Virtual Prototyping Laboratory
In the Virtual Prototyping Laboratory, we handle virtual product development, and design and verification in the area of manufacturing. We use the latest CAx systems to design structures and perform advanced computational analysis. Software optimization tools allow us to develop efficient designs and increase the utility value of existing solutions. We are able to provide our partners and customers with a comprehensive set of design activities ranging from the optimization of individual workplaces to the improvement and design of the spatial layouts of not only warehouses and production areas, but also the entire production. We can visualize these layouts using virtual or augmented reality so that you can walk through the newly designed locations and imagine them in real life.
VIRTUAL SIMULATION
We use virtual simulation for structural load calculation in the field of linear statics. Most often, we perform strength and deformation calculations of structures using 2D planar elements or more complex volumetric models with 3D elements and special calculations respecting the specific properties of composite material constructions or sandwich structures.
We deal with modal analysis to determine the actual shapes of the structural unit to be designed and then perform the actual dynamic calculations. We have Virtual Performance Solution, a model of the human body "VIRTHUMAN" for simulating fast dynamic processes with large deformations and complex contacts, which allows us to determine the probability of injury in the passive safety of vehicle interiors.
TOPOLOGICAL OPTIMIZATION
Topological optimization enables our customers to find the optimal distribution of material within a given volume with respect to the required load spectrum or operating frequency range. In addition, the production technology (parting plane in casting, prismatic material drawing or additive manufacturing technology) can be taken into account when searching for the resulting structure.
3D PRINTING OF PLASTIC AND COMPOSITE PARTS
The laboratory designs or customises parts intended for additive manufacturing technologies. It has a range of modern AM technologies and is able to print prototypes using HP Jet Fusion, Markforged, Ultimaker or Formlabs printers for presentation purposes or as functional replacements for parts. We use polymers with short or long, glass or carbon fibre (glass, Kevlar, carbon) reinforcements.
SIMULATION OF MOULDING, INJECTION MOULDING AND TOOL DEVELOPMENT
The laboratory can comprehensively describe every moment of the technological process. We design tools for standard forging and precision moulding as well as for injection moulding. Using simulations, the tools can be optimized for the specific operating conditions of the technology. Following the development of the tools, we provide support for their introduction into production. The laboratory can test moulds for injection moulding on an Arburg Allrounder 470 E 1000 press.
WORKPLACE OPTIMIZATION
The laboratory offers industrial workplace optimization with a special focus on ergonomics. We use digital human models to verify both the current and the designed state. The studies often include analyses of interactions with collaborative robots. Laser scanning technology is used to digitise the existing state.
VIRTUAL TOURS AND AUGMENTED REALITY
The outputs of any design and development activity can be visualized using virtual or augmented reality. This allows details to be visualised and designs to be viewed in the same quality as in real life. Visualization can be done using head mounted displays (HTC VIVE) or smart devices (mobile phones and tablets).
