Method for providing a welded structure generated in an at least partially computer-aided manner, in particular for industrial gears, and correspondingly produced welded structure, and computer program product, and use

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for providing a welded (housing) structure generated in an at least partially computer-aided manner, in particular for industrial gears, wherein at least one individual / individualisable structure-specific input parameter of at least part of the welded structure is defined manually and / or in a computer-aided manner from the following group: overall size parameter, connection size parameter, shape parameter; wherein a database having a partially-variable system of building blocks stored therein is used for the at least partially computer-aided definition of the welded structure, in which modular system at least two standardised parts are stored, of which at least one standardised part is selected in a computer-aided manner in order to form the welded structure, wherein the welded structure is generated in a computer-aided manner using the at least one standardised part and taking into account the at least one individual structure-specific input parameter. The present invention further relates to a corresponding computer program product.

Description

[0001] Method for providing an at least partially computer-aided generated welded construction, in particular for industrial gears, as well as correspondingly produced welded construction and computer program product and use

[0002] Technical area

[0003] The present invention relates to a method for providing an at least partially computer-aided generated welded structure, in particular for industrial gears. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a correspondingly created welded structure or a welded housing produced based thereon. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a corresponding computer program product and corresponding uses. In particular, the invention relates to the at least partially computer-aided and at least partially automated creation of modularized or modularly constructed welded (housing) structures, in particular in a segmental design. In particular, the invention relates to devices and methods according to the preamble of the respective independent claim.

[0004] Background of the invention

[0005] A lot of material is used in (industrial) gear manufacturing, especially steel, for example, for gear housings (e.g., cast and / or welded constructions). The production of the materials used is comparatively energy-intensive; the material itself is also quite valuable in many applications, and therefore cost-intensive. Material usage often proves to be more intensive in cast constructions than in welded constructions, so that where high demands on material and energy savings are placed, welded constructions are preferred. However, there is also interest in further energy and material savings, especially without having to disproportionately increase the effort for design adaptations or the like.In other words: There is a need for a measure that can be standardized, at least in principle, for the material- and energy-optimized design of gearbox housings and similar comparatively complex structures.

[0006] The following describes an example application: Industrial gearboxes are traditionally designed as cast housings for medium to large quantities; any add-on parts and other accessories are also designed for this purpose. Small quantities or special requirements sometimes require welded housing variants (particularly since a casting process only becomes economical for comparatively large quantities). The design is based on the highest load case, as scalability is usually not provided. The structure is made primarily from large-area solid plates, flame-cut parts, and ribs. However, a comparatively high energy expenditure is required, particularly for the creation of the required contours during individual part production. Unfortunately, a comparatively large amount of waste has also had to be accepted, which not least also results in high CO2 emissions.There is therefore interest in measures to optimise this situation and the associated disadvantages.

[0007] The publication US 5,552,995 A describes a computer-aided design process in which the component to be created as well as a tool to be provided for it and the corresponding manufacturing process can be designed in dependence on one another.

[0008] Description of the invention

[0009] Based on this situation, it is an object of the present invention to be able to simplify the structural design of comparatively complex plant engineering devices, in particular gear housings, in particular cast or welded constructions, with a view to minimizing the use of materials, in particular to be able to optimize them with computer support.The task also consists in enabling at least partial standardization for such devices / constructions, in particular for cast or welded housing constructions, even with individually application-specific specifications, and in recommending the use of standard components in the creation of the construction in an at least partially automated computer-aided manner, in particular also starting from cast constructions for the creation of a welded construction that can be used as an alternative to the cast construction, which can be based at least partially and preferably to the greatest possible extent on standardized and material / energy use-optimized parts.

[0010] The object of the invention is solved by the features of the independent main claims.

[0011] Advantageous embodiments are specified in the subclaims. Where technically feasible, the teaching of the respective subclaims can be combined arbitrarily with the teaching of the other main and subclaims.

[0012] In particular, the object is accordingly achieved by a method for providing an at least partially computer-aided generated welded construction, in particular a welded housing construction for industrial gearboxes, wherein at least one individual / individualizable construction-specific input parameter of at least part of the welded construction is defined manually and / or computer-aided from the following group: size parameters (length, width, height, in particular as external dimension parameters), connection dimension parameters, design parameters;For the at least partially computer-aided definition of the welded structure, a database with a partially variable modular system is used, in which at least two standardized parts are stored, of which at least one standardized part is selected with computer support to form the welded structure. The welded structure is generated with computer support using the at least one selected standardized part and taking into account the at least one individual design-specific input parameter. This enables considerable support of the design process and also delivers high efficiency in linking design steps on the one hand and production-manufacturing processes on the other.

[0013] In this respect, the present invention also provides a type of design guideline or design guideline, with which a welded construction optimized in terms of material use can be easily generated, in particular starting from previously conventionally used cast constructions or other such integral solid constructions (conversion of conventionally non-weldable constructions into welded constructions optimized in terms of material use). The starting point for the implementation of the present invention can be individually selected in each individual case; either a conventional cast construction is optimized as the starting point, or a welded construction that can / should be further optimized is selected as the starting point. In the following, the invention is specifically described with reference to (industrial) gearbox housings (cast or welded constructions).

[0014] The parts to be used for the overall construction can, for example, form a cavity delimited by several side walls of the welded construction (e.g. side wall of a gearbox housing), in which a gearbox can be accommodated, wherein at least one hub strip marks a passage of a shaft through at least one of the side walls.

[0015] The invention also relates to a design concept that enables the implementation of different degrees / depths of digitalization for the design process, in particular depending on the parts catalog provided or maintained (database of usable variable or standardized components / parts). In other words, it is particularly provided that, thanks to a partially variable modular system, a respective designer can determine design options or suggestions in an at least partially computer-aided manner, e.g., relating to a single side wall of an industrial gearbox housing. The invention therefore also relates to a procedure orA design method that enables or at least facilitates the transfer of various user / application-specific requirements, particularly with regard to external dimensions and connection dimensions of the (housing) construction to be created, into an at least partially standardized welded construction in an at least partially automated manner. This can also take into account, among other things, measurement data from an old gearbox (particularly with reference to a replacement gearbox area) and reference data from at least one database for comparable applications, in particular to further optimize the design to the priority requirement in each individual case (particularly to avoid disadvantageous material-intensive oversizing or overdimensioning).

