This series of E-learning resources will introduce you to Sizing Optimization with Tosca Structure. Further, the setup of a sizing optimization task for a plastic bottle and the main functionalities required for this workflow will be illustrated.
You can afterwards run through the workshop model on your own (see below). The workflow is created with Abaqus/CAE, but can be easily transferred to other graphical user interfaces supporting the setup of a Tosca Structure sizing optimization task.
The following topics will be addressed in this collection of E-learning modules:
Introduction to Sizing Optimization
In this introductory video, we will discuss different approaches to sizing optimization. Sizing optimization is used to modify the dimensions of a structure to improve its performance.
Specific aspects of the method implemented with Tosca Structure will be explained and typical application scenarios will be introduced.
Model Import and Optimization Workflow
In this video we will present the several steps of an optimization workflow with Tosca Structure.
Further we will discuss models for sizing optimization, import a FE model into Abaqus/CAE and examine it.
Sizing optimization requires shell, plate or circular beam elements in the design area and all relevant loads and boundary conditions to be defined in the model.
Optimization Task and Design Area
This learning module deals with the general setup of a sizing optimization task.
We will create the sizing optimization task for the bottle and define the design area for the task.
A design area for sizing optimization consists of an element group of shell or circular beam elements. During the optimization task shell sizes or beam radii of design elements may be changed to improve the objective.
Objective
This chapter introduces objective functions for sizing optimization with Tosca Structure. These define targets for the optimization task.
The objective in the example is to minimize the weight of a plastic bottle. Thus we have to extract the value for the weight to a design response value and assign it to an objective function.
Constraint
In this chapter we will discuss constraints for sizing optimization with Tosca Structure.
In the example, displacement constraints are considered to ensure the necessary stiffness of the part for the two static load cases simulating internal pressure and grabbing the bottle with a hand.
Geometric Restrictions
This chapter explains geometric restrictions for sizing optimization with Tosca Structure. These allow to consider manufacturing restrictions or restrictions that exist due to neighboring components in the system.
In the example you might first perform a free sizing process where the shell thicknesses of all design elements can be modified independently. The result may be difficult to manufacture.
We will show you how to set up a symmetry constraint and introduce cluster areas in the optimization task to restrict the independent movement of the design elements.
Running an Optimization Task
This learning module discusses the optimization run and how to start the job.
Once Tosca Structure is running, the optimization system interacts with the finite element solver to improve the current model until a stop condition is fulfilled.
In the example we will show you how to validate, submit and monitor an optimization task within Abaqus/CAE.
Postprocessing
In this learning module we will discuss postprocessing of optimization results.
We will show you how to combine and view the results of the optimization.
Finally we will discuss the optimization results for the plastic bottle.
Sizing Workflow Example Plastic Bottle
Necessary files for the sizing optimization workflow described in this E-learning package can be downloaded here:
Abaqus input file for the plastic bottle workflow example
Give it a try - the training team appreciates your feedback!
Want to learn more?
- Look at some other learning resources for Tosca Structure listed in the overview post on Structural Optimization Learning Resources.
- Participate in a Tosca Structure classroom training, e.g. Introduction to Tosca Structure.
- Ask your education partner for access to Tosca Structure courseware on Companion Learning Space or the academia platform.
Look here for more SIMULIA Learning Resources for other SIMULIA products (including 3DEXPERIENCE).
