Design is not just using the conventional tools every time but it is an interactive process of creating a 3D Model> Simulation > make changes>Simulation? Finalization.
When we design we usually create parts, analyze them and see if they are safe or not. And if the model is not safe then we add or remove the material to make them safe. But in certain applications weight is an important parameter. We have to increase the strength of the part but keep the weight as low as possible. In such cases, Function Generative Design plays an important role.
Here is brief information about the Function Generative Design app and all the steps involved.
Steps | Description | |
|---|---|---|
| Import Initial Design | To start with the optimization, first, you will need to create a model based on your design considerations, and then you can optimize that design. | |
| Create Design Space | Design space is a conceptual geometry, which captures the requirement and mechanical function of a component. Design space is to create a solid model where you can allow material for stress flow and load distribution. Optimization will take place in your Design Space only. | |
Configure the model 1. Create Partitions 2. Connections | After creating the design space, you need to set it up for further operations by creating partitions, defining functional regions, and applying materials. In addition, you can provide virtual connections to provide the links of the part to the assembly. Partitions are created where your part will be assembled with the main assembly using bolts or any other connection type, partitions allow for preserving the material at the connecting surface. (Please see the screenshot) Apply Connections such as bolted connection, sprint, etc, depending on your design. | |
Set up the Analysis Model. 1. Apply Loads and Restraints 2. Create Load Cases | Once the meshing setup is complete, you can define inputs for analysis. An analysis is the general-purpose finite element model simulation, that includes loads, restraints, and properties applied to mimic the real-world use of a model. It accounts for internal properties such as material density, elasticity, and stiffness. It also applies external conditions. For example, you can apply loads due to gravity, pressure, and torques. You can add restraints (boundary conditions) such as clamps and ball joints. You can create multiple load cases for various combinations of loads and restraints depending on your design considerations. (See the attached images for more information) | |
| Validate the Setup | It basically checks if the analysis is correctly set or not. Just run it and it will show you the status and suggest you to correct the model if the setup is wrong. | |
Optimize your Design | Topology optimization is a method that generates a new design proposal within the concept phase. The aim of topology optimization is to calculate an optimized material distribution by removing and adding material in a specified Design Space, under consideration of boundary conditions (optimization constraints, structural boundary conditions, and loads). So here you can see that the material has been removed where there is no stress concentration. |
📢 To learn in detail you can visit the EDU-Space Course details are given below 👇:
📢 (Please note: Some references are taken from the below course in order to keep the interpretation same)
For More information you can visit user assistance: Functional Generative Design
FEA Friday Functional Generative Design SIMULIA Optimization EDU
