OptiStruct is a proven, modern structural solver with comprehensive, accurate and scalable solutions for linear and nonlinear
analyses across statics and dynamics, vibrations, acoustics, fatigue, heat transfer, and multiphysics disciplines.
The OptiStruct Example Guide is a collection of solved examples for various solution sequences and optimization types and provides
you with examples of the real-world applications and capabilities of OptiStruct.
This section presents optimized topology examples generated using OptiStruct. Each example uses a problem description, execution procedures, and results to demonstrate how OptiStruct is used as a design concept tool.
The suspension bridge topology is an optimal structure generated under a distributed load. A fine mesh is generated
to simulate the design space and loads are applied. The distributed load forms a single load case.
The air conditioner bracket is an optimal topology structure generated under both linear static stiffness and modal frequency
response. Shell elements are used to ensure that the bracket is manufacturable using a casting process.
Multi-Model Optimization can be used in applications that require optimizing parts of different sizes. This is accomplished
by using the SCALE continuation line on linked DTPL and DSIZE entries in the models on which the scaled design is to be applied.
Multi-Model Optimization is demonstrated in this Excavator example using Topology optimization design variables that are
linked between the two models.
Demonstrates topology optimization of a V-bracket with RADOPT technique, using OptiStruct. RADOPT is Radioss optimization using OptiStruct. The equivalent static load method (ESLM) is used to perform the optimization run here.
Topology optimization of a cylinder block with a bore will be performed. The cylinder block is modeled using first
order solid (Hexa and Penta) elements.
Multi-Material Optimization (MMO) can be used in applications that require optimizing the parts of different materials.
This method offers an initial concept-level look at material placement within the structure, where multiple materials
can be evaluated.
Multi-Material Optimization (MMO) can be used in applications that require optimizing the parts of different materials.
This method offers an initial concept-level look at material placement within the structure, where multiple materials
can be evaluated.
This section presents size (parameter) optimization examples solved using OptiStruct. Each example uses a problem description, execution procedures, and results to demonstrate how OptiStruct is used in size optimization.
This section presents shape optimization example problems, solved using OptiStruct. Each example uses a problem description, execution procedures and results to demonstrate how OptiStruct is used in shape optimization.
The examples in this section demonstrate how topography optimization generates both bead reinforcements in stamped
plate structures and rib reinforcements for solid structures.
The examples in this section demonstrate how the Equivalent Static Load Method (ESLM) can be used for the optimization
of flexible bodies in multibody systems.
The OptiStruct Example Guide is a collection of solved examples for various solution sequences and optimization types and provides
you with examples of the real-world applications and capabilities of OptiStruct.
This section presents optimized topology examples generated using OptiStruct. Each example uses a problem description, execution procedures, and results to demonstrate how OptiStruct is used as a design concept tool.
Topology optimization of control arm is solved for:
Analysis Type
Linear Static
SPC
Force and Moment
Optimization
Topology
Objective: Min Volume
Subject to: Local stress constraint
New stress responses for Topology and Free-Size optimization can be defined via the
DRESP1 Bulk Data Entry. The Stress Responses are internally aggregated
using the Stress-NORM approach to maintain the number of created responses at a reasonable
number.
The Stress-NORM method is used to approximately calculate the maximum value of the stresses
of all the elements included in a particular response. This is also scaled with the stress
bounds specified for each element. Therefore, to minimize the maximum stresses in a
particular element set, the resulting Stress NORM value is internally constrained to a value
lower than 1.0. For more information on the Stress-NORM method, refer to the
DRESP1 Bulk Data Entry in the Reference Guide.
FE Model
Elements Types
CTETRA
RB2
The linear material properties are:
MAT1
Young’s Modulus
1.6E5 MPA
Poisson's Ratio
0.25
Initial Density
7.1E-9 Mg/mm3
Results
Figure 2. Element Stress Plot
OptiStruct provides the Element density information for all of
the iterations (Figure 3 and Figure 4). In
addition, OptiStruct will also show Displacement and von Mises
stress results of a linear static analysis for iteration 0 and iteration 44 (Figure 2). Figure 3. Element Density Contour Figure 4. Element Density Contour (different view)