A Shape Preserving Topology Optimization Method Considering Overhanging Feature Constraints

Abstract

The invention discloses a shape-preserving topology optimization method considering the constraints of overhanging features, divides the model into voxelized grids, and constructs a shape-preserving unit that can keep the shape of the outer surface of the structure unchanged based on the set of voxel units; Additive manufacturing overhang feature process constraint requirements, calculate the overhang angle and horizontal distance of the conformal unit, and define the overhang function of the conformal unit, sort the conformal units according to the overhang function value from small to large; apply simulation increase to the conformal unit , Reduce the overhanging feature constraints of the operation to ensure that no new overhanging structures will be generated during the topology optimization process; during the iterative process, perform the increase and decrease operations on the conformal elements according to the sorting order. This method can reduce the overhanging structure of the inner layer of the structure that does not meet the self-supporting requirements of additive manufacturing while keeping the shape of the outer layer of the structure unchanged, and improve the printability of the topology optimized design structure.

Description

technical field [0001] The invention belongs to the technical field of structural optimization design oriented to additive manufacturing, and in particular relates to a shape-preserving topology optimization method considering overhang feature constraints. Background technique [0002] Additive Manufacturing (AM) technology has attracted widespread attention in recent years and has developed rapidly. Different from traditional cutting manufacturing, additive manufacturing uses the method of adding materials layer by layer and accumulating forming to complete the rapid manufacturing of parts, which largely eliminates the influence of the geometric complexity of parts on model manufacturing. Nevertheless, the additive manufacturing process itself still has certain process constraints on the optimal design of parts. When there are overhanging areas in the 3D part model, it is difficult to provide sufficient supporting force and heat transfer path because the lower layer is an ...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

When there are overhanging areas in the 3D part model, it is difficult to provide sufficient support and heat transfer paths because the lower layer is an overhanging area, making the structure prone to collapse or warping

Although adding support structures can solve such problems to a certain extent, too many support structures mean additional material loss, increased forming time and post-processing work, and may also affect the internal stress distribution of the part

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