Abstract: Using Numerical Manifold Method (NMM) based on independent covers proposed in previous study, we attempted a new way of integrating Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Computer Aided Engineering (CAE). Taking 2D static analysis of linear-elastic structures for example, we accomplished the seamless link from CAD to CAE and the total automatic CAE analysis. On the basis of previous study of NMM based on CAD geometry, we put forward algorithms for cutting NURBS (Non-uniform Rational B-spines, regarded as the general graphic standard in CAD) curves with straight lines, hence preserving the shape of geometric model in procedures of CAE modeling and mesh refinement. Meanwhile, data of structural shape, loads and constraints defined in CAD are directly transferred to CAE by means of DXF graphic format of AutoCAD. Furthermore, by using adaptive analysis based on rectangular independent covers, we conducted automatic static analysis of structures and automatic finite elementmeshes for post-processing graphic output of computational results. In association with the above studies, we took a 2D static structure as example to illustrate the entire procedures, including CAD modeling and output, automatic pre-processing, automatic analysis and automatic post-processing in CAE, in which all procedures were automatically accomplished by computer, except for manual operation of CAD model. Finally, we obtained calculated results with given precision.

Key words: CAD/CAE integration, Numerical Manifold Method (NMM) , independent covers, adaptive analysis, NURBS, DXF