Biomimicry knows best
about the creation of efficient aerodynamic designs that are rigid and lightweight, with the aim of minimising drag, and maximising flight range and fuel efficiency.
Topology optimisation Airbus has been using OptiStruct software by Altair Engineering to optimise the A350’s design to reduce weight and cost, while improving performance. The OptiStruct software uses a process known as ‘topology optimisation’ to evolve the optimal lightweight shape for a structural design. Topology optimisation uses a finite element analysis (FEA) algorithm to evolve the ideal lightweight shape for a structural design. The process involves the removal of any mass that performs no function and adds mass to enable consistent stress distribution, eliminating stress points and creating key load paths. Notice the word ‘evolve’. This is a
process similar to what nature has done to optimise the evolutionary development of bones – bird wings are the most commonly cited example in the aerospace industry, for obvious reasons – though it applies to other natural elements, including trees and other plant life. You don’t have to be a Darwinist to appreciate that this is a similar method to natural evolution.
The concept car achieved a 0.19 cd value
May/June 2013
www.automotivedesign.eu.com
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