Structure Design of a Machining Center Bed Based on Topology Optimization Technique
This paper applies efficiently topology optimization technique to the conceptual design of a bed structure of machining center, which achieves for sufficient rigidity and reasonable distribution of weight of the bed. Firstly, conceptual design of the bed structure is obtained by using SIMP method under the conditions of a multi-objective optimization considering both the weighted structure compliance and the first-order natural frequency on multiple load cases and volume constraints. Subsequently, size design is employed to determine the main dimensions of the supporting plates and reinforcing ribs. During this stage an exhaustion method is identified to select suitable dimensions to optimize the structure performance. Finally, The Finite Element Analysis (FEM) is utilized for comparison of optimal and original bed structure. The FEM results indicate that the optimal design structure can reduce the mass by 6.6% with the less stiffness fluctuation and the first-order natural frequency can also improve by 7.9% compared with the original structure.