This paper on "Simulation Environments for Finding Optimal Design Solutions - An Illustration with 'ScreenPress'" was presented at the NAFEMS World Congress on Design, Simulation & Optimisation: Reliability & Applicability of Computational Methods - 9-11 April 1997, Stuttgart, Germany.

Abstract

With the increasing complexity of designs, Computer Aided Design (CAD) tools are more and more employed to achieve improvements in the product creation process. Rising stars in this firmament are CAD frameworks. A CAD framework is a software infrastructure that provides an easy-to-use operating environment for a set of coupled design tools. In this paper the potential and approach of the NELSIS CAD framework with respect to design optimisation is discussed. The scope is limited to mechanical product development. To illustrate our ideas, two FEA applications, that simulate thermal and mechanical aspects of the pressing process of picture tube screens, are used as a carrier.