Shape Optimisation v Generative Design
AMufacture launches AMuCoat
18th November 2020
AMufacture’s 2021 Trends and Predictions in Additive Manufacturing
25th January 2021
Generative Design and Shape Optimisation Comparison Chart
What is generative design?
The difference between Shape Optimisation (SO) and Generative Design (GD) is simply who or what is removing the material.
Generative design is when generative design software optimises your shape or design. An Finite Element Analysis (FEA) will be conducted on your part design and then the generative design software will remove material from your part. So why do we need shape optimisation as well as an option for optimising parts? Good question. Generative design relies on complex software and so in some cases there maybe restraints of functionality of the part which can't be applied into the generative design software.What is shape optimisation?
With shape optimisation it is the CAD designer (the human) who optimises your part or design after an Finite Element Analysis (FEA) has been conducted on your part. Shape optimisation is usually the preferred choice when the end 3D printed part has to have a certain aesthetic look or where as we have already discussed the functionality of the part cannot be analysed through the generative design software and needs the human touch.
AMufacture offer both generative design and shape optimisation services to our customers to provide solutions that are difficult or impossible to produce using conventional manufacturing techniques leaving additive manufacturing as the optimal process to deliver the end 3D printed part.
What are the benefits of generative design and shape optimisation?
•Reducing weight (cost saving that utilises less raw material)
•Cost reduction (achieved by less material usage)
•Amalgamate multiple parts into a single optimised solution
•Potentially increase part strength with reduced weight
•Increased longevity through optimisation
What industries do we work with?
The future of additive manufacturing is here with the ability to meet the demand for the design of parts that are lighter weight and engineered precisely tomeet or exceed specified parameters. Generative Design and Shape Optimisation is now widely adopted by the following industries and we are at the forefront of delivering this innovative service to these industries.
• Marine• Aerospace and Defence
• Automotive
• Oil and Gas
• Space Exploration
• Medical/Orthopaedics
• Energy and Renewables
• Construction
• Commercial and Consumer Products
