VTT TECHNICAL RESEARCH CENTRE OF FINLAND LTD

Topology optimization in

design for additive

manufacturing

Erin Komi

Erin.Komi@vtt.fi

#DTT17

215/03/2017 2

Motivation

Metal additive

manufacturing is quickly

becoming an interesting and

viable business solution

New approaches to

component design are

necessary to sufficiently

take advantage of the

geometric freedom that AM

allows

#DTT17

315/03/2017 3

Design approach

#DTT17

Benefit more

from AM

Systematic concept design

Minimize use of

material

New functionality

Minimize post-

processing

Optimize: topology, shape, size

Take advantage of geometric freedom• Lattice structures• Internal channels• Internal cavities• Part consolidation

• Optimize print orientation• Self-supporting shapes

Simulation based design Properties of a successful AM

product

• New functionality• Lightweight, compact• Short build time• Single consolidated

part• No assembly needed• Minimal machining &

finishing

415/03/2017 4

Design Concept GenerationInterpret Results

& Remesh

Validate

Optimized Design

Geometry

Design Space Create FE Model Topology Optimization

Finalize Design

Print

Preparation

http://www.vttresearch.com/

Erin.Komi@vtt.fi

515/03/2017 5

Results

#DTT17

-79%-76%

• Considerable mass reduction

• Added functionality

• Energy and cost savings during operation

• Reduced likelihood of failure during operation

-86%

In cooperation with:

-38%

In cooperation with:

In cooperation with:

TECHNOLOGY FOR BUSINESS