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Frequently Asked Questions

What is principia MBS?​

principia MBS is a powerful multi-body simulation kernel designed specifically for Onshape. It acts as a bridge between Onshape Assembly and Onshape Simulation, allowing users to perform complex simulations of mechanical systems within their Onshape environment.

How does principia MBS work?​

principia MBS leverages the cloud computational capabilities to enable real-time simulation and analysis of multi-body systems. By defining the kinematic relationships between parts and specifying physical properties such as masses, inertias, and constraints, users can simulate the behavior of their assemblies under various conditions.

What are the key features of principia MBS?​

principia MBS offers a range of features to facilitate accurate and efficient multi-body simulations. These include:

  • Real-time simulation: principia MBS's integration with Onshape enables simulations to be performed in real-time, providing instant feedback on the behavior of assemblies.
  • Constraint-based modeling: Users can define constraints and connections between parts, allowing them to accurately represent the interactions within their assemblies.
  • Advanced analysis tools: principia MBS provides tools for analyzing simulation results, including plotting and visualization capabilities.

Can I use principia MBS with my existing Onshape models?​

Absolutely! principia MBS seamlessly integrates with your existing Onshape models. Simply import your assemblies into Onshape, define the necessary kinematic relationships and physical properties, and you're ready to start simulating.

Is principia MBS suitable for beginners or is it more advanced?​

principia MBS caters to both beginners and advanced users. While it offers powerful capabilities for in-depth analysis, it also provides a user-friendly interface and intuitive workflow, making it accessible to users with varying levels of experience in simulation and engineering.

Are there any tutorials or resources available to help me get started with principia MBS?​

Absolutely! We provide comprehensive documentation and tutorials to assist users in getting started with principia MBS. You can find video tutorials and examples that cover various aspects of simulation using principia MBS. Additionally, the Onshape community is a great place to ask questions, share knowledge, and learn from other users.

Is principia MBS available as a separate software or is it integrated within Onshape?​

principia MBS is tightly integrated within Onshape and is not available as a separate standalone software. This integration allows for a seamless workflow, enabling users to create, simulate, and iterate on their designs within a single platform.

Can I export simulation results from principia MBS?​

Yes, you can export simulation results from principia MBS in various formats, such as CSV or graphical representations. This allows you to further analyze and visualize the simulation data using external tools or share it with colleagues and stakeholders.

Is principia MBS a paid feature within Onshape?​

Yes, principia MBS is a premium feature within Onshape and requires a separate subscription. We do offer a free trial period to allow you to make sure the software fits your needs.