To design a mechanism with better overall equipment effectiveness (OEE), we need to identify a suitable system for the machine to perform to its optimum under a set of constraints; this could be challenging.
What's more, in modern machine operation, many motion actions such as the automated sorting process or the pick-and-place of parcels are triggered by sensors – the timing of each motion varies. When the exact time sequence for element changes are unknown, it is hard to have a better grasp on the equipment performance, e.g., its cycle time, prior to actual testing of the machine.
In general, one of the biggest challenges the machine designers have is to understand and test how a design will interact in real life before it goes into production. There are usually many rounds of trial-and-error required in ensuring the equipment performance requirements are achieved – the machine is moving the way we wanted it to.
How can we shorten the (sometimes endless) trial-and-error process?
We need to visualize the relative motion between components as well as the movement of the machine. With simulation tools, we could simulate the machine's motion under constraints, and variables such as force, torque and power. As a result, we are able to correctly size the motors and the structure of machine. We will also understand how exactly the mechanism will move in the real world under different loadings once all parts are fully assembled with the correct constraints.
To know more, do not miss out our upcoming workshop.
REGISTER HERE AND JOIN US this Friday (11th March 2016) to further discuss and explore with other engineers from the same industry in a 4-hour-session (9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.) that could change the way you design.
