Path: Visual machine configuration > Rating of element properties

SIGMA performs element evaluations before the current simulation. These ratings are based purely on geometric properties and are used to characterize an element based on the defined geometric data.

Figure: Element ratings of the respective machine configuration

The frame displays all available machine elements in the upper area in the form of a tabular representation. The columns show seven different element properties in addition to the element name and the respective type:

• Lead effect
• Product transportation
• Residence time effect
• Channel volume effect
• Self wiping effect
• Mixing effect
• Shear effect

Figure: Element rating of a single element

The properties are automatically determined by SIGMA in the background during element definition but can be customized by the user. To do this, double-click on the respective element to open it and then set the properties individually.

Figure: Choices of rating properties

A choice box allows to select six levels as property values from 'very low' to 'very high' and 'neutral'. The property 'autom. defined' means that SIGMA performs the element evaluation independently. If 'not defined' is selected, SIGMA has no automatic element evaluation for this element type. In parentheses, the properties specified by SIGMA are displayed. Self-modified data are then displayed in bold in the table.

In the lower part of the main window (Figure: Element ratings of the respective machine configuration), it is possible to color the machine configuration according to a selected element property. For this purpose, the user opens the 'Category' selection box and can select the desired element property.

The element evaluation currently has no influence on the simulation. In the future, they will be used to support the user in the process setup and to check whether certain elements in a screw subzone (e.g.: plasticizing zone) are useful or not based on various rules.

The coloring of the individual element evaluations can be set individually in the options.

Figure: Options - Settings for colorings of rating properties