OPTIMIZATION OF STRUCTURES UNDER TECHNOLOGICAL CASTING CONSTRAINTS

Optimizing the shape of a cast part requires consideration of three ty pes of criteria: geometrical criteria, which ensure the topological co herence of the part as well as respect the dimensions of the functiona l part; mechanical criteria, which guarantee the operational reliabili ty of an object; and finally, thermal criteria, which ensure that a de fect-free part is produced from the manufacturing process. The geometr ical criteria, often expressed analytically, must be strictly adhered to. The mechanical criteria are evaluated using computation by the met hod of finite elements. Finally, the thermal criteria are obtained usi ng solidification calculation results from the finite differences meth od. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the feasibility and in terest in an optimization procedure for cast parts, taking manufacturi ng criteria into account.