Monday, November 27, 2023

💥💥💥 What are the best and easy use open source CAE systems available on Linux?

 There are many open source CAE systems available on Linux, but the best and easy to use ones may depend on your specific needs and preferences. However, based on the web search results, some of the most popular and comprehensive ones are:

- CAELinux: an open source LiveDVD Linux distribution dedicated to computer aided engineering, scientific simulation, finite element analysis and computational fluid dynamics (CAE / FEA / CFD) ¹. It offers a complete platform for open source engineering development with CAD, CAM, CAE, FEA, CFD, electronic design, scientific computing, programming and mathematical modelling tools ¹. It is based on Xubuntu 18.04 LTS 64 bit and can run directly from a USB flash drive without any installation ¹. Some of the software included in CAELinux are Salome, Freecad, OpenSCAD, LibreCAD, PyCAM, Camotics, dxf2gcode, Cura, Salome-Meca, Code-Aster, Code-Saturne, OpenFOAM, Elmer, Calculix and more ¹⁴.

- FEniCS Project: a software package developed by American and European researchers with the goal to enable automated solution of differential equations ². It is written in C++ and Python and supports all widely used finite element types, serial and parallel meshes, and h and hp adaptivity ². It can be used for multiphysics simulations involving fluid flow, heat transfer, elasticity, electromagnetics, acoustics, etc. ². It is available for Linux, Unix, Mac OS X and Windows ².

- FreeFEM: a free and open-source parallel FEA software for multiphysics simulations ³. The problems are defined in terms of their variational formulation and can be easily implemented using FreeFEM language ³. It is written in C++ and supports various types of meshes, solvers, preconditioners, discretizations, etc. ³. It can handle problems involving fluid mechanics, solid mechanics, electromagnetism, heat transfer, etc. ³. It is available for Linux, MacOS, Windows and Solaris ³.

These are some of the best and easy to use open source CAE systems available on Linux, but there are many others that you can explore and compare. I hope this helps you find the right one for your needs. 😊

Source: 

(1) CAELinux - Home. http://www.caelinux.com/CMS3/.

(2) CAELinux - Home. https://caelinux.com/.

(3) . https://bing.com/search?q=open+source+CAE+systems+Linux.

(4) List of finite element software packages - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_finite_element_software_packages.

(5) CAELinux - Download. http://www.caelinux.com/CMS3/index.php/download.

(6) http://www.oscae.org/.

(7) http://www.caelinux.com/CMS3/index.php/download/62-caelinux-2020.

MORE INFO ABOUT CAELINUX 

Is CAELinux still developed ?

According to the web search results, CAELinux is still being developed, but it faces some challenges due to the increasing size and complexity of the software packages and the base distribution. The latest release of CAELinux is CAELinux 2020, which is based on Xubuntu 18.04 and was published in January 2019 ². The developer of CAELinux, Joël Cugnoni, has posted a request for feedback on the CAELinux forum in March 2021, asking for suggestions on how to improve the next release of CAELinux ¹. He has proposed some possible options, such as switching to a lighter distribution, developing a CAE software center app, or creating a lightweight and a full version of CAELinux ¹. However, there is no official announcement or confirmation on the development status of CAELinux 2022 or later. If you are interested in CAELinux, you can download the latest version from the official website ⁴ or join the forum discussion ¹ to share your ideas and feedback. 😊

Source: 

(1) CAELinux - Home. http://www.caelinux.com/CMS3/.

(2) Development of a new 2022 release or else? - CAELinux. https://www.caelinux.com/CMS3/index.php/forum/2-general/9864-request-for-feedback-development-of-a-new-2022-release-or-else.

(3) CAELinux - Download. https://caelinux.com/CMS3/index.php/download.

(4) CAELinux - Home. https://caelinux.com/.


CAELinux is a Linux distribution that is specially designed for computer aided engineering (CAE) applications. It is based on Xubuntu, a lightweight and user-friendly version of Ubuntu, and contains a large number of open source software packages for CAD, CAM, CAE, FEA, CFD, electronic design, scientific computing, programming and mathematical modelling. CAELinux can run directly from a USB flash drive without any installation, or it can be installed to a hard disk for better performance. It can also run in a virtual machine using software like VMWare Player or VirtualBox. CAELinux is updated regularly with new versions of the software and the base distribution, and it can be safely updated as any other Ubuntu install. However, it is not recommended to upgrade to Ubuntu 20.04, as it may break some custom packages.


