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VCAD - Infrastructure for Next Generation Manufacturing
Dr. Kiwamu Kase
Team Leader,
VCAD Modeling Team, VCAD System Research Program, Center for Intellectual Property Strategies, RIKEN
The VCAD Modeling Team was launched in April 2001 as part of the VCAD System Research Program of RIKEN. Based in RIKEN, the team consists of researchers from both inside and outside the institute working together to develop the VCAD system (volume-CAD), an integrated system serving as the infrastructure for next generation manufacturing, as well as simulation software running directly on this system.
Computer systems are used in every step of the manufacturing process. These include CAD for design, CAE for analysis, CAM for machining, and CAT for tests. Because each uses different software, data corrections and conversion require enormous costs. In addition, the models designed by conventional CAD are not suited for the simulation of three-dimensional objects as they do not include internal structures. To resolve these problems, VCAD research and development was started aiming at three-dimensional CAD in the true sense of the word, which can handle internal structures as well as external shapes.
Made-In-Japan Core Technology for Practical Application
Fig.1 Kitta Cube
Fig.2 VCAD model
One of the features of VCAD is that the unit cells making up VCAD models contain not only shape information but physical properties as well, which was successfully realized by the VCAD Modeling Team by applying unique techniques such as Kitta Cube and layering of cells. This innovative technological breakthrough of expressing both geometric data and material data together enables optimum simulations on computer without the need to create prototypes.
The VCAD system is very versatile in that it can be used for the simulations of not only man-made objects, but seismic changes, natural objects such as the living body, and fluids as well. Its practical application is very much looked forward in diverse areas, ranging from manufacturing to medicine and bioscience.
Potentials of the Ever-Growing VCAD
Fig.3 Joint Research with National Institute of Radiological Sciences ---Multi-Dimension Brain Diagnosis Using VCAD
Developed VCAD software such as the VCAD Framework are released on the VCAD System Research Program homepage for free download and commercialization is being discussed in various areas. (VCAD System Research Program website)
We hope that the extensive applications of the R&D results of the VCAD system by researchers and industry will open up new horizons in technology as VCAD continues to evolve.