3391. New Advances In Topology Optimization For Weight Reduction During Preliminary Design

Publication TypeConference Paper
AuthorsSmith, T.; Thomas, H.
Year of Publication2006
Paper Number3391
Conference65th Annual Conference, Valencia, California
Conference LocationValencia, California
Paper Category12. WEIGHT ENGINEERING - COMPUTER APPLICATIONS; 28. WEIGHT REDUCTION - PROCESSES
Pages14
Date Published5/20/2006
Price$7.00
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Key Words12. WEIGHT ENGINEERING - COMPUTER APPLICATIONS; 28. WEIGHT REDUCTION - PROCESSES
AbstractWeight reduction of current designs can be achieved through sizing optimization by reducing thicknesses with constraints on stress, stiffness, frequency, buckling factors, and dynamic loadings. Unfortunately, the weight reduction is usually just a few percent. A more effective approach to weight reduction is to define an optimum topology (layout) during the conceptual design stage. For example, three small diagonal reinforcement ribs may be more effective than two large horizontal ribs if the load path is diagonal. Another example is the number, size, and location of lightening holes. If the number and location of these holes is predetermined, weight reduction can only be achieved through changing the size of the holes. Much greater weight reduction can be achieved if the correct number of holes in the correct locations and of the correct sizes is used. Altair OptiStruct