Introduction to NX Topology Optimization
Written by Hayden Cook; ****13 December 2023
This outline was written using Siemens NX, version 2206. Other versions may appear differently and your results may vary.
The tutorial will be based around the design of FE 2024 Rear Wing mount, and will be referenced frequently. This design can be found in the R-drive under 2024 Season, model file number 407-02-07.
Topology is defined as the geometric properties and spatial relations which are not affected by continuous change in shape. Optimization of Topology is exactly what it sounds like; optimizing the geometry of a design through removal of any material which is not affected during load.
Many software have Topology Optimization (hence forth “Top-Opt”) capabilities, namely ANSYS, Solidworks, and Siemens NX. Because Formula Electric uses NX to design, we will also use it for our simulations.
Before getting started, if you haven’t run an FEA or do not fully understand the results which are created by an FEA, please read through Simulations (NX) and run a simulation with your respective design lead. The output results of a Top-Opt simulation are based on a fundamental knowledge of FEA.
To Top-Opt, one must first make sure that the output of the simulation will actually be useful.
Topology is not helpful, and should be avoided for any project where:
Once it has been confirmed that Top-Opting is the correct design choice, the designing process can begin.
Unlike a normal FEA, Top-Opting requires the design of the part be constructed around the principle that it will be Top-Opted at the end of design. This is due to the set up process, which we will get to next.