What is Multibody Dynamics (MBD)?

Multi-Body Dynamics predicts the dynamic behavior of an assembly in motion, where forces may be applied to one or more rigid bodies that are connected to each other through kinematic constraints or contacts. It uses rigid bodies to perform a transient analysis, which allows you to obtain results quickly. MFBD (Multi Flexible Body Dynamics) is a technology that analyzes the dynamic behavior of systems in motion which include both rigid and flexible bodies. The use of flexible bodies provides more accurate results for many applications because the vibration and structural damping of the flexible bodies is included in the simulation.

The MBD analysis results include the position, velocity and acceleration of each body and the reaction forces or frictional forces at each constraint (joints, etc.) as well as forces at each contact. With these outputs, you can view and understand the dynamic behavior of the system. Flexible bodies output stress and strain. These outputs can also be used as input values for structural analysis or durability analysis. When analyzing an MFBD model, it is possible to verify the results of a flexible body’s deformation, stress and deformation rate. These outputs can be also used to better understand the behavior of the assembly.

You can create and simulate virtual models instead of building real mechanical systems, reducing the costs and time required to design and develop a product. MBD is widely used in many industries, including automotive, aerospace, industrial machinery, construction, electrical/electronics, and defense. MBD is used to predict the dynamic behavior of a system, load calculation and vibration, and to simulate mechatronics systems such as robots, which require precise control. It is also used to simulate the coupled interaction between solid bodies and fluids in motion (lubricant in an engine or water behavior in a washing machine, etc.).