FRAUNHOFER INSTITUTE FOR PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY IPT

FINITE ELEMENT METHOD SHORTER DEVELOPMENT TIMES WITH OPTIMIZED END PRODUCT PROPERTIES

FINITE ELEMENT METHOD SHORTER DEVELOPMENT TIMES WITH OPTIMIZED END PRODUCT PROPERTIES

Shorter product cycles and steadily rising quality requirements accompanied by price pressure necessitate the rapid and costeffective development of optimized products with dened properties. The nite element method (FEM) is a numerical calculation technique for the accurate approximation of tension and deformation due to external loads. Its universal applicability makes FEM one of the most frequently used analysis tools for technical engineering issues. Benets of the nite element method Most efcient tool for optimization Universal use for a broad range of technical applications Analysis and optimization of structural parts Important ndings at an early product development phase Eliminates prototypical development loops Ensures technical edge on the competition Minimizes risks

Our services We provide cross-industry support and solutions for various physical disciplines: Linear and non-linear structural engineering: Determination of tensions and deformations in structural parts under specic mechanical loads Contact analysis with and without friction: Design of clampings, braking systems and pressings of all kinds Modal analysis to determine natural resonance and frequencies Design of spindle systems for ultrasonic-assisted machining up to machine bases for precision systems Thermo-mechanical analysis, determination of temperature distributions, calculation of thermally-induced tensions and deformations Topology and shape optimization Determination of optimized part structures at highest stiffness, reduced loads at minimal weight under specic design restrictions Combining the competencies of our interdisciplinary team of scientists and technicians from mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and physics, we are able to provide comprehensive expertise.

Our skills In spite of its high application potential, the effective and efcient use of FEM depends largely on the inputs and experiences of the engineer. In this context we offer expertise in all relevant areas: Modeling Verication and interpretation of results Cost-benet ratio optimized with respect to calculation effort and necessary accuracy Through our close and longstanding cooperation with industry partners and customers we have gained a great deal of experience and expertise in how to apply FEM in the most efcient way to solve a broad range of technical problems: Design of ultrasonic vibration systems Strength and stiffness analysis of complex structures Static and dynamic behavior in operation Determination of force-deection curves Root cause and failure analysis Determination of weak points at an early design stage Reduction of mechanical stresses Simulation and optimization during the design process Optimization of virtual prototypes through parameter studies System simulations for concept studies and analysis of versions Derivation of design-related measures Calculation of heat transfer and thermal expansion Based on the calculation results, we advise you on potential problems and develop custom solutions combining manufacturability and function. We would be pleased to provide you with advice on the suitability and benets of using FEM for your application.

Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology IPT Steinbachstrae 17 52074 Aachen Germany Phone +49 241 8904-0 Fax +49 241 8904-198 info@ipt.fraunhofer.de www.ipt.fraunhofer.de Contact Dr.-Ing. Michael Emonts Phone +49 241 8904-150 Fax +49 241 8904-6150 michael.emonts@ipt.fraunhofer.de