Ansys SpaceClaim vs FlexSim
Ansys SpaceClaim
ansys.synopsys.comFlexSim
flexsim.comSide by side
| Figure | Ansys SpaceClaim | FlexSim |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | — | — |
| Free plan | — | — |
| Free trial | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | — | Yes |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Spec score · Simulation Software | 8.1 (#6) | 7.8 (#8) |
| Founded | 1970 | 1993 |
| Headquarters | Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, United States | San Francisco, California, USA |
| Purpose | Ansys describes SpaceClaim as lightweight 3D modeling software for engineers who want 3D modeling without learning complex traditional CAD systems. | FlexSim is 3D discrete-event simulation software for modeling and improving existing and proposed systems. |
| Security | Synopsys states that customer data for its applications is encrypted in transit using HTTPS/TLS 1.2 or better and at rest using AES 256-bit encryption or better. | 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. |
| Support | Ansys directs users with product-specific inquiries to their Sales or Account Representative, who routes requests to the appropriate support team. | Technical support is included for customers with active maintenance or subscription, and the support page aims for a first response within two working days. |
| Trial | Ansys offers a free 30-day trial of Ansys Discovery, and SpaceClaim is included in the Discovery Modeling license. | 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. |
Plans
In their own words
Ansys SpaceClaim
Ansys SpaceClaim is a Windows 3D modeling application for engineers who want direct modeling without learning a complex traditional CAD system. It can create, edit, repair, and simplify geometry, including CAD models prepared for simulation, and it supports assembly design, sheet-metal tools, and surface modeling. For reverse engineering, it can autosurface mesh data and convert STL geometry to CAD. Manufacturing workflows include model preparation, jig and fixture design, and sheet-metal design and unfolding. STL tools can repair faceted files and prepare models for 3D printing. SpaceClaim also provides bidirectional geometry linkage with Ansys Workbench. Import formats include .dsco, .sat, .sab, .asat, .asab, .pdf, .igs, .iges, .ipt, .iam, .msh, and .tgz; export includes .dwg, .dxf, .CATPart, .CATProduct, .cgns, .xls, .xlsx, .msh, and .tgf. It is paid, pricing is on request, and a 30-day Discovery trial includes SpaceClaim.
FlexSim
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.