PV/Designer has the potential to be an extremely useful tool. However, in its current incarnation it suffers from limitations and errors. As a result, there are very few analyses where I'm able to use PV/Designer. (Note that the following comments apply to creation of solid-element models. My analyses typically require the use of Stress Linearization, so I don't use shell elements.)
Known errors: I've identified and submitted lists of model creation errors on two occasions. Reading between the lines of the feedback received leads me to believe that correction of these errors is a very low priority.
Additional features needed: In addition to correction of the identified errors, a few additional features would greatly enhance the versatility of the program. The features that come to mind are:
- Add fillet weld or radius at junction of nozzle with shell. (I note that a fillet can be manually added using the Feature Region for both the nozzle and shell. However, due to an error in the shell part of the Feature Region this cannot be used for most nozzles that are non-normal to the surface.)
- Specify a different number of through-the-thickness elements for the shell and for the nozzle. This is important for those self-reinforced nozzles wherein the nozzle wall is considerably thicker than the attached shell.
- Include the Feature Region options for heads. Currently only available for cylindrical shells. With the Feature Region, a fillet weld can be manually added at the nozzle-to-head junction.
Simulation Mechanical is a serious, powerful and high-quality analysis tool. PV/Designer does not complement the capabilities of ASM. I request that Autodesk reevaluate the priority given to upgrade PV/Designer. Thank you.
