from the editor
Enterprise-Enabled Simulation |
This issue of Flowfront focuses on a new paradigm for implementing plastics simulation technology in today’s global enterprises. Enterprise-enabled simulation is about expanding the use of simulation technology beyond a single stage of product development. Moldflow is changing the way simulation technology is utilized to allow users at any stage of product development, from industrial design to process engineering, to access the technology, configure it to best meet their specific needs, easily integrate it into their work processes, communicate results among the entire design-to-production team, and take advantage of strategic, enterprise-wide implementation.
Enterprise-enabled simulation is about breaking traditional barriers to bring the benefits of simulation to a wider population, who will analyze a broader range of designs and perform those analyses not only to troubleshoot problems, but also to validate and, ideally, to optimize plastics part and mold designs at the earliest stages of product development. Read more about Moldflow’s vision of enterprise-enabled simulation in our cover story.
In this issue, we also present highlights of our most recent releases of Moldflow Plastics Insight® (MPI®) and Moldflow Plastics Advisers® (MPA®) products. New features and enhancements introduced in MPI 6.2 and MPA 8.1 not only answer many user requests for improved usability and specific technology developments, but also support the enterprise-enabled simulation paradigm.
We examine some customer successes in the context of innovative molding technologies and automotive industry-specific applications. Find out how Mack Molding Company (Arlington, VT) uses 3D simulation on a gas-assisted injection molding design to optimize part and tool design, material selection and choice of molding process to assure product manufacturability and durability. Read our automotive industry spotlight to see how companies including Jaguar and Promold are using Moldflow simulation to improve product quality, address environmental concerns, and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving industry.
You will also find useful tips and techniques to help you communicate analysis results more effectively. Learn how to create a script to automate export of MPI results for viewing in Moldflow Communicator, and take advantage of three specific tips to help you streamline report generation using both MPI and MPA software.
Dr. Robert Malloy, Professor and Chairman of the Plastics Engineering Department at the University of Massachusetts Lowell, offers his perspective on designing for recycling. Dr. Malloy is a well-respected researcher and consultant in the areas of plastics processing, design, and recycling of thermoplastics and the author of many publications and patents, including a textbook on plastic part design.
Throughout this issue, you’ll also see featured advertisements from our iMUG 2008 sponsors. This year’s International Moldflow User Group conference takes place on May 20-22 in Detroit, MI.
Whatever role you fill in taking plastic parts from concept to manufacturing, you will find information here about Moldflow technology innovations, real-world applications, and business practices to help you optimize your product development process.
Marcia Swan, Editor
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