CAx Systems Research Articles

Application of CAx Systems for Automated Design of Fire Detectors with an Arduino Board

This article presents the technology of 3D design of fire detector body parts using the CAx system. During the 3D design of the components of the fire detector, its design has been improved, and its operation is ensured on the basis of the Arduinomini board. The production of the lower cover of the fire detector for the Arduinomini board is realized with the help of a 3D printer. At the same time, a thermal analysis was carried out in the CAx Fusion 360 system of the improved fire detector design.

Data Exchange with Support for the Neutral Processing of Formats in Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing Systems

This paper presents an analysis and the research results of system couplers in CAx systems that ensure the correct transfer of product data from the “supplier” system to the “recipient” system. This study presents the results of the compatibility tests between the systems based on the verification of geometric models and their attributes after importing/exporting 2D and 3D objects using neutral data exchange formats. The purpose of the research was to identify neutral formats that do not introduce errors after data transversion in certain types of geometry. Tests and analyses were carried out on selected formats depending on the type of object, such as 2D objects (DXF), solid objects (IGES, STEP, SAT, and PARASOLID), and surface objects (IGES, STEP, SAT, and X_T). One of the results of our research and analysis is the need for continuous development of CAD/CAE systems because current neutral formats are not 100% effective.

Manufacturing Polymer Model of Anatomical Structures with Increased Accuracy Using CAx and AM Systems for Planning Orthopedic Procedures

Currently, medicine uses typical industrial structure techniques, including reverse engineering, data processing, 3D-CAD modeling, 3D printing, and coordinate measurement techniques. Taking this into account, one can notice the applications of procedures used in the aviation or automotive industries based on the structure of Industry 4.0 in the planning of operations and the production of medical models with high geometric accuracy. The procedure presented in the publication shortens the processing time of tomographic data and increases the reconstruction accuracy within the hip and knee joints. The procedure allows for the partial removal of metallic artifacts from the diagnostic image. Additionally, numerical models of anatomical structures, implants, and bone cement were developed in more detail by averaging the values of local segmentation thresholds. Before the model manufacturing process, additional tests of the PLA material were conducted in terms of its strength and thermal properties. Their goal was to select the appropriate type of PLA material for manufacturing models of anatomical structures. The numerical models were divided into parts before being manufactured using the Fused Filament Fabrication technique. The use of the modifier made it possible to change the density, type of filling, number of counters, and the type of supporting structure. These treatments allowed us to reduce costs and production time and increase the accuracy of the printout. The accuracy of the manufactured model geometry was verified using the MCA-II measuring arm with the MMDx100 laser head and surface roughness using a 3D Talyscan 150 profilometer. Using the procedure, a decrease in geometric deviations and amplitude parameters of the surface roughness were noticed. The models based on the presented approach allowed for detailed and meticulous treatment planning.

Integrated Mobile Robotic Platform Model

Introduction. The “Smart Agroˮ committee of Research and Education Center “Engineering of the Future” has identified a number of tasks relevant for improving the efficiency of precision, soil-protecting and conservation agriculture. One of these tasks is the development of a digital multi-agent system, which provides a number of services for agricultural enterprises, developers and manufacturers of agricultural machinery. The purpose of the present study is to model an autonomous mobile robotic platform, including the development of software and hardware for trajectory control. Materials and Methods. To solve the problem, there are used modern CAx systems and their applications, the methods of 3D and full-body modeling, and the method of numerical solution of problems in solid mechanics. To expand and improve the standard functionality of CAx-systems (SolidWorks) in the software implementation of trajectory control algorithms, the methods and technologies of programming using API SolidWorks, VisualStudio C++ (MFC, ATL, COM) are used, and to build physical full-scale models ‒ Arduino and fischertechnik platforms. Results. The result of the study is a software and hardware module of trajectory control for an integrated (physical and virtual) model of a mobile robotic platform, which can be provided to the consumer as a service for technology autonomation. For the developed integrated model, control algorithms for various types of trajectories were tested. Discussion and Conclusion. The developed integrated software and hardware model of trajectory control can be used by developers and manufacturers of agricultural machinery, and directly by agro-enterprises for implementing typical technological processes. A feature of the implementation is an open hardware and software interface that provides the integration of mobile robotic platforms based on a digital multi-agent system.

Assembly Sequence Planning Using Artificial Neural Networks for Mechanical Parts Based on Selected Criteria

The proposed model of the neural network describes the task of planning the assembly sequence on the basis of predicting the optimal assembly time of mechanical parts. In the proposed neural approach, the k-means clustering algorithm is used. In order to find the most effective network, 10,000 network models were made using various training methods, including the steepest descent method, the conjugate gradients method, and Broyden–Fletcher–Goldfarb–Shanno algorithm. Changes to network parameters also included the following activation functions: linear, logistic, tanh, exponential, and sine. The simulation results suggest that the neural predictor would be used as a predictor for the assembly sequence planning system. This paper discusses a new modeling scheme known as artificial neural networks, taking into account selected criteria for the evaluation of assembly sequences based on data that can be automatically downloaded from CAx systems.

