This document provides an evaluation report of computer aided engineering (CAE) software and techniques. It discusses parametric modeling, assembly, finite element analysis, drafting, curves and surfaces capabilities. Parametric modeling allows creating relationships between design parameters. Assembly connects different parts. Finite element analysis tests component strength. Drafting creates technical drawings. Curves and surfaces are used to model complex shapes. Overall, the document evaluates the capabilities of CAE software for modeling, analysis, and documentation of engineering designs.
Adaptive Control strategies helps to get desirable output for system with partial unknown dynamics or systems having unknown and unmodeled load variation. DC servo motors are useful to track rapid speed trajectory for various applications, particularly with need of high starting torque and low inertia. Model Reference Adaptive Control (MRAC) parameter data of results with Lyapunov stability MRAC has been used to generate adaptation parameter for DC motor speed controller.
Adaptive Control strategies helps to get desirable output for system with partial unknown dynamics or systems having unknown and unmodeled load variation. DC servo motors are useful to track rapid speed trajectory for various applications, particularly with need of high starting torque and low inertia. Model Reference Adaptive Control (MRAC) parameter data of results with Lyapunov stability MRAC has been used to generate adaptation parameter for DC motor speed controller.
COMPUTATIONAL ENGINEERING OF FINITE ELEMENT MODELLING FOR AUTOMOTIVE APPLICAT...IAEME Publication
Modals with complicated geometry, complex loads and boundary condition are difficult to analyse and evaluate in the terms of strain, stress, displacement and reaction forces by using theoretical methods. A given modal can be analysed by using Finite Element Method easily with the help of computer software ABAQUS CAE and can get approximate solutions. This report is about modelling two dimensional and three dimensional analyses with the ABAQUS CAE for plane stress, plane strain, shell, and beam and 3d solid modal elements.
A simplified method of designing a phase lead compensator to improve the m-s-...eSAT Publishing House
IJRET : International Journal of Research in Engineering and Technology is an international peer reviewed, online journal published by eSAT Publishing House for the enhancement of research in various disciplines of Engineering and Technology. The aim and scope of the journal is to provide an academic medium and an important reference for the advancement and dissemination of research results that support high-level learning, teaching and research in the fields of Engineering and Technology. We bring together Scientists, Academician, Field Engineers, Scholars and Students of related fields of Engineering and Technology.
User guide of structural modeling mudule v2.2.1Bo Sun
This is the user guide of DepthInsight™ structural modeling module. For corresponding video tutorials , please visit and subscribe our Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjHyG-mG7NQofUWTZgpBT2w
DepthInsight™ software products include modules as follows:
Structure Interpretation
Well and Data Management
Plan Module
Profile Module
Attribute Modeling
Velocity Modeling
Structural Modeling
Reservoir Geological Modeling
Numerical Simulation Gridding
Rock Modeling
Geo-mechanical Modeling
Paleo-Structural Modeling
Enormous Modeling Platform
For more information about our company, Beijing GridWorld Software Technology Co., Ltd., please visit our website: http://gridworld.com.cn/en/
With the growing popularity of Model Based Definition there has also been a growing need for fast and thorough validation of our CAD designs WITHIN the CAD environment rather than after the fact. While PTC's Expert Model Analysis (XMA) is the latest in model validation and metrics for the Enterprise, ModelCHECK is still the tool for end-users to run regular checks on individual designs. However, it is still one of the most under-utilized tools for Pro/E and Creo users. If configured for YOUR company and YOUR standards, ModelCHECK can save countless hours of rework in all phases of your design process.
If you are currently using ModelCHECK or would like to start using it, the included presentation will help you get started and maximize your out-of-the-gate model quality.
Positioning Error Analysis and Compensation of Differential Precision WorkbenchIJRES Journal
Positioning error is a widely problem exists in mechanism, the important factors affecting machining
precision. In order to reduce the error caused by positioning problem processing, based on the differential
workbench as the research object, using the method of theoretical analysis and experimental verification, the
analysis of positioning error mechanism and source of complete differential precision workbench error
compensation, improve the accuracy of the device, provides a method for the application of modern machine
tools. table.
Single to multiple kernel learning with four popular svm kernels (survey)eSAT Journals
Abstract Machine learning applications and pattern recognition have gained great attention recently because of the variety of applications
depend on machine learning techniques, these techniques could make many processes easier and also reduce the amount of
human interference (more automation). This paper research four of the most popular kernels used with Support Vector Machines
(SVM) for Classification purposes. This survey uses Linear, Polynomial, Gaussian and Sigmoid kernels, each in a single form and
all together as un-weighted sum of kernels as form of Multi-Kernel Learning (MKL), with eleven datasets, these data sets are
benchmark datasets with different types of features and different number of classes, so some will be used with Two-Classes
Classification (Binary Classification) and some with Multi-Class Classification. Shogun machine learning Toolbox is used with
Python programming language to perform the classification and also to handle the pre-classification operations like Feature
Scaling (Normalization).The Cross Validation technique is used to find the best performance Out of the suggested different
kernels' methods .To compare the final results two performance measuring techniques are used; classification accuracy and Area
Under Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC). General basics of SVM and used Kernels with classification parameters are
given through the first part of the paper, then experimental details are explained in steps and after those steps, experimental
results from the steps are given with final histograms represent the differences of the outputs' accuracies and the areas under
ROC curves (AUC). Finally best methods obtained are applied on remote sensing data sets and the results are compared to a
state of art work published in the field using the same set of data.
