Is it possible to run both free-size and topology optimization at the same time?

Cristobal Hiche

I have a model composed of a composite structure defined through various PCOMP/PCOMPP 2D shell components. I also have a metallic component imbedded to the composite structure.

I was wondering if you can run an optimization simultaneously, specifying a free size design variable for the 2D composite components and a topology design variable for the metallic component?

I've not been able to find the answer within the Altair documentation and it would be interesting to understand if Optistruct is capable of that.

Thanks in advance!

Ben Buchanan

Hey Cristobal,

 

I don't think there is anything that will prevent you from running that in the software.  Of course you want to be careful how you set it up.  If the sensitivity of the optimization isn't balanced it could end of giving you non-sensical results like completely removing one or the other.