Z88Arion

What Z88Arion is

Z88Arion is a free graphical program for structural topology optimization, based on Z88 finite-element analysis software. It offers OC, SKO, and TOSS optimization algorithms. Geometry imports include STEP and ASCII or binary STL; it also imports NASTRAN, ABAQUS, COSMOS, and Z88 project files. Preprocessing tools include tetrahedral, adaptive tetrahedral, and mapped hexahedral meshers. Users can edit a database of 50 predefined materials and set boundary conditions in the graphical interface. The postprocessor displays optimization results, smooths geometry, exports smoothed geometry to STL, and connects directly to Z88Aurora. The current release is V3 for 64-bit Windows, with compatibility listed from Windows 7 through Windows 11. The current version is in German; an English version is under development. Private, research, educational, training, and test use need no separate license. Commercial users can request a free individual license. Examples, help documents, and videos are included; workshops are available only in German. The freeware plan costs nothing.

Who it suits

It suits small and medium-sized enterprises, universities, and colleges working on product development, study, or teaching. Users should be comfortable with the current German-language version or wait for the English version under development.

Limits

The free plan is for private, research, educational, training, and test use without a separate license. Commercial use requires a separate individual license, which can be requested at no charge.

Getting started

1. Visit the Z88Arion website.
2. Download the current V3 release for 64-bit Windows.
3. Use the included examples, help documents, and videos to get started.
4. Request a free individual license if using the software commercially.

Verdict

Z88Arion combines topology optimization with geometry import, meshing, result visualization, and export. Its current release is German-language software for 64-bit Windows, with an English version in development.