CES software refers to the Cambridge Engineering Selector (CES), a specialized, Windows-based PC toolkit developed collaboratively by Granta Design Ltd. and the Cambridge University Engineering Department. Its primary function is to facilitate the comprehensive evaluation of information crucial for various aspects of engineering design.
Understanding the Cambridge Engineering Selector (CES)
The Cambridge Engineering Selector (CES) is not just a database but a sophisticated software environment designed to support engineers and designers in making informed choices, particularly concerning materials and processes. It consolidates vast amounts of technical data, allowing users to analyze, compare, and select the most suitable options for their specific design requirements.
Core Purpose and Functionality
At its heart, CES software aims to streamline the decision-making process in engineering design by providing a systematic way to evaluate diverse types of technical information. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Material Properties: Accessing and comparing mechanical, thermal, electrical, and chemical properties of a wide range of materials.
- Process Information: Evaluating manufacturing processes based on their capabilities, costs, and environmental impacts.
- Environmental Data: Assessing the sustainability metrics, such as embodied energy, CO2 footprint, and recyclability of materials and processes.
- Cost Analysis: Providing data to understand the economic implications of different material and manufacturing choices.
Key Features and Benefits
The design of CES software emphasizes user-friendliness and powerful analytical capabilities, which contribute significantly to efficient and effective engineering design.
- Systematic Selection: It enables engineers to define design requirements (e.g., strength, weight, cost, temperature resistance) and then systematically filter and rank materials or processes that meet those criteria from extensive databases.
- Graphical Tools: Often includes charts and diagrams (like Ashby charts) that allow for quick visualization of material property trade-offs, aiding in conceptual design.
- Data Management: Provides a structured way to manage and access complex engineering data, ensuring consistency and reliability.
- Educational Tool: Widely used in academic institutions to teach students the principles of material and process selection.
- Decision Support: Transforms raw data into actionable insights, helping designers optimize product performance, cost-effectiveness, and environmental sustainability.
Who Uses CES Software?
CES software is a valuable tool for a broad spectrum of professionals and academics involved in engineering and product development.
- Product Designers: To select optimal materials and manufacturing routes for new products.
- Materials Engineers: For researching and comparing material properties for specific applications.
- Mechanical Engineers: To evaluate components based on their mechanical performance and manufacturing feasibility.
- Sustainable Design Specialists: To assess and minimize the environmental impact of products and processes.
- Researchers and Educators: For data analysis, teaching material science, and engineering design principles.
Summary of CES Software
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cambridge Engineering Selector (CES) |
| Platform | Windows-based PC toolkit |
| Primary Use | Evaluation of information for engineering design, including material and process selection |
| Developed By | Granta Design Ltd. in conjunction with Cambridge University Engineering Department |
| Key Benefits | Informed decision-making, optimized design, data-driven material/process selection, sustainability analysis |
In essence, CES software serves as a critical bridge between theoretical engineering knowledge and practical design application, empowering users to make data-driven decisions that impact the performance, cost, and environmental footprint of designed products.
