The Abaqus/Standard to Abaqus/Explicit co-simulation technique extends Abaqus functionality by providing run-time coupling of Abaqus analysis programs. You can divide a model into multiple domains and use different analysis programs to obtain solutions for each domain. Each Abaqus analysis operates on a complementary section of the model domain where it is expected to provide the more computationally efficient solution. For example, Abaqus/Standard provides a more efficient solution for light and stiff components, while Abaqus/Explicit is more efficient for solving complex contact interactions.

You define the interface region across which solutions quantities are exchanged and the coupling schemes (the time incrementation process and the frequency of exchange between the two analyses). For more information, see “Performing an Abaqus/Standard to Abaqus/Explicit co-simulation,” Section 14.1.3 of the Abaqus Analysis User's Manual.