Research and Development of a General-purpose Head CAD System for Open Profile Extrusion Dies
**1. Introduction**
By analyzing the structure of typical plastic profile extrusion equipment, this paper aims to address the limitations of traditional production methods and introduce a universal head design for open profiles. Leveraging modern design principles, we have developed a parameterized die CAD system tailored for open profile extrusion. This system employs a parameter-driven approach, enabling quick updates and adaptability to different product requirements. The proposed research contributes significantly to the advancement of plastic profile extrusion technology, offering a more flexible and efficient solution for mold design and manufacturing.
**2. Structure of the Open Profile Extrusion Die Universal Head**
Given the wide variety of profiles produced by the company, it is essential to use a universal head that can accommodate different cross-sectional shapes while minimizing equipment investment. The forming port template 1 is the key component that can be easily replaced, as shown in Figure 1. By removing the mesh coupling screws 2, the pressing cover 3, and the molding template 1, a new forming port can be installed quickly. The internal adjustment screws 4, transition section 5, diverter front end 7, manifold support 6, rear end 8 of the diverter fluid, and the head and neck section 9 typically remain unchanged. Only when necessary, the CAD system allows for parameterization and customization without significant modifications.
**3. CAD System Design**
**3.1 Feasibility Analysis**
SolidWorks, a powerful CAD/CAM/PDM system based on Windows, offers API (Application Programming Interface) tools and OLE objects that enable users to develop custom applications using programming languages like VB. To enhance the general applicability of the extrusion die, a CAD/CAM system was developed. By recording macros and generating secondary development programs, the system was implemented as a macro in SolidWorks 2006. This makes the system design both practical and effective.
**3.2 Overall System Design**
When the profile’s cross-section changes, two scenarios may occur: either only the die plate size needs adjustment, or other components also require modification. The system first identifies which case applies. If only the die plate size changes, it reads the 2D cross-section drawing and generates a new template. If other parts need adjustment, the system uses a parameter-driven approach, linking related design parameters to minimize errors. After adjusting multiple parts, the system performs an analog assembly using standard parts from its database. Once all components are properly designed, the system moves to the CAM stage for mold processing.
**3.3 Detailed System Design**
**3.3.1 System Menu**
The main menu includes submenus for various functions, as shown in Table 1. These menus provide users with easy access to different features of the system.
**3.3.2 System Operation Interface**
The system integrates with SolidWorks through a DLL plug-in, allowing seamless interaction within the SolidWorks environment. Functions such as connecting and disconnecting from SolidWorks are implemented using specific API functions. The interface is user-friendly and enables smooth operation of the CAD system.
**3.3.3 Parameter Design Window**
An example of the parameter design window for the mouth template is shown in Figure 4. Users can input new parameters and click the “Design†button to generate updated templates. This feature enhances the flexibility and efficiency of the design process.
**3.3.4 Example Code**
The system can import cross-sectional drawings in DXF or DWG formats. For instance, the following code snippet demonstrates how the system calls and replaces the original sketch:
```vb
' Sample code for importing and replacing cross-section sketches
Dim swApp As Object
Set swApp = CreateObject("SldWorks.Application")
Dim swModel As Object
Set swModel = swApp.ActiveDoc
```
**4. Conclusion**
SolidWorks plays a crucial role in aiding structural design, engineering analysis, and mold manufacturing. Its rich API capabilities allow users to create customized software that meets specific needs. The universal head structure and parametric CAD system introduced in this paper demonstrate the advantages of modular and adaptable design. The system has proven effective in reducing mold costs and shortening production cycles, delivering significant economic benefits to many companies. It serves as a valuable reference for similar CAD system developments.
BC Casing Coupling,Octg Casing,5Ct Coupling,Seamless Casing Pipe
Henan Dongfanglong Machine Manufacture Co., Ltd , https://www.dfloilm.com