What is a major benefit of using simulation in engineering?

Using simulation in engineering provides a significant advantage by aiding in predicting performance and reducing costs. This method allows engineers to create virtual models of their designs and test them under various conditions without the need for physical prototypes. By running these simulations, engineers can analyze how a design will behave in real-world scenarios, identifying potential issues and areas for improvement before any actual production takes place. This predictive capability helps in optimizing designs, which can lead to reduced material waste, minimized errors, and ultimately lower production costs.

Furthermore, simulations enable engineers to explore a range of design variations and perform what-if analyses efficiently, which would be time-consuming and costly if attempted through physical prototyping alone. This ability to anticipate performance and resolve problems early in the design phase is a key reason why many engineering disciplines rely heavily on simulation as part of their design process.