CAESES vs modeFRONTIER

CAESES is a parametric engineering platform for simulation-driven design, geometry variation, and shape optimization. Its NURBS modeling tools support geometry creation and variation, while morphing tools can alter imported geometries. Software connectors can automate workflows spanning geometry generation, meshing, simulation, post-processing, and evaluation. Available methods include parameter studies, sensitivity analysis, single- and multi-objective optimization, and surrogate modeling. Listed integrations include ANSYS Workbench and optimization tools such as HEEDS, Dakota, optiSLang, Optimus, and modeFRONTIER. CAESES does not include simulation solvers, so users connect external CFD or other simulation software. The Standard Edition includes geometry modeling, software connections, design studies, variation and optimization strategies, morphing, design variants, and batch mode. The Batch Mode License adds non-GUI operation and HPC cluster optimization; the Power Edition includes advanced optimization and a maritime, turbo, or propeller add-on. Pricing is available on request, with no free plan. Windows and Linux downloads include a free two-week trial; listed systems include Windows 11 and Linux tested on Debian 12 and Ubuntu 24.04.

modeFRONTIER automates engineering simulation workflows and design optimisation by connecting third-party CAD/CAE software with in-house solvers. It combines multiple engineering disciplines in unified workflows and allows several optimisation strategies in one project file. Design exploration includes design of experiments, response surface models, multi-objective optimisation, robust design, reliability analysis and uncertainty quantification. Surrogate models, machine-learning algorithms and reduced-order models support data-driven modelling; ESTECO identifies pilOPT as its proprietary self-adaptive optimisation algorithm. Integrations include parametric solvers and custom connectors for Abaqus, Adams, ANSYS Workbench, CATIA and ANSA. pyFRONTIER and pyCONSOLE connect Python workflows, including scikit-learn and SciPy optimize libraries. Workflows can run in parallel, on local grid computing, or through remote HPC and cloud resources. VOLTA adds collaboration, distributed execution and result traceability. Pricing is on request, with academic licences limited to non-commercial or academic use.