THE USE OF AN INTEGRATED CAE/CAD/CAM SYSTEM DURING THE COMPRESSOR DESIGN

摘要

The objective of this work is to present the main advantages of using an integrated CAE/CAD/CAM system inthe development of compressors for refrigeration. To illustrate this work, the development of a compressorcrankcase is presented. This component is of cast iron, and the main phases of its development are:?modeling (CAD)?functional analysis (finite element analysis - FEA)?manufacture of the cast tool rack?casting of the crankcase?machining the crankcase?experimental tests?final approvalThe entire process is conducted in an integrated CAE/CAD/CAM environment. The three-dimensional model ofthe crankcase is the basic link among all the diverse phases of development, and permits a great interaction ofinformation to the several disciplines involved in the process. This prevents reworks and eliminates ambiguousinformation. At the end of the process, a significant increase in the quality of the component and productivity in thedevelopment cycle is achieved. An important aspect in the productivity gain is related to the three-dimensionalmodel, which acts without interfaces with the other disciplines of the development process. For example, there is noneed for drawings in the initial phase of the process, since the solid model alone has all the information required forthe finite element analysis, CNC programs, rapid prototyping, etc. Normally the drawings are only required later, foractivities such as: machine planning, dimensional control and documentation.