Advances in Virtual Prototyping of Mechanical Systems for Design and Manufacturing

Dear Colleagues,

Virtual Prototyping (VP) refers to the development of digital models that simulate the behavior and performance of physical systems, allowing evaluation and testing before any physical prototype is built. Utilizing tools such as Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE), as well as other advanced modeling technologies, VP is a core pillar of modern competitive design and manufacturing.

VP fosters collaboration by streamlining feedback loops and bridging the gap between product design and manufacturing. It accelerates time-to-market by identifying design flaws and production issues early in the life cycle, while also supporting rapid iterations and modifications. By enabling comprehensive multiphysics simulations, VP contributes to improved product quality. Furthermore, it significantly reduces costs by reducing the need for expensive physical prototypes and minimizing downtime caused by trial-and-error setups on the shop floor. In addition, VP promotes innovation by encouraging risk-free experimentation and enhances the reliability of design processes by leveraging optimization techniques to effectively manage system parameters.

This Special Issue aims to highlight the latest advancements in VP for product and production system design, along with optimization techniques and the integration of digital twins within the framework of Industry 4.0, providing a platform for researchers and practitioners to disseminate their latest findings and innovations in these fields.

Research topics that are of interest for this Special Issue include, but are not limited to:

• Process modelling, simulation, and optimization;
• Product modelling, simulation, and optimization;
• Multiphysics modeling;
• Assembly simulation;
• Computer-aided tolerancing;
• Digital manufacturing twin;
• Integrated design and process optimization;
• Ergonomic and human factors simulation;
• Virtual commissioning;
• Resource efficiency;
• Energy saving;
• Integrated part and process design;
• Industry 4.0 applications;
• Case studies and applications in specific industries.

Dr. Alberto Vergnano
Prof. Dr. Giovanni Berselli
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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