Keywords: Machine Learning, Classification, SVM, MKL, Cross Validation and ROC
COMPUTATIONAL ENGINEERING OF FINITE ELEMENT MODELLING FOR AUTOMOTIVE APPLICAT...IAEME Publication
Modals with complicated geometry, complex loads and boundary condition are difficult to analyse and evaluate in the terms of strain, stress, displacement and reaction forces by using theoretical methods. A given modal can be analysed by using Finite Element Method easily with the help of computer software ABAQUS CAE and can get approximate solutions. This report is about modelling two dimensional and three dimensional analyses with the ABAQUS CAE for plane stress, plane strain, shell, and beam and 3d solid modal elements.
A simplified method of designing a phase lead compensator to improve the m-s-...eSAT Publishing House
IJRET : International Journal of Research in Engineering and Technology is an international peer reviewed, online journal published by eSAT Publishing House for the enhancement of research in various disciplines of Engineering and Technology. The aim and scope of the journal is to provide an academic medium and an important reference for the advancement and dissemination of research results that support high-level learning, teaching and research in the fields of Engineering and Technology. We bring together Scientists, Academician, Field Engineers, Scholars and Students of related fields of Engineering and Technology.
User guide of structural modeling mudule v2.2.1Bo Sun
This is the user guide of DepthInsight™ structural modeling module. For corresponding video tutorials , please visit and subscribe our Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjHyG-mG7NQofUWTZgpBT2w
DepthInsight™ software products include modules as follows:
Structure Interpretation
Well and Data Management
Plan Module
Profile Module
Attribute Modeling
Velocity Modeling
Structural Modeling
Reservoir Geological Modeling
Numerical Simulation Gridding
Rock Modeling
Geo-mechanical Modeling
Paleo-Structural Modeling
Enormous Modeling Platform
For more information about our company, Beijing GridWorld Software Technology Co., Ltd., please visit our website: http://gridworld.com.cn/en/
With the growing popularity of Model Based Definition there has also been a growing need for fast and thorough validation of our CAD designs WITHIN the CAD environment rather than after the fact. While PTC's Expert Model Analysis (XMA) is the latest in model validation and metrics for the Enterprise, ModelCHECK is still the tool for end-users to run regular checks on individual designs. However, it is still one of the most under-utilized tools for Pro/E and Creo users. If configured for YOUR company and YOUR standards, ModelCHECK can save countless hours of rework in all phases of your design process.
If you are currently using ModelCHECK or would like to start using it, the included presentation will help you get started and maximize your out-of-the-gate model quality.
Positioning Error Analysis and Compensation of Differential Precision WorkbenchIJRES Journal
Positioning error is a widely problem exists in mechanism, the important factors affecting machining
precision. In order to reduce the error caused by positioning problem processing, based on the differential
workbench as the research object, using the method of theoretical analysis and experimental verification, the
analysis of positioning error mechanism and source of complete differential precision workbench error
compensation, improve the accuracy of the device, provides a method for the application of modern machine
tools. table.
Single to multiple kernel learning with four popular svm kernels (survey)eSAT Journals
Abstract Machine learning applications and pattern recognition have gained great attention recently because of the variety of applications
depend on machine learning techniques, these techniques could make many processes easier and also reduce the amount of
human interference (more automation). This paper research four of the most popular kernels used with Support Vector Machines
(SVM) for Classification purposes. This survey uses Linear, Polynomial, Gaussian and Sigmoid kernels, each in a single form and
all together as un-weighted sum of kernels as form of Multi-Kernel Learning (MKL), with eleven datasets, these data sets are
benchmark datasets with different types of features and different number of classes, so some will be used with Two-Classes
Classification (Binary Classification) and some with Multi-Class Classification. Shogun machine learning Toolbox is used with
Python programming language to perform the classification and also to handle the pre-classification operations like Feature
Scaling (Normalization).The Cross Validation technique is used to find the best performance Out of the suggested different
kernels' methods .To compare the final results two performance measuring techniques are used; classification accuracy and Area
Under Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC). General basics of SVM and used Kernels with classification parameters are
given through the first part of the paper, then experimental details are explained in steps and after those steps, experimental
results from the steps are given with final histograms represent the differences of the outputs' accuracies and the areas under
ROC curves (AUC). Finally best methods obtained are applied on remote sensing data sets and the results are compared to a
state of art work published in the field using the same set of data.
