Steady Lattice Structure Design via Hub Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Designing and manufacturing complex lattice structures in additive manufacturing is computationally challenging due to geometric complexity, making it difficult to represent and analyze their characteristics such as mass properties effectively.
Innovation Solution
The method involves constructing a lattice structure by creating a set of balls and connecting them with beams, where each beam is divided into half-beams, and the union of each ball and its connected half-beams defines a hub, allowing for the computation of integral properties using closed-form expressions and displaying the structure using swirling curves for visualization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional systems are used to design complex lattice structures, then manufacturing capability is maintained, but computational complexity increases and design efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The lattice structure is segmented into repeating unit cells that can be independently defined and then replicated throughout the volume. This segmentation allows the complex overall structure to be managed through simple repeating patterns, dramatically reducing computational complexity while maintaining design capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the design approach by changing parameters from defining every individual element to defining unit cell geometry parameters and replication rules. This parameter transformation enables efficient computation of mass properties through analytical formulas rather than complex numerical integration.
2Weight of moving object
If lattice structures are used to reduce weight and material usage, then structural efficiency improves, but geometric complexity increases making analysis difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses copying by defining a single unit cell that is replicated throughout the lattice volume. This allows the complex geometric structure to be fully described by one simple repeating unit, enabling analytical computation of overall properties from the unit cell geometry without needing to model every individual element.
Solution Approach 2:
The unit cell design serves multiple functions simultaneously: it defines the geometric pattern, determines mass distribution, establishes connectivity, and provides the basis for computing all integral properties. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate analysis methods for different properties.
3Manufacturing precision
If detailed CAD models of lattice structures are created, then manufacturing precision is improved, but computational resources and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by deriving analytical formulas for mass properties before actual manufacturing or detailed modeling. These pre-computed formulas allow rapid evaluation of design variations without requiring time-consuming detailed CAD modeling or numerical integration, significantly reducing computation time while maintaining precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, and corresponding systems and computer-readable mediums, for designing and manufacturing a part. A method includes receiving part data for a part to be manufactured. The method includes creating a set of balls and beams in a computer-aided design (CAD) model, in a patterning structure and based on the part data. The method includes constructing a steady lattice structure in the CAD model. The method includes displaying the CAD model including the steady lattice structure.