Investigation of the Applicability of Topological Methods

Abstract

In many areas of the industry, continuous and rapid changes can be observed, which are setting a unified direction for product design and creation of the product. Classic examples include the spread of modern production equipment, the consecutive research and development of material technology, computer support and development that allows the extension or supplement of traditional manufacturing technologies. The latter includes additive manufacturing technology, which provides a new opportunity to produce everyday products that have a significant impact on serving market demand. Integrated CAD systems have taken their place in the process of product design and development for decades, partially reforming classical design methods and its steps. The optimization processes have emerged in recent years and are becoming more widespread in integrated CAD systems; these include shape optimization, topology optimization, and the new generative design process, all of which provide an effective solution for design engineers in an increasing number of industrial applications, meaning that these methods can be used in numerous areas of industry. Until now, it was not possible to test the designed products during long-term operation in case of the classic rapid prototyping procedures. However, the appearance of metal powder printing and additive technology already allows the long-term testing of designed prototypes and even the production of final products if the deviation from the required properties of the product is negligible. As a result, using the generative design process, design engineers also have the opportunity to create products that seem to be unfeasible. The following article seeks to prove the facts mentioned above based on a case study. The study describes the product or part that has been traditionally designed and manufactured to replace it with new design methods. And finally details and summarizes the steps required to create a new product or solution.