SolidWorks Modeling Research Articles

A robotic fish processing line enhanced by machine learning

This paper presents the design of a comprehensive automatic fish processing line utilizing machine learning algorithms. The processing line encompasses several essential steps, including fish identification by type, fish sorting by size, fish orientation based on shape, and fish cutting at the optimal chopping points. The primary objective of this design is not just automation but also maximizing economic benefits by preserving the maximum amount of fish meat during the cutting process, achieved through the application of machine learning algorithms. To accomplish these goals, we employ a combination of transfer learning and convolutional neural networks to establish criteria for actions across all stages of automatic fish processing. At the heart of the processing station is a conveyor belt equipped with numerous sensors and lenses. Positioned along this conveyor belt are two robotic arms, responsible for precise positioning and cutting operations, all guided by the machine learning algorithms. To provide a visual representation of these design concepts, we have created a 3D SolidWorks model.

Design of a Customized Thumb Prosthesis: Focus on Functionality and Comfort

This research focuses on addressing the scarcity of personalized and affordable prostheses in Honduras by designing and developing a functional prosthesis for a thumb. The general objective was to design a model suitable for 3D printing adapted to the specific needs of a patient who had her index and thumb fingers amputated. To achieve this, an integral methodology was employed, ranging from an exhaustive literature review of current solutions to detailed material evaluations, including interviews with patients and medical experts, SolidWorks modeling, and simulations. The result was the successful design of a functional prosthesis prototype, with the selection of intentionally 3D printable materials to ensure comfort and functionality. In conclusion, this research demonstrates the viability of addressing the scarcity of personalized prostheses through innovative approaches and comprehensive design methodologies, with a focus on effectiveness and streamlining the process.

Evaluation and design of a bite force measuring load cell

The measurement of bite force can be essential for assessing oral health and the functioning of the stomatognathic system. However, its use in dental offices is limited due to operational complexities and costs. This study focused on evaluating the mechanical strength of the user-friendly and low manufacturing cost load cell under development within LABBIO – Bioengineering Laboratory at UFMG, the gnathodynamometer, tailored for children. 3D modeling in SolidWorks and Finite Element Method (FEM) structural analysis were employed to ensure its ability to withstand the desired 1000 N load. Initially, the device did not meet the desired load, resulting in iterations to modify its geometry. After iterations including the replacement of the initial material with a more suitable alternative, removal of edges, and other adjustments, a final prototype meeting mechanical strength and functionality requirements was developed.

Analysis and Topology Optimization of Chain Sprocket in ANSYS Workbench

This paper aims to develop an optimized driven sprocket, focusing on the driving sprocket of the KTM 390. The process begins with the creation of the driving sprocket model in SolidWorks 2022. Subsequently, finite element modelling and analysis of the initial design are conducted using ANSYS Workbench software, simulating the strength, safety factor, and lifespan of the model. The next step involves topologically optimizing the model, with the goal of achieving a 36% reduction in sprocket mass without compromising its performance. Finally, design validation is performed on the optimized model, followed by a reassessment through static analysis to ensure the reliability of the results. Keywords: optimized driven sprocket, KTM 390, SolidWorks 2022, ANSYS Workbench, simulation, safety, chain sprocket

Bridging theory and practice: A comprehensive algorithm for imageless total knee arthroplasty

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a surgical procedure to treat severe knee osteoarthritis. Among several techniques available for performing TKA, imageless TKA is known for achieving precise alignment while minimizing invasiveness. This work proposes a comprehensive algorithm for imageless TKA device to calculate the varus/valgus and flexion/extension angles, as well as resection depths for cutting planes at distal femur and proximal tibia. Moreover, the algorithm calculates the hip-knee-ankle (HKA) and flexion angles of the leg. Initially, the proposed algorithm was validated in a virtual environment using a CT-scanned bone model in Solidworks. Subsequently, for the real-world validation, a SoftBone model was resected with conventional intra and extramedullary rods and cross-checked with the proposed algorithm. For the third validation, another SoftBone model was resected with the proposed algorithm and cuts were measured with a vernier caliper. During this experiment, there was an error of approximately 1 mm for both femoral and tibial resection cases when using an infrared camera with an accuracy of ±0.5 mm. However, this error could be reduced using an infrared camera with higher accuracy.

