Flexcom > New Features! > Returning Users

If you have used Flexcom in the past, but not recently, here's a quick summary of the main structural changes which have been made to the software in recent years:

•Model Building: Model building is very quick nowadays via the Lines modelling feature and mesh generation is automatic. There is an integrated Keyword Editor which facilitates rapid data specification, assisting you with helpful input prompts and command auto-completion. Any inaccurate specifications are detected by automatic syntax checking and data validation.

•Pre-Processor Scripting: Flexcom supports pre-defined parameters and mathematical equations, similar to computational products such as Excel and MatLab. Once a parameter is altered, all dependent parameters are automatically updated, with consequent savings for model setup effort. You can create highly parameterised models which can be easily varied subsequently (e.g. one template model could be used to examine mooring lines of different length or azimuth angle). Environmental simulation is also straightforward, as one template simulation file can be used to create all the input files required to simulate an entire wave scatter diagram.

•Finite Element Solution: While Flexcom has always used an advanced computational technique, power users can also use User Defined Elements to directly change elemental properties while a simulation is in progress. You can also use the simulate arbitrary loads which are dependent on instantaneous solution conditions using the User Solver Variables features. Advanced materials models such as Metal Plasticity model are now available, capable of predicting plastic deformation and capturing residual strain.

•Animation Module: The Model View has been enhanced considerably in recent versions, now offering multiple simultaneous views, saved camera positions, a measuring tape control, and an Element Inspector which allows you to examine material properties directly from the model view. Stress contouring offers you an intuitive visual representation of the structural stresses. Flexcom also includes a Unity Plug-In which may be used to create a fully immersive virtual reality experience from a Flexcom structural animation.

•Post-Processing: Recent versions of Flexcom make it very easy for you to retrieve solution outputs in a convenient format. The Summary Collation feature allows you to automatically assemble outputs from a range of load cases into a single spreadsheet. You can also plot the variation of any summary postprocessing output against any key driving parameters. For example, you can create a 3D plot of maximum effective tension as a function of both wave period and incident wave heading. Custom post-processing is available via an Excel Add-In, VBA code, or custom DLLs.

•General User Experience: Many years ago, user experience with Flexcom was limited due to an ageing user interface. However since Flexcom 8.1 was introduced in 2011, it now has a very modern user interface and offer a very positive user experience. The latest user interface is built using the latest software development technologies, including .NET Framework and Windows Presentation Foundation. In the past, Flexcom did not have any intrinsic unit system, with the onus placed on the user to employ a consistent set of units throughout the model. However since Flexcom 8.4 was introduced in 2015, it now offers SI and imperial unit systems. It also has an in-built unit conversion system which allows the user complete flexibility when defining inputs. For example a length input may be specified in metres, centimetres, millimetres, feet, inches etc.

A few points in relation to software licensing are noteworthy also:

•License Models: Flexcom has very flexible licensing options, including Ownership, Annual Subscription, Monthly Rental and Token-based license models. Nowadays you can even harness the power of cloud computing via the Cloud-based license model.

•User Interface: Flexcom's front end does not require any license and so tasks like model building and post-processing can be done without occupying a license seat. This open system is significantly different to most licensing models on the market and affords great flexibility to software users.

•Cost. Flexcom is highly cost-competitive nowadays. Many years ago, Flexcom tended to be relatively expensive to license, given that it was a pioneering software which matured more rapidly than its competitors. Nowadays Flexcom's license costs are comparable to other products in its field. Attractive discount schemes are available in many instances - please contact us for further information.