Some of the software included in CAELinux are:

- Salome: a software platform for pre- and post-processing of numerical simulations. It provides an integrated environment for geometry modelling, mesh generation, data analysis and visualization. It can also be used as a graphical user interface for various solvers, such as Code-Aster, Code-Saturne, OpenFOAM, Elmer and Calculix ¹.

- Freecad: a parametric 3D CAD modeler that can create and modify complex solid models using a sketch-based approach. It supports various types of modelling, such as mechanical engineering, architecture, product design and 3D printing. It can also perform finite element analysis, computational fluid dynamics, and export models to various formats ².

- OpenSCAD: a software for creating solid 3D models using a script-based approach. It is mainly used for designing parametric parts, such as gears, screws, nuts, etc. It can also import and export models in various formats, such as STL, DXF, SVG, etc. ³.

- LibreCAD: a 2D CAD application that can create and edit technical drawings, such as floor plans, schematics, diagrams, etc. It supports various file formats, such as DXF, SVG, PDF, etc. It also has a large library of standard parts and symbols ⁴.

- PyCAM: a tool for generating toolpaths and G-code for 3D milling, engraving and cutting. It can import models in STL, DXF and SVG formats, and export G-code in various formats, such as EMC2, Mach3, RepRap, etc. It also has a simulation mode that can preview the machining process ⁵.

- Camotics: a tool for simulating 3-axis CNC milling and engraving. It can load G-code files and display the resulting toolpaths and workpiece. It can also estimate the machining time, material removal rate, and cutting forces ⁶.

- dxf2gcode: a tool for converting 2D DXF drawings to G-code for CNC machines. It can handle various types of entities, such as lines, arcs, circles, etc. It also has a graphical user interface that can preview and edit the G-code ⁷.

- Cura: a tool for slicing 3D models and generating G-code for 3D printing. It supports various types of printers, materials, and settings. It also has a graphical user interface that can preview and modify the print .

- Salome-Meca: a software package that integrates Salome and Code-Aster, a powerful finite element solver for structural mechanics, thermal, acoustics, fluid-structure interaction, and other multiphysics problems. It provides a graphical user interface for setting up, running and post-processing Code-Aster simulations .

- Code-Aster: a finite element solver that can handle various types of problems, such as linear and nonlinear mechanics, thermics, acoustics, fluid-structure interaction, contact, fracture, fatigue, etc. It has a large library of elements, materials, models, and algorithms. It can also be coupled with other solvers, such as Code-Saturne, OpenFOAM, etc. .

- Code-Saturne: a finite volume solver for computational fluid dynamics. It can handle various types of flows, such as incompressible, compressible, multiphase, reactive, etc. It has a modular architecture that allows for easy customization and extension. It can also be coupled with other solvers, such as Code-Aster, OpenFOAM, etc. .

- OpenFOAM: a finite volume solver for computational fluid dynamics. It can handle various types of flows, such as incompressible, compressible, multiphase, reactive, etc. It has a large library of models, solvers, and utilities. It can also be coupled with other solvers, such as Code-Aster, Code-Saturne, etc. .

- Elmer: a finite element solver for multiphysics problems. It can handle various types of physics, such as fluid dynamics, heat transfer, electromagnetics, elasticity, etc. It has a modular structure that allows for easy coupling and extension. It also has a graphical user interface for setting up, running and post-processing simulations .

- Calculix: a finite element solver for structural mechanics, heat transfer, and fluid dynamics. It can handle various types of elements, materials, models, and algorithms. It also has a graphical user interface for pre- and post-processing, as well as a launcher and a CAE GUI for setting up and running simulations .

- KiCad: a software suite for electronic design automation. It can create and edit schematic diagrams, printed circuit boards, and 3D models of electronic components. It supports various file formats, such as Gerber, DXF, SVG, etc. It also has a large library of standard parts and symbols .

- Arduino: a software and hardware platform for creating and programming microcontroller-based electronic devices. It consists of a development board, an integrated development environment, and a programming language. It can be used for various applications, such as robotics, sensors, actuators, etc. .

- Flatcam: a tool for creating toolpaths and G-code for isolation milling of printed circuit boards. It can import Gerber and Excellon files and export G-code in various formats, such as EMC2, Mach3, RepRap, etc. It also has a graphical user interface that can preview and edit the toolpaths .