Design of transmission mechanism of punch feeding and discharging manipulator

The press loading and unloading manipulator is a kind of intelligent equipment based on automation, which is specially developed for realizing the automation and unmanned production of the press shop. It can replace the worker’s work by implementing the manual editing program and greatly improve the efficiency of production and quality. The design optimized the traditional transmission scheme comparison and molded the structure based on the solid works modeling. The key supporting parts of the manipulator are analyzed by the finite element method. The simulation results showed that the manipulator can satisfy the designed loading requirements and guarantee the designed accuracy.

METHODOLOGY FOR CREATING A DESIGN DOCUMENT SPECIFICATION FOR ASSEMBLIES IN THE SOLIDWORKS SYSTEM

The article describes the methods of development of design documents in the geometric modeling environment SolidWorks. Special attention is paid to the main design document (DD) – Specification. For the proposed valve design, the creation of a specification for the entire product, as well as the specifications of the assembly units included in the product, is considered. Examples of specifications for drawings are given: assembly, general type, drawings with a loose part and for combined DD. The examples considered in the article contribute to the formation of students' practical skills in the image of products and their components using the SolidWorks modeling system, the development of the ability to read drawings, as well as the deepening of knowledge of the state standards of the Unified System of Design Documentation (USDD).

Finite element method analysis of bone stress for variants of locking plate placement

This study investigates the optimal placement of locking plate screws for bone fracture stabilization in the humerus, a crucial factor for enhancing healing outcomes and patient comfort. Utilizing Finite Element Method (FEM) modeling, the research aimed to determine the most effective screw configuration for achieving optimal stress distribution in the humerus bone. A computer tomography (CT) scan of the humerus was performed, and the resulting images were used to create a detailed model in SOLIDWORKS 2012. This model was then analyzed using ANSYS Workbench V13 to develop a finite element model of the bone. Four different screw configurations were examined: 4 × 0°, 4 × 10°, 4 × 20°, 2 × 20°; 2 × 0°. These configurations were subjected to bending in the XZ and YZ planes, as well as tension and compression along the Z axis. The research identified the 2 × 20°+2 × 0° configuration as the most beneficial, with average stress values below 30 MPa and peak stress values below 50 MPa in 3-point bending at the first screw. This configuration consistently showed the lowest stress values across all loading scenarios. Specifically, stress levels ranged from 20 MPa to 50 MPa for bending in the XZ plane, 20 MPa–35 MPa for bending in the YZ plane, 20 MPa–30 MPa for extension in the Z-axis, and 18 MPa–25 MPa for compression in the Z-axis. The 4 × 10° and 4 × 20° configurations also produced satisfactory results, with stress levels not exceeding 70 MPa. However, the 4 × 0° configuration presented considerable stress during bending and compression in the Z-axis, with stress values exceeding 100 MPa, potentially leading to mechanical damage. In conclusion, the 2 × 20°; 2 × 0° screw configuration was identified as the most effective in minimizing stress on the treated bone. Future work will involve a more detailed analysis of this methodology and its potential integration into clinical practice, with a focus on enhancing patient outcomes in bone fracture treatment.

Design of lower limb rehabilitation exoskeleton with self-adaptive knee optimal force

With the increasingly serious trend of population aging in China, various diseases of the elderly are emerging in an endless stream, including hemiplegia, half limb disorder, limb numbness, hemianopia, and aphasia, with a high disability rate. The available auxiliary device cannot make a clear assistance for the patient, so that this design plans to make an exoskeleton for the patients who need effective rehabilitation alternatives and improve the rehabilitation efficiency. In this design, we would create Solid works model with some joint to fit human knees and then select sensors which are suitable to collect signs to depict kinematics features. The model, which has self-adaptation for receiving force signs from calf and knee joint, depends on the different force points of the calf lift affecting the stress state of the knee joint. Because the different stress points of the calf lift directly affect the stress state of the knee, so to find the best stress point of the calf is the research direction of this paper. In order to find the best and the most suitable force point of the human lower limb, we two methods, step-by-step process and dichotomy process, were discussed and compared in this study. Reasonable material may decide the robotic features.

