About the Hub Example

This example shows the shape optimization of a hub of a wind turbine system.

This page discusses:

About the Model

The optimization task is to lower the maximum von Mises stresses. The new design must show rotational symmetry by 120° with plane symmetrical segments. The assembly of the hub model is shown in the following figure:



The hub is modeled using 3D solid elements. The model is loaded with two moments in opposite direction and is fixed at the end of the shaft:



Inner and outer surface of the base body can be changed individually by the shape optimization. The connections modeled as nondesign nodes must be fixed:



Procedure Summary

Model:hub.ext
Design Area:Node group design_nodes
Design Variable Constraint:Apply boundary conditions for all nodes
Design variable Constraint: Fixation of all displacements for the node group FIX
Design variable Constraint: SURF_CYCLIC_PLANE-symmetry condition with start point (0,0,1), direction (1,0,0), and angle 120° in the global coordinate system
Mesh Smooth:Mesh smoothing of all elements in the design area, while free surface nodes remain free
Objective:Minimize the maximal von Mises stresses in the design area
Stop Condition 10 iterations