An Approach for Sizing and Topology Optimization Integrating Multibody Simulation

Abstract

Analysis and design of a complex dynamic system is a multidisciplinary task; in addition to the "classical" system dynamic disciplines such as kinematics or kinetics, other eingineering disciplines also play an important role for the dynamic behavior of the analyzed system. Multibody simulation (MBS) is a common tool for the analysis of complex system dynamics in the respect of e.g. dynamic behavior and dynamic loads analysis. In a Multidisciplinary Design Optimization (MDO) process, MBS may serve as a virtual testbed: a tool which allows the study of system behavior and performance fast and efficiently in realistic scenarios. This paper presents a new, improved approach for an interdisciplinary connection between MBS, other Computational Aided Engineering (CAE) tools, and an optimizer. In order to illustrate the capability of the process, it is applied to the topology optimization conceptual design of the landing gear system for a Blended Wing Body (BWB) aircraft. The conflicting main landing gear configurations are investigated, one advantageous in performance and the other in weight. The results show that the newly integrated design process is an efficient tool for assisting in the selection of the optimum conceptual design configuration of a mechanical system with complex dynamic behavior, and where existing experience about the system is minimum.