CAD software speeds simulator development
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SolidWorks Corporation product story
Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team
Jan 15, 2008
MTS used SolidWorks to develop a high-performance road simulator, the Heavy Truck 329 system, that can apply virtually any force to any combination of wheels on a heavy truck.
MTS Systems is using SolidWorks 3D CAD software to more efficiently design, configure and assemble its road simulators for automobiles, earthquake simulators for buildings, frame testers for aircraft, and wear testers.
Since adopting SolidWorks software, the company has accelerated delivery of highly customised load frames so that customers can execute their testing programmes earlier and move their products quickly to market.
MTS is using SolidWorks in conjunction with its SAP enterprise resource planning system to create new assembly designs from interchangeable parts, originally designed in SolidWorks, with variable dimensions.
"Over time, this system should save our customers many hours in their project schedules", said Rod Ingalls, Engineering Services Manager at MTS.
MTS used SolidWorks to develop a high-performance road simulator, the Heavy Truck 329 system, that can apply virtually any force to any combination of wheels on a heavy truck.
The simulator tests yaw, camber and response to braking, jouncing, vertical acceleration and lateral acceleration.
"The goals of this initiative were affordability and accuracy", Ingalls said.
"SolidWorks and its integrated analysis software, CosmosWorks, helped us get there, enabling us to efficiently iterate and analyse range of motion, resulting in a superior design".
MTS has also begun using the SolidWorks eDrawings e-mail enabled communications tool to give manufacturing personnel information in three dimensions to more quickly and easily assemble custom load frames.
The company began purchasing SolidWorks software in 2005 and has steadily grown its team of SolidWorks users, now at 40 with plans to expand to 55.
"After an extensive evaluation two years ago, we chose SolidWorks over alternatives because of its ease of use, streamlined user interface, extensive VAR-based support and training, abundance of experienced users in our area and general cost-effectiveness of design and analysis tools", Ingalls said.
"Our employees are enthusiastic about the move to SolidWorks and looking forward to taking further advantage of its increased efficiency".
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