Changes from April 2023
Significant changes have been made to the way Maxsurf and Multiframe are licensed. Since April 2023 when Maxsurf 2023 was released, there is now only one license level available (rather than the two levels that were previously available). Beginning with Maxsurf 2023, you will no longer have the option of selecting which license should be used to run the product because there is now only one option available.
Background
Prior to the release of Maxsurf 2023, two levels were available. Some additional functionality was available in the higher-tiered version. However, this has sometimes caused confusion for users and Bentley sales colleagues as well as unexpected overuse charges caused by users inadvertently selecting the wrong license when starting the applications. The multiple tiers also added to the development and other overhead costs needed to develop and deliver Maxsurf. For these reasons, the decision has been made to make all functionality available in a single tier.
Prior to April 2023
There are two editions (levels) of MAXSURF license available:
- MAXSURF Advanced
- MAXSURF Ultimate
Many of the modules are the same across both editions but for some of the modules, increased functionality is available in the Ultimate edition.
Feature comparison per module
Stability
Stability exists in two editions (Advanced and Ultimate). The Advanced edition is available under the MAXSURF Advanced license and the Ultimate edition under the MAXSURF Ultimate license.
The Ultimate editions of Stability adds the Probabilistic Damage analysis mode to the features of Stability Advanced
Motions
Motions exists in two editions (entry level and Advanced). The entry level edition is available under the MAXSURF Advanced license and the Advanced editions under the MAXSURF Ultimate license.
The entry level editions of Motions can compute motion RAOs using strip theory for vertical plane motions (heave and pitch) as well as a simple estimate of the roll motion RAO.
The Advanced edition of Motions adds a six-degree-of-freedom, zero-speed radiation-diffraction panel method analysis capability.
Multiframe
Multiframe exists in two editions (entry level and Advanced). The entry level edition is available under the MAXSURF Advanced license and the Advanced edition under the MAXSURF Ultimate license.
The entry level edition of Multiframe can be used to define and perform static, structural analysis of models containing beam members and stiffened plates.
The Advanced edition of Multiframe adds the ability to compute deflection modes and perform dynamic, time history analysis.
Selection Guide to which MAXSURF version meets your requirements
Rel 23.00 onwards, Simplified Product sheet
| WorkSuite | ||
| Module Name | MAXSURF Advanced | MAXSURF Ultimate |
| MAXSURF Stability Ultimate | X | |
| MAXSURF Motions Ultimate | X | |
| MAXSURF Multiframe Ultimate | X | |
| MAXSURF Stability Advanced | X | x 3 |
| MAXSURF Motions Advanced | X | x 3 |
| MAXSURF Multiframe Advanced | X | x 3 |
| MAXSURF Modeler 1,2 | X | X |
| MAXSURF Resistance | X | X |
| MAXSURF VPP | X | X |
| 1 includes Link and Fitting module functionality | ||
| 2 includes Structure module functionality | ||
| 3 includes all functionality of Advanced versions |
| Worksuite | ||
| Capability feature: Modeling | MAXSURF Advanced | MAXSURF Ultimate |
| Hull geometry | ||
| NURBS surfaces and curves with dynamic surface trimming. Structured mesh geometry and unstructured point data | X | X |
| Geometry exchange via numerous file formats (including DGN, IGES, DXF, 3DM) | X | X |
| Parametric transformation of NURBS model. Fitting tools for NURBS curves and surfaces to structured and unstructured point data. | X | X |
| Automated modeling through COM | X | X |
| Hull structure | ||
| Hull plates (including shell expansion calculation) | X | X |
| Decks; transverse frames and bulkheads; longitudinal stiffeners, girders and bulkheads | X | X |
| Vessel detail for stability analysis | ||
| Key points; Margin line; Load-cases; Damage cases | X | X |
| Room layout (tanks, compartments, etc) | X | X |
| Capability feature: Hydrostatic analysis | MAXSURF Advanced | MAXSURF Ultimate |
| Probabilistic Damage analysis | X | |
| Upright hydrostatics; Large Angle Stability (GZ curve); Equilibrium; Specified condition, Cross Curves (KN), Limiting KG, Floodable Length, Longitudinal Strength, Tank Calibration, MARPOL Outflow, Cross-Flooding | X | X |
| Specified condition; Cross Curves (KN); Limiting KG; Floodable Length; Longitudinal Strength; Tank Calibration; MARPOL Outflow; Cross-Flooding | X | X |
| Stability criteria compliance with user-customizable criteria | X | X |
| Intact stability. Damage stability with partial flooding. Spilling tanks. Fluid simulation in partially filled tanks | X | X |
| Multi-core solver. Batch analysis. Reporting | X | X |
| Automated analysis through COM | X | X |
| Capability feature: Hydrodynamic analysis | MAXSURF Advanced | MAXSURF Ultimate |
| Radiation-diffraction panel method (6 DOF, zero speed) | X | |
| Strip theory (heave and pitch), simple roll estimate | X | X |
| Significant motions, MSI, MII, SM | X | X |
| Automated analysis through COM | X | X |
| Capability feature: Hull Resistance and Sailing Performance prediction | MAXSURF Advanced | MAXSURF Ultimate |
| Hull resistance regression methods for different types of monohull vessels | X | X |
| Slender body resistance algorithm including estimate of far-field wave pattern | X | X |
| Velocity prediction for sailing monohull yachts | X | X |
| Automated analysis through COM | X | X |
| Capability feature: Structural analysis | MAXSURF Advanced | MAXSURF Ultimate |
| Dynamic modal response and time history analysis | X | |
| Local steel code checks (AS4100, AS4600, NZS3404) | X | |
| International steel design code checks (AIJ, ASD, LRFD, AISI BS5950, EC3) | X | |
| Linear analysis of 3D structural frame and stiffened plate models | X | X |
| Non-linear and buckling analysis of frame models | X | X |
| Section properties calculator | X | X |
| Automated modeling and analysis through COM | X | X |
Selection Guide to which MAXSURF version meets your requirements
In 2012 Bentley Systems consolidated the individual Maxsurf modules into three Suites and another three indiviual modules.
In December 2020 Bentley Systems streamlined the range to just the two suites as described above.
Contact us for details of upgrade offers available to existing users.
Or visit us at Island Computers by appointment.
Formsys was purchased by Bentley Systems in 2011.
Bentley provide a large portfolio of infrastructure products including the ‘offshore’ arm which currently incorporates SACS, MAXSURF, MOSES and OPEN WIND.
Island Computer Systems Ltd is a Bentley Gold Channel Partner authorised to provide MAXSURF, Multiframe, MicroStation, PowerDraft in particular and all of the Bentley portfolio in general including MOSES and STAAD for example.