These are some of the software included in CAELinux, but there are many others that you can explore and compare. I hope this gives you a better idea of what CAELinux can offer you. 😊

Source: 

(1) Xubuntu Based CAELinux 2020 Released for Dedicated Simulation Works. https://www.debugpoint.com/caelinux-2020-release/.

(2) . https://bing.com/search?q=CAELinux+software+list.

(3) CAELinux - Home. https://caelinux.com/.

(4) CAELinux - CAELinux 2020. http://www.caelinux.com/CMS3/index.php/download/62-caelinux-2020.

(5)https://distrowatch.com/cae.

(6) https://www.electronicsforu.com/buyers-guides/software-buyers-guide/caelinux-distribution-open-source-engineering-tools.

(7) http://caelinux.org/wiki/index.php/Main_Page.

What is the difference between FreeCAD and OpenSCAD?

FreeCAD and OpenSCAD are both open source CAD software, but they have very different approaches to 3D modelling. FreeCAD is a parametric 3D modeler that uses a sketch-based approach, while OpenSCAD is a script-based modeler that uses a programming language. Here are some of the main differences between them:

- User interface: FreeCAD has a graphical user interface that resembles other commercial CAD software, such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD. It has various workbenches that provide different tools and functions for different tasks, such as Part Design, Draft, Mesh, FEM, etc. OpenSCAD has a non-traditional user interface that consists of a text editor and a 3D preview window. The user has to write code in a custom language to create and modify 3D models, and the preview window only shows the result of the code ¹².

- Modelling method: FreeCAD uses a parametric modelling method, which means that the user can create and edit 3D models by defining sketches, constraints, features, and parameters. The user can also modify the model history and change the parameters at any time. OpenSCAD uses a constructive solid geometry (CSG) method, which means that the user can create and edit 3D models by combining primitive shapes, such as cubes, spheres, cylinders, etc., using boolean operations, such as union, difference, and intersection. The user can also use variables, functions, and loops to create complex shapes ¹².

- Modelling flexibility: FreeCAD offers more modelling flexibility than OpenSCAD, as it supports various types of modelling, such as mechanical engineering, architecture, product design, and 3D printing. It also supports various types of meshes, solvers, and file formats. OpenSCAD is more limited in its modelling capabilities, as it only supports solid modelling and does not support meshes, solvers, or file formats other than STL, DXF, and SVG ¹².

- Modelling precision: OpenSCAD offers more modelling precision than FreeCAD, as it allows the user to define the exact dimensions and coordinates of the shapes using code. It also allows the user to use algorithms and mathematical expressions to create complex and accurate shapes. FreeCAD relies more on the user's graphical input and mouse movements, which can introduce errors and inaccuracies. It also has some issues with rounding errors and tolerance settings ¹².

- Learning curve: FreeCAD has a steeper learning curve than OpenSCAD, as it has a complex and crowded user interface, a large number of tools and functions, and a different workflow for each workbench. The user has to learn how to use the sketcher, the constraints, the features, and the parameters, as well as how to switch between workbenches and modes. OpenSCAD has a simpler and more consistent user interface, a smaller number of tools and functions, and a single workflow for all models. The user only has to learn how to write code in the OpenSCAD language, which is similar to C or Python ¹².

These are some of the main differences between FreeCAD and OpenSCAD, but there are also some similarities and advantages that they share. For example, they are both free and open source, which means that they are constantly updated and improved by the community. They also both have a large and active user base, which means that they have a lot of documentation, tutorials, forums, and support available. They also both have a modular and extensible architecture, which means that they can be customized and enhanced by adding plugins, modules, libraries, and scripts ¹²³⁴..

Source:

(1) OpenSCAD vs FreeCAD: The Differences | All3DP. https://all3dp.com/2/openscad-vs-freecad-cad-software-compared/.

(2) FreeCAD Vs. OpenSCAD: Pros & Cons of Each Software - 3D Printing Spot. https://www.3dprintingspot.com/post/freecad-vs-openscad-pros-cons-of-each-software.

(3) OpenSCAD vs FreeCAD - Software Comparison | Xometry. https://www.xometry.com/resources/3d-printing/openscad-vs-freecad/.

(4) Compare FreeCAD vs. OpenSCAD | G2. https://www.g2.com/compare/freecad-vs-openscad.

(5) en.wikipedia.org. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/OpenSCAD.

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