Integrated Intelligent CAD System for Interactive Design, Analysis and Prototyping of Compression and Torsion Springs

Isad Saric,Mirsad Colic,Enis Muratovic,Muamer Delic,Elmedin Mesic,Adis J Muminovic,Adil Muminovic,Nedim Pervan

doi:10.3390/app12010353

Abstract

This paper presents the development and implementation of integrated intelligent CAD (computer aided design) system for design, analysis and prototyping of the compression and torsion springs. The article shows a structure of the developed system named Springs IICAD (integrated intelligent computer aided design). The system bounds synthesis and analysis design phases by means of the utilization of parametric 3D (three-dimensional) modeling, FEM (finite element method) analysis and prototyping. The development of the module for spring calculation and system integration was performed in the C# (C Sharp) programming language. Three-dimensional geometric modeling and structural analysis were performed in the CATIA (computer aided three-dimensional interactive application) software, while prototyping is performed with the Ultimaker 3.0 3D printer with support of Cura software. The developed Springs IICAD system interlinks computation module with the basic parametric models in such a way that spring calculation, shaping, FEM analysis and prototype preparation are performed instantly.

Highlights

Springs are one of the most fundamental elements in the wide spectrum of mechanical engineering applications [1]
Boundary conditions of the compression spring FEM models are predefined in the CATIA software, with a clamp applied on the bottom surface of the spring and user defined restrain which simulates only the vertical spring movement
The parametric approach of 3D modeling was interlinked with the Springs IICAD system, so with an input of any geometric parameter, material property and force, changes are made in the specific files

Summary

Introduction

Springs are one of the most fundamental elements in the wide spectrum of mechanical engineering applications [1]. The current industrial reform is based on integrating the existing knowledge of the classical design process with the modern manufacturing and production services [7,8]. Continuous improvements in the firmly based conventional technologies with introduction to complex knowledge-based systems results in new, higher degree technology implemented in mechanical and manufacturing fields [9,10,11]. Mechanical engineering is becoming a growing domain with an upgraded level of automation and intelligent manufacturing processes which results in a higher degree of parameter control, and the minimization of rejections and errors, i.e., product defects, reduction of unplanned downtimes and improved flexibility [12,13]. Even though spring theory and accumulated practical knowledge have developed over the years, the range of materials, sizes and shapes is so great that the design process represents a severe engineering challenge. Computer assistance is reflected in the prototype preparation modules, used for product prototyping which comes in handy for gaining an answer to a specific problem or testing hypothesis [19]

Methods

Results

Conclusion