Case study on topology optimized design for additive manufacturing

Abstract

Additive Manufacturing (AM), also known as rapid prototyping, rapid manufacturing, layer manufacturing and three-dimensional printing, represents one of the most promising aspects of manufacturing for highly complex geometries. In particular, AM is nowadays seen as provider of possibilities to realize true design optimized manufacturing through topology optimization. Topology optimization is an approach that is considered powerful in design because it contributes to a design that can save energy, materials and time that are not economically achievable using other manufacturing processes. This paper is intended to explore the potentials of topology optimized design approach for AM in developing products that are lightweight and at the same time efficient and have load bearing capacity. A case study has been conducted to demonstrate the steps involved in topology optimization and its benefits in terms of weight reduction.