Lattice Optimization: Shaping Stronger, Lighter, and Smarter Designs using Altair Inspire
Altair EmployeeOptimizing product performance while cutting down on material usage has become a crucial task in the constantly changing world of engineering and design. Striking a balance between strength, weight, and structural integrity can be challenging when using traditional design methods. However, the development of lattice optimization has completely changed how engineers approach design problems. This article covers the concept of lattice optimization and explains how the software Altair Inspire enables designers to produce lightweight yet durable structures.
Lattice Structures: Engineering Marvels
Lattice structures, sometimes referred to as lattice geometries or lattices, are intricate patterns of connecting parts that create a repeating framework. These structures, which draw their inspiration from nature, come in a variety of forms, like the intricate web of a spider or the micro-architecture of bones. Lattice structures have the ability to improve the mechanical characteristics of materials, resulting in components that are stronger, lighter, and more effective. Lattice structures are used for many design applications (aerospace, biological engineering, mechanical engineering, etc.) because of the excellent properties including the light-weighting, high specific strength and stiffness, dissipate heat, and so on.
Lattice Optimization:
Lattice optimization fills the design space with an optimized lattice structure. It is essentially a traditional topology optimization where solid elements are replaced with lattice beams. Lattice optimization, driven by user-friendly software like Altair Inspire, has opened new horizons in design and engineering. With Altair Inspire, you can optimize each individual beam, creating a lattice structure that fits your design space perfectly, without repeating the same pattern over and over. Lattice structures are mainly used in 3D printing, and they offer several benefits for designing things. Because of their many interconnected parts, optimized lattice designs tend to be more stable and handle heat better. They are also lightweight and can help reduce the overall weight of the object you're designing.
On the left, we have surface-based lattices, in particular TPMS surfaces. In the center, we have a strut-based lattice and on the right, we see a planar or 2.5d lattice.
Lattice patterns are especially useful in medical uses like implants, since their porous structure encourages the growth of bone and tissue. Another important advantage of lattice structures is their ability to absorb energy effectively. This quality makes them a great fit for items like helmets and body armor that are needed to absorb impact energy. By spreading out the force of an impact, lattices lower the chances of severe injuries. Additionally, lattices can help decrease vibrations and reduce noise in different situations.
Let us have a look at how Lattice Optimization can be carried out using Altair Inspire software.
Follow the entire tutorial (Lattice Optimization using Altair Inspire) here - https://2022.help.altair.com/2022/inspire/en_us/topics/inspire/structure/optimization_lattice.htm
With the help of Altair, designers may utilize Additive Manufacturing to explore the endless potential of lattice structures, creating parts that are optimized for a variety of purposes, including thermal management, energy absorption, light-weighting, and the production of medical implants.
Altair Global Student Contest:
This year’s Altair Global Student Contest provides an opportunity for students/engineers/designers to showcase their creativity and technical prowess in designing lightweight structures. By leveraging Altair Inspire, students can explore different optimization techniques and contribute to the advancement of design concepts that prioritize efficiency, strength, and sustainability.
So, are you up for the challenge? Join the Altair Global Student Contest today and let your imagination soar. To know more about the contest, visit this link - https://web.altair.com/global-student-contest-2023
Apply for the free Altair Student Edition license here - https://altairuniversity.com/free-altair-student-edition/