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SolidWorks Simulation: Benefits in Material Handling
Imagine saving 2 Tons on a 6 Ton structure without compromising on Performance,
Deflections/ Stresses and Safety. Weight savings in material handling equipments
has a cascading effect. Let us say a scissor platform weight is reduced by
20%. The bearings, structural elements, hydraulics, actuation systems, pumps
, electricals among others have a downward revision in specifications, resulting
in lesser cost. Above all the operating time gets reduced as well. Primary
influence in such cost reduction initiatives is design. Bill of Materials
used for Cost Estimation comes directly from Design. Weight reduction in BOM
directly results in Cost savings. This is exactly what SolidWorks Simulation
empowers design engineers to do.Salient features of SolidWorks Simulation such as Welded Structure validation, Assembly level stress analysis, contact stress calculations in addition to load estimation in actuating systems, mechanisms among others, help designers arrive at high-performance low cost designs - a USP for any manufacturer faced with predatory pricing from competitors.
Why invest in SolidWorks Simulation when Standards and Codes stipulate Design requirements?
Standards and Codes are guidelines used in Material Handling Equipment Design.
Imagine a scenario wherein two manufacturers are bidding for a project using the
same Standard/ Code calculations. One of them has adopted conventional design
practices and arrived at a BOM to estimate cost. The other manufacturer, after
arriving at a basic design using procedures prescribed by codes/ standards, has
done weight optimization in terms of plate thickness, pitch and spacing of diaphragms
used (say in Gantry girders), reduced weld running length, lower sized bearings
for a lesser weight super structure among other initiatives. Who would have
the better chance of winning the order, leaving other common cost parameters apart?Standards/ codes, of late, also recommend performing FEA ( Finite Element Analysis) when the construction becomes complex, safety is a superceding consideration or seismic certification is required. If a material hanling equipment manufacturer answers any of the questions given below in affirmative, then SolidWorks Simulation delivers on the challenges.
- Is Profitability under threat due to predatory pricing?
- Will next generation of growth come from existing products and technologies?
- Is Warranty an issue?
- Is an accurate BOM a requirement at the RFQ Stage to know profitability up-front?
- Is Cost Reduction a requirement to stay profitable?
- Does our customer deserve the best from us
- in terms of product functionality, cost and quality?
Capability Matrix of SolidWorks Simulation for
Material Handling Design
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Functional Capability |
SolidWorks Premium |
SolidWorks
Simulation Professional |
SolidWorks
Simulation Premium |
SolidWorks Flow Simulation |
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Assembly Stress & Deflection for load bearing members, conveyors |
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Mechanism Simulation for Scissor Platform, Actuation Systems |
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Welded Structure Simulation for Beams, Girders and Structures |
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Failure Prediction in Structures, Fasteners and Assemblies, conveyors, stackers |
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Compare and Optimize Alternative Designs for Weight Reduction |
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Estimate Natural Frequencies of Girders, Booms, Crushers,
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Estimate Buckling Loads on diaphragms, girders, stiffeners |
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Heating and Cooling Simulation in Gearbox, Oil Tanks, Hoist Brakes and Operating
conditions |
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Drop Test Simulation |
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Repeated Loading Simulation |
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Forced Vibration Simulation and Response to Earthquakes |
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Non-linear Dynamics of Elastomers, Seals, Advanced Tooth Contact Wear in Gears |
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Simulate Plastic Parts |
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Fluid Flow Simulation for pumps |
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