[0016] According to the invention, the welded structure or individual parts of the structure are subdivided into standardized parts and variable parts, particularly into segments and modules (subgrouping), which are assigned to a partially variable modular system (see also Fig. 3). This also facilitates the greatest possible standardization with regard to as many parts of the structure as possible.

[0017] According to the present disclosure, a modular system is understood to mean, in particular, a data set with a plurality of design elements or components, which are available, for example, due to the manufacturing process or can be made available for a specific design task. According to the present disclosure, a partially variable modular system is understood to mean, in particular, a modular system with at least two parts that can be used alternatively to one another and / or with at least one (component) part that is variable with respect to at least one parameter, wherein the modular system additionally also comprises standardized parts, so that a part selection can also be made depending on whether / which standardized parts are available or usable.According to the present disclosure, a digitally integrable kit is to be understood in particular as a kit which at least supports the part selection through computer-aided calculation models (for example also by including digital tools based on artificial intelligence algorithms) and / or provides a link between the design and manufacturing process, in particular by taking into account the capabilities of pre-definable production lines.

[0018] The partially variable modular system can be generated, maintained, or further developed, in particular, through the following processes or steps: (Gearbox) configuration classification (see also step S2 as explained below); query / comparison of inventory and / or performance data (step S4, S4); allocation / assignment of reference parts and variable parts (step S6);

[0019] Recording / consideration of measurement data of at least one existing Z-reference gearbox (step S10).

[0020] Each of these processes can be individually designed in coordination with the desired or selected manufacturing steps in the individual case, in particular / for example with the following reference: production-technical manufacture of individual (standard) parts / segments (see also step or process S200 as explained below); welding-technical production of variable modules (step or process S300); connecting / assembling at least two modules (step or process S400); production-technical completion of the welded housing (step or process S500);

[0021] The following are two examples of the construction and use of the kit, starting with a rather simple example regarding a drilling pattern: In standardized production, so-called 150% models are typically used, particularly to enable the implementation of as many applications as possible without rework. However, this also means that in many applications, there are too many holes / bores in the housing, which, as experience shows, unfortunately have to be closed again during assembly. This results in twofold additional effort: First, more machining work is performed than necessary, and subsequently, the superfluous holes must be manually reworked (removed / closed).However, this previous procedure, which necessitated additional effort, was previously virtually unavoidable based on a non-variable parts library with stored classic design drawings, unless each individual component was manually adapted for each order, even with regard to the drilling pattern. Now, a more complex example, particularly concerning material availability and thus also the manufacturing process following design creation: For example, certain sheet thicknesses are not available in the country of production, which means that a hub bar cannot be manufactured without using a 200 mm thick sheet for burnout. This circumstance can be taken into account (especially on a daily basis) within the framework of the semi-variable modular system described here, particularly thanks to runtime generation (input and / or optimization parameters), in particular by referencing a different segment on the system side.In the present example, this consists of further sub-segments and can, for example, also form another module; these sub-segments are, in this example, available in the country of production or can be manufactured in a material- / energy-efficient manner and can be procured more easily than the 200mm thick sheet. While a burning process is necessary for the 200mm sheet, only an additional welding process is needed to manufacture the computer-generated module from sub-segments. Substituting materials (within defined / predefinable limits, in particular customizable for the kit or the respective application) may require a temporary adjustment of the process (in response to the current market situation or availability), particularly of a welding process, and such a circumstance can also be represented or taken into account in the kit according to the invention.For example, a parameter study within the framework of optimization iterations, e.g., with reduced load in a single application, can easily lead to a design that enables significantly lighter welding, e.g., while maintaining the same sheet thickness. In this way, numerous and diverse synergy effects can be generated.

[0022] According to the invention, the following advantages can also be realized: Material savings through load-adapted design and / or through waste reduction; adaptation to individual requirements thanks to a partially variable modular system, particularly since frequently requested variants can be converted into a standard; digital continuity / consistency of the development, design, and production process; simplified long-term product maintenance (particularly thanks to digital twins); extensive or complete elimination of analog documentation.

[0023] The present invention can be implemented for different types of welded constructions. In the following, specific reference is made to welded housing constructions, in particular in the case of comparatively complex industrial gears, although the corresponding disclosure can also apply to other types of constructions. In this respect, the term “welded housing constructions” implicitly also generally refers to a welded construction created / produced according to the invention (or even just an assembly thereof, in the sense of a partial solution for the entire construction, e.g. just a side wall assembly), and vice versa, unless a specific meaning is explicitly indicated in the respective context. A welded (housing) construction in the narrower sense is to be understood as the construction as such (design data, design plans), and not the welded housing itself manufactured / to be manufactured based on it.The degree / extent of an individual implementation of the present invention in connection with specific production line processes depending on the application can be specifically determined by the person skilled in the art in each individual case, as will be explained in more detail below using individual examples / references.

[0024] The inventive concept is explained here with exemplary reference to specific types of welded structures, in particular with regard to a (structural) breakdown or segmentation of welded housing structures. When referring to welded structures in general, the term can also encompass, for example, at least one of the following types of welded structures or assemblies, in particular in the form of an assembly of an industrial gearbox: engine mount, standard cylinder (in particular with a disc- or ring-like flange supported thereon), brake bracket, swing arm, gear (welded, in particular with diameters in the range of 1 to 5 meters), cone with flange, cylinder with a flange aligned in the radial plane and supported by ribs. An exemplary spectrum of possible applications is also shown in the figures.

[0025] The welded (housing) design is generated using computer-aided generation based on both the at least one selected standardized part and at least one of several variable parts stored in the semi-variable modular system (each selected from a group of variably alternatively usable parts), particularly taking into account at least one individual connection dimension parameter and / or at least one individual size parameter. This also facilitates the efficient handling of computer-aided design templates for highly variable designs that allow for numerous alternatives.

