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.
Computer Aided Preform Design for Long Hot Forgings
Long forgings are made from bar stock and normally require several preforming stages, the number employed being governed by the process technology and economic considerations of the quantities required. If the cross sectional area of the component varies appreciably along its length, material must be distributed along the length of the stock by drawing down the bar at various points. For hammer dies this is achieved by fuller and roller dies. Subsequently a further preforming stage (moulding impression) may be used, the purpose of which is to distribute material in the individual cross sections, to more closely approach the cross sections of the final part.