A Perspective View of the MODCON System
In this paper, a system of computer programs for the geometric description of hot forgings is outlined. The system is known as the MODCON system which stands for MODular CONstruction. The MODCON system allows quite complex forging shapes to be produced from relatively few input instructions. The forging geometry is defined as a series of volumetric modules which are then merged together during generation of the N.C. tape necessary to machine the finishing-cut EDM electrode for the whole forging cavity. The system can also be used for the roughing cut of the EDM electrode before the finishing cut stage as well as for generating cross-sectional data which serves as input to subsequent preform design systems. The system represents a considerable saving in time and cost over current methods involving conventional pattern making for the copy milling of electrodes.
Computer Aided Manufacturing of Machine Parts by Volume Building
A system of geometric modelling for the CAM of machine parts is described. The system is known as the MODCON system which stands for MODular CONstruction. The purpose of the system is (a) to facilitate the manufacturing of the 3-D geometrical machine parts with the aid of N.C. machining and (b) to generate data such as volume and centroid of the machine part manufactured. When using MODCON system, the machine part to be manufactured is defined as a series of simple volumetric modules which are merged together to from the whole shape required. This approach allows a wide range of 3-D shapes to be defined and N.C. machined with relatively few simple input instructions. Currently, the MODCON system is being applied to the CAM of EDM electrodes for dies and moulds in the forging and casting industry.
Towards an integrated design and production system for hot forging dies
Abstract The outline of an integrated system for forging die design and manufacture, based on the use of the principles of group technology to rationalize procedures and form the basis for information systems, is given. Associated with each class of forging is a number of alternative standard processing sequences or workplans. Each work plan has associated data for estimating purposes and design procedures for all dies, including where appropriate computer aided design systems. Some computer aided design programmes which would form part of such an integrated system for certain classes of forging are described and these include a system for axisymmetric round forgings, a system for preform design and die layout design for long forgings and a system of composite dies for small batch round forgings, including computer aided die insert selection.