CAx Integration and Its Design Application Based on Feature Extension of Sensor Components

In order to improve the information and product originality level of intelligent manufacturing industry based on sensor technology, this paper summarizes the current situation of CAx integration based on sensor technology and its design application and analyzes the shortcomings of existing CAx integration, aiming at accurate, complete, timely, and barrier‐free transfer of sensor product data and information between CAx system and MRPII/ERP management information system. The concept and information model of feature extension of sensor components oriented to the whole process of sensor intelligent manufacturing is presented. Taking feature extension of sensor components as the integration link, CAx integration framework structure and its design application mode based on feature extension are established, while key technologies and implementation ideas to realize the integration and the design application are put forward, which provides an effective path to realize the sensor integration of CAx and management information systems such as MRPII/ERP.

Design and fatigue analysis of an aluminium alloy aerodynamic wheel

The deployment of CAx systems has a great influence on the design of individual car components. One of the components that must meet not only aesthetic requirements but also strict safety criteria, guarantee mechanical integrity and have good aerodynamic properties, is a car wheel. Before production begins, wheels must undergo a series of numerical analyses as well as experimental tests. Based on these tests, design modifications are made so that the wheel meets the safety criteria in real operation. The aim of this paper is to present the wheel design process, including the simulation of the rotary bending test using finite elements method (FEM). The paper describes boundary conditions of the numerical model, the process of finite element mesh generation and the results of linear static analysis and fatigue analysis of an aerodynamic wheel.

Downstream Computer-Aided Design, Engineering, and Manufacturing Integration Using Exchangeable Persistent Identifiers in Neutral Re-imported Computer-Aided Design Models

Abstract Computer-aided design, engineering, and manufacturing (CAx) have improved product design and development. The associativity of revised design in native files for downstream applications, assembly design, finite element analysis, and numerical control (NC) manufacturing has been supported by homogeneous CAx systems. However, heterogeneous CAx environments have issues when neutral models are revised and re-imported because the required identification information is missing. This results in a problem of the associativity of neutral models. In this study, different computer-aided design (CAD) applications have been analyzed with respect to their capabilities for import and export of neutral models with identification information. A tool has been selected to demonstrate the key findings. Moreover, future directions have been discussed to solve associativity issues in design re-import based on neutral models.

A new method for interoperability and conformance checking of product manufacturing information

Product manufacturing information (PMI) is the most important information in the product digital model. Whether PMI can be clearly and unambiguous represented and exchanged between different computer-aided software (CAx) has become a topic of high interest in current research. To enhance the interoperability of PMI information among different CAx systems and offer framework software to check the PMI realization ability of different computer-aided design (CAD) software packages, this paper proposes a new method for interoperability and conformance checking by establishing a unified PMI ontology. Using web ontology language description logic (OWL2 DL) and semantic web rule language (SRWL), PMI can be described clearly and without ambiguity and can be read and interpreted automatically by the computer. In addition, the ontology also supplies the functions of consistency checking, knowledge inference, and semantic queries. The analysis shows that this ontology has great engineering significance in realization of PMI interoperability exchange and construction of framework software for PMI conformance checking.

DESIGN MODIFICATION OF AN INNOVATIVE SPLIT-SINGLE TWO-STROKE ENGINE

AbstractA prototype of an innovative split-single two stroke engine is presented. With the aim of increasing the power-to-weight ratio for later mobile use, the individual engine components have to be revised. The focus is on the development process for the redesign of the crankcase. Through a preliminary examination of the necessary CAx systems, an iterative process chain that combines suitable synthesis and analysis tools is derived. This includes the design of the machine elements, a numerical strength verification using FEM and preparing the model for machining.

Automatyzacja definiowania kształtu noska rakiety przeciwlotniczej w programie AutoCAD

In this paper possibilities of using of CAx systems to automation process of graphical tasks are presented. Possibility of using Delphi language and ActiveX technology to creating the shape of an anti-aircraft missile in CAx system are analysed.

Automatyzacja definiowania obiektów przestrzennych w programie AutoCAD

In this paper possibilities of using of CAx systems to automation process of graphical tasks are presented. Possibility of using Delphi language with OLE technology to creating 3D objects in CAx system are analysed.

