September 2019
- Picture of the Month
September 2019 – Structural optimization with diatom combs
The examination of possible structural optimization is an essential part in the use of lightweight design. A promising approach to structural optimization is the use of bionic structures coupled with evolutionary algorithms.
As an example of the potential of this optimization strategy, a lightweight design was developed for a blind flange with the aid of diatom combs. Diatoms are a type of algae and occur in nature in many different types and structures. The different shapes of the diatom can be examined with the help of parameterizable CAD drawings and FEM simulations. The geometric parameters are optimized by an evolutionary algorithm that minimizes the weight and occuring stresses in the component. With this method it was possible to reduce the weight of a blind flange by ca. 50% in comparison to an conventional blind flange under same loads. A first demonstrator was 3D printed in PLA.