FlexSim
flexsim.com
What it is
FlexSim is 3D discrete-event simulation software for modeling and improving existing or proposed systems. Its realistic 3D graphics visualize system behavior, while drag-and-drop controls let users place objects and resources and import CAD drawings or custom 3D objects. Model-building options include a Standard Object Library, Process Flow activity blocks, FlexScript, and C++ integration. For analysis, FlexSim offers charts, graphs, data tracking, and spreadsheet export. OptQuest integration supports scenario optimization using variables, constraints, and multiple objectives. The Experimenter compares scenarios, distributes replications across CPU cores, and supports report generation and performance measures. Data can be imported and exported through Excel and SQL connectors, with FlexScript APIs for files, sockets, and HTTP requests. The Emulation tool supports Modbus, OPC DA, OPC UA, and certain manufacturer-specific PLC connections; some require an Emulation license. FlexSim is listed for Windows and web, with desktop deployment. Pricing is on request; the free Express trial plan has limits including 30 3D objects and 35 Process Flow activities.
Spec sheet
- Purpose
- FlexSim is 3D discrete-event simulation software for modeling and improving existing and proposed systems.Read 9 Oct 2026 · flexsim.com
- Trial
- The Autodesk trial intake page lists a 30-day trial from the date of download and Windows 64-bit as the available platform for FlexSim 2027.Read 9 Oct 2026 · autodesk.com
- Security
- The product page links to Autodesk privacy and legal pages, but the opened FlexSim product and company pages do not state a security certification or compliance standard.Read 9 Oct 2026 · flexsim.com
- Support
- Technical support is included for customers with active maintenance or subscription, and the support page aims for a first response within two working days.Read 9 Oct 2026 · flexsim.com
- Headquarters
- San Francisco, California, USARead 28 Sep 2026 · flexsim.com
- Founded
- 1993Read 28 Sep 2026 · flexsim.com
- 3D modeling
- It uses realistic 3D graphics to model systems and visualize what is happening in simulations.Read 9 Oct 2026 · flexsim.com
- Analysis
- Analysis features include charts, graphs, data tracking, and export to spreadsheet applications.Read 9 Oct 2026 · flexsim.com
- Company history
- FlexSim says it began in 1993 and that Autodesk acquired FlexSim Software Products in November 2023.Read 9 Oct 2026 · flexsim.com
- Data connections
- FlexSim documentation describes importing and exporting data through Excel and SQL database connectors, plus FlexScript APIs for files, sockets, and HTTP requests.Read 9 Oct 2026 · docs.flexsim.com
- Experimentation
- The Experimenter compares scenarios, distributes replications across CPU cores, and supports report generation and performance measures.Read 9 Oct 2026 · flexsim.com
- Model building
- The Standard Object Library, Process Flow activity blocks, FlexScript, and C++ integration support model building and customization.Read 9 Oct 2026 · flexsim.com
- Model layout
- Users can place objects and resources with drag-and-drop controls and import CAD drawings and custom 3D objects.Read 9 Oct 2026 · flexsim.com
- Operating system
- The system requirements page lists 64-bit Windows editions and says FlexSim is not designed for virtual OS environments.Read 9 Oct 2026 · docs.flexsim.com
- Optimization
- FlexSim integrates with OptQuest for scenario optimization with variables, constraints, and multiple objectives.Read 9 Oct 2026 · flexsim.com
- PLC connectivity
- The Emulation tool supports connections including Modbus, OPC DA, OPC UA, and certain manufacturer-specific PLC types; some connection types require an Emulation license.Read 9 Oct 2026 · docs.flexsim.com
Plans and prices
Strong points and limits
Strong points
- 3D graphics visualize simulated system behavior.
- OptQuest supports multiple objectives and constraints.
- Experimenter distributes replications across CPU cores.
- Excel, SQL, and FlexScript data connections are available.
Limits
- Pricing is on request.
- Express limits models to 30 3D objects.
- Some PLC connections require an Emulation license.
- FlexSim is not designed for virtual OS environments.
Who it suits
FlexSim suits teams modeling operations and comparing system scenarios. Its object library, scripting options, data connections, and PLC emulation may fit users who need to build and analyze customized models.
Verdict
FlexSim offers visual modeling, scenario analysis, and several routes for data and PLC connectivity. Review the Express limits, operating-system requirements, and licensing needs for emulation before choosing a plan.
Where Specifiction places it
- Simulation Software#8 of 697.8
- Business Simulation Software#10 of 267.8