The possibilities for application of STEP-NC in actual production conditions

With the rapid advancement of internet technologies (IT) and computer numerical control (CNC) technologies, the production environment has significantly changed in the last two decades. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standard 6983 (Gcode), which is still being used as a link between computer aided design/computer aided process planning/computer aided manufacturing (CAD/CAPP/CAM) and CNC system, represents an obstacle for the full integration of design and manufacturing. The result of efforts to eliminate these obstacles and shortcomings of developed standards for data exchange and sharing is the development of (STEP-ISO 10303) standard, as well as its extension to numerical control STEP-NC. This paper shows the current possibility of implementing STEPNC in integration of computer aided technologies CAx and CNC systems in actual production conditions. Two scenarios represent a new approach to programming CNC machine tools using the STEP-NC protocol, which is explained in detail with IDEF0 diagrams, with defining necessary equipment and software. Implementation of the STEP-NC protocol described by the integration definition for function modeling (IDEF0) methodology was experimentally verified on specific examples for both scenarios, with the application of available CAD/CAM systems and the STEP-NC machine software, as well as appropriate virtual and physical CNC machine tools.

Problematyka modelowania powierzchni rozwijalnych w kontekście modelowania autogenerującego

This paper is an attempt to deal with problems related to designing of unfolded surfaces in CAx systems. In the paper main problems during a modelling process of such type objects are described. Additionally, some way of how to deal with this task are shown. Authors’ main focus is on using the generative modelling techniques in order to automate the designing process of the unfolded surfaces.

Modelowanie autogenerujące w systemie SOLIDWORKS w przemyśle meblarskim

The capabilities of CAx systems allow to expand CAD models with engineering knowledge. These are programmed models called generative or integrated models. Described is the usage of generative modeling in the SOLIDWORKS on the example of the furniture industry.

Automatyzacja definiowania kształtu profili lotniczych w programie AutoCAD

Possibilities of using of CAx systems to automation process of graphical tasks are presented. Possibility of using AutoLISP language with VisualLISP environment to create aerofoil shape in CAx system are analysed.

Skeleton-based Generative Modelling Method in the Context of Increasing Functionality of Virtual Product Assembly

Generative Modelling methods are becoming more popular. Despite the fast and dynamic development of CAx systems, well-described procedures of Generative Model creation do not exist. The lack of the described systems and their methodologies means that only a small group of engineers have knowledge and experience to create and use such type of models. In this paper, the authors try to highlight two methods of Generative Model preparation. These methods are the results of the authors’ experiences in working with such types of models. The first method is based on cooperation with external models which are input elements into a Generative Model. Input elements (geometrical or parametrical) are one of the most important things in the process of automatic model generation. The second described method is based on an input element in a wireframe form. The paper highlights areas of application and some advantages and disadvantages for each of the presented methods.

The Methods of Knowledge Acquisition in the Product Lifecycle for a Generative Model's Creation Process

The process of automation becomes popular at different stages of the Product Lifecycle. By applying advanced CAx systems and advanced modelling techniques such as a Generative Modelling, it is possible to design, manufacture and release products onto the market in an easy and fast way. During the Product Lifecycle, a lot of knowledge about the product is generated, however, in the standard process, this knowledge is lost. By using the Knowledge-Based Engineering technique, it is possible to capture, formalise and reuse the knowledge about projects in the future. This approach has a lot of advantages, which are described in this paper.

Product design-optimization integration via associative optimization feature modeling

This paper addresses an important problem of integrating structural optimization into a traditional CAx system and therefore, realizes an integrated product design-optimization system. Specifically, structural optimization has been embedded as an independent module of most commercial CAx systems. It mainly communicates with CAD but can only have the STL-based CAD geometry as input. The knowledge-level information transfer is not supported which causes the optimization intent not fully captured. The consequence could be quite negative that the optimization process generates unsatisfactory or even useless design solutions and tedious manual efforts are required to modify or even redesign the immature solutions, which reduces the overall design efficiency and quality. To fix this issue, this paper proposes an integrated product design-optimization system by enabling the complete information transfer between CAD and structural optimization modules. Interfacing rules have been defined to enable the complete information transfer and the associative optimization feature concept is proposed to manage the transferred information for the structural optimization module. Furthermore, knowledge based reasoning is performed to capture the full optimization intent in order to create a fit-for-purpose optimization model, including both the optimization problem formulation and the solution strategy. For technical merits, this integrated product design-optimization system robustly ensures the timely and high-quality product design delivery which is superior to the existing commercial systems. Effectiveness of this proposed system has been proven through a few case studies.

Design and Production of the Injection Mould with a Cax Assistance

Abstract This paper is focused on the process of designing the desired plastic component and injection mould by using the 3D CAD systems. The subsequent FEM analysis of the injection mould process was carried out in order to define shrinkage and deformation of the plastic material by CAE system. The dimensions of the mould were then modified to compensate the shrinkage effect. Machining process (milling and the laser texturing) of the mould was performed by using CAM systems. Finally, after the production of the plastic components by the injection mould technology, the inspection of the plastic component dimensions was carried out by CAQ in order to define the accuracy of the whole CAx chain. It was also demonstrated that CAx systems are an integral part of pre-production and production process.