Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
2.3.2 Potential Early Adopters of EAF Modeling
Now that the main industries that could benefit from EAF have been identified, it is
also important to explain how the predictive model could be used. There are two main
potential “Early Adopters” that could be interested in a modeling concept for EAF.
2.3.2.1 Simulation Software Companies
• These simulation software companies already produce software that is able to
predict outcomes of many current manufacturing processes. They already have
all of the general algorithms/methodologies needed for conventional forming.
By integrating the main algorithms generated by this research into their soft-
ware package, these companies would be able to sell EAF-predictive software.
• There are different applications of simulation. The main simulation applicabil-
ity would be for metal forming; however, there is also the potential to simulate,
or model, alternative EA processes. Such process could be EA machining, EA
bending, or EA joining.
2.3.2.2 Metal-Forming Companies
• The predictive model can be used for EAF process design, where the speed,
electrical settings, and die design will be optimized. The Tier I and Tier II metal-
forming suppliers will also be probable early adopters because the EAF technique
may be their chosen formability-enhancing technique for forming Mg and Ti, as
explained earlier. This is where the “heart” of metal forming is and each metal-
forming supplier wants to ensure that they are not overtaken by new technology of
a competitor. Of note is that the automotive/aircraft OEM's would not be consid-
ered early adopters because they want something immediately and that is 100 %
dependable. It is safer to market to the suppliers because they are more likely to
work with some “growing pains” of a new manufacturing process.
References
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