Keywords: Machine Learning, Classification, SVM, MKL, Cross Validation and ROC
Automatic Computer-Aided Design (AutoCAD 2D) engineering drawing is an important
component in BFPD courses. This software is commonly practiced by students for the product
design process as part of the project development. However, there is a lack of quality in 2D
engineering drawing that affects the students’ prototype making process and project progression.
This paper intends to identify the problems that weakened the students' performances of the
AutoCAD 2D engineering drawings. Data were collected from the students’ examinations,
assignments, and independent projects. Semi-structured interviews were also conducted with the
students.
solve 6 , quiz 2link of book httpwww.irccyn.ec-nantes.fr~mart.pdfarihantcomputersddn
solve 6 , quiz 2
link of book :http://www.irccyn.ec-
nantes.fr/~martinet/Mobrob/FundamentalsofVehicleDynamics.pdf 122% Document Elements
Tables charts Smart Art Review A Home Layout Paragraph Style Cambria (Body) 12 Aa A
AaBbc AaBbCcDdE Normal No spacing Heading 1 Heading 2 Tit Problem 6 Propose a currently
non-commercially available car mechatronics system. Describe the sensors, ac uators and control
system you ntend to use. Explain the purpose of this innovation and specify what the added value
is for the user [i.e why would anyone want to buy it?]. Print Layout View Sec 1 Pages: rds: 32 of
45 Search in Document Aa Text Box Shape Picture Themes 22% O
Solution
COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN OF MECHATRONIC SYSTEMS I Use of advanced computer
tools in the product development process is necessary to meet the market needs for fast product
development. I These tools allows for the verification of the design in all phases of the
development process. I Virtual prototypes, I The main drawback of using the computer tools is
that they are mostly limited to specific domains. The main requirement to the computer tools for
mechatronic system design I to apply to the systems from various domains. I to simultaneously
use different system representations (block diagram, physical model, bond graph)
Matuško&Koloni 2 of 43 MECHATRONICS SYSTEMS 2014/2015 CLASSICAL (NON-
MECHATRONIC) OPTIMIZATION I Classical approach to the optimization during the design
process assumes that the parameters of the process, sensors, actuators are known and constant
and only controller parameters are optimized. CONTROLLER PROCESS INTERFACE
SENSOR OPTIMIZATION + - yR(t) y(t) Matuško&Koloni 3 of 43 MECHATRONICS
SYSTEMS 2014/2015 OPTIMIZATION IN MECHATRONIC SYSTEM I Since the main
characteristic of the mechatronic design approach is simultaneous design of all system
components, the optimization process is performed, not only on the controller parameters but
also on the parameters of the other parts of the system. CONTROLLER PROCESS
INTERFACE SENSOR OPTIMIZATION + - yR(t) y(t) Matuško&Koloni 4 of 43
MECHATRONICS SYSTEMS 2014/2015 MODELS OF MECHATRONIC SYSTEMS I
Physical models, I Bond graphs I Control oriented models I Block diagrams, I Bode diagrams, I
Nyquist diagram, I Sate space models. I Time domain models I Animation I C-code
Matuško&Koloni 5 of 43 MECHATRONICS SYSTEMS 2014/2015 PHYSICAL MODELS I
Physical models describe the system behavior both on functional and structural level, I Model
parameters are real physical parameters, I Generally, physical models are not suitable for the
control system design, I Building such models requires a deep insight into a physical behavior of
the system. Matuško&Koloni 6 of 43 MECHATRONICS SYSTEMS 2014/2015 BOND
GRAPHS I Universal representation of the system behavior, independent of the system nature. I
Based on power flow analysis of the system. I Two quantities that define the system behavior
and power flow within the system (and with its environment).
IJRET : International Journal of Research in Engineering and Technology is an international peer reviewed, online journal published by eSAT Publishing House for the enhancement of research in various disciplines of Engineering and Technology. The aim and scope of the journal is to provide an academic medium and an important reference for the advancement and dissemination of research results that support high-level learning, teaching and research in the fields of Engineering and Technology. We bring together Scientists, Academician, Field Engineers, Scholars and Students of related fields of Engineering and Technology
Solid works tutorial08_bearingpuller_english_08_lr
CAE_s1233587
1. The University of Edinburgh
Computer Aided
Engineering
Evaluation Report
Ralica Bencheva
S1233587
2.
2 s1233587
COMPUTER AIDED ENGINEERING 3
MECE09029
CONTENTS:
I. Introduction.......................................................................................................3
II. Parametric Modeling ........................................................................................3
Interface.............................................................................................3
Protrusions ........................................................................................4
Cutouts...............................................................................................5
Patterns..............................................................................................5
III. Assembly..........................................................................................................5
IV. FE Analysis......................................................................................................7
V. Drafting............................................................................................................9
VI. Curves and Surfaces.....................................................................................11
VII. Direct modelling............................................................................................13
VIII. Standard Parts ..............................................................................................15
IX. Rendering and Animation ...........................................................................16
Glossary ..................................................................................................................19
References ................................................................................................................20
Appendix 1 ...............................................................................................................21
3.
