Structural optimization of weight in the product development process
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | SAAB Aktiebolag - SAAB AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 2 710 000 |
| Project duration | August 2013 - February 2016 |
| Status | Completed |
Purpose and goal
One of the main objectives of the project was to identify and solve problems that previously have made it difficult to use structural optimization on practice in the industry. Therefore, optimization constraints that correspond better to structural requirements used in the design process have been formulated in this project. Also, uncertainty concerning the applied loads is considered by a developed methodology for robust topology optimization, which also makes it possible to optimize for a large set of loads in an efficient way.
Expected results and effects
The project has resulted in a Ph.D. thesis describing methodology for performing topology optimization with respect to allowable stresses, fatigue life and robustness with respect to loads that involve uncertainties. A finite element and optimization software has been developed that can handle these requirements, among others. The project has also given an understanding of how optimization shall be used in the product development process.
Planned approach and implementation
The research project is a continuation from NFFP5 and has been conducted by an industrial Ph.D. student, whom each week has been located both at Saab and at LiU. The research has been made in close collaboration with LiU and with continuous feedback from Saab. The research has corresponded to 80 % of the total time and during the remaining time related work has been made at Saab. From time to time it has been difficult to find a balance between the two, since it is difficult to find a role or task in a project where a 20 % occupancy is suitable.