MSC Software : Exploring MSC.Patran

delivery medium: Multi-platform CD-ROM

overview:

MSC.Patran provides a complete software environment for finite element modeling (FEM) (pre-processing) and model analysis (post-processing) simulation of mechanical products.

Exploring MSC.Patran (PAT301 CD) is an interactive multimedia CD-ROM that introduces MSC.Patran 7.5 to new users. This program will help engineers master the basic skills required to use MSC.Patran in typical engineering applications. Concepts are presented in a series of 13 hands-on case studies. Each case demonstrates a major MSC.Patran feature such as modeling, importing CAD data, defining material properties, creating boundary conditions, submitting jobs for analysis, and post-processing the results.

This CD was also translated into Japanese. Not only was all the text translated, but also the audio and movies on the CD.

responsibilities:

• Had to learn the software in a short period of time before any technical writing could begin
• Wrote technical content for several of the 13 real-world cases used to demonstrate MSC.Patran features such as modeling, importing CAD data, defining material properties, creating boundary conditions, submitting jobs for analysis, and postprocessing the results.
• Converted course notes for the MSC.Patran 301 class from FileMaker into Director. The complete set of class notes is integrated in the CD.
• Created 3D animations to illustrate a real-world problem for each case. 3D models were generated in form-Z while the models were animated in Electric Image on the MAC platform.
• Developed QuickTime movies to illustrate how the menus and options are used to tackle the case problem. This provides an easy-to-follow hands-on guide for the new users.
• Synchronized movies to Japanese audio tracks for the Japanese version of the CD.
• Programmed simulations placed at the end of each case to encourage users to further explore a concept tackled in that particular case.
• The entire project was developed in Director and is cross-platform for the Mac and PC.

samples: case simulation* (shockwave required)

website: MSC Software Exploring MSC.Patran (PAT301 CD)* (off-site)

* links to pop-up window