Development of FEM thermal simulation using four virtual models（Analysis of the phenomenon of heat build-up in the structure and forced intake and exhaust into the structure）

Abstract

In recent years, FEM (Finite Element Method) simulation has been commonly used in the design field; FEM simulation can be classified into static implicit and dynamic explicit methods. In particular, static implicit FEM simulation is very commonly and usefully used in industry. In machine tool design, FEM thermal simulation is also used to develop high-precision machine tools. However, the phenomenon of heat build-up in the machine tool structure and the analysis of forced air intake and exhaust by a fan to the machine structure are difficult to be analyzed by FEM thermal simulation. Therefore, in this study, four virtual models for air intake, exhaust air, heat transfer and convection were developed, and the analysis methods for the phenomenon of heat build-up and forced intake and exhaust air were developed and evaluated. As a result, it was concluded that (1) the phenomenon of heat build-up in the structure and forced intake and exhaust to the structure can be analysed, (2) the FEM thermal analysis with the four developed virtual models has high calculation accuracy and short calculation time, and (3) the proposed method is very effective in the design.