Simulation of Assembly Groups at Heidelberg
Tasks and Goal
In order to ensure the proper operation and durability of Heidelberg presses, extensive calculations and simulations are carried out already during the development phase. The spectrum ranges from fatigue durability calculations of individual parts to the functional analysis of complete assembly groups.
Procedure
With the help of a 3D CAD system (CAD= Computer Aided Design), the design engineers translate their ideas into a three-dimensional virtual mapping of the geometry. In the calculation department, this model is then supplemented by information on the materials used and their mechanical characteristics. Subsequently, the interaction between a functional unit's individual components is defined. This may be, for instance, bolts, detachable contacts, bearings with clearance or friction effects. The basic calculation data is further completed by the determination of external loads, forced movements or thermal loads as well as of the boundary conditions. Assisted by state-of-the-art simulation software, this information is then transformed into computable mathematical models which can be calculated by powerful PCs.
The calculation results allow for conclusions to be drawn, for instance, about forces operating in the joints between a functional unit's components, about occurring deformations, vibration causes and effects, stress on individual components, etc.
In the area of air flows for sheet guidance, the simulation helps to draw conclusions concerning pressure or velocity fields.
In order to ensure the proper operation and durability of Heidelberg presses, extensive calculations and simulations are carried out already during the development phase. The spectrum ranges from fatigue durability calculations of individual parts to the functional analysis of complete assembly groups.
Procedure
With the help of a 3D CAD system (CAD= Computer Aided Design), the design engineers translate their ideas into a three-dimensional virtual mapping of the geometry. In the calculation department, this model is then supplemented by information on the materials used and their mechanical characteristics. Subsequently, the interaction between a functional unit's individual components is defined. This may be, for instance, bolts, detachable contacts, bearings with clearance or friction effects. The basic calculation data is further completed by the determination of external loads, forced movements or thermal loads as well as of the boundary conditions. Assisted by state-of-the-art simulation software, this information is then transformed into computable mathematical models which can be calculated by powerful PCs.
The calculation results allow for conclusions to be drawn, for instance, about forces operating in the joints between a functional unit's components, about occurring deformations, vibration causes and effects, stress on individual components, etc.
In the area of air flows for sheet guidance, the simulation helps to draw conclusions concerning pressure or velocity fields.
Benefits
The calculations described above can be made even before a single component has actually been manufactured. Potential weak points can thereby be found and eliminated early on. The variation of parameters or the comparison of alternative construction approaches makes it possible to find the optimum solution for a specific press function. It is safe to say that the subsequently built prototype will most definitely fulfil all requirements as regards functionality and durability. This shortens the development phase while, at the same, ensuring the high quality standard of Heidelberg products.
The calculations described above can be made even before a single component has actually been manufactured. Potential weak points can thereby be found and eliminated early on. The variation of parameters or the comparison of alternative construction approaches makes it possible to find the optimum solution for a specific press function. It is safe to say that the subsequently built prototype will most definitely fulfil all requirements as regards functionality and durability. This shortens the development phase while, at the same, ensuring the high quality standard of Heidelberg products.
Finite element calculation of stress in a gripper
Simulation of the air flow supplying a sheet guide plate
