Come along for a journey through Siemens’ redesign of a transfer case for the company’s electric vehicle (EV) with Aaron Frankel, VP of Additive Manufacturing. Frankel guided Machine Design through the redesign and manufacturing process for the transfer case on the show floor at IMTS 2024.
EV's are known for their quiet operation, which makes any mechanical noise more noticeable. The car’s transfer case impacts both performance as well as user experience. The mission for Siemens was to create a transfer case that not only performs well but also reduces unwanted noise.
Frankel demonstrated advanced software tools like NX and Simcenter 3D to analyze the transfer case’s mechanical strengths and identify areas for improvement. He also showed us topology optimization for material distribution to enhance strength while minimizing vibration.
3D printing was chosen as the manufacturing method to allow for complex geometries. A virtual model of the transfer case and its manufacturing process enabled real-time simulations to anticipate and resolve potential issues. Frankel said that the company’s collaborative environment helps ensure data integrity and efficiency throughout every step of the project.
Use this pit stop to learn about how integrating advanced design methodologies, additive manufacturing and digital tools can help set a new standard in component design.