[0026] Further advantageous aspects of the claimed invention are explained below, and furthermore, preferred modified embodiments of the invention are described below. Explanations, particularly regarding advantages and definitions of features, are essentially descriptive and preferred, but not limiting, examples. If an explanation is intended to be limiting, this will be expressly stated.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the welded housing construction is / will be divided into predefined / predefinable segments and modules, or the standardized and / or variable parts stored in the partially variable modular system are / will be divided into predefined / predefinable segments and modules, wherein at least one segment and at least one module are selected for the welded housing construction, wherein the respective segment and the respective module preferably each comprise at least a part of the welded housing construction, in particular each comprise several interconnected / connectable parts, and wherein the database with the partially variable modular system is used for the computer-aided definition / generation of the welded housing construction, in which the segments and modules are / will be stored and from which suitable segments and modules for the welded housing construction are selected in a computer-aided manner,The welded housing design is generated from this modular system with at least partial standardization by incorporating at least one of the predefined standardized / standardizable segments, taking into account at least one individual design-specific input parameter. This provides, not least in the case of an implementation for a very specific design type, e.g., for industrial gear housings of a certain performance class, a valuable information basis over time or the service life, which, on the one hand, can take into account or provide empirical values, but, on the other hand, thanks to the segmentation or modularization, also demonstrates the possible variations, e.g., in the case of slight changes in input parameters or application situations that change according to external conditions.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the partially variable modular system is a digitally integrable modular system in which the individual parts and optionally also the segments and / or modules formed from them (particularly as subassemblies) can be generated at runtime. This also enables a simple integration of new / additional data or parameters, in particular also a scaling or expansion of the spectrum of computer-aided design recommendations, particularly by incorporating digital tools that utilize artificial intelligence algorithms or similarly implemented self-learning measures.According to one embodiment, the partially variable modular system is a digitally integrable modular system in which data maintenance or data usage is carried out by at least one of the following manual or computer-assisted steps: input of target geometry data; configuration classification; query of inventory data and / or comparison with performance data; allocation / assignment of standardized reference parts and variable parts, in particular into individual segments and modules; creation or extension or updating of the partially variable modular system based on a / the frequency distribution of required parts; creation of a digital twin of the welded housing design;.

[0029] Recording / consideration of measurement data from at least one existing reference component or at least one existing reference design; adjustment of a service factor depending on performance data. This provides a beneficial step in creating and utilizing a reliable data / information basis with regard to at least one type of computer-aided design.

[0030] According to one embodiment, individual segments of the design are provided at least partially independent of design and at least partially independent of size to form standardizable / standardized parts of the welded housing construction. This scalability also enables the modular system to be used for very different (gearbox) performance classes.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the segments of the design are at least partially predefined / predefinable (fixed) segments (reference parts or reference part assemblies) and optionally also include variable / alternatively usable segments. According to one embodiment, the modules are predefined modules and / or variably selectable modules. The respective design of the recommended segmentation / modularization depends heavily on the individual case and is application-specific; it can be specified whether the respective segments or modules should also be able to include variable parts. An implementation in which all variants can be considered on the system side can create and utilize the broadest information base.

[0032] According to one embodiment, at least one of the variable segments is selected from a catalog of multiple types of this segment in an automated, computer-assisted manner, in particular based on at least one individual design-specific input parameter. The input parameters can also be taken into account during the parts selection process and / or can continue to be a constraint during modularization, depending on the variation options and the range of alternative solutions.

[0033] According to the present disclosure, a segment is to be understood in particular as a section or region of the overall construction for which a grouping of parts or components leads to a meaningful subdivision of the construction. Segmentation can also be carried out, for example, in a functional or material-related manner. According to the present disclosure, a module is to be understood in particular as a grouping of individual parts or segments that can be advantageously connected to one another in one or more manufacturing processes, in particular also as a grouping for one or more constructions that is easily scalable in size and / or number. In this respect, a module can also be characterized by a specific composition or shape of at least one variable segment or several variable and fixed segments. Both a segment and a module can comprise runtime-generated parts.For example, several modules form a gearbox housing.

[0034] Predefined (fixed) segments that can be used across all designs and, in some cases, across all sizes include lifting eyes or similar external fastening devices. Variable parts that can be created / assigned at runtime from a digitally integrated basic kit (partially variable modular system) include connections for inspection holes or hub strips, or wall / side segments or baseboards.

[0035] It has been shown that the design features used in traditional construction can also be represented and combined in a variable context in the segments or modules described here. The variable components can be continuously expanded, particularly to meet new or temporary requirements.

[0036] The present invention also makes it possible to define a functionally consistent standard for the respective application or design task, based on which additional features can be activated or deactivated, particularly with the inclusion of user input. Individual segments can be loaded or geometrically varied in an at least partially automated manner for a selected set of features. This also enables efficient handling of a large number of parts or a wide range of variations (particularly thanks to the high degree of variability while maintaining a manageable number of parts).

[0037] "Runtime-generated" refers in particular to a system-provided process in which a computer-aided selection from several design alternatives is made, up to the complete creation of the entire target design, in particular depending on at least one user-specific parameter. In other words, the term "runtime-generated" here describes in particular the computer-aided conversion of the design object to be generated (in particular, a gearbox or add-on part) based on the input parameters and using a data basis (semi-variable modular system) available or to be generated for the respective application into the object usable for the envisaged overall design.

[0038] In contrast, in a traditional design process, the individual components of the envisaged overall construction would be assembled by hand, with mismatched individual parts having to be manually optimized. Experience has shown that the component designed or modified for the individual case is / remains non-reusable unless exactly the same use case arises again. This meant that recurring, high levels of design effort were required, even when there were only minimal deviations between individual use cases. Previously, the challenge was to find the specific individual part among, say, 5,000 versions of similar parts. This meant a search and comparison effort that could be greater than a new design.

[0039] The runtime generation described here can avoid or overcome this difficulty, in particular because variable parts can always be continuously recreated computer-aided based on the most current data basis of the kit, so that a direct, current comparison of the individual requirements via the (input and / or optimization) parameters with the data set is possible, in particular computer-aided without any noticeable research effort for the user.

[0040] It has been shown that the segmented construction described here with reference to exemplary embodiments can be identified in a comparatively simple manner based on the previously unusual small parts and the associated weld seams. The modules described here can, for example, be detected in hollow profile construction via mass calibration or via resonance comparison (in particular with the aid of a mode hammer). According to one exemplary embodiment, the welded housing construction comprises at least one variable runtime-generated part from the modular system, which is variable with respect to at least one of the following optimization parameters: length, width, material thickness. This consideration of variability also enables deeper standardization and integration of basic components.

