1.3.1. Introduction

RamSeries is a complete finite element (FEM) environment for structural analysis, providing the ability to simulate every structural aspect of a product, including linear statics, modal analysis, linear and nonlinear transient simulations, impact, coupled fluid-structure analyses, thermo-mechanical studies, composite materials, fatigue assessment and much more. RamSeries is the simulation solution to rapidly solve complex structural problems with ease.

RamSeries features a full range of 3D element models, including beams, cables, shells, membranes and solid elements, as well as a full support for nonlinear analysis, including nonlinear material laws, and large displacement models. Furthermore, RamSeries offers the latest technology for solving structural dynamics analyses, including robust contact-impact algorithms required for many complex design problems in engineering, or seismic problems. RamSeries is part of the simulation solution Tdyn, featuring a comprehensive analysis suite that provides solution to nearly any multiphysics engineering simulation need. The solution is fully integrated in a unique Graphical User Interface (GUI) for easy management of the geometry and analysis data, featuring a versatile tree-like interface and completely automatic mesh generation and tools for viewing results. The package can also be adapted for specific requirements, allowing the user to perform automated tasks and simplify the analysis process.

Furthermore, RamSeries includes specific tools for marine and offshore engineering applications, including stiffened shells, static and dynamic wave loads, panel buckling and fatigue assessment tools. These tools are adapted to the Classification Societies rules for naval architecture and offshore assessment. Specific tools have been developed for importing user materials database from Bureau Veritas ComposeIT software, reducing the time for re-defining the materials. RamSeries is focused on composite materials, by including different composite models capable of predicting the non-linear performance of different composite laminates.

RamSeries offers seamless communication with Tdyn’s Heatrans and Ransol modules for thermo-mechanical and coupled fluid-structure analyses. Furthermore, RamSeries features one-way and two-way interaction links to the Tdyn’s seakeeping package SeaFEM, allowing to perform the most advanced wave-structure interaction studies. Typical coupled problems that can be solved with RamSeries include: thermo-mechanical, aeroelasticity, hydroelasticity and waves-structure interaction analysis.

All these features become RamSeries the suited structural analysis tool, not only for naval architects, or marine engineers, but for many other engineering disciplines.