Simpack
High-fidelity multibody system simulation software for engineering virtual prototypes
About Simpack
Simpack is a general multibody system (MBS) simulation software from Dassault Systèmes' SIMULIA brand, used to model and simulate the non-linear motion of complex mechanical and mechatronic systems. It is built around a fast, robust solver and unique equation-of-motion technology, making it a standard tool for rail vehicle dynamics, automotive suspension and chassis engineering, aerospace, wind energy, and drivetrain analysis. Originally developed by Simpack GmbH, the product was acquired by Dassault Systèmes in 2014 and is now a strategic MBS component of the 3DEXPERIENCE portfolio.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Fast, robust solver widely regarded as best-in-class for multibody dynamics
- Industry standard for rail vehicle dynamics and railway simulation
- Strong flexible-body and FEM integration for high-fidelity models
- Trusted by major automotive and aerospace OEMs
- Real-time and HIL/SIL capability for mechatronic system testing
- Backed by Dassault Systèmes and the 3DEXPERIENCE ecosystem
Cons
- No public pricing; requires contacting sales or a reseller for a quote
- Specialized, expensive enterprise tool not aimed at casual or small users
- Steep learning curve requiring multibody dynamics expertise
- Module-based licensing can make full capability sets costly
Key Features
High-Speed Multibody Solver
A robust, high-performance solver based on advanced equation-of-motion formulations that delivers fast, accurate results for highly non-linear systems.
Simpack Pre, Solver, Post & Wizard
A core module set covering model preprocessing, computation, post-processing and visualization, plus the Wizard for automation and standardized model building.
Flexible Body Dynamics
Integrate flexible bodies imported from FEM codes to capture structural deformation alongside rigid-body motion.
Rail Vehicle Dynamics
Industry-standard simulation of derailment safety, critical speed, ride comfort, wheel-rail contact, and track optimization for trains and trams.
Automotive Suspension & Chassis
Used by major OEMs for vehicle dynamics, suspension kinematics, chassis engineering, and tire-road interaction studies.
Real-Time & HIL/SIL Simulation
Real-time capable models supporting Hardware-in-the-Loop and Software-in-the-Loop testing for mechatronic system development.
Frequency & Time Domain Analysis
Perform both transient time-domain simulations and frequency-domain analyses, including high-frequency transients into the acoustic range.
Industry-Specific Add-On Modules
Extend the core with specialized modules for rail, automotive, engine, drivetrain, wind energy, and aerospace applications.
Co-Simulation & MATLAB/Simulink Integration
Couple Simpack with control systems and third-party tools such as MATLAB/Simulink for full mechatronic and control co-simulation.
Batch Processing & Automated Reporting
Run large parameter studies in batch mode and generate automated reports for repeatable engineering workflows.
Pricing
- Simpack Pre, Solver, Post & Wizard core modules
- Unified licensing model (separate GUI and solver licenses)
- Simpack Solve Tokens for scalable solver access
- Optional industry add-on modules (rail, automotive, etc.)
- Enterprise deployment for individual experts up to company-wide teams
- Discounted pricing for academic and research use
- Access to core Simpack modules
- Available through SIMULIA academic portfolio
Best For
Railway Vehicle Engineering
Simulate derailment safety, critical speed, ride comfort, and wheel-rail contact to design and certify rolling stock.
Automotive Vehicle Dynamics
Model suspension, chassis, and tire-road interaction to optimize handling, ride quality, and durability.
Drivetrain & Engine Analysis
Analyze internal combustion and electric drivetrains, gear dynamics, and powertrain NVH behavior.
Wind Turbine Dynamics
Evaluate the dynamic loads and behavior of wind turbine drivetrains and structures.
Aerospace & Mechatronic Systems
Simulate aircraft, helicopters, satellites, and real-time mechatronic systems with HIL/SIL workflows.
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