Design and Implementation of a Three-Dimensional CAD Graphics Support Platform for Pumps Based on Open CASCADE

Abstract

In the pump industry, designers commonly utilize mainstream three-dimensional computer-aided design (CAD) software (Unigraphics NX 12.0 and SolidWorks 2023). However, these CAD packages are generic and not optimized for the specific requirements of the pump industry. This leads to a lack of flexibility and increased complexity in their usage, as well as higher computational demands, resulting in elevated learning and operational costs. Additionally, there are concerns about potential information leaks and software restrictions. In this paper, we studied the organization architecture of commercial three-dimensional CAD software, and compared and analyzed the geometric kernels and rendering engines of mainstream three-dimensional software. Using the Open CASCADE geometric kernel and OpenSceneGraph rendering engine, together with the Visual Studio 2021 development environment and Qt interface library, we developed an autonomous copyright three-dimensional CAD graphics support platform for pumps. Based on the three-dimensional platform, we tested the commonly used graphics elements and basic algorithms required for pump modeling, and successfully designed and modeled the impeller and volute casing of a centrifugal pump. Through computational simulations and experimental verifications, we demonstrated that the accuracy and precision of the pump model designed on this platform meets the design requirements, indicating that this platform has practical pump design and modeling capabilities. Compared to commercial three-dimensional CAD software, this platform exhibits superior flexibility and interactivity in three-dimensional modeling that is specifically tailored for pump products. Consequently, it fully satisfies the needs for three-dimensional parameterized modeling and visualization of pumps.

A Human-Centric Design Method for Industrial Centrifugal Pump Based on Digital Twin

“…Pumps are crucial mechanical devices widely used in industries such as agriculture, municipal engineering, shipbuilding, and aviation. With the increasing demand for customized centrifugal pumps, manufacturers urgently need to enhance their capabilities in developing cost-effective and efficient products [1,2]. Traditional design methods face challenges in dealing with the growing order volume, including long design cycles, numerous errors, high costs, and delays.…”

“…The following vital characteristics contribute to the high design costs: (1). The structure of multi-disciplinary and multi-physics coupled centrifugal pump impellers is complex: The design steps of centrifugal pump impellers and volutes are intricate and require a wide range of expertise, including mechanical design and fluid mechanics.…”