Issue 55

F.K. Fiorentin et al, Frattura ed Integrità Strutturale, 55 (2021) 119-135; DOI: 10.3221/IGF-ESIS.55.09

undeniable on FEM and topology optimization. However, the mesh has a high impact on computation time. This impact gains even more relevance because topology optimization is computationally expensive by itself. For three-dimensional topology optimization, the most common elements are the tetrahedral and hexahedral. Since the tetrahedral allows an easily mesh generation in less computation time, it is usually more convenient. However, in some situations, the hexahedral elements are more suitable [19].

Figure 4: Boundary conditions and coordinate system applied to the bracket [14].

a)

b)

c) Figure 5: 3D part for topology optimization: a) geometry and dimensions in mm of starting geometry; b) coupling constraint to simulate the spherical bearing; c) finite element mesh of solid block.

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