modeFRONTIER

What modeFRONTIER is

modeFRONTIER is engineering software from ESTECO for automating simulation workflows and exploring design options. It connects third-party CAD/CAE tools with in-house engineering solvers, bringing multiple disciplines into a single workflow. A project file can hold several optimization strategies for the same workflow. Design exploration methods include design of experiments, response surface models, multi-objective optimization, robust design, reliability analysis, and uncertainty quantification. For data-driven work, it supports surrogate models, machine-learning algorithms, and reduced-order models. ESTECO calls pilOPT its proprietary algorithm for self-adaptive design optimization with one-click operation.

The software integrates directly with parametric engineering solvers and supports custom connectors. Named integrations include Abaqus, Adams, ANSYS Workbench, CATIA, and ANSA. Its pyFRONTIER and pyCONSOLE APIs connect Python workflows, including use of libraries such as scikit-learn and SciPy optimize. Workflows can run in parallel, use grid computing across local machines, or draw on remote HPC and cloud resources. A connection to ESTECO VOLTA adds collaboration, distributed design execution, and traceability for optimization results. ESTECO offers one-to-one CAE engineering support to help customers choose an exploration and optimization strategy. Commercial pricing is available by contacting ESTECO; academic licenses are available for teaching and research, with use restricted to academic or non-commercial purposes. The company says it has operated independently since 1999 and has offices around the globe.

Who it suits

modeFRONTIER suits engineers who need to automate simulation work and optimize designs across engineering disciplines. Its range of exploration methods and ESTECO’s stated CAE engineering support can serve both experienced users and newcomers.

Limits

The commercial license price is available by contacting ESTECO. Academic licenses are restricted to academic or non-commercial purposes.

Getting started

1. Visit the modeFRONTIER website.
2. Contact ESTECO for commercial pricing and licensing options.
3. Choose an academic license for teaching or research, if applicable.
4. Connect parametric solvers or configure custom connectors for your engineering software.
5. Build a workflow and select design exploration or optimization strategies.
6. Use local, remote HPC, or cloud resources to execute workflows.

Verdict

Choose modeFRONTIER if your engineering work needs simulation automation, design exploration, and connections to solvers or Python workflows. Its commercial license requires a pricing inquiry, and academic licensing is restricted to non-commercial or academic purposes.