Modelling approach for the simulation-based preliminary design of power transmissions

Abstract

The promises of Model Based Design have led to the development of numerous methodologies and software tools, especially for the specific or detailed design stages, from controller design to finite element analysis. However, the Model Based Design of actuation systems lacks methodologies and expressive simulation models that are suited to preliminary design, where key technical decisions are taken considering various design alternatives and few available design details. In order to fill this gap, the present paper illustrates how scaling laws and acausal modelling can be used as a design tool, exploiting inverse simulation capabilities to evaluate technological alternatives quantitatively from limited design detail information. The application of the modelling approach is shown for two major components of mechanical transmission systems: roller bearings and ball and roller screws. The scaling laws presented are validated with manufacturers' data. To conclude, the suitability of the proposed methodology is illustrated with the preliminary sizing of an electromechanical actuator for an aircraft primary flight control surface (aileron).

Future Challenges in Mechatronics

“…This system-level design, distinct from component design, needs to represent in the mechatronic layer the key information of the specific domain layer with dedicated models [5][6][7]. Referred to as "estimation models" by Budinger et al [7], they enable the designer to readily take multiple design constraints into account.…”

“…Referred to as "estimation models" by Budinger et al [7], they enable the designer to readily take multiple design constraints into account. The models 2 Hierarchical design models (after Hehenberger et al [4]) 3 Future Challenges in Mechatronics directly and explicitly link a few primary characteristics, such as overall dimensions of components, to the secondary characteristics needed for the sizing [5] and optimization [1]. The capacities required of these estimation models are as follows:…”

Optimal preliminary design of electromechanical actuators

“…The transient simulation of an EMA is becoming mandatory because, unlike hydraulic actuators, some strong coupling exists between the transient power demand, the thermal behavior of motors, the inertia loads and the fatigue of mechanical components. These simulations are usually based on lumped parameters models [20], also called 0D-1D models, run either in direct or inverse mode [21] [22] in environments such as Matlab/Simulink, Dymola [23], AMESim [24]... The paper [22] describes the use of inverse simulation with Modelica for actuators sizing.…”

Concept of an advanced simulation-based design for engineering support of offshore plant equipment industries and its realization method

“…The aim of the simulation-based design is to combine all steps of the design, manufacture, test, operation, and maintenance by simulation technique using 3D CAD models in a virtual environment; this is a novel concept and technique of computer based engineering. The simulation-based design has being actively done research and applied to increase the production efficiency, improve design techniques and verify developed products (Kruger, 2007;Wu and Ceccarelli, 2009;Bozca and Fietkau, 2010;Liscouet et al, 2011;Suh et al, 2013).…”