Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method according to which a user is trained in flange and gasket assembly. A simulator models placing a gasket in between a pair of flanges and inserting a plurality of bolts into the pair of flanges. The user simulates tightening one or more of the plurality of bolts, in accordance with a particular tightening pattern, in order to create a proper seal, although the user may tighten the bolt in any order. The simulator provides simulated stress values for each bolt in the plurality of bolts to guide the user in proper flange and gasket assembly. The simulated stress values are based on an empirical, mathematical model and take into account elastic interactions between bolts. The assembly training ends when the user completes the tightening pattern or makes an irreversible error. The user is then provided with a score.

Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method according to which a user is trained in flange and gasket assembly. A simulator models placing a gasket in between a pair of flanges and inserting a plurality of bolts into the pair of flanges. The user simulates tightening one or more of the plurality of bolts, in accordance with a particular tightening pattern, in order to create a proper seal, although the user may tighten the bolt in any order. The simulator provides simulated stress values for each bolt in the plurality of bolts to guide the user in proper flange and gasket assembly. The simulated stress values are based on an empirical, mathematical model and take into account elastic interactions between bolts. The assembly training ends when the user completes the tightening pattern or makes an irreversible error. The user is then provided with a score.