Structural analysis, simulation and validation as a strategy for product design

Abstract

In the process of developing products to meet specific needs or requirements, it is crucial, in terms of functionality, to achieve the interaction of two strategies: on the one hand, end-user feedback and, on the other hand, architectural optimization by applying finite element analysis (FEA). Seeking the consolidation of a new product and identifying opportunities for improvement, this article presents the results of an FEA study applied to a multicultivator (case study) in which the premises were: 1) validation of the design proposal; 2) evaluation of areas detected as "critical"; and 3) optimization of geometry to reduce weight and manufacturing costs. The procedure used to structure the design of the multicultivator under the approaches of architecture validation, production quality improvement and cost reduction is also presented in a simplified manner.