[0041] According to one embodiment, at least one of the variable parts, segments, or modules of the welded housing construction is runtime-generated from the partially variable modular system. This step is performed, in particular, after the parts have been selected, or simultaneously with it. The segmentation can be a desired segmentation, at least partially specified by the user, or a completely computer-generated segmentation recommendation (which may need to be confirmed by the user before modularization is implemented on the system side).

[0042] The present invention can also be implemented in particular in connection with at least one of the following applications:

[0043] 1. A user enters application-specific data, for example, via a web-based frontend, whereby a runtime generation can be triggered by the process according to the invention, and whereby the user is provided with a digital, dimensionally accurate model, and whereby the user can subsequently evaluate this result and, if necessary, initiate a new or alternative query; in this respect, data entry is only required at the beginning of the computer-aided design creation.

[0044] 2. A user wishes to consider special requirements, for example, those not yet addressed in the provided user interface (especially in the frontend); then, an administrator or developer can convert these new requirements into parameters and distribute data input across the individual process steps for runtime generation; in this context, new logic or algorithms can be implemented, which are then available downstream of the main application.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the method comprises a parameter variation of at least one optimization parameter of at least one variable runtime-generated part of the welded housing design, in particular within the framework of an optimization iteration of the welded housing design that can be optionally selected by a user on a parameter-specific basis, in particular to minimize material usage during design creation. This also enables targeted user interaction, in particular in the sense of a plausibility check and for finding further design alternatives, especially with a new weighting of the boundary conditions.

[0046] Considering both input parameters and optimization parameters also makes it possible to more specifically consider the connection dimensions and performance data required in each individual case for the user. The optimization parameters can be selected or at least suggested by the system on an application-specific basis for the user or for the design to be created. This also leads, for example, to a design that is not based on an often oversized standard size, but can be considered an application-specific, optimized special size.

[0047] According to one embodiment, at least one of the modules (or the corresponding subassembly of parts) is created and / or assigned in an automated, computer-assisted manner. In particular, reference can also be made to individual runtime-generated parts or segments.

[0048] According to one embodiment, at least one of the modules forms (or represents) a subassembly of parts for a hub bar of the welded housing construction. This specific example demonstrates the savings potential, particularly for individual assemblies.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the modules each form a subassembly, in particular a runtime-generated, first assignable / assignable subassembly. This type of modularization also enables synergistic coupling with individual production steps that may need to be considered separately (particularly if different production lines and / or different external service providers are to be used for the individual production processes).

[0050] According to one embodiment, individual segments and modules of the welded housing construction are / will be stored in the modular system in a predefined interrelationship / correlation with each other, in particular such that the use of a specific segment requires the use / recommendation of at least one specific module, and / or vice versa. This can also promote further synergy effects and facilitate more extensive standardization, even in the case of significant design variations or deviations.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the at least one customizable design-specific input parameter of at least part of the welded housing design is entered manually via a graphical user interface or queried by the system during the computer-aided creation of the welded housing design for manual input or variation. This also enables, in individual cases, potentially desired user interaction or influence, particularly regarding predefined / predefinable decisions or parameters during the design process.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the method comprises at least one of the following steps, in particular taking into account the following chronology: Input of target geometry data; (gearbox) configuration classification; design of gear ratio and / or gear set; query of inventory data; analysis of and / or comparison with performance data, in particular adaptation of a service factor; creation of the weld housing geometry based on an allocation / assignment of reference parts (predefined, unchangeable parts) and variable parts (in particular alternative orinterchangeable parts); creation, expansion, or updating of a / the partially variable, digitally integrable kit, in particular based on a / the frequency distribution of actually required parts; creation of a digital twin of the welded housing design; creation / provision of manufacturing documents; and / or wherein the method is carried out based on measurement data of at least one existing reference gearbox, in particular by comparing it with actual performance data, in particular within the framework of a computer-aided iteration. These steps also each provide advantages with regard to the creation and use of a reliable data / information basis.

[0053] According to one embodiment, a digital twin of the welded housing design is created and stored in the database. This also expands the possibilities for data, information, or results utilization, particularly after a design process, for example, in connection with production or maintenance / repair.

[0054] The object defined above is also achieved by a method for manufacturing a welded housing, wherein at least one production line / machine is fed with design data generated and provided by one of the methods described above. The production line / machine is preferably coupled to a database (in particular via at least one data transfer interface) in which a partially variable modular system used to generate the corresponding welded housing design is stored. This provides the advantages mentioned above.In this case, the design data generated from the partially variable modular system is preferably included with respect to at least one of the following steps: production-technical manufacture of individual (standard) parts / segments; welding-technical production of variable modules; connecting / assembling at least two modules; production-technical completion of the welded construction.

[0055] The object defined above is also achieved by a welded housing construction manufactured by applying a method described above, wherein the welded housing construction preferably relates to / represents a modularized or modularly constructed welded housing in a segmented design, preferably comprising at least one segment formed from several parts and at least one module generated therefrom. This provides the advantages mentioned above.

[0056] The object defined above is also achieved by a welded housing manufactured by assembling standardized and variable (component) parts, which are selected at least partially with computer support using a method described above and are constructed or virtually assembled together with computer support to form a welded housing structure. The welded housing is preferably a modularized welded housing with a segmented design, preferably comprising at least one segment formed from several parts and at least one module generated therefrom. This provides the advantages mentioned above, particularly directly in the context of manufacturing technology.

[0057] The object defined above is also achieved by a computer program product comprising instructions which, when executed on a computer, cause the computer program product to execute a / the method described above on the computer, in particular a computer program product configured to convert predefined and variable (component) parts selected / to be selected from a / the partially variable modular system in a computer-assisted manner into an at least partially standardized welded construction based on at least one user-application-specific requirement or a corresponding input parameter, in particular with regard to external dimensions and connection dimensions of the construction to be created. This provides the advantages mentioned above. The object defined above is also achieved by using a partially variable modular system stored in a database,in which standardized and variable parts are stored, for providing an at least partially computer-aided generated welded housing construction, in particular for industrial gearboxes, for computer-aided selection of at least one of the standardized parts and / or at least one of the variable parts taking into account at least one individual / individualizable construction-specific input parameter and for computer-aided creation of the welded construction, by computer-aided selection of predefined and variable (component) parts from the partially variable kit based on at least one user-application-specific requirement or a corresponding input parameter, in particular with regard to external dimensions and connection dimensions of the construction to be created, and computer-aided conversion into an at least partially standardized welded construction,especially in a process described above. This provides the advantages mentioned above.

