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Simulation ahead of prototyping

Oct 03, 2014

Whilst the software from the standard SolidWorks CAD package enables us to confirm gate positions, wall thicknesses and cosmetic implications long before a tool has been ordered or manufactured, it only allows very rudimentary structural analysis. 

As a result of numerous customer requests and the identification of projects where the ability to perform more complex structural analysis would have been really beneficial, we decided we needed to evaluate what the higher level simulation modules in SolidWorks could offer.

Starting off with structural and thermal analysis in assemblies, we quickly realised that the more we simulated a product’s behaviour, the more uses we found for the software and the results it was delivering.

Thermal analysis through CAD designWhilst absolute results are difficult to confirm when the product is purely a virtual creation, the ability to determine trends and establish design direction from several possibilities is invaluable. Consequently, during the summer we invested in SolidWorks Simulation Professional – and have been using it ever since.

Modules in the software now give us the ability to analyse parts and assemblies for static, thermal, frequency, buckling, fatigue and drop testing in the linear range. It is a powerful addition to our design support and development services – and so far we have only scratched the surface of its capabilities and potential applications.

Manufacturing parts that perform as intended, quickly and to specification has always been crucial to our customers. Producing a part that performs first time without the need for multiple iterations or physical testing is now becoming equally important.

There is no margin in development schedules to adjust part designs once they start being manufactured. As such our customers are always seeking ways to reduce risk by evaluating designs as fully as possible in the virtual environment before committing to prototypes or production.

Over the coming months we will show how individual projects have gained from this approach and how our customers have benefitted with better products.

If you have a project that you think would benefit from detailed analysis, please contact us.

  • Plunkett Associates worked on the design and production of titanium frames for an artificial heart valve where precision and consistency was paramount. Communications were efficient and productive with concepts readily incorporated into the final design, and suggestions for improvements all highly appropriate. The quality of the end product was ideal and I have no doubt that I will use the advice and expertise of Plunkett Associates again.
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  • Plunkett Associates have excellent breadth of experience, work with high quality partners and have a flexibility that we have found enables challenges to be met successfully, cost effectively and in a timely manner.
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  • Interestingly, people who look at it in its own right with little knowledge of what it does, just like it! It’s tactile and it looks good…
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  • "With their simple to understand language, willingness to go the extra mile and approachability, Plunkett Associates were a great partner for our company. We couldn’t be happier with the results of our project. (A working prototype that they got right first time, by the way). Thank you!"
    Carolina Ballon-Forrester, Director, Kittyrama Ltd
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  • “We use Plunkett Associates because we want someone we can trust, that knows what they’re talking about, has all the contacts, will provide reliable advice and feedback and will get the right result for us.”
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  • “Accuracy, finish and delivery all first class.”
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  • “We were really surprised at how quickly they turned round such a high quality prototype and the parts certainly proved their worth. They were of high enough quality to provide a fantastic visual representation and to undergo rigorous testing."
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  • "Tim's experience, expertise and supplier base have been fundamental to us getting this project off the ground."
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  • Plunkett associates always find a solution. Whatever we need to prototype, they have a great grasp on the technologies available, costs and lead-times so we get the right solution tailored to the project needs. Have always delivered and never let us down.
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