MSC Fatigue is organized into three distinct analysis modes.

The first mode is the Global multi-location analysis which allows selection of a region or regions containing nodes and/or elements of the FE model in which to carry out a fatigue life analysis. The life estimates may be contoured to provide a visual indication of the fatigue critical areas. This mode of operation relies on a tight integration between MSC Patran and the MSC Fatigue system, or use of MSC Fatigue’s own graphical display. Retrieval of the FE results is generally achieved by direct access to the MSC Patran database. The definition of MSC Fatigue job parameters is achieved through the use of forms and menus accessible directly within MSC Patran or MSC Fatigue’s own graphical display. The fatigue analysis may be submitted, monitored, and aborted, directly from these forms and menus. All fatigue analysis methods may be accessed through this Global method.

Another mode of operation provides a Design Optimization capability based on calculations at a localized node or element. This mode of operation provides the engineer with a fast and efficient method of assessing alternative materials, surface finishes/treatments, weld procedures, etc. In general terms, when the engineer has located the fatigue problem areas using the Global multi-node/element analysis, the design may then be optimized in terms of fatigue performance using the Design Optimization facilities. These analysis modules use information from the Global analysis to provide the ability to carry out fatigue life estimation rapidly in a localized region, assessing various design optimization options until a solution has been found which meets the fatigue life criteria. A back calculation facility allows the definition of a desired life and the analysis code will find the optimum value of a chosen parameter to meet that life requirement.

Having located the region where a crack will initiate the progress of the crack as it grows can be modeled using the Crack Growth analysis capabilities. This is the third mode of operation.

In addition to these three modes there are additional modules for more specialized analyses such as mentioned in the previous section. These include things such as spot welds, software strain gauges, factors of safety, multi-axial assessments, and much more.