for an ipad. If it will work thru google chrome on the computer, this will be great. <--- thanks swertel...I will try this
I also downloaded 2D FRAME ANALYSIS. It seems like a helpful program, but I am limping around trying to learn how to use it. Any input or suggestions for this program would be very helpful.

thanks guys.