FlexSim
FlexSim is 3D discrete-event simulation software for modeling and improving existing or proposed systems.
What FlexSim is
FlexSim is 3D discrete-event simulation software for modeling and improving existing or proposed systems. Its realistic 3D graphics show how a system behaves during a simulation. Users can arrange objects and resources with drag-and-drop controls, or bring in CAD drawings and custom 3D objects. The Standard Object Library, Process Flow activity blocks, FlexScript, and C++ integration support model building and customization. For analysis, FlexSim provides charts, graphs, data tracking, and spreadsheet export. It integrates with OptQuest to optimize scenarios using variables, constraints, and multiple objectives. Its Experimenter compares scenarios, spreads replications across CPU cores, and supports reports and performance measures. Data connections include Excel and SQL, with FlexScript APIs for files, sockets, and HTTP requests. The Emulation tool supports Modbus, OPC DA, OPC UA, and certain manufacturer-specific PLC connections; some require an Emulation license. FlexSim is listed for web and Windows, with desktop deployment. The Express trial plan is free, with limits including up to 30 3D objects and 35 Process Flow activities. Other pricing is on request.
Good
- 3D graphics visualize system behavior.
- Drag-and-drop layout and CAD import are supported.
- OptQuest supports multi-objective scenario optimization.
- Experimenter compares scenarios and generates reports.
- Excel and SQL data connections are documented.
Watch out
- Express limits models to 30 3D objects.
- Express allows up to 35 Process Flow activities.
- Express excludes Experimenter and Optimizer.
- Some PLC connections require an Emulation license.
Who it suits
FlexSim suits operations teams that need to model or improve systems and compare scenarios. It may also fit users who need to build customized simulation models or connect to supported data sources and PLC types.
Verdict
FlexSim combines 3D modeling, analysis, and scenario optimization for operations-focused simulation work. Check the Express limits and license requirements for advanced tools or PLC connections; full pricing is available on request.
Plans and prices
From FlexSim's own pricing page, checked 9 Oct 2026.
| Plan | Price | What it gives you |
|---|---|---|
| FlexSim Express (Trial Version) | Free | Up to 30 3D objects · up to 35 Process Flow activities · no Experimenter or Optimizer · fixed random number generator · evaluation and model viewing |
The facts
Each one read from FlexSim's own pages, with the date it was checked.
What it does
- 3D modeling
- It uses realistic 3D graphics to model systems and visualize what is happening in simulations.checked 9 Oct 2026
- Analysis
- Analysis features include charts, graphs, data tracking, and export to spreadsheet applications.checked 9 Oct 2026
- Data connections
- FlexSim documentation describes importing and exporting data through Excel and SQL database connectors, plus FlexScript APIs for files, sockets, and HTTP requests.checked 9 Oct 2026
- Experimentation
- The Experimenter compares scenarios, distributes replications across CPU cores, and supports report generation and performance measures.checked 9 Oct 2026
- Model building
- The Standard Object Library, Process Flow activity blocks, FlexScript, and C++ integration support model building and customization.checked 9 Oct 2026
- Model layout
- Users can place objects and resources with drag-and-drop controls and import CAD drawings and custom 3D objects.checked 9 Oct 2026
- Operating system
- The system requirements page lists 64-bit Windows editions and says FlexSim is not designed for virtual OS environments.checked 9 Oct 2026
- Optimization
- FlexSim integrates with OptQuest for scenario optimization with variables, constraints, and multiple objectives.checked 9 Oct 2026
- PLC connectivity
- The Emulation tool supports connections including Modbus, OPC DA, OPC UA, and certain manufacturer-specific PLC types; some connection types require an Emulation license.checked 9 Oct 2026
- Purpose
- FlexSim is 3D discrete-event simulation software for modeling and improving existing and proposed systems.checked 9 Oct 2026
- Security
- The product page links to Autodesk privacy and legal pages, but the opened FlexSim product and company pages do not state a security certification or compliance standard.checked 9 Oct 2026
- Support
- Technical support is included for customers with active maintenance or subscription, and the support page aims for a first response within two working days.checked 9 Oct 2026
The company
- Company history
- FlexSim says it began in 1993 and that Autodesk acquired FlexSim Software Products in November 2023.checked 9 Oct 2026
- Founded
- 1993checked 28 Sep 2026
- Headquarters
- San Francisco, California, USAchecked 28 Sep 2026
Money
- Trial
- The Autodesk trial intake page lists a 30-day trial from the date of download and Windows 64-bit as the available platform for FlexSim 2027.checked 9 Oct 2026
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