optistruct

abhijeet borade

what is purpose of minimum member size and maximum member size used in topology optimization parameter ?

 

Altair Forum User

There are two parameters related to size in Topology Optimization, namely 'Minimum Member size & Maximum Member size'

 

One challenge with post-processing topology optimization results is that the results may have several intermediate density elements or checkerboard patterns which can be interpreted either as solid members or as a void. If these semi-dense elements are interpreted as thin members, the final design is harder to manufacture.

 

OptiStruct offers the Minimum & Maximum Member Size control method which provides some control over member size in the final topology designs by defining the least & maximum dimension required in the final design. It helps achieve a discrete solution by eliminating the intermediate density elements and checkerboard density pattern, resulting in a discrete and better-reinforced structure, which is easier to interpret and also easier to manufacture.

 

Guide lines for Member size values -

 

1. Minimum Member Size 

 

It is recommended that the MIN-DIM value be

 

a) 3 times the average element size for proper mesh alignment

b. 2 times the average element size if mesh is not properly aligned.

 

 

2. Maximum Member Size 

 

The MAX-DIM value will be 2 - 2.5 times MIN-DIM value  (Minimum Member Size)