Topology Optimization of Landing Gear for Additive Manufacturing

In the pioneering sectors of design and development, industries are looking for computer integrated solutions for product development; especially in aerospace industries where the demands for reduction in the development cycles and prototyping iterations. Generative design and topology optimization are the recent tools for achieving the desired design solutions. Topology optimization aims to find an ideal structural configuration within the given design domain with various constraints, objectives, and boundary conditions. In this study, topology optimization is used as a design tool in the development phase of a component. An efficient methodology is developed based on topology optimization for regeneration of a tertiary components. The topology optimization approach used in this research is divided into three main stages: modelling, optimization and regeneration. The first stage, modelling involves CAD modelling of a sub assembly of landing gear, in particular, the slave link assembly. The second stage is the optimization stage which involves FEM analyses on the sub assembly. The FEM analyses are used as the foundations for topology optimization. In the regeneration stage of the process involves the redesigning of components based on the result obtained during the optimization stage. The FEM analyses conducted during the regenerative stage uses the same constraints as in the case of the optimization stage in order to validate the structural functionality of the slave link assembly. The design process used in this study incorporate two redesign approaches. The first approach aims the weight reduction and the second approach aims on structural and aesthetic improvements.