Tools
Adams to Nastran Module
ADM2NAS, the Adams-to-Nastran module in Adams/Car Ride, allows you to easily create an
MSC.Nastran model of a vehicle from an existing Adams/Car full-vehicle assembly.
Because Adams is the most widely used mechanical simulation program for dynamics of rigid and
flexible structures and MSC.Nastran is the most widely used mechanical simulation program for
structural analysis, there is often a requirement for iterating a component design in MSC.Nastran based
on reliable information on linearized dynamics of mechanical elements. ADM2NAS provides a direct
link between the two programs, giving you a unique opportunity for a comprehensive dynamic
investigation of a complex mechanical system.
ADM2NAS features two operative modes:
• Direct export - A direct translation of existing Adams/Car elements (parts, constraints,
attachments, forces) is realized, creating a full system finite element model ready to be run in
MSC.Nastran. The power of this approach is that the Adams/Car model topology is maintained
in MSC.Nastran, and the FE analyst can easily modify the model characteristics (geometric
entities, stiffness properties, and so on). As a drawback, some elements (such as forces including
user subroutines or function expressions) cannot be translated automatically. In these cases,
dummy MPC elements, which make the simulation fail, are created to trace the failed complete
translation. The Adams/Car model can be exported in design or static equilibrium conditions.
RBE and/or beam elements can be created to connect the part's center of gravity with nodes
where connectors (constraints and attachments) are located.
• Linear export - If you have the MSC.Nastran model of a vehicle component or subassembly
(chassis, suspension, sub-frame, and so on), ADM2NAS allows you to select an Adams/Car part
and create a linearized MSC.Nastran model of the full vehicle, excluding the selected part.
ADM2NAS converts the linearized model as MSC.Nastran bulk data input, which then can be
assemb