Step 5: Fine-tune the design
- Working Model Shape is used to fine-tune the design created in the
previous step. The design criteria specify the maximum stress must be less
than 60 ksi (the allowable for the material is about 70 ksi). This
constraint will apply to the entire model. The objective is to minimize
the total volume (initially 12.3 in3) of the part and 5 design variables
are defined for the base thickness and dimensions of the vertical member.
Working Model Shape converged to an optimal solution in 4 design cycles. The stress constraint was satisfied with a maximum stress of about 60 ksi and the total volume was reduced by 30% (to a final volume of 8.7 in3). Using Working Model Shape, the parametric geometry is automatically altered to this final design, shown in Figure 5.
Figure 5: The parametric part after shape optimization.
 |
|
 |
|||
| Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | Step 4 | Step 5 | Step 6 |