Aerodynamic modellers take off with design software
Aerodynamic modellers take off with design software
KeywordsAerodynamics, CAD, MCS, Modelling, Software
Expertise in aerodynamic modelmaking has led to increased design work and the need for newer software for Stockport-based Northwest Aerodynamic Models, which has purchased a suite of ANVIL-5000® CAD software from MCS Ltd (Plate 11).
David Ross, managing director of NAM, says pure design work, without the associated model manufacture, has risen to 50 per cent of the company's workload. This is the result of the company's skills in modelmaking for such key clients as British Aerospace and the Defence Evaluation and Research Agency.
Plate 11 Northwest Aerodynamic Models has purchased a suite of ANVIL-5000 CAD software from MCS
Many of the company's models and prototypes are used for wind tunnel testing and performance monitoring. To create such precision models requires the best draughtsmanship and meticulous engineering. Experience with a wide range of materials is also essential and these can include plastics, wood, glass fibre, carbon fibre,alloys, and high-tensile steels. Electronics knowledge is vital for the instrumentation of models for monitoring and NAM staff also includes qualified and experienced aerodynamic engineers.
Models may be tested over a wide range of speeds, in pressurised tunnels and at cryogenic temperatures. They have been tested in the 5m tunnel at Farnborough, the 15ft tunnel at Hatfield, the 4m tunnel at Warton and the 9 × 7 tunnels at Barton and Hatfield/Prestwick.
Besides the engineering specification, models have to be aesthetically pleasing, so colour and general appearance are important, particularly in exhibition, museum, business and educational models. The company's display division can also produce full-size replicas for sales promotions and for the empiric evaluation of ergonomically-critical designs. NAM was formed in 1994 and now employs 14 people.
A key reason for the company to choose ANVIL-5000® was to maintain compatibility with its key clients. The software suite includes an IGES interface so designs can be sent electronically to clients.
ANVIL-5000® from MCS is claimed to be the engineers' CADCAM suite. It is fully networkable and hardware independent and offers complete 3D drafting, modelling and rendering,plus many facilities which would be chargeable extras elsewhere. This includes such modules as Verify, which displays and evaluates up to 5 axis tool paths.
MCS itself is expanding and now offers design consultancy work, digitising and other bureau services in its strategy to provide top class service to engineers and manufacturers.
MCS is well known for its ANVIL® suite of CADCAM systems and is thought to be the oldest independent worldwide supplier of mechanical CAD/CAM/CAE software.
For further details contact MCS Ltd. Tel: + 44 (0) 1264 350022; Fax: +44 (0) 1264 350319.
