Topology and Geometry Optimization of Branched Sheet Metal Products

On the Topology of Sheet Metal Parts

Abstract This paper analyzes the topological properties of sheet metal parts represented schematically (zero thickness, zero bend radii). Although such parts are usually non-manifold objects, the paper establishes a general topological invariant f = s + b + e + w v gnm + m regarding the number of facets, components, bends, free edges, welds, vertices holes and volumes, respectively. Correspondi...

Manufacturability-Driven Decomposition of Sheet Metal Products

Topology Optimization of Fixed-Geometry Fluid Diodes

This paper proposes using topology optimization to design fixed-geometry fluid diodes that allow easy passage of fluid flowing in one direction while inhibiting flow in the reverse direction. Fixed-geometry diodes do not use movable mechanical parts or deformations, but rather utilize inertial forces of the fluid to achieve this flow behavior. Diode performance is measured by diodicity, defined...

Integer linear programming models for topology optimization in sheet metal design

The process of designing new industrial products is in many cases solely based on the intuition and experience of the responsible design engineer. The aid of computers is restricted to visualization and manual manipulation tools. We demonstrate that the design process for conduits, which are made out of sheet metal plates, can be supported bymathematical optimizationmodels and solution techniqu...

3D Conceptual Design of Sheet Metal Products by Sketching

Design of sheet metal products can be a complex and elaborate process. However, many important aspects of the manufacturing characteristics of a product are already determined at the early stages of the design. This paper reports on a system for conceptual design of sheet metal products by sketching, based on principles of early incorporation of CAD, imprecise analysis, and natural, incontext i...