> Prototypes for Public Usage
Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) is the use of computer software to simulate physical phenomena occurring in engineering works. Noted examples of CAE techniques are Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). This technology allows engineers to assess the performance of the design before creating a physical prototype that can be used for the validation and optimization of the products and processes.
The proper and efficient use of CAE is critically important because the computational result will influence the decision in engineering design. However, an improper use of CAE will lead to impractical results or unconverged solutions. Therefore, CAE users should comprehensively study this technology to acquire sufficient knowledge and skills.
The learning of CAE consists of two main parts, namely the theoretical part of the Finite Element and Finite Volume Methods and the use of CAE software. Learners should practice using CAE software by themselves to create computational models, submit computational jobs, and analyze the results to understand the physical phenomena occurring in a given engineering problem.
At present, there are many CAE software packages, such as proprietary softwares and freewares. CAE proprietary packages usually require for license fees, and freewares packages are free of charge. Both freeware and proprietary software packages available usually contain complicated toolbars and menu bars that make them difficult to use. Therefore, CAE learners tend to pay more attention to the software operation procedures than the physical understanding of the problems problem in question.
The research team has developed an educational software package for learning CAE, called the software ‘CAE 3D’. This software was designed to be user-friendly by communicating with the user via GUI and it runs on Windows. It is a freeware that allows users to install and use the software with no cost on their personal computers. Using ‘CAE 3D’ along with the accompanying book titled ‘Computer-Aided Engineering’ can lead to comprehensive learning of CAE. Learners can study the fundamentals of CAE, differential equations, finite element and finite volume equations, and experience the use of CAE software to analyze engineering problems.
‘CAE 3D’ software has been used as a learning tool of CAE technology in various channels, such as teaching and learning for bachelor’s degree and postgraduate students in the university, CAE training courses at MTEC, and self-learning of the general public. For those interested, the installation package and user’s manual can be downloaded from the website: www.mtec.or.th/cae3d.
Research team
Dr. Somboon Otarawanna and Computer-Aided Engineering Research Team