Keeping pace with the constantly improving hardware market is a welcome challenge for software vendors. Multiple processors and more powerful operating systems enable software users to be more productive. “One of the breakthroughs that we continue to evolve is the scalability of simulation on distributed-memory, multi-CPU computing platforms for challenging engineering problems,” said Short. “What does this mean for our customers? It means that a simulation that used to take days can now be done in hours, and what used to take hours now takes minutes. Design decisions can be made more rapidly, or more design variations explored.”

Bussler agrees, adding that in addition to increasing power and speed, computer hardware also is decreasing in cost. “Hardware advancements continue to drive developments in CAE software, including support for 64-bit operating systems, multi-platform computing, multiple processors, and distributed processing.”

Where the Market is Headed

Vendors have put in place new capabilities and new features that make software easier to use, and continually improving hardware is available to run their software faster than ever. So what more could the future hold for the analysis and simulation software market?

“There is always room for exciting new technologies that allow engineers to get data faster and in more meaningful terms,” said Adams. “I don’t know that the needs of the ‘generalist’ — the design engineer vs. the analysis specialist — are even yet well-defined. Consequently, there is plenty of opportunity for someone with a better idea to make an impact,” Adams added.