МАТЕМАТИЧЕСКОЕ МОДЕЛИРОВАНИЕ РАСПРОСТРАНЕНИЯ ЗАГРЯЗНЯЮЩИХ ВЕЩЕСТВ В ВОЗДУШНОЙ СРЕДЕ ПРОИЗВОДСТВЕННЫХ ПОМЕЩЕНИЙ

The mathematical model of pollutants diffusion in the air environment of industrial premises is considered, which is based on the classical model of continuous medium on the basis of the system of Navier-Stokes equations using the standard k - ε turbulence model, which takes into account the degree of air flow vortexing in the room. The developed mathematical model of heat and mass transfer of pollutants in the room, unlike existing models, allows to take into account the movement of a person and to estimate the concentration fields in different rooms in the building. The mathematical model is implemented on a computer in the problem-oriented environment SolidWorks 2020. The results of experimental studies and computational experiment on the spread of butyl acetate in the air environment of the room are presented. The received values of concentrations of butyl acetate satisfactorily agree with each other. Results of researches confirm possibility of use of the developed mathematical model in the software environment SolidWorks 2020 for carrying out computational experiments. The results of numerical modelling of butyl acetate distribution in air environment of premises at different location of a source are presented. It is shown, that moving of the person has essential influence on distribution of concentration field of butyl acetate in air environment of industrial premises.

Design and scale-up of a superb micromixer with fan-shaped obstacles for synthesis of Dolutegravir intermediate

Micromixer have received significant attention for fluid mixing enhancement, while traditional micromixers have long mixing times and unstable mixing effects, which has discouraged their commercial development. Herein, we report a methodology for the design, optimization, scale-up fabrication and performance evaluation of a novel micromixer. A combination of Solidworks modeling, Design of Experiments and Computational Fluid Dynamics numerical simulation is used to optimize the configuration of micromixer. Analysis and optimization of experimental results from CFD numerical simulations revealed the channel width had the greatest impact on the performance of the micromixer. Based on the DoE results, two optimized micromixers (FOM-A and FOM-B) were developed and subjected to a series of numerical simulations at Reynolds number 0.5 ≤ Re ≤ 100. Both micromixers had a high mixing index (> 94%) and maintained a low pressure drop. Next, the FOM-B was scaled up and used as a microreactor for the synthesis of Dolutegravir intermediate. A 98% yield was obtained at a residence time of 4 min. Furthermore, the mass transfer performance of the FOM-B microreactor was measured and a mass transfer coefficient of 0.5012 s−1 was obtained at liquid flow rate of 20 mL/min, which is double the value of other commercial microreactors.

Finite Element Analysis Model for Assessing Expansion Patterns from Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion.

Surgically assisted rapid palatal expansion (SARPE) was introduced to release bony resistance to facilitate skeletal expansion in skeletally mature patients. However, asymmetric expansion between the left and right sides has been reported in 7.52% of all SARPE patients, of which 12.90% had to undergo a second surgery for correction. The etiologies leading to asymmetric expansion remain unclear. Finite element analysis has been used to evaluate the stress associated with SARPE in the maxillofacial structures. However, as a collision of the bone at the LeFort I osteotomy sites occurs only after a certain amount of expansion, most of the existing models do not truly represent the force distribution, given that the expansion amount of these existing models rarely exceeds 1 mm. Therefore, there is a need to create a novel finite element model of SARPE that could perform a clinically required amount of expander activation for further analysis of the expansion patterns of the hemimaxillae in all three dimensions. A three-dimensional (3D) skull model from cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) was imported into Mimics and converted into mathematical entities to segment the maxillary complex, maxillary first premolars, and maxillary first molars. These structures were transferred into Geomagic for surface smoothing and cancellous bone and periodontal ligament creation. The right half of the maxillary complex was then retained and mirrored to create a perfectly symmetrical model in SolidWorks. A Haas expander was constructed and banded to the maxillary first premolars and first molars. Finite element analysis of various combinations of buccal osteotomies at different angles with 1 mm clearance was performed in Ansys. A convergence test was conducted until the desired amount of expansion on both sides (at least 6 mm in total) was achieved. This study lays the foundation for evaluating how buccal osteotomy angulation influences the expansion patterns of SARPE.

