With structural optimization, load-compatible component structures can be calculated. Based on any number of load cases and a given installation space, components in which only a minimum amount of material has to be usedcan thus be developed simulatively. Therefore the integration of structural optimization is an essential part of the development of lightweight components.
In addition to the pure optimization of the shape of the components, the topology optimization, also wall thicknesses, beading or fiber orientations can be optimized.
Benefits of structural optimization
- Finding a component structure suitable for the load
- Optimization of the deformation behavior
- Reduction of component deformation
- Reduction of weight and material usage
- Elimination of natural frequencies
- Optimization of beaded structures
Structural optimization and lightweight engineering
Our engineers are specialized in deriving the corresponding comparative loads for a targeted structural optimization from the multitude of requirements placed on a component.
The goals of structural optimization differ greatly
In addition to the development of load-compatible component structures and the increase of component stiffness, the elimination of natural frequencies or the optimization of the fiber layers in FRP components are also part of the objectives of structural optimization. Based on the many projects in which we have used structural optimization, we have the necessary know-how to derive a geometry from the calculation results that remains mechanically optimal but can still be implemented with minimal costs.
Simulation software for structural optimization
For FE-calculations, we use the following programs:
- Marc/Mentat
- Abaqus
- HyperMesh
- Radioss
- OptiStruct
- MotionSolve
- Digimat
- Matlab/Simulink