The solid modeling process is generally more complicated than shell modeling is. The shape and mesh of a structure have a strong influence on the robustness of the solid modeling process. Generally speaking, the less complex the model the more robust the process. The challenges of composite modeling can vary greatly. Following composite design principles for structural concepts will aid the solid modeling process. Abrupt changes in shape and sharp edges are not advisable in composite design and also cause problems in composite modeling.
You can use Named Selections to define boundary conditions, contacts, and much more. Named Selections also contribute to making your model associative which automates the update process. For this reason Named Selections of the shell geometry are converted and maintained in the solid model workflow as shown in the figure below. An edge becomes a wall (edge_1 ⇒ EDGE_1_WALL) and a surface is converted into a bottom and top surface (face ⇒ FACE_BOT and FACE_TOP) in the solid of the downstream Mechanical system.
