Column cross section (non-uniform) optimization for buckling

Alim

Hello,

I am looking for the column buckling case with one end fixed and another one free with a normal force. First I want to start with a model of a uniform cross-section column.

Then I need to optimize the cross-section of the column for buckling while keeping the volume same as of uniform column and see how the buckling load has increased.

I want to know if this can be done in OptiStruct?

Gildas_GUILLY

Hello Alim,
Yes this is pretty standard optimization study.
Depending on either you are using 1D modeling or 2D/3D modelling, this will respectively be a Size (numerical parametric) or Shape (mesh-deformation parametric) optimization.
Both responses you will need (volume and buckling response) are standard OptiStruct responses.

I would recommand you look at tutorials you can find in the OptiStruct help manual (OS-T 4xxx for Size optimization, OS-T 5xxx for Shape optimization).
Note that in order to do Shape optimization you will need to know how to do morphing in HyperMesh.

Gildas