NUMERICAL CALCULATIONS OF WATER DROP USING A FIREFIGHTING AIRCRAFT

The study involved a numerical analysis of the water dropping process by fixed-wing aircraft. This method, also known as air attack, is used for aerial firefighting, primarily in green areas such as forests and meadows. The conducted calculations allowed for the analysis of the process over time. The calculations were performed based on a SolidWorks model of the M18B Dromader aircraft. After defining the computational domain and setting the boundary conditions, the simulations were carried out using the ANSYS Fluent software. The resulting water dropping area was used to analyze the intensity of water distribution. The volumetric distribution and airflow velocity distribution were analyzed for specified time steps. The boundary layer where air no longer mixes with water during the final phase of water dropping was also determined. The obtained results provide an important contribution to further analyses aimed at optimizing the water dropping process by fixed-wing aircraft.

Designing and Implementing a Versatile Agricultural Robot: A Vehicle Manipulator System for Efficient Multitasking in Farming Operations

This paper presents a detailed design of a skid-steering mobile platform with four wheels, along with a Cartesian serial (PPP) manipulator. The aim of this design is to enable the platform to perform various tasks in the agricultural process. The parallel manipulator designed can handle heavy materials in the agricultural field. An experimental robotic harvesting scenario was conducted using parallel manipulator-based end-effectors to handle heavy fruits such as watermelon or muskmelon. The conceptual and component design of the different models was carried out using the Solidworks modeling package. Design specifications and parametric values were utilized during the manufacturing stage. The mobile manipulator was simulated on undulating terrain profiles using ADAMS software. The simulation was analyzed for a duration of 15 s, and graphs depicting the distance, velocity, and acceleration were evaluated over time. Proportional derivative control and proportional derivative-like conventional sliding surface control were applied to the model, and the results were analyzed to assess the error in relation to the input and desired variables. Additionally, a structural analysis was performed to ensure minimal deformation and the highest safety factor for the wheel shaft and L bracket thickness. Throughout the fabrication and prototype development, calibration tests were conducted at various X-, Y-, and Z-axis frame mounting stages. The objective was to minimize the lateral and longitudinal deviation between the parallel linear motion (LM) rails. Once the fabrication and prototype construction was completed, field testing was carried out. All mechanical movements in the lateral and longitudinal directions functioned according to the desired commands given by the Arduino Mega, controlled via a six-channel radio frequency (RF) controller. In the context of agriculture, the grippers utilizing parallel mechanisms were also subjected to testing, demonstrating their ability to handle sizable cylindrical and spherical fruits or vegetables, as well as other relevant objects.

The influence of different friction methods on curling

With the Beijing Winter Olympics, curling has become one of the big hits. To research, professional curlers will brush ice at 40 - 60 , because the curling brush is a universal head when the force and the direction are fixed, changing the curling deceleration movement. This work aims to use Solidworks modeling, Unity virtual simulation, mathematical regression statistical prediction, and MATLAB data visualization to find the most suitable gimbal pole angle under the integration of the sports and physics, to make curling adjustable and provide a reference for improving its competitive level. The conclusion represents the gimbal pole angle is 54.7, and the angular acceleration is 17rad/s, which slows down the curling deceleration and has a longer relative displacement. At 60.1, the angular acceleration is 31rad/s, relative displacement is the shortest. So as to help athletes formulate real-time strategies, and also promote curling to be better popularize and theoretical.

Case Study: Modeling a Grain Bin for Safe Entry Retrofit

All new grain bins produced after 2018 are recommended to have anchor points capable of handling a 2000 lb loading for attachment of bin entry lifeline systems. This study aims to assess the feasibility of a safe entry anchor point retrofit by using finite element analysis (FEA). We used a grain bin owned by Penn State for 3D FEA modeling in SolidWorks. To validate the model results from the FEA model, first strain and then deflection measurements were conducted on the grain. Strain gauges were applied to the grain bin in five locations and strain values were obtained after applying static loads. The strain gauge measurements from the experimental study were compared to the strain output from the FEA simulation. The error seen was far greater than was expected. The most pertinent error source was strain gauge installation error and equipment failure. Then, the vertical roof deflection of the bin was measured using a precision phase-comparison laser while applying incremental static loads to the retrofitted rescue anchor points. The FEA model results were compared to the experimentally measured deflection results. A 3D FEA model of a grain bin was created. A high amount of error was observed in deflections between the measured and FEA modeling. The errors have resulted from the assumptions made during the model creation. However, the SolidWorks Simulation model still may be used to estimate loading scenarios in a safe and non-destructive way. Based on the research findings, the project team recommends that the suitability of any bin to safely accommodate a lifeline and anchor point system must be verified on a case-by-case basis. Evaluation by a professional structural engineer and consulting with the manufacturer are recommended. This recommendation extends to all-grain bins, including those post-2018.