3 s1233587
COMPUTER AIDED ENGINEERING 3
MECE09029
I. INTRODUCTION
Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) is a term combining software and systems that are
essential for the design engineering world and possess the tools that make 3D modelling
possible. The main benefits of CAE are simplifying and speeding up the development of
future innovations and creating cost effective products of high quality.
CAE enables the creation of a 3D part with user-defined geometry and physical properties, the
software enables the user to connect different parts in a product assembly, test the components
strength by applying loads or constraints to it and also create technical drawings of the final
product to get it ready for production/manufacture. Solid Edge is a CAD software that is
focused on modeling and assembling parts in an easy manner and of high accuracy, which is
beneficial to the engineering team. The program has three main working environments, which
are highly integrated with one another: ISO Part, ISO Assembly and ISO Draft [1].
Solid Edge is mainly focused around the idea of simplifying the way 3D models are created
and edited by the means of parametric and feature-based designs. The parametric software
automatically applies any changes by creating numerical relationships that keep track of
existing relative geometry. Having a feature-based program allows creating products by
defining different features. This prevents having human errors in the final product drawing
and speeds-up the whole design process.
II. PARAMETRIC MODELING
The quick-release mechanism and the steering wheel, will be used as examples of all
functions that are made on ordered environment. As a history based strategy it is very useful,
it stores each step in the creation of the part and provides the opportunity by clicking an exact
section to change the given parameters. Using different relationships it then applies the
changes to the whole design [2].
a. Interface
Solid edge interface is created in a user friendly manner: all
commands are organized by function in the ribbon and once a
command is selected the software automatically opens a tab with
data entry fields. The program navigates the user for each step
when applying a command. Another important aspect is the
PathFinder (Figure 1), which contains all the elements created.
In order to build up a model the first step is to create a 2D graphical
sketch, which dimensions could later be changed repeatedly throughout the process. It should
Figure 1. Pathfinder
4.
4 s1233587
COMPUTER AIDED ENGINEERING 3
MECE09029
be representing the base or the main contours of the future part so that it can be developed
further more. Each change made is saved in a history tree, which is displayed in the pathfinder
section on the screen. It allows the user to control and manipulate the created model. The tree
is a powerful tool as it gives confidence during the work process, mistakes can easily be
found, depending at which stage they have be done and be repaired then the software will
automatically apply them to the model.
b. Protrusions
There are different procedures of how to tackle the beginning of the design process. To create
the initial sketches for the creation of the quick release mechanism and the steering wheel,
already existing technical drawings were used as a base (Figure 2). Although minor parts have
been done manually without a sketch in order to complement the other parts in the assembly.
Figure 2. Spindle Sketch Figure 3. Boss Sketch
Once the sketch is there it could easily be turned into a solid object using different commands
(Figure 4). It could be extruded in a linear straight profile or it could have a twisted, spin
around an axes or the extrusion can be even connecting two different shapes following a
certain path. For the boss part of the quick release command shown on Figure 3 the revolve
command was used for building up the solid part.
Figure 4. Tools
Using the extrude command is straight forward: you
need to choose the shape and give direction and
dimensions. However, there are two main problems
that could occur while using the command.
It is important to make use of the Intellisketch
(Figure 5), which allows you to control the
relationships in the sketch. If the sketch profile is not
Figure 5. Intellisketch
5.
5 s1233587
COMPUTER AIDED ENGINEERING 3
MECE09029
closed the software will not allow you to extrude the shape. Another possible problem, but as
well as advantage is that if you apply any changes to the initial sketch the object automatically
modifies following the new parameters.
c. Cutouts
Once the solid part is created it can be modified by using other functions from the tool bar,
which will either add or remove material. The Cutout tool has been very useful when
developing the spindle (Figure 6). Its usage is straightforward – the software needs just a
sketch to follow and a face to be applied to. For creating holes or threads the technique is
similar.
Figure 6. Spindle – applying cut-out and pattern commands.
d. Patterns
The pattern tool creates duplicates of features by following a certain subsequence. During the
modelling of the spindle (Figure 6) to create the shape the first cut feature was patterned. A
useful option is controlling the place and number of the patterns as being able to suppress
chosen parts.
In situations of having similar parts, but with different sizes or some other variation of a detail
it is advantageous to use the tool family of parts. By using the Edit Table dialog box you can
easily manage the parts, apply changes, suppress features etc. The tool was used for creating
buttons for the steering wheel.
During modification of the models a negative side of history – based modelling is that very
small changes could be quite difficult to apply as they might interfere with already created
relationships. This could even lead to losing some important features of the model so the base
should be set with care.