[0058] The object defined above is also achieved by a system configured to carry out a method described above, in particular with the system comprising: at least one server, at least one database with fixed and variable parts stored therein, a / the partially variable module, an input mask or user interface for storing the at least one input parameter (in particular geometry data, inventory data, performance data).

[0059] Short description of the drawings

[0060] The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to preferred embodiments and the accompanying drawings. The wording "figure" is abbreviated to "Fig." in the drawings.

[0061] Fig. 1A, 1B each show a schematic representation of a perspective side view of a component (hub strip) produced based on a design-manufacturing procedure according to the prior art;

[0062] Fig. 2 shows a schematic perspective view of an assembly created based on a design / manufacturing approach according to the prior art (hub strip with partial thickening and housing sidewall components); Fig. 3 shows a schematic side view of a housing sidewall designed / constructed based on a design / manufacturing approach according to embodiments of the invention, in particular with reference to predefined / predefinable segments and modules;

[0063] Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of the design and manufacturing procedure according to the invention with reference to individual manufacturing steps and modules created thereby;

[0064] Fig. 5A, 5B each show a schematic representation of a perspective sectional view and a side view of a component (hub strip) produced on the basis of a design and manufacturing procedure according to the invention;

[0065] Fig. 6 shows a schematic representation of individual steps of a method according to

[0066] Embodiments of the invention, in particular when implemented in connection with at least one manufacturing process;

[0067] Fig. 7 shows a schematic representation of individual interacting components in the

[0068] Implementation of the present invention according to embodiments;

[0069] Fig. 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 8E, 8F each show a schematic representation of a perspective side view of a welded component or a welded construction which can be produced by means of a construction-manufacturing procedure according to the invention;

[0070] Fig. 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D, 9E, 9F, 9G, 9H show, in pairs, a schematic representation and a perspective view, four examples of computer-aided optimization approaches based on an implementation of the present invention;

[0071] Detailed description of the implementation examples

[0072] The described embodiments are merely examples which can be modified and / or supplemented in many ways within the scope of the claims. Each feature described for a specific embodiment can be used independently or in combination with other features in any other embodiment. Each feature described for an embodiment of a specific claim category can also be used correspondingly in an embodiment of a different claim category. The reference numerals are initially described in general terms; individual reference is made in connection with the respective figure description. The reference numeral 100 is used synonymously for both a welded (housing) construction (orthe corresponding design data and their computer-aided image) as well as for a welded housing or similar complex, finally assembled / welded component group that can be produced on this basis.

[0073] A welded housing 1, in particular for industrial gearboxes, has, for example, individual side walls 1.1, which can be provided by side wall assemblies 1.3, whereby these can comprise, for example, the following parts: lifting eyes 3, in particular first lifting eye 3a (left) and second lifting eye 3b (right or opposite); connection 5, in particular for a viewing hole; hub strip 7 (according to conventional construction); further side wall component 8, in particular in the lower edge region of the side wall assembly 1.3; foot / floor strip 9;

[0074] A conventional approach to the design / manufacturing of the hub strip 7 results in a comparatively high amount of waste (7a). Using the partially variable modular system 10 described in more detail below, the design approach and the associated computer-aided generated solution (design proposal) can lead to a noticeable reduction in material and / or energy consumption.

[0075] The partially variable modular system 10 is based, on the one hand, on fixed, predefined parts 11 (non-variable) and, on the other hand, on variable / variable parts 12; within the scope of the present invention, segments 13 and modules 14 can be generated from these using computer support, particularly in the form of design-specific subassemblies. This computer-supported determination of the individual design that makes sense in each individual case, but is at least partially based on standardized material- and energy-optimized parts, is described here in particular with reference to a hub strip 17 (particularly with / made of variable parts), in which, thanks to the inventive approach, a waste (proportion) 17a is noticeably minimized.

[0076] The method according to the invention can be implemented taking into account at least one input parameter P and using at least one server 20 and at least one data storage device 21 (or database), and incorporating a computer program (or product) 30, whereby user interaction is enabled at various stages of the design creation via a graphical user interface 31. The implementation can optionally be carried out by incorporating a production line 40 (or the manufacturing processes that can be implemented thereby) with, for example, a first, second, third, and fourth production line / machine 41, 42, 43, 44. In this way, individualized welded housing designs 100, in particular transmission housing designs, can be achieved while using a large proportion of standardized components (or, in some cases, exclusively).The generated and used data (sets) can also be made available immediately or subsequently for subsequent (manufacturing) processes or for the maintenance of the respective system throughout its entire service life.

[0077] The present invention can be implemented in particular in connection with the following steps: S1 input of target geometry data; S2 (gearbox) configuration classification; S3 design of gear ratio and / or gear set; S4 query of inventory data; S5 comparison with performance data; S6 creation of the welded housing geometry based on an association / assignment of reference parts and variable parts; S7 creation or expansion or updating of a / the partially variable digitally integrable modular system, in particular based on a / the frequency distribution of actually required parts; S8 creation of a digital twin of the welded housing design; S9 creation / provision of production documents; S10 recording / consideration of measurement data of at least one existing reference gearbox (in particular comprising step S10a); S10a analysis / comparison with actual performance data, in particular adjustment of a service factor;

[0078] In this case, an at least partially automated transfer S100 of individually selected component Z-groups into an at least partially computer-aided generated welded housing construction 100 can take place. This can also be optionally coupled with at least one of the following manufacturing processes: S200 production-technical manufacture of individual (standard) parts Z-segments; S300 welding-technical production of variable modules; S400 connecting or assembling at least two modules; S500 production-technical completion of the welded housing;

[0079] In the following, individual aspects of the embodiments shown in the figures will be discussed.

