Optimization of Curvilinear Stiffener Beam Structures Simulated by Beam Finite Elements with Coupled Bending-Torsion Formulation

This research presents the application of a beam finite element, specifically derived for simulating bending-torsion coupling in equivalent box-beam structures with curvilinear stiffeners. The stiffener path was simulated and optimized to obtain an expected coupling effect with respect to four typical static load cases, including geometric constraints related to the additive manufacturing production method. The selected load condition was applied to the centroid of the beam section, and the structure performance was consequently determined. A variation in load position up to one-fourth of the beam width was considered for investigating the stiffener path variation corresponding to a minimum bending-torsion coupling effect. The results demonstrated the capability of such a beam finite element to correctly represent the static behavior of beam structures with curvilinear stiffeners and show the possibility to uncouple its bending-torsion behavior using a specific stiffener orientation. The simulation of a laser powder bed fusion process showed new opportunities for the application of this technology to stiffened panel manufacturing.

Automated summary

This research focuses on the application of a beam finite element to simulate bending-torsion coupling in box-beam structures with curvilinear stiffeners. The stiffener path is optimized to achieve the desired coupling effect, taking into account geometric constraints related to additive manufacturing production method. The results demonstrate that the beam finite element accurately represents the static behavior of beam structures with curvilinear stiffeners and shows the possibility to uncouple bending-torsion behavior by adjusting the stiffener orientation. Simulation of a laser powder bed fusion process opens new opportunities for stiffened panel manufacturing.