An introduction to the concept and field of CAE

1. Adesanya Adebayo Adedapo

2. Introduction and Definitions
 Computer-Aided Engineering is the use of computer software to
solve engineering problems with the improvement of graphics
displays, engineering workstations, and graphics standards.
 Computer-aided design (CAD) is the use of computers in converting
the initial idea for a product into a detailed engineering design. This
typically involves the creation of geometric models of the
product, which can be manipulated, analyzed, and refined. In
CAD, computer graphics replace the sketches and engineering
drawings traditionally used to visualize products and communicate
design information (Concise Encyclopedia of Engineering, 2002).
 Engineers also use computer programs to estimate the performance
and cost of design prototypes and to calculate the optimal values for
design parameters. When combined with CAD, these automated
analysis and optimization capabilities are called computer-aided
engineering (CAE) (Concise Encyclopedia of Engineering, 2002).

3. Introduction and Definitions
(Contd)
 A typical CAE software is made up of a number of mathematical
models encoded by algorithms written in a programming language.
The natural phenomena being analyzed are represented by an
engineering model. The physical configuration is described by a
geometric model. The results, together with the geometry, are made
visible via a user interface on the display device and a rendering
model (graphics image) (Bøhn & Myklebust).

4. Goals of CAE
 The goals of computer-aided engineering (CAE) include (MacKrell
& Herzog):
 Improved product quality and safety
 Reduced engineering time, achieved through fewer design iterations
 Improved product functionality and usability
 Reduced number of prototypes, ultimately leading to their
elimination in many cases
 Reduced product cost

5. Types of CAE Applications
 NX is a suite of integrated, fully associative CAD/CAM/CAE
applications. NX simulation applications include dynamic motion
simulation, linear and nonlinear stress analysis, system-level
performance simulation, dynamic response simulation, vibration
analysis, fluid flow and thermal analyses, durability analysis, multi-
physics engineering analysis, and analysis to physical test
correlation.
 Femap is a CAD-independent, Windows-native pre- and post-
processor for advanced engineering FEA. It provides engineers and
analysts with an FEA modelling solution to handle even the most
complex tasks easily, accurately and affordably.

6. Scenarios and Applications of
CAE
 Mechanical Engineering
1. Finite Element Analysis (FEA):
 Structural analysis of a component’s behaviour under
various kinds of applied loads and supports e.g. Beam and
Grid structures.
 Thermal analysis of a structure’s behaviour when it is
subjected to heating and cooling.
 Combined structural and thermal analysis.
 Fluid mechanics analysis of the flow of fluids, such as
air, water, and lubricants around the surfaces of an object.
Pressure, fluid velocity, and other factors can be determined

7. Scenarios and Applications of
CAE (Contd)
 Mechanical Engineering
2. Mechanism Analysis:
Mechanism analysis studies the behaviour of mechanical
systems undergoing motion. Typically, the
geometry, mass, inertia, compliance, stiffness, and damping of
the system’s components as well as the forces and loads applied
from outside the system must be defined. Equations of motion
are developed and solved. The results of the analysis may
include positions, velocities, accelerations, forces
(applied, reactive, and inertial), determination of equilibrium
positions, and other computed parameters.

8. Scenarios and Applications of
CAE (Contd)

9. Scenarios and Applications of
CAE (Contd)

10. Scenarios and Applications of
CAE (Contd)
 Civil Engineering
Most surveying functions, such as triangulation and elevation
computations, are now computerized, with data being collected
in computer form in the field via electronic instruments. Map
making and analysis are also largely computerized nowadays.
 Electrical and Electronics Engineering
Many electrical applications outside the tools discussed make use
of specialized tools for control system design and simulations.
CAE aids engineers in testing simulated designs for control
systems or other electronic devices to see how they operate
before committing to manufacturing. In most cases, the
computer simulation replaces altogether the building of a
prototype.

11. Significance of CAE in
Production
The benefits of CAE include reduced product development cost and
time, with improved product quality and durability (CAE /
Computer-Aided Engineering, 2012).
 Design decisions can be made based on their impact on performance.
 Designs can be evaluated and refined using computer simulations
rather than physical prototype testing, saving money and time.
 CAE can provide performance insights earlier in the development
process, when design changes are less expensive to make.
 CAE helps engineering teams manage risk and understand the
performance implications, product behaviours and problems of their
designs before it is put into production.

12. Significance of CAE in
Production (Contd)
 CAE helps engineering teams manage risk and understand the
performance implications, product behaviours and problems of their
designs before it is put into production.
 Integrated CAE data and process management extends the ability to
effectively leverage performance insights and improve designs to a
broader community.
 Warranty exposure is reduced by identifying and eliminating
potential problems. When properly integrated into product and
manufacturing development, CAE can enable earlier problem
resolution, which can dramatically reduce the costs associated with
the product lifecycle.

13. Conclusion
Leveraging the power of Technology in various sectors of the economy
has always helped in improving the systems and business processes.
he involvement of computer systems in engineering processes has
redefined and will continue to improve engineering functions.

14. References
 Bøhn, J. H., & Myklebust, A. (n.d.). Computer-Aided Engineering.
549-554.
 CAE / Computer-Aided Engineering. (2012). Retrieved April
15, 2012, from Product Life Cycle Management Incorporated:
http://www.siemens.com
 Concise Encyclopedia of Engineering. (2002). Computer-Aided
Design and Manufacturing . McGraw-Hill.
 MacKrell, J., & Herzog, B. (n.d.). Computer-Aided Engineering
(CAE). 274-278.