[0080] Figures 1A and 1B illustrate an example of previous (disadvantageous or uneconomical and / or energy / emission-optimizable) material use, particularly with reference to a hub bar (mount for bearing systems). Typically, the hub bar cutout must be made from the side wall, especially in monoblock applications. This involves, for example, a 10-40 mm thick sheet. This design and manufacturing approach therefore results in considerable waste. Figure 1A shows the hub bar. Figure 1B shows the waste portion. Figure 2 illustrates previous approaches to design optimization, with reference to the components of a side wall of a (gearbox) housing. However, these approaches have also been pursued for many other applications / designs.Temporarily low steel prices and already comparatively efficient processing methods have probably offered little reason to invest great effort in waste-optimised designs. In particular, partial thickening or material reinforcement has previously been carried out in the required section of the design, here as an example in a hub strip, in particular in order to be able to reduce the minimum plate thickness. For example, an additional piece of sheet metal is welded onto an output shaft (particularly slow-running ones) in order to be able to noticeably reduce the overall thickness of the remaining hub strip. Apart from that, the design of the construction is particularly based on the requirement of having to produce as few individual parts as possible, in particular in order to keep manual effort as low as possible. Fig.2 illustrates a cutting contour for a side wall of a (gearbox) housing based on this previous approach, wherein this side wall assembly 1.3, which can be realized in particular twice on opposite sides of the housing, is / will be formed from three components: side wall 1.1, hub strip 7, foot / base strip 9.

[0081] However, in many applications, this approach leads to a disadvantageously high proportion of waste and thus to significantly higher energy consumption and CO2 emissions.

[0082] The invention also makes it possible, for example, to transfer various user-specific requirements with regard to external dimensions and connection dimensions into a welded construction in an at least partially automated manner, in particular in an at least partially computer-assisted manner, including a partially variable modular system which, on the one hand, can be maintained in an at least partially computer-assisted manner (data maintenance, updating, inclusion of new boundary conditions), and which, on the other hand, can also be used in an at least partially computer-assisted manner for the creation of the construction or individual components of the final overall construction, wherein optionally an implementation can also take place directly in connection with individual production line steps, in particular in order to be able to take into account special features of individual production lines or materials or processing steps (e.g.Peculiarities when welding certain materials or material combinations (Z-pairings). In this case, the (welded) construction to be created is preferably subdivided into segments and modules, which can be assigned to or removed from a partially variable modular system (Figure 3).

[0083] With reference to Fig. 3, one aspect of the inventive creation of the target design is explained, which enables standardization while still maintaining the greatest possible flexibility in terms of variant diversity, again with reference to a housing side wall assembly. Here, parts 3 (or parts 3a, 3b on opposite sides of the assembly shown in Fig. 3) form fixed segments (or are defined as such within the scope of the present invention), whereby these segments can be used across designs and at least partially across sizes. In contrast, parts 5 (connection viewing hole diameter), 8 (wall component Z assembly), 9 (footer / baseboard or floor assembly), 17 (hub board) each form variable parts (groups) that can be generated from the modular system described here (in particular in the form of a digitally integrable standard basic kit), in particular at least partially computer-aided.In other words: The design is no longer (solely) based on the individual components previously used, but can now also be optimized by combining advantageous segments and modules, particularly with regard to material and energy consumption. This allows for a high degree of variability on the one hand, and standardization and thus also scale synergy effects on the other, particularly when directly linked to the relevant manufacturing process or one that can be realized based on the technological equipment of a particular company (machine part production lines, in-house / outsourced production, or similar aspects). The respective dotted double arrow illustrates the spatial or functional extent of an individual segment.

[0084] Runtime-generated parts can be varied in length, width, and material thickness. Depending on the specifically specified input parameters, an algorithm implementable within the scope of the present invention can also decide on the variable segment to be used (computer-aided selection based on application-specific, definable boundary conditions). For example, part 5 (wall component assembly) can represent a smooth side wall or a variant with irregular, load-adapted bulges (particularly in the style of a sheet pile wall design) or integrate other functional / structural features.The division of the variable and fixed segments according to the invention described here by way of example enables, especially with reference to the housing side wall described here, a significant reduction in waste, in particular for the hub strip, and thus also a noticeable reduction in the CO2 equivalent of the production required for this (comparable advantages in terms of energy, in particular with metallic materials).

[0085] The modules described here can be subassemblies, which can also be created and / or assigned at runtime by the implementable algorithm. The hub bar is used again as an example. For smaller sizes, this can be assigned to the modular system as a variable segment or consisting of fixed parts, or for larger sizes, it can consist of separate variable and fixed segments (see Fig. 2, Fig. 5A, 5B). Different design requirements, levels of detail, and design phases can be taken into account using computer-aided design. For example, the concept of hollow profile design is applied orcomputer-aided in the selection and definition of the individual parts / segments / modules, in particular in order to achieve similar mechanical properties to those of a solid part (if necessary, input parameters relating to stiffness or similar material parameters).

[0086] In the example considered here, the waste can be reduced to the two outer plates according to the invention, while the intermediate pieces can be cut to length from semi-finished products. The shaft bearings can be accommodated, for example, using semi-finished tubular products. The designer can also cross-check the design components, which are at least partially generated using computer-aided technology, in phases and, if necessary, initiate the generation of further alternatives, for example, with different weighting of individual input parameters.

[0087] In Fig. 4, an interaction of the inventive at least partially automated transfer (step S100) of boundary conditions and individual parts into a computer-aided generated (preferably modularized, segmented) welded housing construction with actual manufacturing steps is explained: Step S200 relates to the production-technical manufacture of individual (standard) partsZsegments, in particular, here, for example, plasma cutting and autogenous welding by a manufacturing unit / line (machining process unit); Step S300 relates to a welding-technical production of variable modules, for example, including so-called Instant Robot Programming System (IRPS) technology, e.g., in a single welding machine (compact welding unit); Step S400 relates to the connecting / assembly of at least two modules, e.g.,by a gantry welding system, particularly with the inclusion of offline programming; Step S500 relates to the final production-technical completion of the welded housing, in particular by welding the outline contours of the housing or the individual modules together, either manually or at least partially assisted by a welding robot. The at least partially automated transfer described here (step S100) can accompany the individual production steps or take into account related input parameters or boundary conditions. A respective usable production machine (or a corresponding section of a production line) is illustrated by a block arrow with a dotted line (dotted outline contour).The steps used for the computer-aided creation of the design, on the other hand, are illustrated by dashed lines (dashed lines) (the same differentiation is also made according to the illustration in Fig. 6), whereby these steps can be carried out concurrently with production or completely independently of it in time, which is illustrated by the dashed block arrow S100.

