MapleSim
Advanced system-level modeling and simulation for multidomain engineering
About MapleSim
MapleSim is a system-level modeling and simulation platform from Maplesoft that combines multibody dynamics with multidomain physical modeling. Engineers use it to build high-fidelity models of machines and systems, generate optimized simulation code, and create digital twins for virtual commissioning, reducing development time and diagnosing real-world performance issues.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Combines graphical model building with full symbolic math via the Maple engine
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface with 700+ multidomain components
- Generates royalty-free, optimized code suitable for real-time and HIL applications
- Strong multibody dynamics and inverse kinematics capabilities
- Trusted by major engineering organizations including Ford, Toyota, NASA JPL, and Canon
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring advanced math and physics knowledge
- Quote-based commercial pricing with a high entry cost relative to general-purpose tools
- Limited external community support and troubleshooting resources
- Interface can be unintuitive for beginners
Key Features
Multibody Technology
Build complex mechanical models by connecting rigid and flexible bodies with frames and joints, and solve inverse kinematic and dynamic problems with state-of-the-art formulation algorithms.
Multidomain Modeling
Combine mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, thermal, and other domains in one environment using 700+ built-in components via drag-and-drop.
Symbolic Model Equations
Automatically generate and view optimized system equations, including mass matrices and constraint Jacobians, leveraging the underlying Maple math engine for analytical insight.
Fast Simulation Code Generation
Produce portable, royalty-free, high-performance code suitable for repeated optimization runs and real-time hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulations.
PLC Connectivity & Virtual Commissioning
Connect models to PLCs to virtually debug automation code and validate control strategies before deploying to physical hardware.
2-D & 3-D Visualization
Plot simulation results in 2-D and render 3-D animations of mechanical system motion for design validation.
CAD Import
Import CAD geometry to build accurate multibody models that reflect real-world part shapes and inertial properties.
Specialized Add-on Libraries
Extend core capabilities with libraries for tire modeling, drivelines, batteries, heat transfer, hydraulics, pneumatics, and ropes/pulleys.
Pricing
- 15-day full-featured trial
- Access to core modeling and simulation
- No purchase required
- Full MapleSim modeling and simulation environment
- 700+ multidomain components
- Code generation
- Add-on libraries available separately
- Volume and site license programs
- Academic and student pricing
- Customized licensing for enterprise infrastructure
- Contact Maplesoft for a quote
Best For
Machine Design & Optimization
Model and optimize complex machinery across mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic domains before building physical prototypes.
Digital Twins & Virtual Commissioning
Create high-fidelity digital twins and connect to PLCs to validate automation code virtually, cutting commissioning time.
Control Strategy Development
Develop and test control strategies against an accurate plant model, generating code for real-time and HIL testing.
Multibody Dynamics Analysis
Solve inverse kinematic and dynamic problems for robotics, vehicles, and mechanisms using symbolic and numerical methods.
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