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This paper describes an integrated dynamic simulation and RPC (Remote Parameter Control) shaker test approach that accelerates product development of structural components. The simulation is based on the principle of random vibration and is used for optimizing the design in the early stages of the design process. Once the prototypes are built, RPC shaker test is used to verify the structural integrity of the optimized designs. The benefits of this integrated approach are demonstrated using a tractor seat development example. The simulation was able to pin-point potential failure locations and estimate the fatigue life. The design was optimized using only one design iteration.

Leveraging the full potential of a CAD/CAM system in the product development process is the primary focus of this paper. The role of new generation CAD/CAM systems in efficiently creating product data and facilitating concurrent activities of cross-functional product development teams is also discussed. Process mapping techniques have been suggested to evaluate the extent of CAD/CAM integration into the company's product development process, and redefine its application so that the full potential is realized. A roadmap to improve CAD/CAM integration with product development is recommended, which will promote efficient creation and utilization of product data by all the functional groups involved.

Ingredients for the successful implementation of a new CAD system are explained. Special considerations for large installations are the primary emphasis. Selecting the right software and hardware, providing appropriate and timely training, assisting users with one-on-one technical help, continuously monitoring the progress, and promptly addressing all issues and concerns are the keys to implementation. Strong management leadership, competent implementation team, and strategic partnership with the CAD software vendor are vital to the execution of the implementation program and realization of healthy returns on the investment. Case Corporation has recently implemented Pro/ENGINEER® to impact the product development process. Some experiences from this implementation have been incorporated in the discussions.

The cab vibration and ride comfort of off-highway vehicles were analyzed using a multi-body system dynamics model that consists of cab and four isolation mounts. The vibrational Power Spectral Density (PSD) data measured on four mounting brackets was used as excitation input to the model to represent real-world situations. As specified in the SAE and ISO recommendations, a weighted rms acceleration was used as a measure of ride comfort or human perception of vibration severity of vehicles. The analytically predicted results have shown excellent agreement to the measured data. Design optimization process or sensitivity analysis was demonstrated to investigate the effects on vehicle ride quality of isolation mount characteristics (axial and radial stiffness) and mounting configuration (mount location and orientation).

The application of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to external and internal flows in automotive industry has grown tremendously when compared to the off-highway industry in the last decade. The purpose of this article is to share recent developments on the applications of CFD in off-highway industry, specially at Case. A thorough 3D CFD analysis was done for the cab A-post louver designs and a conceptual design optimization was done to improve the operator comfort in the cab.

The paper describes a project being conducted at Case where an expert system is being used to document and develop design criteria. The objective of this project is to capture and retain design criteria knowledge, document and retrieve knowledge on-line, and predict and evaluate design criteria for new machines or new market requirements. An expert system development tool, ADS (Aion Development System), is used in this project. A system security mechanism and many graphical user interface features are implemented using object-oriented programming techniques. To facilitate knowledge acquisition, a questionnaire is also developed. The acquired knowledge has been used in several product design programs at Case.