III. ASSEMBLY
In most situations a product or a mechanism is created through a collection of parts designed
to fit with each other and be connected into an assembly. The environment is highly
integrated and gives the user a lot of useful options – create a technical drawing of the entire
product, create a finite element or kinetic animation analysis.
6.
6 s1233587
COMPUTER AIDED ENGINEERING 3
MECE09029
Parts can be easily added multiple times by using the Parts Library tab or ‘Component
Structure Editor’. In order to work with the components it is important to make sure that they
are activated in the history tree. If a part goes through modifications, the changes will
automatically be applied in the assembly as well. The first part is basically “grounded” into
the working area as it creates the base around which the other components will be holding
with different relationships. A useful tool when assembling is the ‘flashfit’(Figure 7) option
as the software recognizes by the shape of the components how to
connect them. In some situations it may not recognise the relation
needed or assemble the component incorrectly. This could lead to
non-realistic assembly or future problems with parts, explosions
and animations.
The option ‘Mate’ allows the user to create a connection between
opposing faces of two parts, but still have them offset and free to
rotate. This has been applied to the two ends of the spring as it
allows for it to be compressed by the movements of the ‘slider’ and
the ‘boss’ part. The most commonly used relation was ‘Axial
Align’ (Figure 8), because the mechanism is cylindrical and all
components have been aligned. In case the part does not need to
rotate a ‘Planar Align’ could be used as it aligns faces and it has
been helpful to fit the boss part properly to the spindle. To place
the bearings in a right manner into the cones-shaped cut-outs of the
boss - the ‘Tangent’ relation was used [1].
Management of assembly is
significantly useful and it is rather
uncomplicated for the user. Useful
feature is ‘Design in Place’ – the
created unfinished assembly could be
used while designing new elements.
By using the ‘Path Finder’ different
components can be made active or
inactive so measurements could be
taken. During assembling the quick
release mechanism this option has
been very valuable and played crucial
role for the creation of the spring, the
bearing ball and the cut-outs in the
boss part. However if there is an in-correct relation the software would not recognise it and
the parts should be re-assembled. Creating the right relationships could be time – consuming
and the user may need some practice in order to precisely create complicated assemblies.
Assemblies offer a variety of options of how to inspect the element. To inspect the element
and get a nice view of how everything is placed in the cylindrical mechanism a good tool is
the virtual section cut of the 3-D model. This is how the quick release mechanism is brought
together (Figure 9):
Figure 7. Relationships
Figure 8. Axial Aligned Parts
7.
7 s1233587
COMPUTER AIDED ENGINEERING 3
MECE09029
Figure 9. Section Cut
IV. FE ANALYSIS
The Finite Element Analysis has a significant importance on modifying and optimising a solid
edge part and verifying performance and stability in the condition it would be put to use. In
order for the software to work with the component it is important the right material to be
assigned to it. Once all forces and constraints acting on the body have been applied, it can be
meshed and analysed.
To accumulate a realistic and clear looking FE Analysis a ‘selection of geometry’ process is
needed as the software would not be able to solve a complex detail and apply the needed
loads. The rigid components should be identified by placing constraints on them. Having a
simplified model could result in avoiding a costly future problems.
Figure 9 shows a steel part with applied constraints and loads has been analysed with high-
density mesh so that it gives more accurate answers, but also it is a time-consuming method
and could not always be applied to more complicated details. FE models are created by
implementing different types of elements that for 3-D solids have the shape of cubes or
tetrahedral.
8.
8 s1233587
COMPUTER AIDED ENGINEERING 3
MECE09029
Figure 1011
Figure 10. FE Analysis of a designed model Figure 11. FE Analysis of modified model
In order to be sure that the results are valuable there should be a noticeable convergence upon
the ‘actual ‘answer. This could be established by using convergence analysis’- plotting the
stresses as a function of the mesh size. If such convergence does not appear on the graphs
there probably are singularities present in the model [1].
In the shown model on Figure 10 as we increase the mesh size the stresses at its sharp corner
will rise as well. In fact stresses at sharp corners are infinite, such edges cannot exist in a real
part so the design should be re-considered. Figure 11 illustrates the same model with a
rounded corner, which gives us valid answers to the problems.
In order for the software to be fully
useful, the user should know in advance
the magnitude and the position of the
stresses expected (Figure 12). All FE
results should be validated and
verification of the accuracy of input data
should be done before the part can be
manufactured. The purpose of the
analysis is to virtually find and solve
potential structural and performance
issues. FE Analysis provides the user
with an optimisation tool – highly useful
for changing some of the main
properties whilst still keeping them
under reasonable limits (Figure 13).
Figure 12. FE Analysis of slider part
9.
