TEC|CONCEPT is a pioneering development process which can be used to take into account a large number of framework conditions simultaneously during the early stage of development. The idea is to simplify or reduce a variety of complex requirements, such as quality, weight, rigidity, manufacturing feasibility, structural integrity and costs, into the early design concept stage of virtual development. The core element is an improved, faster use of the correlations between FEM, CAD and CAE data.
TEC|CONCEPT uses a computer- and process-based approach to reveal and implement possible optimisation potentials for a vehicle. TEC|CONCEPT thus brings the client a technological advantage over competitors while also saving time and costs. Moreover, TEC|CONCEPT simplifies coordination between calculation and design since any existing shortcomings in solutions are remedied thanks to integral representation in CATIA V 5.
The current program version only works in CATIA.
TEC|CONCEPT is also referred to as the potential vehicle method, because the process maps possible potential in vehicles still at the early development stage.
Virtual optimisation of individual components, entire vehicles or design concepts calls for an integral approach to examining all constituents of development. Calculation elements incorporated include NVH (noise, vibration and harshness), wear resistance, crash safety and aspects of processes such as paintwork adhesion, deep drawability and costs. Ideally, existing partial solutions should be used in the optimisation. TEC|CONCEPT has been designed as a parametric process for this purpose.
This depends on the scope of the project. Results to date show that TEC|CONCEPT can identify more than 100 different possible optimisations. The parameters of CAD models also allow innumerable modifications to designs.
The use of TEC|CONCEPT is based on the needs of the automotive industry. Anything from individual components through to entire vehicles can be assisted in the early stage of their development.
Yes. Irrespective of the material used, TEC|CONCEPT can determine the extensive range of potential optimisations to achieve the required result in weight reduction right at the early stage of development.
Yes. TEC|CONCEPT can assist the development of any vehicle,
irrespective of the drive type.
TEC|CONCEPT was used back in 2009 in cooperation with Daimler AG to develop a cast node for the cowling in the BR222 (S Class).
MAN Truck & Bus AG was also closely involved in this research project. It led to a specific follow-up project to calculate and optimise a frame structure for a coach, which is now being implemented
The software solution consists of the three key components FCM, TEC|ODM and optiSLang plus other state-of-the-art CAE tools, such as those for production process simulation or structure qualification. The composition of these software solutions gave special attention to ensuring that clients' existing simulation tools were used to the greatest extent possible and modified through adjustments in order to integrate the TEC|CONCEPT potential vehicle method into the overall process.
This depends on the task definition and the number of geometries to be modelled and optimised. A service project usually starts with one man-month or possibly several. When TEC|CONCEPT is installed on the client's premises, it depends on which particular process components are available, i.e. which solvers and pre-processors. The installation takes around two man-months, including integration into existing processes.
It is installed on site at the client's premises. The required scope and time period depend on the number of existing components for the process.
Employees are trained in the key components, which are mainly FCM to create the parametric models and the optimisation tool opti-Slang. Initiating the process, which largely runs in the background, is relatively problem-free.
The easiest way to see TEC|CONCEPT's capabilities for yourself is to work together on an initial joint project. The process can then be subsequently set up and tested on the client's premises.
If you have any questions on TEC|CONCEPT, please contact:
TECOSIM Technische Simulation GmbH
General Manager at the relevant branch or by email to
tecconcept@de.tecosim.com