Topology Optimization

Unless it has been topologically optimized, every part in an assembly probably weighs more than it needs to. Extra weight means excess materials are being used, loads on moving parts are higher than necessary, energy efficiency is being compromised and shipping the part costs more. Now, with Topology Optimization technology, ANSYS Mechanical gives you the tools you need to design durable, lightweight components for any application. You can define objectives easily and apply controls to ensure that manufacturing requirements are met, minimum material thicknesses are set and exclusion areas are defined.

Traditional design approaches don’t make the most of new manufacturing methods, like additive manufacturing, which are removing design constraints and opening up new possibilities. The optimal shape of a part is often organic and counterintuitive, so designing it requires a different approach. Topology optimization lets you specify where supports and loads are located on a volume of material and lets the software find the best shape. You can now easily perform lightweighting of structures, extract CAD shapes and quickly verify the optimized design. You can also simulate spatially dependent materials like composite parts, 3-D printed components, and bones and tissues for more accurate results.