Simulation on big structures

Hi, I firstly thank you for trying to help!
I'm working on a Project of a structure capable of measuring and classifing the diameter of wood logs, the structure movement is based on chains, shafts and gears. I would like to simulate the logs being carried around on the chains and also being dropped at their due place once the're classified. The problem is the number of link connections required to build the chains, I fear solidworks is incapable of processing so much info. My question is: Is there a way to treat the chain and it's hundreads of links as a whole? If I deal with it as a unique body, like a belt for instance, I may accomplish the simulation. If there's a way to chance the individual connections freezing them into a whole body would someone please explain to me how to do it?
Thanks again I appreciate the help!

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