9 s1233587
COMPUTER AIDED ENGINEERING 3
MECE09029
Figure 13. Optimization Command Window
V. DRAFTING
Creating sophisticated technical drawings in Solid Edge environment is a powerful tool and of
great significance, it reduces the human error and represent all aspects of a detail clearly and
accurately. However, in order for the technical drawing to be explicit and fully understandable
there are different standards that should be followed for general drawing layout, representing
parts and products. Solid edge provides all the tools needed for creating them, but cannot
recognise if a dimension has been shown twice or a detail view is missed.
The first step in creating a draft is deciding what the purpose of it is and what view of the
product you need to best represent the design intent. There are four types of view that can be
created directly from the 3-D model:
10.
10 s1233587
COMPUTER AIDED ENGINEERING 3
MECE09029
Detail View - a view of a small area of the part
Auxiliary View – to stress on a particular aspect of the model by creating a drawing
from an orthogonal angle
Sectional View - cutting the plane to show a section of the part
A tool used in representing technical drawings of whole assemblies is the “part list” as the
software can automatically represent all the parts used in a tables that can be put on the
drawing. Engineering technical drawing of the created quick release mechanism and steering
wheel are placed in Appendix 1.
In the draft the most common mistakes come from the dimensioning of the views. The most
helpful dimensioning tool is ‘smart dimensioning’ as by only a simple click it generated the
size of the element. If the software does not show the exact distance the user wants there are
11.
11 s1233587
COMPUTER AIDED ENGINEERING 3
MECE09029
more specialised tools for measuring distance between two points or angles. However, all
dimensions should be positioned accordingly and should not be repeated in the represented
views of the detail and correct size text should be used. The command tab that appears while
setting dimensions gives different options for using technical symbols or formats of text.
However it should all follow the set ISO standards. The Solid Edge software is as well highly
integrated to be able to work with other CAD system and can generate draft created on
software like AutoCAD.
VI. CURVES AND SURFACES
Solid edge still does not have a fully developed technique that is capable of giving the user a
chance to easily create a complex curve that would follow the path wanted. All curves created
from CAD systems have interpolation and approximation spines defining them. The
interpolation spines pass through a chosen control point and the approximation ones pull the
curve toward a control point, which gives the user a chance of creating rather soft curves. The
Bezier curve is created as described by having estimated points that the curve will follow.
However, creating a long and complex curve is highly complicated as the user would not be
able to modify it while working with it. As it basically creates multiple curves joint together at
their interpolation points there is no continuity. A very similar approach is the B-spline curve,
which is actually a number of curve segments that overlap each other. The major advantage
over Bezier is that there is always continuity achieved [1].
In the product design curves were mainly used for creating the shape of the wheel. They were
sketched using the curve tool and later on modified until the desired result was created.
The process of moving each and every key point numerous times till the curve shaped of the
solid body was created was very time consuming and had be deleted and more points had to
be set in order to follow the right path (Figures 14, 15). However, there are other methods of
creating curves, which are based on the idea of importing calculated data. Working with
curves is very time consuming and rather complicated, but could give results that straight
lines cannot.
Figure 14. Interpolation and approximation
points on the wheel shaping curve
Figure 15. Sketch of curves used in
modelling the wheel
12.
12 s1233587
COMPUTER AIDED ENGINEERING 3
MECE09029
In parametric modelling it was already discussed the creation of surfaces using the surface
tool commands. However, surfaces can be two types: solids and constructions. All the
commands for creating construction surfaces were applied during the build-up of the wheel.
Sweeping was used for the formation of the handle of the
wheel, which was done by transition of one curve towards
another (Figure 16). For the smooth round shape – the face
chosen to be swept was sketched in the appropriate plane as
a circle. The path chosen followed a sketch of a curve
shaped using key points before starting the command.
Choosing the right plane for creating the sketches could be
complicated for the user and could lead to future problems
in the design as they are all different planes connected by
the sketches in exact points.
Once the handle is created and the main body of the wheel
is extruded the two elements can be connected. For this
purpose the loft command was chosen – the simplest
method of creating a surface between two surfaces by only
connecting their ending points without identifying a path.
The software provides different options of lofting the two faces (Figure 17), but was capable
of only creating the natural loft, because it appears to have problems with rather complicated
parts.
Figure 17. Loft Application
For the strengthening parts on the backside of the wheel has been used another form of the
loft command – normal to section with pointed steps (Figure 18). If the curve that is follows is
not satisfying it could be easily remodelled by changing the steps.
Figure 16. Handles – sweep
command
13.
13 s1233587
COMPUTER AIDED ENGINEERING 3
MECE09029
Blends or also called rounds is a very useful tool that is often used for smoothing general
shapes and creating better looking complete products. Rounding bodies with a lot of edges
and sharp corners could not be easily done as it is too complicated for the software and an
error message would appear. In order to prevent this from happening first the straight lines of
the main body were replace by a long curve – when we extrude a curve there would not be
any edges to round. Another change applied was deleting the already created loft as it is the
hardest part to be rounded. For smoother blends there is a useful strategy that can be followed:
first to round main edges of the structure, the round the sharp corners and once everything is
done to create the loft, which is now connection two smooth bodies and does not have sharp
edges. Even after all the time spend and effort spend on this there are still flaws in the design,
which can be easily noticed. Surface and curves are still not developed enough for the
creation of good product models on Solid Edge, a good strategy would be to evaluate and
compare other CAD software techniques of creating curved bodies.
