Topology optimization of components with screw connections considering mountability

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Markus Zimmermann
• Subject Area: Lightweight Construction, Textile Technology
• Term: since 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 560387502

Topology optimization is a powerful method for automatically generating component geometries that achieve the desired mechanical properties, such as high stiffness, with the lowest possible amount of material used. The aim of this project is to investigate how the widely used SIMP approach can be extended to ensure optimum mechanical properties while considering the assembly of screw connections. This is motivated by the experience from previous projects that results from established approaches are difficult to physically realize or can only be realized with significantly increased material usage or deteriorated mechanical properties. To this end, the assembly process is to be modelled and appropriately incorporated in the optimization process.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants