The field of mechanical engineering involves a lot of designing, drafting and drawing that also includes measurements, forces, stresses and motions. These are designing basics that are relevant to the creation of highly sophisticated mechanical parts that constitutes huge machineries and electrical structures. Computer aided design applications, software and methodologies are used for creations and designs in mechanical engineering, making it easier for students and professionals to achieve their creative imagination faster and much easily. Mechanical engineering processes, analysis and drafting with the use of CAD involve steps that include finite element analysis, kinematics and kinetics and rapid prototyping. These steps in connections with cad benefits in mechanical engineering are the major aspects that will feature in this article.
Finite Element Analysis
This process involves the use of computer aided design to find solutions to differential partial equations. This is where algebraic equations and ordinary differential equation problems are solved, so that solutions to a perfect curve or the finite element for analysis can be found. Finite element also involves the implementation of numerical methods in the designing of structural and mechanical components. Also, designers are favored into better understanding of the structural loading and their effect on the stresses on objects with irregular shapes. Finite element analysis can easily be introduced into the mechanics of material course because of the availability of programs that can transform solid models so that it generates mesh patterns.
Kinematics And Kinetics
Because kinematics and kinetics involves complex concepts that are highly mathematical and that mechanics is the study of motions, many engineers find it difficult to understand; when they make use of traditional design and drawing tools. Why is this? It’s simply because the drawing boards can not deliver motion, but computers can. With the use of various computer software, engineers in the mechanical engineering fields can now make use of advanced modeling tools e.g. “working model” in programs like AutoCAD to provide the motion analysis of solid models. Such tools also make it possible for design objects to be modeled in forces, rotational points and geometry. The cad program also expresses the motion of the object thereby making visualization more profound.
Rapid Prototyping
This process makes it possible for final designs to be fabricated directly, without the need for any type of skilled prototype builder. Initially, many organizations make use of laser based systems that solidify resins of plastics in successful layers, but the method takes a long time and is very expensive and cash intensive. But nowadays there are modern and advanced technology systems and machines that are cost effective, making use of cutters to manufacture solid models directly from the cad models created in the computer systems. Another effective method used in rapid prototyping is the use of machining that is numerically controlled. These programs make use of other types of programs known as translator programs, to generate tool paths, after solid models have been created with the use of computer aided design software.
Benefits Of Cad Processes In Mechanical Engineering Designs
In a nutshell the benefits of CAD in improving the experiences in mechanical engineering designs include the ability to maintain high quality standards. They also help to bring down the cost of infrastructure as well as make savings in human resources. With cad applications visualization of motion, objects, forces in relations to their stresses and effects are easily improved. It also helps to improve the understanding of technology applications, design ability and concept and principles in mechanics, stress and materials. Cad also speeds up the process of delivering products by helping engineers deliver results at a quick turnaround time.
John Anderson is a CAD Technician who helps mechanical engineers create complex designs using CAD software.