VII. DIRECT MODELLING
Solid Edge has two different modelling environments; ordered and synchronous. The idea
hidden behind direct modelling is using workflow construction of whole features and then
applying changes on the already created solid bodies by pulling, pushing or twisting their
faces. This gives the user a chance to modify parts a lot of faster as it is not necessary to go
back and follow the path order so that change could be applied to the
2-D sketch.
The first difference that could be easily noticed between the two
environments is the history tree. It consists of:
PMI, which allows the user to hide and show dimensions that
have been set during the work;
Features: it is based on working with whole features related
to each order;
Used sketches;
Figure 18. Strengthening lofts
14.
14 s1233587
COMPUTER AIDED ENGINEERING 3
MECE09029
While creating the part shown on Figure 19 different
options provided from synchronous environment have
been implied. When creating a sketch first the working
plane should be locked, the user should be careful whether
the right plane has been chosen as he might not be working
on the feature wanted. While creating the arc that describes
the top boss part of the body a useful tool was ‘intentzone’
as it helps to specify the position of the element. During
the workflow construction of the part all dimension has
been constantly changing depending on our preferences.
This highly differs from the ordered environment as the
user can see how the body is changing while modifying it
and it cannot result in losing previously created features [1].
Figure 20. Modification
This is a still developing and fast progressing environment. Even though more complicated
parts could take longer to be created, it is easier to modify them.
It offers 3-D face relations, which could set symmetric, offset, perpendicular
and etc. relations between different feature and lock their position. In case of
working with a more complicated model and those relations has been set with
one small movement it is possible to apply change to the whole set of
connected elements – by pulling one face it automatically uses the relations to
change other details (Figure 20). In ordered environment this could have been a
very time consuming change and in some cases would not be available as it would interfere
with other relationships and whole base sketch of the model has to be re-constructed.
Figure 21. Live Rules Options
The ‘Live Rules Options’ shown on Figure 21 are placed in the bottom of the screen during
the work giving flexibility and providing numerous options to the user. It gives control over
which geometric conditions are monitored and maintained, different commands can be
switched on or off depending on the change that the user wants to apply. However the
software may not always fully predict the wanted results and this could lead to difficulties
Figure 19. Modelled Part
15.
15 s1233587
COMPUTER AIDED ENGINEERING 3
MECE09029
with some features. The two modelling environments are highly integrated so you could
easily work and modify parts made in ordered environment using synchronous workflow [3].
VIII. STANDARD PARTS
Standard parts could be easily divided into two groups – created by the user or generated from
a source. One way to build a self-managed group of parts could be by modelling a master part,
which could be easily modified depending is needed for the assembly. A negative side could
be storing the data and managing it between different users in a company. Preventing such
problems is possible by using the software’s option of creating adjustable parts’, which have
varying properties. The earlier described ‘family of parts’ and ‘assemblies’ are as well
accounted of library of parts created by the user.
The software offers engineering standard parts applications and libraries for creating
components like gears, springs, beams, etc. Those can accessed from ‘parts library’ on the left
hand side of the screen. New libraries can be installed depending on the type needed. On
Figure 22 is shown how easy is to get the exact screw needed for the assembly by just
choosing two of its properties.
Figure 22.
Standard parts can be bought from companies specialised in creating models or manufacturing
catalogues from websites like www.traceparts.com and www.cadenas.com or taken from fast-
pace spreading free forums over the web like www.grabcad.com. Premade models were
utilised for the design of the steering wheel – an Arduino Uno board was applied [4].
16.
16 s1233587
COMPUTER AIDED ENGINEERING 3
MECE09029
IX. RENDERING AND ANIMATION
Once all components have been assembled they should be tested if all parts fit together and
whether they collide once put to motion. This could be done by creating a kinematic analysis
and animating it by applying equations of motion. Another useful animation is the one
resulting from the already done finite element analysis. It gives the user more information of
how the part deflects or in case of a modal analyse it clearly illustrates the vibrations
occurring at different natural frequencies (Figure 23) [5].
Figure 23. Animation of deflection of a slider
17.
17 s1233587
COMPUTER AIDED ENGINEERING 3
MECE09029
Animations of assembly explosion or fly-around sequences – product illustrations could be
highly useful for presenting the product, advertising it or especially for instruction videos of
how to assemble it or even create it (Figures 25, 26). Representation of the connection of the
parts of the quick release mechanism and the wheel is shown on Figure 24.
Figure 24 Exploded Assembly
Figure 25. Rendered Animation
18.
