Multibody dynamic analysis allows for the simulation of the dynamic and kinematic behavior of mechanisms. Typically, MBD analysis is the first step in obtaining information about the loads exchanged between components of a mechanism or between the machinery and the external environment (e.g., the ground).

These loads can then be used in FEM analyses to evaluate the stress state of the components. Where necessary, flexible body MBD analysis can be employed to assess, through dynamic multibody simulation, the stress state of bodies modeled as flexible. This helps evaluate the variability over time of mechanical stresses and perform fatigue checks if the load history is unknown.

Furthermore, MBD simulation can be used to study and optimize control logics and drivetrains, aiming to contain accelerations and reduce the loads involved. It will be the responsibility of the ASTRA analyst to assess, on a case-by-case basis, the degree of accuracy and complexity of the model needed to correctly capture the quantities of interest, and to determine whether or not it is necessary to resort to complex multi-physics models.