Topology Optimization in ANSYS R18

Using examples of bridges

By John Lin
ANSYS UK

1 © 2017 ANSYS, Inc. May 2, 2017 ANSYS Confidential

 Summary

• Design optimization is a key factor in any complex

design
• ANSYS Mechanical offers robust size, shape and
topology optimization, to help users realize their
product promise
• This presentation discusses the type of solutions
ANSYS has to offer. In particular for topology
optimization.

2 © 2017 ANSYS, Inc. May 2, 2017 ANSYS Confidential

 Optimization
The technical terminology for
structural optimization defines
size, shape and topology
optimization as such..

This presentation will focus on

the topology optimization part

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 ANSYS Solutions

• Size optimization: ANSYS Workbench parameter environment,

ANSYS DX, not discussed here
• Shape optimization: ANSYS APDL (scripting for different sectype),
not discussed here
• Topology optimization: ANSYS feature available for all license
levels

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 ANSYS Topology Optimization
Model/Cleanup

Materials, Topology
Layups & Mesh optimization

B/Cs and Simulations

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 Topology Optimization methodology

Define domain and

objectives

FEA

Sensitivity analysis

Design update with

optimization routine

Converged?d

End

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 Scenario
• Width to height ratio 5:1
• 2D analysis
• 1 arch bridge design & 1 through arch bridge design
• Aim to show the user that it is highly autonomous,
intuitive, and insightful
• The results will be compared with real-life structures
to show its practicality

7 © 2017 ANSYS, Inc. May 2, 2017 ANSYS Confidential

 Arch bridge design vs real life construction
Topology optimization can provide design insights, allowing the designer to improve
material usage.
Domain setup
Deck (non-design
domain)

Design domain

Real life example

Topology Optimization

8 © 2017 ANSYS, Inc. May 2, 2017 ANSYS Confidential

 Through arch bridge design vs real life
Domain setup

Design domain

Deck (non-design
domain)
Design domain

Sydney Harbor Bridge Topology Optimization

9 © 2017 ANSYS, Inc. May 2, 2017 ANSYS Confidential

 Validation of final topology

ANSYS R18 enables easy validation analysis of the optimized design

10 © 2017 ANSYS, Inc. May 2, 2017 ANSYS Confidential

 THANK YOU!

11 © 2017 ANSYS, Inc. May 2, 2017 ANSYS Confidential