Computer Decision Support System for Resource-Saving Polymer Extrusion Design Based on Virtual Models

A computer decision support system for the design and change-over of production of multi-assortment polymeric materials has been developed. The system helps to solve the problems of choosing hardware design and technological modes of extrusion, ensuring resource saving in production. The system includes a subsystem for selecting the brand of the extruder and assembling a 3D model of the modular screw of the extruder, a subsystem for synthesizing a mathematical model for calculating the extrusion efficiency indices depending on the operating parameters of the extruder, a database of types of polymeric materials, a database of brands of extruders, a database of technological regulations of extrusion. 3D models of elements of screw extruders of various types, rules of placement and layout of 3D models of elements when assembling a 3D screw model, mathematical models of physical processes in the channels of screws and heads of extruders are the core of the system. The system allows you to select the brand of the extruder, form the configuration of the extruder screw and determine the operating parameters of extrusion, at which the specified requirements for the quality of the extrudate, throughput and specific energy consumption of the extrusion are satisfied. Testing of the system has been carried out according to the data of industrial extrusion and calendering productions of multi-assortment polymeric films for packaging food and medicines. The test results have confirmed the operability of the software. They have showed an increase in production efficiency due to a reduction in defective products (non-returnable waste), energy saving, and a reduction in the time of change-over of production on new tasks.