Topology Optimizationin a Multi Disciplinary framework for a Turbine Rear Structure

Abstract: This thesis represents a research effort for the implementation of a structural optimization method known as Topology Optimization (TO) in a multi disciplinary work environment. This application is tested in a platform developed at GKN Aerospace Sweden named Engineering Workbench (EWB). The platform allows optimization of aerospace structures for several disciplines including thermo-mechanics, aerodynamics and producibility. It utilizes Knowledge-Based Engineering (KBE) tools to follow a Set-Based Concurrent Engineering (SBCE) and Design Of Experiments (DOE) approach. Consequently, this enables obtaining results from different disciplines for a large amount of design cases with limited human intervention. The implementation is performed taking a Turbine Rear Structure (TRS) as a use case. This is a component from a jet-engine which has been previously subject of study in EWB. The procedure already in use is extended in order to obtain TO results for a desired number of design alternatives automatically. This extension is done while considering the constraints imposed by the different disciplines. In addition, the positive contributions of the new procedure to the structural design of components are analyzed.