[0088] Figures 5 show different designs of the hub bar 17. In Fig. 5A, particularly in comparison to Fig. 1, a hub bar is shown for the production of which comparatively thin semi-finished products were used (greatest possible reduction of waste), either for reasons of material savings or because sufficiently thick / strong material (particularly sheet metal) was / is not available. The hub bar shown is made up of individual segments. Areas that are not or less heavily loaded are at least partially replaced by hollow spaces, which can save weight and waste. Fig. 5A shows a section through the hub bar also shown in Fig. 5B, whereby the structurally incorporated / taken into account hollow spaces can be seen. Fig. 5B shows both a concrete embodiment of the hub bar 17 and the corresponding waste portion 17a. In particular, in comparison to the section shown in Fig.Compared to the amount of waste shown in Figure 1B (state of the art), this amount of waste is comparatively low / small.

[0089] The segmental design described here also enables a significantly more extensive digitalization and thus also a standardization of the production process(es) for welding products in general (as described here, in particular with reference to comparatively complex gearbox housings), whereby the production / manufacturing can optionally also be carried out with reference to a / the digital twin of the design.

[0090] In the following, the inventive approach to design creation (step S100) can also be carried out by reference to an exemplary sequence of individual steps specifically for a specific welded housing design, wherein the order and / or the summary of individual steps can optionally vary in the respective individual case depending on the implementation of the partially variable digital kit described here: Step S1 Input target data of the target geometry; Step S2 Sorting according to configuration classes; Step S3 Design of wheelset (or, for example, another component of the design) according to the geometry data as a limiting variable; Step S4 Query of inventory data (search for repetitions), whereby inventory data also relates in particular to data of systems already installed or in use, in particular gearboxes; Step S5 Comparison of performance data (optimization), whereby performance data also relates in particular to the operating parameters, e.g.of a gearbox or other system for which the design is generated; (especially at this point, step S10 orSlOa, namely a recording / consideration of measurement data of an existing reference gearbox, and / or a comparison with actual performance data, in particular adjustment of a service factor); Step S6 Creation of the housing geometry, in particular by assigning reference parts (fixed parts) and variable parts; Step S7 Creation of a / the partially variable modular system, for example based on the frequency distribution of parts actually required (in particular for the purpose of company-Zindustry-specific individual adaptation to market needs); Step S8 Creation of a digital twin (in particular with regard to digitally supported service and spare parts measures); Step S9 Creation of the production documents, in particular at a (communicative) interface to a / the corresponding production lineZ unit;.

[0091] Figures 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 8E, 8F show exemplary further welded constructions for which the present invention can be implemented, namely: standard cylinder with flange on both sides and optionally also rib support (Fig. 8A, Fig. 8C), cone with flange on both sides (Fig. 8B), welded gear (Fig. 8D), brake console (Fig. 8E), swing arm (Fig. 8F).

[0092] Figures 9A, 9B, and 9C, 9D and 9E, 9F and 9G, 9H illustrate four examples of optimization approaches based on the present invention, each with reference to a specific one of several design approaches conceivable in the respective application for a standard cylinder with a flange on both sides: Figures 9A, 9B show a first optimization approach, wherein the component is / will be optimized, for example, with regard to material usage and weight; Figures 9C, 9D show a second optimization approach, wherein the component is / will be optimized, for example, with regard to the design or integration of at least one of the flanges; Figures 9E, 9F show a third optimization approach, wherein the component is / will be optimized, for example, with regard to the design of the connection diameter or at least one flange provided for this purpose (in particular the end-face connection of the flange);Figures 9G and 9H show a fourth optimization approach, wherein the component is / will be optimized, for example, with regard to the connection of at least one of the flanges to the cylinder (here, in particular, variation with regard to the internal centering of the cylinder in the flange). Optionally, at least one specific available production welding process can also be considered during these individual optimizations or multiple iterations, as already explained above.

[0093] List of reference symbols

[0094] 1 Welded housing (construction), especially for gearboxes

[0095] 1.1 Side wall

[0096] 1.3 Side panel assembly

[0097] 3 Lifting eye (especially predefined part / segment)

[0098] 3a, 3b first lifting eye, second lifting eye

[0099] 5 Connection sight hole diameter (especially variable part(s))

[0100] 7 Hub bar according to conventional design

[0101] 7a Cutting according to conventional construction

[0102] 8 Wall component Z-assembly (especially variable parts / segments)

[0103] 9 Footboard / floor board or floor assembly (especially variable parts / segments)

[0104] 10 partially variable modular system

[0105] 11 fixed predefined part (not variable)

[0106] 12 variable / variable part

[0107] 13 segments

[0108] 14 Module

[0109] 17 Hub bar (especially with / made of variable parts)

[0110] 17a Blend

[0111] 20 servers with logic / computing unit (especially CPU)

[0112] 21 Data storage, database

[0113] 30 Computer program product

[0114] 31 graphical user interface

[0115] 40 production line or production process(es)

[0116] 41 first production lineZ-machine

[0117] 42 second production lineZ-machine

[0118] 43 third production line Z-machine

[0119] 44 fourth production line Z-machine

[0120] 100 Welded housings (construction), in particular gearbox housings (construction)

[0121] P Input parameters

[0122] SI input of target geometry data

[0123] S2 (gearbox) configuration classification;

[0124] S3 Design of gear ratio and / or gear set

[0125] S4 Query of inventory data;

[0126] S5 Comparison with performance data; 56 Creation of the weld housing geometry based on an assignment / allocation of reference parts and variable parts

[0127] 57 Creation, extension or updating of a partially variable digitally integrable kit, in particular based on a frequency distribution of actually required parts

[0128] 58 Creation of a digital twin of the welded housing design

[0129] 59 Preparation / provision of production documents

[0130] S10 Recording / consideration of measurement data of at least one existing / reference gearbox, in particular comprising step SlOa

[0131] SlOa analysis / comparison with actual performance data, in particular adjustment of a service factor

[0132] S100 automated transfer to computer-aided generated welded housing construction

[0133] S200 production-technical manufacturing of individual (standard) partsZSegments

[0134] S300 welding production of variable modules

[0135] S400 Connecting / assembling at least two modules

[0136] S500 production-technical completion of the welded housing

Claims

Patent claims 1. Method for providing a welded structure (100) generated at least partially by computer, in particular a welded housing structure for industrial gearboxes, wherein at least one individual / customizable design-specific input parameter (P) of at least one part of the welded structure (100) is defined manually and / or by computer from the following group: size parameter, connection dimension parameter, design parameter;characterized in that, for the at least partially computer-aided definition of the welded structure (100), a database (21) with a partially variable modular system (10) stored therein is used, in which at least two standardized parts (11) are stored, of which at least one standardized part (11) is selected by computer to form the welded structure (100), wherein the welded structure (100) is generated by computer using the at least one selected standardized part (11) and taking into account the at least one individual design-specific input parameter (P), wherein the welded structure (100) is generated by computer both on the basis of the at least one selected standardized part (11) and on the basis of at least one of several variable parts (12) stored in the partially variable modular system (10); 2. Method according to claim 1, wherein the welded construction (100) is generated taking into account at least one individual connection dimension parameter and / or at least one individual size parameter.

