Knowledge driven preprocessing for weld simulations

Abstract: Being a supplier of products and services in numerous military and civilian
fields, Volvo Aero Corporation develops and manufactures advanced components
for aircraft engines.

By being aware of and reusing knowledge in the form of expertise and
engineering know-how throughout the whole organization large time-savings
can be made. The knowledge allows for alternative studies where different
configurations can be compared and balanced. A method called Knowledge Based
Engineering (KBE) can act as a valuable tool to help capturing this
knowledge and guaranteeing quality of a product.

The work described in this thesis focuses on developing methods to support
the generation of a weld simulation model used for a jet engine component.
The geometry of the model is treated in a general manner that allows for
substitution in the future. Subcomponents within the model can be
individually treated or combined with other subcomponents to create a
complete system. An automated method for mesh generation is developed and
implemented.

The methods not only result in shortening lead-times but also assures
consistency and quality every time they are asked for. They can be reused
and further expanded to support other types of configurations in the future.