18 s1233587
COMPUTER AIDED ENGINEERING 3
MECE09029
Figure 26. Rendered Animation
Solid edge offers rendering techniques, which are capable of bringing the design to life. When
Key-Shot is activated it opens in a separate window (Figure 27) presenting the user with
opportunities to change the material, colour, textures and etc. The user can play around with
the lightening or set the product in a rather realistic situation
Figure 27. Key Shot Window Tab
19.
19 s1233587
COMPUTER AIDED ENGINEERING 3
MECE09029
GLOSSARY
ISO Drawing Standards are stated international requirements and guidelines for creating an
engineering drawing, views layout and presenting cuts and sections and etc... By following
them we ensure reliability and good quality of the output from the technical draft of the quick
release mechanism parts, this way the product can be understood and created from the same
set of drawings globally [6].
The term Design of X (DFX) represents a compilation of guidelines and techniques that
issue different stages of the product life cycle (PLC) in order to reduce the life-cycle cost, to
increase the quality of the product, to provide design flexibility, efficiency and productivity.
The four phases set leading guidelines for the designer to an optimised model of excellence:
While working on the ‘slider’ part we developed the product further by optimising the mass
(reducing the cost) while still keeping the needed factor of safety [7].
Interoperability for CAD software represent the ability to open and work with files created
on another software without losing any information about the product. When creating the
quick release mechanism we imported as sketches – draft provided by a manufacturer and
used them as a base for our mechanism. Another application of the ability was transferring the
made assembly of ‘Arduino Uno’ from Solid Works to a Solid Edge assembly [8].
Computer Numerical Control (CNC) gives the opportunity to have manufacturing
machines, which movements have been led by a computer converting the design produced in
CAD software into codes and numbers. Once we import the design of the boss part of the
quick release mechanism the whole solid body will be transferred into coordinates that the
machine movements will follow. Once the shape is created the cutter will follow the exact X,
Y and Z axis to place the cut-outs for the bearings. Having CNC machines provides us with
an opportunity to easily create each detail made on a CAD system. However, if there are
mistakes in the design the machine would not recognise them [9, 10].
Standard parts is a catalogue of already created modelled parts, which could be adjust to the
needs of the user while creating a product assembly. To connect the wheel together with the
quick release mechanism two standard bolts M8 have been used. It quickens the process of
assembling the parts as we did not had to create those small details in our own time.
Development Production Utilization Recycling
20.
20 s1233587
COMPUTER AIDED ENGINEERING 3
MECE09029
REFERENCES
[1] Dr Frank Mill, “Computer Aided Engineering 3"2014. [Online]. Available:
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/9915086/CAE3/index.htm [Accessed Nov. 21,
2014].
[2] John Pearson, “Ordered vs. Synchronous Modelling in Solid Edge – Part 1"2013.
[Online]. Available: http://www.design-engineering.com/cad-cam/ordered-vs-
synchronous-modeling-in-solid-edge-part-1-design-eng-121865 [Accessed Nov. 21,
2014].
[3] John Pearson, “Solid Edge: Working constraints in synchronous technology models"2014.
[Online]. Available: http://www.design-engineering.com/cad-cam/solid-edge-working-
constraints-synchronous-technology-models-131501 [Accessed Nov. 21, 2014].
[4] Andrew Whitham, “Arduino Uno R3” January 03, 2014. [Online}. Available:
http://grabcad.com/library/arduino-uno-r3-1 [Accessed Nov. 21, 2014].
[5] Siemens, " Solid Edge motion simulation, explode – render - animate"2014. [Online].
Available: https://www.plm.automation.siemens.com/en_us/Images/10171_tcm1023-
5057.pdf. [Accessed Nov. 21, 2014]
[6] International Organization for Standardization, “Standards"2014. [Online]. Available:
http://www.iso.org/iso/home/standards.htm [Accessed Nov. 21, 2014].
[7] Jari Lehto, Janne Harkonen, Harri Haapasalo, Pekka Belt, Matti Mottonen, Pasi Kuvaja,
“Benefits of DfX in Requirements Engineering", University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland, 2011
[8] Bianconi, F., " Interoperability among CAD/CAM/CAE Systems: A Review of Current
Research Trends"2006. [Online]. Available:
http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpl/abstractAuthors.jsp?tp=&arnumber=1648749&url=http%3A
%2F%2Fieeexplore.ieee.org%2Fiel5%2F10966%2F34568%2F01648749.pdf%3Farnumb
er%3D1648749 . [Accessed Nov. 21, 2014].
[9] BTEC National, “Computer Numerical Control of Machine Tools "2007. [Online].
Available: https://www.plm.automation.siemens.com/en_us/Images/10171_tcm1023-
5057.pdf. [Accessed Nov. 21, 2014].
[10] V. Ryan, “Advantages and Disadvantages of CNC Machines” 2009. [Online}.
Available: http://www.technologystudent.com/cam/cncman4.htm [Accessed Nov. 21,
2014].