3. A method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the welded structure (100) is / is subdivided into predefined / predefinable segments (13) and modules (14), or wherein the standardized and / or variable parts (11, 12) stored in the semi-variable modular system are / are subdivided into predefined / predefinable segments and modules, wherein at least one segment and at least one module are selected for the welded structure (100), wherein the database with the semi-variable modular system, in which the segments and modules are stored and from which suitable segments and modules for the welded structure are selected by computer, is used for the computer-aided definition / generation of the welded structure, wherein the welded structure is generated from this modular system by at least partial standardization through the inclusion of at least one of the predefined standardized / standardizable segments. taking into account at least one individual design-specific input parameter (P) is generated.

4. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the partially variable modular system (10) is a digitally integrable modular system in which the individual parts (11, 12) and optionally also segments (13) and / or modules (14) formed therefrom are runtime generated / runtime generable.

5. A method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the semi-variable modular system (10) is a digitally integrable modular system in which data maintenance or data use is carried out by at least one of the following manual or computer-aided steps: input of target geometry data; configuration classification; querying of inventory data and / or comparison with performance data; assignment of standardized reference parts (11) and variable parts (12), in particular into individual segments (13) and modules (14); creation, extension, or updating of the semi-variable modular system (10), in particular based on a frequency distribution of required parts; creation of a digital twin of the welded structure (100); acquisition / consideration of measurement data of at least one inventory reference component or at least one inventory / reference structure; adjustment of a service factor depending on performance data.

6. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein individual segments (13) of the welded structure are provided at least partially independent of design and at least partially independent of size for forming standardizable / standardized parts (11) or groups of parts of the welded structure.

7. Method according to at least one of the aforementioned claims, wherein individual segments (13) of the welded structure are at least partially predefined / predefinable usable segments and optionally also comprise variably / alternatively usable segments.

8. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of variable segments (13) of the welded structure is selected from a catalog of several types of this segment in an automated computer-aided manner, in particular based on the at least one individual design-specific input parameter (P).

9. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein modules (14) of the welded construction are predefined usable modules and / or variably selectable modules.

10. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the welded construction (100) comprises at least one variable runtime-generated part (12) from the modular system (10), which is variable with respect to at least one of the following optimization parameters: length, width, material thickness.

11. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of variable parts (12) or segments (13) or modules (14) of the welded structure (100) is generated from the partially variable modular system (10) during runtime.

12. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises a parameter variation of at least one optimization parameter of at least one variable runtime-generated part (12) of the welded structure, in particular within the framework of an optional parameter-specific optimization iteration by a user concerning the welded structure (100), in particular for minimizing material usage.

13. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one module of the welded structure (100) is created and / or assigned in an automated computer-aided manner.

14. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the modules (14) forms / represents a subassembly of parts for a hub strip of the welded construction (100).

15. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the modules (14) each form a subassembly, in particular a runtime-generated / assignable subassembly.

16. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein individual segments (13) and modules (14) of the welded structure (100) are stored / are stored in the modular system (10) in a predefined interrelationship / correlation to each other, in particular such that the use of a specific segment (13) Use / recommendation of at least one specific module (14) is required, and / or vice versa.

17. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one customizable design-specific input parameter (P) of at least one part (11, 12) of the welded structure (100) is entered manually via a graphical user interface (31) or is queried by the system for manual input or variation during the computer-aided creation of the welded structure (100).

18. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein a digital twin of the welded structure (100) is created and stored in the database (21).

19. Method for manufacturing a welded housing (1), wherein at least one manufacturing system Z-machine (41) is supplied with design data which are generated and provided by means of a method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the manufacturing system Z-machine (41) is preferably coupled to a database (21) in which a partially variable modular system (10) used for generating the corresponding welded construction (100) is stored.

20. Welded construction (100), in particular welded housing construction, produced by applying a method according to at least one of the method claims 1 to 18, wherein the welded construction (100) preferably relates to / represents a modularized or modularly constructed welded housing (1) in segmental construction, preferably comprising at least one segment (13) formed from several parts (11, 12) and at least one module (14) generated therefrom.

21. Welded housing (1), manufactured by assembling standardized and variable (construction) parts (11, 12), which are selected by computer using a method according to at least one of claims 1 to 18 and are assembled together by computer to form a corresponding welded structure (100), wherein the welded housing (1) is preferably a modularized welded housing in segmented construction, preferably comprising at least one segment (13) formed from several of the parts (11, 12) and at least one module (14) generated therefrom.

22. Computer program product comprising instructions which, when the computer program product is executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform a procedure according to to execute at least one of the method claims 1 to 18 on the computer, in particular a computer program product set up for converting predefined and variable (construction) parts (11, 12) selected / to be selected from a / the partially variable modular system (10) into an at least partially standardized welded construction (100) based on at least one user-application-specific requirement or a corresponding input parameter (P) in particular with regard to external dimensions and connection dimensions of the construction to be created.

23. Use of a partially variable modular system (10) stored in a database (21), in which standardized and variable parts (11, 12) are stored, for providing a welded assembly (100) generated at least partially by computer, in particular a welded housing assembly for industrial gearboxes, for the computer-aided selection of at least one of the standardized parts (11) and / or at least one of the variable parts (12) taking into account at least one individual / customizable design-specific input parameter (P) and for the computer-aided creation of the welded assembly (100) by combining predefined and variable (component) parts (11,12) from the partially variable modular system (10) based on at least one user-application-specific requirement or a corresponding input parameter (P), in particular with regard to external dimensions and connection dimensions of the construction to be created, are selected by computer and transferred to an at least partially standardized welded construction (100) by computer, in particular in a method according to at least one of claims 1 to 18.

Images