Engineering Design Trends to Watch
Technology is constantly changing, and we as humans need to keep up with the pace. Industrial equipment design is also evolving, so companies need to use the latest advancements to remain competent. Project JRC focuses on providing design solutions for rotating equipment, piping, and detailed drawings for vessels and handling equipment, ensuring your equipment is efficient, reliable, and customized for your needs.
At Project JRC, we handle the hard work for you! We keep up with the latest trends and make sure your industrial equipment designs use cutting-edge technology, allowing you to focus on other important tasks. In this blog, we’ll share current trends and how they will shape the future of industrial equipment design.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into industrial equipment design significantly improves customization for clients. AI can analyze large amounts of data, helping designers make informed decisions and create products that meet specific needs. Technologies like virtual reality (VR), generative design, and digital twins are important tools designers can use to enhance product efficiency and performance.
Virtual Reality: An immersive, computer-generated environment that creates 3D models in virtual spaces. This technology allows designers to see how equipment would work in the real world, test design ideas, spot potential problems, and optimize functionality before mass production.
Generative Design: A design method that uses AI algorithms to quickly explore and create multiple design options based on set parameters and constraints. This approach saves time by reducing the need to research existing designs and allows for innovative solutions while meeting product requirements.
Digital Twins (DT): A virtual replica of a physical object, system, or process that updates in real-time. DT technology can analyze behavior and performance, helping make informed decisions. This AI application is becoming increasingly important in industries like construction, aerospace, automotive, and energy.
Digital Fabrication
Digital fabrication and prototyping technologies in industrial equipment design can bring ideas to life quickly and efficiently. Tools like 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC routers help designers stay current with the latest technology. These tools, based on digital data, allow designers to create physical models that streamline the design process and deliver faster, cost-effective results compared to traditional methods.
3D Printers: Also called “additive manufacturing,” this equipment builds physical objects by layering material based on a three-dimensional digital model. Before starting full-scale production, 3D printing is often preferred because it can quickly create designs with less waste.
Laser Cutters: This technology uses a laser to vaporize materials, allowing for cleaner cuts and shapes than traditional methods like hand cutting. Laser cutters provide designers with greater precision and accuracy in their projects.
CNC Routing: This technology shapes materials based on specific design criteria that would be difficult to achieve manually. CNC routing increases productivity by efficiently cutting through wood, plastic, or metal without wasting time.
Sustainability
The phrase “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” in industrial equipment design is more relevant than ever. Industries recognize that overproduction and waste are major environmental issues for us and future generations. With a focus on reducing waste and carbon footprints, designers now prioritize sustainability in their designs.
Recycling: The process of reclaiming materials to replace primary or raw materials. Durable materials suitable for recycling in designs include steel, aluminum, paper, and glass.
Energy-Efficient Manufacturing: Machinery and processes that reduce energy consumption while maximizing productivity. Utilizing renewable energy sources in production helps designers prioritize sustainability.
Product Life Cycle Analysis: This process evaluates the environmental impact of products throughout their entire life span. Analyzing the product life cycle helps designers make informed decisions about their creations.
Designing for Tomorrow with Project JRC
It's important to understand that human input is crucial for ensuring practicality, sustainability, and functionality in industrial equipment design. While AI and digital fabrication can generate innovative ideas and products, people must evaluate these creations to ensure their usefulness, safety, and efficiency for specific clients. Viewing AI and other advancements as collaborative partners or co-pilots can expand our perspectives and enhance possibilities in industrial equipment design, leading to new opportunities for innovation and creativity in product development.
Project JRC believes industrial equipment design is necessary for generations to come. This type of design keeps clients up to date on the latest technology in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital fabrication, and also sets sustainability as a standard in industry practice. At Project JRC, we are not just consultants; we are your partners in industrial equipment design. Let us help you navigate complexities and drive your business forward. Contact us today at (337) 205-3019 or contact@projectjrc.com.