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Obtaining a new product, in the current stage, can no longer be achieved by waiting for it by chance, as it happened in the past, but by systematically, perseveringly, and scientifically looking for it. This paper is a case study on the application of a systematic methodology for generating solution concepts in the case of the PVC and AL joinery accessories industry. Considering that one of the requirements was that the new connector part should mount on several standardized profiles, by approaching the TIPS tools kit, a modular connector with superior strength characteristics (3%) and low complexity was obtained. Also, by rethinking the product, a reduction of 15% of the required material (PA type 6) was obtained, as well as a decrease by approximately 11% of the tools cost necessary for the manufacturing process. For the preliminary evaluation of the new product, finite element analysis was necessary and the SolidWorks Simulation 2019 software was used. The numerical data was compared with the experimental data provided by the beneficiary, the differences being within the limit of 3.5%. These data encourage the beneficiary to study in detail the new product from several points of view, considering the option of introduction into manufacturing.

This paper aims to determine the influence that water jet cutting parameters have on dimensional accuracy. The input parameters of this study were the workpiece material, that was made from 19 mm thick S235JR steel alloy plate, using a medium to high cutting pressure (2000, 2500, and 3000 bar), with a variable standoff distance (1, 2, and 3 mm) and a programmed quality of the cut from Q1 to Q5. A statistical interpretation of the results was conducted, and the experimental plan was obtained using the Response Surface Method. The samples were analysed for entrance and exit width of cut and kerf angle. A total number of 45 samples were measured, and the results were interpreted using an ANOVA analysis for statistical significance (p-value) and fit statistics (R2). The results have shown what values are optimum for the input parameters to obtain precision cutting quickly.

Abrasive water jet machining is an emerging non-conventional technology widely used in different industrial sectors due to its multiple economic and environmental benefits. The quality of processed surface depends on process parameters, abrasive material properties and processed material properties and is mainly expressed by surface roughness, shape and dimensional accuracy of cut, presence of striations and/or burr. The current paper aims to present the influence of water jet pressure and traverse speed on the quality of processed surfaces in the case of AL-EN AW 2017A - T4 aluminium alloy abrasive water jet cutting.