The MSC.Laminate Modeler defines a ply layup on a 2D shell mesh. The majority of analyses can be conducted using shell elements as through-thickness effects are relatively insignificant. However, if the laminate is thick, and especially if the surface is curved, it may be necessary to use solid elements to model structural behavior adequately.

For these situations, the MSC.Laminate Modeler includes the capability to extrude shell elements through a distance equal to the laminate thickness. Furthermore, laminate materials and element properties can be created automatically to allow accurate analysis. If the analysis code does not support laminated solid elements, the laminate materials are converted to equivalent anisotropic materials for subsequent analysis.

This capability allows the user to generate solid elements and the associated materials and element properties needed for detailed analysis of thick laminates.