OS-E: 2000 Introductory Example

Model Files

Refer to Access the Model Files to download the required model file(s).

The model file used in this example includes:

shape1.fem

Model Description

For the cantilever beam, a shape is sought that minimizes the structural mass and allows a limited vertical deflection at the lower right corner.

The shape of the beam is defined using a linear combination of the two basis shapes below. The linear factors are the design variables in the optimization problem.

Figure 2. Basis Shape 1

Figure 3. Basis Shape 2

The basis shapes are defined using shape basis vectors. These can be generated using AutoDV, which is part of HyperMesh. The output file of AutoDV contains the definition of the DESVAR and DVGRID cards. This file can then be included in the OptiStruct input file, Bulk Data section, via the INCLUDE statement.

The optimization problem, objective and constraint functions, is defined in the same manner as the other types of structural optimization. OptiStruct then goes through an iteration process to solve the optimization problem.

Results

Figure 4 and Figure 5 show the optimization result of the cantilever beam.

Figure 4. Final Shape

Figure 5. Final Shape, Deformed with von Mises Stresses