FEMtools Interface and Driver Programs

FEMtools includes several direct, two-way, interfaces with several popular FEA and test databases. They are briefly described hereafter. Drivers automate import, export and re-analysis of updated or optimized FE models.

ABAQUS

The FEMtools interface program with the ABAQUS program imports and exports FEM data, and imports element matrices, mode shapes, and operational shapes, all in ASCII format.

ANSYS

The FEMtools interface program with the ANSYS general-purpose finite element code uses the ASCII formatted CDB file to read or write FEM geometry element properties. Element structural matrices and modal data are imported through ANSYS binary files .EMAT and .RST respectively.

NASTRAN

Interfacing with NASTRAN is based on the formatted Bulk Data File for FEM geometry and element properties and binary OUTPUT2 files created with the PARAM, POST, -5 command are used to interface element matrices and shapes (static, modal normal or complex). Punch files are used to import FRF data but can also be used to import modes. Bulk Data can be read or written, OUTPUT2 and punch files are read-only.
The Nastran interface and driver program supports MSC.Nastran, NX Nastran, and NE/Nastran.

I-DEAS/Universal File

The Universal File Format is an ASCII or binary formatted file used by many manufacturers of CAE software and test systems. The FEMtools interface program reads and writes ASCII files containing FEA and test datasets. The Universal File format is supported by many analysis and test software.

Other FE Programs

Users of MSC.Marc, COSMOS, SAP, ETABS, FEMAP, ALGOR, NISA, LUSAS, SAMCEF, or any other finite element program that is not listed hereafter, contact us for current status of interface development.