SPH Structural Layout for Faster Topology Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing topology optimization methods for structural design require numerous nodes/elements, leading to long computer runtimes and difficulty in generating design concepts quickly, especially for complex geometries.

Innovation Solution

Utilizing smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) analysis that employs a mesh-free Lagrangian method, identifying and adjusting SPH particles based on load thresholds to generate lightweight and space-saving designs efficiently.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If traditional topology optimization methods use numerous nodes/elements to achieve accurate design concepts, then manufacturing precision and structural accuracy are improved, but computer runtime increases significantly and productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedesign accuracyVSAvoidcomputer runtime

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional finite element method (mechanics-based mesh system) with smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH), a mesh-free particle-based computational method. This substitution eliminates the need for complex element meshing while maintaining structural analysis accuracy, thereby reducing computational time and improving productivity without sacrificing design precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the fundamental computational parameters from node/element-based discretization to particle-based continuous distribution. By using SPH, the method transitions from a discrete mesh representation to a continuous particle framework, allowing for more efficient computation while maintaining the ability to capture complex geometries and structural behaviors with fewer computational resources.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If traditional finite element analysis is used to generate complex geometries, then manufacturing precision is maintained, but the complexity of the analysis process increases and ease of operation decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegeometry accuracyVSAvoidanalysis complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent substitutes the complex finite element analysis process with smoothed particle hydrodynamics, which uses particle-based calculations instead of mesh-based analysis. This replacement simplifies the operational workflow by eliminating mesh generation, element assembly, and matrix operations, while still achieving accurate complex geometry representation through the natural distribution and interaction of SPH particles.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS20250348626A1Methods and apparatus for smoothed particle hydrodynamics analysis

Publication Date: 2025.11.13 THE BOEING CO

AI summary

Methods and apparatus for smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) analysis are disclosed. A disclosed example apparatus to generate a design of a structure, the apparatus includes machine readable instructions, and at least one processor circuit to be programmed by the machine readable instructions to generate a space with a corresponding constraint and a load, the space including SPH particles, identify ones of the SPH particles carrying a load above a threshold load, and adjust, based on the identification, the SPH particles within the space to generate the design of the structure.