Session: DAC-06-1: Design for Additive Manufacturing

Paper Number: 131819

131819 - Evolved Structures: Primification Using Load Lines 

In this study, the simplification of complex AI generated geometry for increasing compatibility with legacy analysis tools is explored. Beginning with a general discussion on the problems facing engineers in the production of non-uniform parts as well as problems with testing complex geometries with conventional FEA tools, it is established that analysis sectors can benefit from part geometry that not only simplifies and unifies its shape, but also reduces it into its primary load paths. The workflow used to convert entities from complex into primitives is explored, as well as the result of FEA testing on both a baseline and a modified structure. The importance of 3D sketches and their use in both testing scenarios and fabrication efforts is discussed, and the generation of these 3D sketches is shown as a part of the workflow. The adaptation of part geometry from organic generative design to simple load path to easily manufacturable node and tube structures is shown. The workflow for developing a 3D load path sketch is shown, and an example A10 to show the workflow is explored, from generation of the evolved structure to its transformation to a carbon fiber tube and node configuration. This workflow will allow us to generatively design parts using AI, extract the resulting energy flow found by converting it into a 3D line drawing, and then convert that energy flow into different manufacturing methods.

Presenting Author: Elliot Sadler California State University Northridge

Presenting Author Biography: Mr. Elliot Sadler is the Lecturer in the Department of Manufacturing Systems Engineering and Management at California State University Northridge. Mr. Sadler was conducting internship at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in 2023 and NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory from May 2023 to May 2024. Mr. Sadler obtained his M.S. degree in Manufacturing Systems Engineering from California State University Northridge in May 2024 and his B.S. degree in Mechanical Engineering in May 2022.

Authors:

Elliot Sadler California State University Northridge
Ryan Mcclelland NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Nhut Ho California State University Northridge
Bingbing Li California State University Northridge