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Virtual development or virtual prototyping is a modern interdisciplinary approach to product development, directed to design of technically the best and cost-most advantageous solutions for clients. Close cooperation with clients and fulfilment of their functional demands and constraints are permanently exhibited.
Virtual prototypes are analysed in computer environment. Application of numerical analyses in advanced programme tools Marc, Marc Mentat and Patran leads to decision on optimal structural realization, developed by using the most up-todate 3D CAD tool Pro/Engineer Wildfire (Creo Elements/Pro). Verified is suitability of various materials and predicted the product comportment in usage. Input data are acquired from clients or by measurements performed in Central Laboratory. Virtual prototyping is a successful alternative to classical way of product design which is based on time- and cost-unfavourable testing and empirical upgrading of bodily prototypes.
Virtual environment provides development of the most demanding rubber technical products and solutions for application in construction industry, environmental protection and safety, personal and material transportation, automotive industry, geological research and elsewhere. The analyses results are verified by measurements of physical quantities (forces, torques, displacements or deformed forms) in Central Laboratory and by testing at the clients’. Results are demonstrated by diagrams, figures and films.
Numerical simulations were used to quantify the stress-strain situation at the contact of two rubberized rolls from paper industry. The method helped selecting the most appropriate types of elastomeric compounds and thus fulfiling the client’s functional demands.
Demonstration of specific deformational field at the contact of rubberized and steel rolls
The shape and rubber type were optimized for a building furniture seal. The surplus value for the client was augmented by the sense of facilitated window shutting and prolonged duration of the seal. The result was confirmed by measurement of the shutting force in accordance with the standard SIST EN 12365.
Comparison of shutting force before and after the seal cross-section optimization
Within the European research project Safety in Motion, the scooter tyre running properties were optimized by the use of numerical simulations. Better tyre response was achieved and rider’s active safety was improved, particularly at risky manoeuvres.
3D CAD model of scooter tyre
For more information, please turn to dr. Boris Kuselj.
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