The work environment of an engineer changes continuously and people increasingly expect the engineer to be an all-rounder and multitasker. On top of that, the market is hungry for innovation and requires client-specific solutions, preferably as quickly as possible. How does the modern engineer cope with this pressure and how can he/she live up to the high expectations?
Tools within reach
When 3D CAD systems are the norm than a world opens up. A huge selection of tools is available, below you will find several examples:
Simulating with SimScale
Simscale is a web-based platform. Self-designed 3D models are analysed elsewhere using powerful computers. Simscale works with a subscription. You will receive your software and simulation time and there’s always a team of experts at hand. And to get you up & running quickly, online courses and example cases are included.
As a user you are not tied to any major hardware and software investments, which, because of limited use, cannot always be passed on to the client in full. So Simscale takes away a financial barrier for your client.
The pros and cons of Simscale:
+ Low investment costs
+ Low capacity utilization
+ Wide range of disciplines
- Can clash with privacy policy of the organization
Handscanner
Because time is precious and the deadline is always closer than you would like to, engineers try to work as efficiently as possible. And when you have the opportunity to let a machine do the work for you, you will of course grab that opportunity with both hands. A 3D laser scanner or handscanner is a powerful tool that can convert an environment or composition in a relatively short time into a 3D design. You can carry out a scan job yourself or decide to outsource it completely.
At Post en Dekker we have used it to design a casing for an existing engine compartment of a street sweeper. After scanning, we could quickly start with redesigning the frame.
The pros and cons of hand scanning:
+ Cost saving
+ Fast lead time
+ Surprisingly accurate
– Exploring the market takes time
– Industrial handscanners are expensive
– Scanner does not recognize separate components in a composition
3D printer
Post en Dekker has a 3D printer at its disposal. This way, both simple and complex matters can be produced in-house. Very useful when developing and testing an operating principle, for example. We also work together with companies that can print metal parts. Techniques are getting better continuously and the costs are interesting in comparison with conventional production methods like milling and turning. Also, more and more materials can be printed in the 3D printer this way.
The pros and cons of 3D printing:
+ Cost saving
+ Fast lead time
+ Produce design in-house
– Small series
– Material properties
Scrumwise project management software
Scrum is a flexible way to develop products. People work in multidisciplinary teams which, in short, equally long sprints, generate operational products. With web-based software from Scrumwise it is possible to set up project teams and (even at a distance) keep them up-to-date. Post en Dekker engineers often work on several projects and at different locations. This software makes it possible no matter where your computer is located, to stay committed and at the same time perform and ticking off tasks.
The pros and cons of Scrumwise:
+ Cost saving
+ Web-based, no permanent station
+ Clear division of tasks
– Getting used to way of working
At Post en Dekker we work with this tools on a daily basis. We adapt easily to changes in the industry. Do you want to know more about our company and methods. Please get in contact.
