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27th June 1991, Page 94
27th June 1991
Page 94
Page 94, 27th June 1991 — SCR
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Which of the following most accurately describes the problem?

• Irrespective of the complexities of the different systems or the size of the company using it, even in its simplest form, CAD of enormous advantages.

In addition to saving on draughting time and ensuring high quality drawings, it has many uses such as changing scale, producing cutting lists. sign writing or making on-screen presentations to customers.

More complex systems offer even greater benefits. Crane Fruehauf for example has a McDonald Douglas mainframe arrangement and last year spent £500,000 on upgrading it. especially its finite element analysis system.

The latest fruit of this exercise was featured at Tankcon in the shape of a new 38.000-litre spirit tanker, designed to take Crane Fruehauf into the next century.

It follows a deep market survey which shows that tankers on major fleets. many of them the early 38-tonners soon to be replaced, work around the clock to average over 160,000km (100,000 miles) a year.

Using its CAD and FEA system, C-F identified five key design criteria: Improved reliability; stability: finish and styling plus a reduction in unladen weight.

Firstly it verified full compatibility between every structural and styling aspect of the new model, from welding accessibility to accurate detailing of component and structure production.

Using FEA, it then examined dynamic loading areas and levels of stress under static, scrub steer, cornering, braking and acceleration conditions.

The resultant design which is 250kg lighter than before, eliminates the old steel subframe and uses an aluminium underrnount for the air suspension which is integral with the tank structure. Moulded GRP valances and equipment lockers, attached to an aluminium spaceframe gives it style while 50mm-wider wheel tracks and a 70mm-lower centre of gravity improves stability. Features include a rear valance with moulded steps and side cabinets with Fold-away doors.

While larger companies such as C-F. York and Cartwright make the most of extensive system networks, smaller firms such as W H Bence. Vaile and Papworth groups have been joined by the latest CADconvert, recovery vehicle specialist J&J Conversions.

As most chassis manufacturers are willing to provide bodybuilders with electronic disc databases for truck specifications, J&J AutoCAD station enables the company to achieve greater accuracies. It can also develop new products quicker than before. The latest is a lighter version of its Slide Bed rescue vehicle.

('AD also allows J&J to continually update and reengineer existing products. Currently in the drawing stage is its Dominator undcrlift system.

For a small company. installing its own proof-testing facility as well as an AutoCAD station is a hefty investment but J&J is ambitious. It is 85)r of the way through the BS5750 programme and is aiming to boost its export efforts.

".7 by Bryan Jarvis

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