In the graphics industry, concepts are being developed where the images are transferred using wide, flexible belts. To achieve pattern match, the positioning precision of the belts is very important. Because of roller misalignment and other imperfections, the belts may tend to drift, or track. The ABAQUS/Explicit simulation to predict tracking consists of several steps. First, find the belt shape, as it is stretched around the rollers. Second, apply tensioning device forces and roller misalignments. Finally, initiate belt rotation, transient and steady state. Several modeling and simulation techniques have been applied to overcome instabilities in the system.

The simulation has been validated within a few tens of microns per second by comparison with measurements performed on a test bench, where known roller misalignment and tracking corrective tension forces have been introduced. The analysis technique is currently applied by the client routinely to lead the design process. However, because design results are proprietary, only test bench models and results may be presented.