Numerical Investigation of Aerodynamic Performances for NREL 5-MW Offshore Wind Turbine

As one of the preferred types of renewable energy, wind energy is rapidly growing. The purpose of this study is to provide a comprehensive and in-depth numerical analysis on the National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL) 5-MW offshore wind turbine to help understand the wind turbine’s aerodynamic features. In this research, the preprocessing was conducted by using SolidWorks modeling, and a realizable k-ε viscous model from ANSYS/FLUENT was used as the solver in the CFD simulation. Eight test cases were developed, and fixed inlet velocity 9 m/s was set as the baseline case. After the initial mesh independent study and model validation, a detailed numerical analysis was carried out. The results of near wake flow features, torque and thrust, pressure and pressure coefficient distribution, limiting streamline along wind turbine blades, power coefficient as a function of tip speed ratio were evaluated. Whenever possible, simulation results were compared with data in the literature (numerical or experimental), and good agreement was observed. The detailed wind turbine aerodynamic analysis results are expected to provide valuable input to wind turbine design and thus to improve the effectiveness of harnessing wind energy. Research is on the way to further understanding the influence of different inflow conditions on the aerodynamic characteristics.

Development of a tiny house design tool to increase safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness

The popularity of tiny houses is increasing, but the technical details are rarely covered. Therefore, this study examines the structural, stability, weight, and thermal requirements of tiny houses. A configurable SolidWorks model was created, and the location and quantity of structural supports were determined by performing structural finite element analyses (FEA). The center of mass, tip angles, overall weight, and tongue weight were computed to ensure stability while stationary or during transit. The heating and cooling needs for the tiny houses were calculated using thermal FEA for twelve cities of varying climates across the United States.The result was a Scilab design tool that takes as input, items such as location, desired size, utility needs, etc. It calculates the materials needed for the structure and the projected cost. This design tool, along with the provided construction drawings, allows the user to build a safer, efficient, and cost-effective tiny house.

Numerical Simulation and Analysis of a Vertical Centrifuge

In order to solve the separation efficiency problem of the vertical centrifuge. First, understand the working principle and dynamic theory of the centrifuge, preliminarily design the technical parameters from the experience and experimental data of the prototype, solid works model, specify the overall structure scheme, and complete the virtual assembly. Secondly, the work performance is verified. The production capacity is calculated with power to meet the design requirements. Then, to verify the design strength and deformation meet the design requirements. Then, the finite element numerical analysis of the internal flow field. The FLUENT software is used to analyze the internal flow field velocity distribution and the turbulent kinetic energy of the centrifuge. Finally, a solid phase distribution rule analysis was performed to investigate the effect of particle diameter size on the separation performance at a suitable particle volume fraction.

A Dynamic Approach to Low-Cost Design, Development, and Computational Simulation of a 12DoF Quadruped Robot

Robots equipped with legs have significant potential for real-world applications. Many industries, including those concerned with instruction, aid, security, and surveillance, have shown interest in legged robots. However, these robots are typically incredibly complicated and expensive to purchase. Iron Dog Mini is a low-cost, easily replicated, and modular quadruped robot built for training, security, and surveillance. To keep the price low and its upkeep simple, we designed our quadruped robot in a modular manner. We provide a comparative study of robotic manufacturing cost between our proposed robot and previously established robots. We were able to create a compact femur and tibia structure with sufficient load-bearing capacity. To improve stability and motion efficiency, we considered the novel Watt six-bar linkage mechanism. Using the SolidWorks modeling software, we analyzed the structural integrity of the robot’s components, considering their respective material properties. Furthermore, our research involved developing URDF data for our quadruped robot based on its CAD model. Its gait trajectory is planned using a 14-point Bezier curve. We demonstrate the operation of the simulation model and briefly discuss the robot’s kinematics. Computational methods are emphasized in this research, coupled with the simulation of kinematic and dynamic performances and analytical/numerical modeling.