CAD configurator for automatic configuration of modular strongrooms

Abstract

Modular strongrooms (MSR) are complex and technical and technologically demanding products. They are designed at the individual request of the customer, who chooses the resistance grade of the room according to EN 1143-1 and defines dimensions of the available space to fit this product. The product architecture is modular and configuration is accomplished by a combination of standard modules whose number and dimensions must be adjusted in each new project. Manufacturers are required to be flexible in product design and to respond quickly to customer requirements. The MSR design process is a critical phase in product development, therefore its automation with advanced CAD systems is required. Within the CAD configurator for automatic MSR configuration, intelligent 3D templates of parts, modules and complete product as well as 2D templates of technical documentation are developed. The product is configured based on a platform that contains constraints, configuration rules, and interfaces for connecting modules. The CAD configurator is implemented in commercial software AutoDesk Inventor. The proposed model has a high degree of flexibility and universality, can be further upgraded and can be integrated into the enterprise business system. Model verification is performed on a large number of practical MSR examples.