Performing an Optimization Using the Shape Optimization Assistant

All functional specifications defined for the generative design of conceptual shapes are captured in a single object called a simulation object. You can use the Shape Optimization assistant to guide you through the sequence of operations for performing a topology optimization. The assistant guides you through a step by step process. Steps are available only when you can access them, and each step gives you some information. If there is an issue, an Exploration diagnostic panel opens and gives you the list of errors to manage to be able to launch the simulation.

Before you begin: Create a simulation object and an optimization. For more information, see Creating a New Shape Optimization.
  1. From the Design Study section of the action bar, click Shape Optimization .
  2. Double-click the optimization.

    The strategy is the one defined when creating the optimization.

  3. Select one of the following options:
    OptionDescription
    Model
    • Configure the model—the regions of your model that can be modified during the optimization. For more information, see Selecting Parts for the Shape Optimization.
    • Specify the shape design area and refine the definition of the local optimization area - the disconnect features that let you disconnect zones and define contours to optimize the zone. For more information, see Defining the Model Configuration and Local Optimization Areas.
    • Specify connections between regions of your model; for example, rigid connections and bolts. For more information, see Connections.
    Physics
    • Specify loads and boundary conditions applied to your model.
    • Define load cases.
    • Apply contact detection to your entire model or specify contact between surfaces.

    For more information, see Physics.

    Validation
    • Generate a smooth representation of the concept shape and reconstructs the global shape.
    • Configure the finite element mesh and apply the prescribed conditions defined in the analysis setup to the 3D model representing the concept shape.
    • Run a finite element analysis to confirm that the 3D model satisfies the original constraints of the optimization.

    For more information, see Setup Validation.
    Optimization
    • Apply additional constraints to the geometry created by the optimization.
    • Define shape controls to force the optimization process to consider only designs that can be manufactured.
    • Run an optimization and create a finite element representation of the optimized shape.
    For more information, see Optimization.
    Concept
    • Run the optimization and compute the optimized shape that satisfies the targets, constraints, and shape controls you have specified. Functional Generative Design computes the shape during a sequence of design cycles.

      The optimization continues until the solution converges or until a specified number of design cycles has been reached.

    • Adjust the relative density of the elements in the design space, and select the final optimized shape.
    • Convert the finite element representation of the optimized shape into a 3D solid part.

    For more information, see Concept.

    Notes:
    • You can press F2 to quickly edit and rename the name of an item contained in one of the options above. This capability is available for the following commands: Manage Concept Shape, Boundary Conditions, Connections, Load Cases, Loads, Manage Validation Cases, Displacement Constraint, Fastener Force Constraint, Stress Constraint, Validation Case Edition, Functional Regions, and Symmetry.
    • To access the Feature Manager, click . For more information, see Filtering the Feature List in the Feature Manager.