Objective: Set-up and run a Rapid Sizing optimization on a selection of Zones.
Rapid Sizing is one of the simpler Sizing/Analysis modes to set up - as it is able to intelligently work through a given design space to find an optimum solution without any active user input in the way of dimension bounds. The user must only define the material and any desired fabrication rules before hitting 'go.'
Tip
For more information on the actual optimization algorithm, see: Optimization Methodology.
In order to run Rapid Sizing, the following tasks must be completed first:
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Add desired Zones to Structures.
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Make sure desired Material System(s) exist and are fully defined in the Material Library.
Tip
The ability to select between Analysis and Sizing modes lives on the Design Property - this way, the selected mode is applied to all zones that have been assigned that Design Property.
Whether creating a Design Property from scratch or altering an existing one, the steps to enable Rapid Sizing are the same:
A simple metallic plate Design Property that is set-up for Rapid Sizing is shown below as an example.
For Laminate Design Properties, additional optimization criteria can be prescribed in the form of Ply Angle Percentages, Layup Rules, and Fabrication rules (see "Sizing Options" here). These are also defined on the Design Property form using the expanding buttons, shown in the example below.
Make sure the new or newly edited Design Property is assigned to the desired Zones. Any Zone that is assigned this design can now be optimized using Rapid Sizing.
Tip
An easy way to check which Design Properties have been assigned to which Zones is to click on the Design Property's node in the Property Tree. Any Zones that have been assigned that design will be highlighted.
Assign a Load Property and an Analysis Property to each Zone.
Select any number of the Zones with the Rapid Sizing Design Property and run the optimization by selecting 'Size' from the Run tab of the Ribbon
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Plot Sizing results on the model in the Viewport using the Legend. Try utilizing the Probe to display results values for specific model features of interest.
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Print an Analysis Detail Report - To gain additional understanding on the failure criteria and resulting margins for each Zone for the last iteration.