SRAM is testing a 3D printed prototype crank

SRAM is passing the Autodesk Generative Design Field Lab in Chicagosoftware, Start to make real usable3D printingPrototype crank. Based on this artificial intelligence design process, we may see a completely reimagined SRAM crank put on the market. Undoubtedly, SRAM has invested a lot of energy in this new design method, and they have carried out multiple iterative tests on real roads with this computer-designed mountain bike crank…

Using Autodesk, SRAM can start from the blank, allowing artificial intelligence to select the best design form for the prototype crank set based on the force in the crank set and various automated manufacturing processes.So far, it seems that SRAM has used an automated design process to develop CNC aluminum cranks and3D printingPrototype of sintered titanium crank. Both products allow Autodeskdesign softwareDecisions are made based on specific manufacturing technologies, and all can provide completely different design solutions for the same problem.

Since at least the beginning of 2019, SRAM’s design engineers have been collaborating with Autodesk Generative Design because they have been working hard to develop new product design and optimization methods.

▲Madura (right) at Autodesk Generative Field Lab in Chicago, Illinois

Dhiraj Madura, global director of industrial design at SRAM, said: “I have been working as design director at SRAM for 18 years, and the tools have not changed much. We have made many iterations when designing parts, but sometimes within the time period we specify, progress has not been made. Soon. As our products become more complex, we will have to research new methods and new tools.”

Not only the crank, but two years ago, Autodesk also shared a picture of Madura, a prototype stem made using a similar design process.

The prototype crank project seems to have only started in early 2020. Because Autodesk Fusion 360 modeling software is based on cloud computing technology, the SRAM and Autodesk teams can collaborate remotely.

Although the above video screenshots are not very clear, it is obvious that SRAM has been iterating on these artificially designed prototype cranks.

▲And it seems that the test process is not simple

Interestingly, one of the designs, the SRAM prototype crank processed by CNC looks somewhat similar to the conventional Ignite Catalyst crank discovered by foreign media in early March.

When SRAM engineers work on the cloud-based Fusion 360 platform, they must first face some limitations, such as the claw interface and DUB bottom axis at one end, and the pedal axis at the other end.

It can be embodied that the design is the SRAM + Autodesk prototype crank design, which can hollow out unnecessary materials, leaving a row of aliens with an organic-looking structure that can evenly bear the load and maintain the rigidity of the transmission system.

3D printingPrototypes of titanium alloys use selective laser sintering additive manufacturing technology. Those focused lasers actually compact and harden the titanium powder into a solid structure. Start with the radial support structure (top left) and cover only a small layer at a time until the complete crank arm structure (top right) is completed.

This allows SRAM to be3D printingNine pairs of complete crank arms are produced in one batch of, and then the internal structure of the support is removed, and then the pedal hole and the bottom bracket/claw interface are processed by CNC for the next step. SRAM said that these Autodesk generative design prototypes will not necessarily be launched on the market, but to help engineering teams understand how to develop next-generation designs. But presumably all riders want to see a crank like this wild. Do you think all this sounds familiar?As early as the end of 2020, Autodesk cooperated with Decathlon to explore the3D printingAluminum alloy frame.In recent years, in addition to the lightest lockless self-locking pedals, we have also seen countless exquisite3D printingTitanium alloy products. From the stopwatch frame, to the pneumatic handlebar, and then to the pipe fittings of many titanium alloy frames.

(Editor in charge: admin)