Parametric design of automotive ball joint based on variable design methodology using knowledge and feature-based computer assisted 3D modelling

Ball joints used in steering system of vehicles have hundreds of different types and configurations. The use of traditional design methods causes loss of time and increases design cost. In this study, a new platform called as “parametric design platform” has been developed for the parametric design of a ball joint using three dimensional (3D) modelling technique to reduce design time and cost. The developed platform can be used for the design of part and assembly using top-down design approach. The major advantage of the proposed system is that the system can parametrically change assembly, part, part material, feature, geometry and dimensions in a programmable environment. This provides a wide range of alternative systematic solutions to design every parts of ball joints. Whereas the current parametric systems, allow changes only in dimensions or parts of assembly in a library. The suggested approach and the platform have been tested to validate ball joint designs. The results demonstrated the practicability and validity of the proposed parametric system.