Example 8: Topology Design with Casting Fabrication Constraints
Use the model lever_arm.prt for this example.
Description
This example demonstrates how to use topology optimization to design a light and stiff structure.
Highlighted features
Min Strain Energy, Mass Fraction constraint, Filling (casting) fabrication constraint
Optimization problem statement
The following optimization problem will be created and solved:
• Objective:
◦ Minimize Strain Energy
When the objective is to minimize strain energy, the purpose is to get the stiffest structure under the given load for the allowable amount of material.
• Subject to:
◦ Mass fraction <= 0.2
Analysis
The example contains one analysis. The loads/constraints are shown in the image below:
Mesh control
Maximum element size: 15 mm
Topology region
• References:
The component, excluding volume region 1 and 2, as shown in the image below.
• Init. mass fraction: 0.2
When mass fraction is used as a constraint, it is recommended to use the same constraint bound value as the initial mass fraction value.
• Fabrication constraints:
◦ Filling along the Z axis of coordinate system WCS
◦ Minimum member size: 30 mm
It is recommended to set the Minimum member size to at least twice that of the mesh element size.
◦ Spread fraction: 0.5
Design objective
Minimize Strain Energy
Design constraints
Mass fraction <= 0.2
Optimization study
The study refers to the defined topology region, design objectives, and constraints
Advanced settings:
• For analysis output files, only the first and last cycle are requested.
• Use default settings for all other analysis and design parameters.
Topology Result
• Topology density isosurface
• Topology element density
Geometry Reconstruction
• Tessellated model
• Solid model