Event Simulation is a recently developed computational procedure which can accurately simulate physical events, without the need of knowing the operating forces a priori. In this method, the force and stress are formulated as functions of displacement; that is force = f(d) and s = g(d). These equations, together with the appropriate equation(s) of physics (e.g. f = ma), can then be reformulated to directly solve for displacements.

Event simulation allows the modeling of an entire physical event with the least number of assumptions. Specifically, it is unnecessary to assume a static situation, or estimate forces that result from motion. Furthermore, event simulation has the useful byproduct of generating a "frame-by-frame" record of the event, not just a "snap-shot" at its conclusion.

In classical analysis, both stress and deformation (or displacement) are functions of force, s = f(force), d = g(force). Yet in most cases the forces acting on a component or system are unknown. The forces are typically estimated by either of three methods:

1) Experience: Some engineers rely on prior experience with similar problems to estimate forces. Usually they rely on safety-factors, hoping that they are sufficient to prevent failure, yet not overly conservative so as to produce an over designed part.

2) Rigid Body Dynamics: By modeling components as rigid bodies, classical engineering dynamics equations can be used to obtain forces. Alternately, computer programs exit which apply these principles to computer generated, solid models to obtain motion-generated forces. Such programs use vaguely defined stiffnesses which, depending on the component geometry, may be unreliable.

3) Experimentation: Performing experiments on prototype parts & assemblies is an accurate means of obtaining the operating forces. However, this is certainly a costly and time consuming approach to optimize a design.

Examples of event simulation: Virtual Impact Test

Load Applied To Threaded Connection

Gears Rotating Under Load