This paper introduces a strategy in machine tools multi-disciplinary optimization within the structural components realized with composite materials. These studies describe the re-design of a machine tool‘s carriage with the purpose to increase its static and dynamic performances employing composite materials (i.e. laminated CFRP) in substitution of those conventionally used (aluminium, steel). The optimization project goal has been the definition of an optimum configuration of composite materials (thickness, choice of the matrix and fibers, orientation of the fibers) pursuing, at the same time, the improvement of the performances and the cost decreasing. In order to optimize the component thickness, a parametric FE model has been realized, using solid layered elements: to achieve this goal an APDL Ansys routine has been written. Static, modal and cost analysis has been performed taking into account manufacturing aspects and also evaluating dimensional stability of laminated CFRP. Two different optimization algorithm has been used: evolutive strategy showed shorter convergence time than genetic one. Multi-disciplinary optmization strategy, developed with modeFRONTIER software, shows a performance increment in using composite materials, therefore it satisfies machine tools market demands.
Developmentand next activities of this industrial research project will be the building of carriage prototype, that will be followed by experimental testing (static and modal testing) in order to verify the obtained numerical results. |
22-23 October 2012 Pacengo del Garda 
